In this ninth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex sits down with Jules McGill - a Personal Trainer, Wellbeing Coach and speaker who left a stable teaching career to build a fitness business rooted in intuition, joy and empowerment.

Jules opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of career change, how she learned to trust her gut, and why setting playful boundaries and stepping back from social media have been game‑changers.

We explore what it really takes to find your voice in a crowded industry and how movement can be a vehicle for confidence, not conformity. This warm, honest conversation is full of insight for anyone ready to do things their own way.

00:00 – From Childhood Dreams to Business Reality 03:02 – The Transition from Teaching to Entrepreneurship 05:59 – Navigating Self‑Doubt and Identity 09:13 – The Early Days of Business 11:57 – Building Resilience in Business 14:45 – Trusting Your Intuition 17:54 – Current Business Landscape and Future Aspirations 23:09 – Challenging Industry Norms 26:05 – Finding Your Voice 29:41 – Social Media Detox 31:01 – Balancing Family and Business 34:12 – Redefining Boundaries 39:14 – Embracing Creativity in Business

• Real talk on the emotional side of leaving a secure career

• Practical steps for tuning into your intuition and rebuilding self‑belief

• Why boundaries (and breaks from social media) fuel creativity

• Reframing movement as confidence‑building, not body‑fixing

• Inspiration for dreaming bigger—Jules’s vision for bringing her work into schools and beyond

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julesmcgill/ Learn more about her offerings and upcoming workshops at julesmcgill.com

• Book a free Business Connection session: https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching/

• Facebook Group: Business Connection Community

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-mccarthy-coaching/

• Website: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this eighth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by intuitive mindfulness coach Holly Smith for a warm and powerful conversation about self-belief, mental health and building a business rooted in purpose.

Holly shares her journey from aspiring vet to neurological physiotherapist, and how mindfulness supported her through anxiety and depression — ultimately leading her to start her own business, My Kind of Mind, in 2018. What began as a deeply personal practice evolved into a thriving coaching business offering workshops, retreats and 1:1 support for people navigating stress, burnout and disconnection — including NHS staff.

Alex and Holly talk about the mindset shifts that come with running a values-led business, the challenges of pricing your work, and why consistency and compassion matter more than chasing fast success.

Whether you’re feeling disconnected from your work, craving more meaning, or wrestling with self-doubt, this conversation is full of honest insight and gentle encouragement.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – From aspiring vet to mindfulness coach 02:57 – The seed of a business: how mindfulness changed everything 05:49 – Mindfulness and managing anxiety, depression & burnout 09:01 – What people often get wrong about mindfulness 11:50 – Holly’s business growth and unexpected opportunities 14:53 – What her current work looks like: courses, retreats, and NHS wellbeing support 17:53 – Her proudest moment: public speaking for her own business 21:36 – How personal growth mirrors business growth 25:26 – Mindfulness as a tool for emotional well-being and resilience 28:36 – Reframing pricing, money and self-worth 35:37 – The truth about consistency and sustainable growth 39:46 – Coming back to your ‘why’ — especially when things feel hard

What to Expect

Real talk on mental health, mindfulness and the messiness of business growth Encouragement for anyone navigating change or feeling stuck Insights into intuitive, sustainable business-building A reminder that your path doesn't need to look like anyone else’sHeads-up: the audio is slightly tinny at times on my end — thanks for sticking with it!

Connect with Holly

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my_kind_of_mind/ Explore Holly’s courses & retreats: https://www.my-kind-of-mind.com/

Connect with Alex

Book a free Business Connection Online Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching Facebook Group: Business Connection Community LinkedIn: Alex McCarthy on LinkedIn Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this seventh episode of My Kind of Business, Alex reframes the way we think about sales and selling in business. If the idea of selling makes you feel icky, pushy, or uncomfortable, this conversation will help shift your mindset.

Alex explores how sales can be an act of service - rooted in connection, empathy and real transformation. You’ll hear why focusing on outcomes over features, detaching from the pressure to convert and leading with heart can make the sales process feel more aligned, natural and effective.

Whether you're new to business or have years of experience, this episode will leave you feeling more confident, clear and inspired to approach selling in a way that feels good for both you and your clients.

00:00 – Reframing Sales: A New Perspective Alex unpacks the cultural baggage around sales and introduces a fresh, mindset-first approach to selling.

07:24 – Building Genuine Connections Why real connection is the foundation of service-led selling—and how it builds trust without pressure.

10:30 – Focusing on Outcomes Over Features The simple mindset shift that helps potential clients see the real value of what you offer.

12:09 – Detaching from the Pressure of Sales How letting go of the need to convert every lead makes you a more powerful (and authentic) salesperson.

16:03 – Selling as Service: A Heart-Centred Approach Alex closes with a reminder that selling is about helping, serving, and creating space for transformation.

• Selling is service, not persuasion.

• Focus on connection, not conversion.

• Outcomes matter more than features.

• People want to feel seen, heard, and understood.

• Detach from the outcome to reduce sales anxiety.

• Your worth isn’t defined by the number of sales you make.

Business Connection Sessions: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions

Instagram: www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmccarthycoaching/

Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this sixth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is talking all about boundaries — something that so many business owners struggle with, especially when it comes to saying no.

She explores what boundaries actually look like in business, how to get more comfortable with saying no (without feeling guilty), and why it’s such a powerful step in protecting your time, energy and growth.

If you’ve ever found yourself overcommitted, undervalued, or just burnt out from trying to do everything — this one’s for you.

00:00 – The Importance of Boundaries in Business Why boundaries matter more than ever in today’s business culture.

05:51 – Listening to Your Gut How intuition can guide decision making — and help you spot red flags early.

12:01 – Practical Ways to Set Boundaries From setting client expectations to protecting your calendar — real-life ways to put boundaries in place.

17:57 – Final Thoughts on Boundaries and Growth A reminder that saying no is often about saying yes to yourself — and your values.

• Saying no is often the key to true growth.

• If you're trying to be everything to everyone, you're nothing to anyone.

• Listening to your gut helps you make better decisions.

• You don’t always have to justify your no.

• Boundaries are a form of self-respect, not selfishness.

Business Connection Sessions: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions

Instagram: www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmccarthycoaching/

Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this fifth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by inner child healing coach Jessica Amy, who shares her powerful story of personal transformation. From uncovering the roots of her struggles through domestic abuse support, to rediscovering her true self through deep inner work, Jessica now supports other women to do the same—helping them reconnect with who they've always been beneath the fear, conditioning and self-doubt.

Together, Alex and Jessica explore what inner child healing really involves, how to navigate the fear and vulnerability that comes with running a business, and why true, sustainable growth means honouring rest, self-trust and your own definition of success.

This conversation is honest, grounding and full of gentle wisdom—a reminder that healing isn’t about becoming someone new, it’s about coming home to yourself.

00:00 – Introduction to Inner Child Healing 03:05 – The Journey of Self-Discovery 06:03 – Transformative Moments in Healing 09:02 – The Power of Self-Inquiry 11:52 – Challenges of Being a Business Owner 15:13 – Navigating Fear and Judgement 18:09 – The Importance of Passion Over Profit 21:06 – Embracing Rest and Self-Care 24:03 – Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 27:04 – The Future of Jess’s Business 30:13 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways

• Inner child healing helps correct misunderstandings formed in childhood

• Many women turn to healing when they feel stuck or disconnected

• Fear and doubt are not the same—fear can sometimes be protective

• Vulnerability is part of the process when building something meaningful

• Passion should lead the way—profit follows naturally

• Comparison holds us back; everyone’s path is unique

• Rest and self-care are essential for long-term, sustainable success

Jessica Amy is a coach and facilitator specialising in inner child healing. After starting her own healing journey through a domestic abuse support group, she now helps women break free from limiting patterns and rediscover their authentic selves. Jessica offers 1:1 coaching and runs a monthly women’s workshop in Kempston, Bedfordshire. Her inbox is always open for those seeking support or a safe space to talk.

Facebook: Jessica Amy Email: jessicaamyempoweringyou@gmail.com Instagram: Currently taking a break—please reach out via email or Facebook

Business Connection Sessions: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions

Instagram: www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmccarthycoaching/

Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this fourth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by lifestyle and performance coach Sasha Buy for a raw and inspiring conversation about change, identity and living in alignment with your values.

Sasha shares her journey from aspiring healthcare professional to building a thriving personal training business, navigating a pandemic-induced pivot into online coaching and now stepping into a new chapter as an executive coach and soon-to-be mum.

Through honesty, humour and a whole lot of wisdom, Sasha and Alex explore what it really means to grow, evolve and redefine success on your own terms.

Whether you’re considering a career transition, juggling business with motherhood, or simply seeking permission to slow down and trust your gut - this episode will resonate deeply.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – From healthcare dreams to chasing independence 03:01 – Ambition, rebellion and building something of her own 06:01 – Becoming a personal trainer and growing a successful brand 08:55 – The pandemic pivot: moving into online coaching 11:49 – The mindset shift from short-term results to long-term impact 15:04 – Deciding to leave the fitness world behind 21:24 – Embracing motherhood and letting go of external validation 26:45 – Real talk on online business, boundaries and burnout 31:58 – What success really means (and how it evolves) 37:25 – Designing a business that fits your values 40:06 – Self-permission, intuition and the courage to pivot

What to Expect

• Honest reflections on personal and business evolution

• Insights on letting go of what no longer fits

• A reminder that success doesn’t have to look one way

• Colourful language and plenty of realness (headphones advised if little ears are nearby.

Connect with Sasha

https://www.instagram.com/sashahollybuy/

Connect with Alex

• Book a free Business Connection Online Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession

• Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching

• Facebook Community: Business Connection Community

• LinkedIn: Alex McCarthy on LinkedIn

• Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this third episode of My Kind of Business, Alex explores what it really takes to attract clients — without constantly relying on social media. If you’re tired of feeling like you have to show up online every day just to stay visible, this conversation is a breath of fresh air.

Alex shares a different approach to marketing — one rooted in real connection, confidence and consistency. Whether you’re feeling burnt out by the algorithm or just want to diversify how you grow your business, this episode offers simple but powerful ways to build visibility, trust and momentum off the screen.

If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I find clients when I don't want to be online 24/7?” — this one’s for you.

What we cover

00:00 Introduction to Client Attraction Beyond Social Media 06:28 The Power of Networking for Client Connections 15:16 Engaging Through Events and Workshops 21:05 Direct Outreach: Personal Connections Matter

Takeaways

• Social media is not the only way to find clients

• Networking should focus on genuine connection, not selling

• Referrals are one of the most effective and underused strategies

• Hosting events helps you showcase your expertise and build trust

• Collaborations can introduce you to aligned audiences

• Direct outreach shows you care and builds meaningful relationships

• Strong client attraction is rooted in relationship-building

• Following up is where real connection deepens

• Personalised outreach is more effective than mass messaging

• Your clients are waiting for you beyond the scroll

Sound Bites

"You don’t have to rely on social media to grow your business." "Relationships build businesses — not just reels." "Sometimes the most powerful strategy is a message in someone’s inbox." "You already have people in your world who would love to work with you."

Connect with Alex

Join the next Business Connection Online Networking Session: https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching/ Facebook Community: Join here LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmccarthycoaching Website: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this second episode of My Kind of Business, Alex McCarthy chats with Jo Bolton — co-founder of Flourish Socials — about her unexpected path from aspiring childcare worker to creative entrepreneur.

Jo shares how she entered the world of business through network marketing, eventually transitioning into social media management and founding Flourish with her best friend and business partner, Becki. The pair now support women-led businesses to grow online with confidence and authenticity.

Jo opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, losing clients, the joy of community and finding balance between nannying and running a business. It’s a warm, honest, and down-to-earth conversation filled with real insights, encouragement, and reminders that you don’t have to do this alone.

What we cover 00:00 Introduction and Jo’s early dreams 02:28 Getting started with network marketing 05:35 Transitioning into social media and that first client 10:28 Starting Flourish with her best friend 14:05 Balancing two careers with intention 17:29 Celebrating milestones and feedback 19:33 Learning from the highs 20:27 Facing challenges and building resilience 24:27 Protecting your time and energy 35:06 Advice for those just starting out

Sound Bites "I was winging it all the time." "Why did we ever do this alone?" "You can't pour from an empty cup." "Just go for it." "We did it — and we’re going to do more."

More about Jo & Flourish Socials

Hi, I’m Jo — one-half of Flourish Socials. I help women-owned businesses grow and thrive online by taking the stress out of social media. With a mix of creativity, strategy, and a deep love for content creation, I help my clients show up in a way that feels authentic and impactful.

My journey into social media started over four years ago when I built my own business online. I quickly saw how many business owners struggled with content, consistency, and confidence. When my best friend Becki shared the same passion, we teamed up — and Flourish was born.

At Flourish, we offer flexible, personalised support through content creation, platform management, and strategy sessions. We love working with different industries — from fashion boutiques to fitness studios — helping every brand tell its story and connect with its audience.

We believe social media can feel easier, more effective… and even a little bit fun.

Website: www.flourishsocialhub.co.uk Instagram: @the.flourish.social.hub Email: https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching/ Facebook Community: Join here LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmccarthycoaching/ Website: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/