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Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Looks Like We Made It, I’m joined by Beth Hutton, who shares the story behind her journey from performing arts into running her own social media management business. Beth speaks openly about the life experiences that shaped her — including going through a kidney transplant, and the impact it had on her health, perspective, and direction. She also shares the “why” behind becoming her own boss: after the heartbreaking loss of her son Theo, who was born premature and sadly died, Beth channelled her grief into building a life with more autonomy, purpose, and meaning. This is a powerful, human conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what it really looks like to keep going — and create something of your own — when life changes everything. In this episode, we cover: Beth’s transition from performing arts into social media managementWhat it’s like navigating life and recovery after a kidney transplantGrief, identity, and finding purpose after lossWhy entrepreneurship can be about freedom as much as ambitionBuilding a business that fits your life — not the other way around

Send us Fan Mail Motherhood changes everything — your body, your brain, your time, your confidence… and yet you’re still expected to keep showing up, running a business, and posting online like nothing’s happened. In this episode of Looks Like We Made It, we’re joined by Charlotte Price from RunFree PR for an honest conversation about balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship. Together, we get into what mum guilt really feels like, how we navigate the physical and mental impacts of parenthood, and what it takes to stay consistent on social media when you’re carrying a lot behind the scenes. We also talk about comparison — how easy it is to measure real life against “perfect” people online — and the mindset shifts that help us stay grounded in what’s true. If you’re a mum building a business (or you love one), this episode will make you feel seen — and a little less alone.

Send us Fan Mail What do you do when the world goes quiet — and people still need comfort, connection, and something to hold onto? In this powerful episode of Looks Like We Made It, I’m joined by Steven Udale: performer, wedding and funeral celebrant, and children’s book author — often nicknamed “the best voice in the North East.” During lockdown, Steven began reading children’s bedtime stories live on Facebook, helping families through the hardest days of the pandemic. And as those broadcasts grew, something unexpected happened: viewers started requesting specific stories and readings to help them relax, switch off, and even fall asleep. We talk about the power of the human voice, why storytelling lands so deeply, and what it means to show up for people at the most important moments of their lives — from joyful weddings to deeply personal funeral ceremonies. Steven also shares how he’s stayed grounded and positive through challenging seasons, and why kindness and creativity still matter more than ever. If you’ve ever needed a reminder of how much impact one person (and one voice) can have — this one’s for you.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Issy is joined by Kathryn Wharton, an expert marketer in the world of corporate and tech.  We've got oodles of interesting tidbits in here, particularly if you want to hear about Kathryn's fascinating journey from archaeology to technology!

Send us Fan Mail AI is everywhere right now — and for a lot of business owners, it’s starting to feel more overwhelming than exciting. In this episode, Chris sits down with Kane Mitchell from Mitchell Digital to cut through the noise and talk about what stress-free AI adoption actually looks like in the real world. Kane isn’t interested in gimmicks or “tech for tech’s sake”. He’s spent the last 10+ years helping small businesses get more leads and fewer headaches, and he’s now using AI automation, workflow design, and conversion-focused web builds to remove the admin that drains time and energy. Together, they explore how Kane is navigating the rapid growth of AI, how he’s integrating it into his business and daily life without the fear-factor, and what it means to build intelligent systems that genuinely support you — not complicate everything. If you’re curious about AI but don’t want the technical waffle, this one will leave you feeling clearer, calmer, and more confident about what’s possible. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How to approach AI in a way that feels practical (not scary)Using automation to eliminate repetitive admin and free up headspaceBuilding lead-generating websites that do more than “look nice”Why clear communication beats “technical BS” every timeSimple ways to start integrating AI without overhauling your whole businessAbout Kane Mitchell (Mitchell Digital): Kane helps small businesses solve real problems with AI automation, intelligent workflows, and websites built to convert — saving clients hours every week while generating more leads.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I'm joined by Laura Gillespie from Gillespie Recruitment for a conversation that feels more important than ever: the power of kindness in business. Laura has built her career around people; whether that's helping someone find the right role, supporting businesses to hire well, or simply making introductions that open doors. We talk about what kindness looks like in the real world of work (not just as a buzzword), how it changes the way you lead and hire, and why being people-first can be a genuine advantage, even when the world feels anything but kind! If you're building a business, growing a team, or just trying to do good work without burning out, this episode is a brilliant reminder that kindness isn't weakness, it's strength.

Send us Fan Mail This is a special episode Issy and Chris did with our good friend and business partner John, in collaboration with the North East BIC at their Growth Lab in February.  This was a mission to get as many people on the pod as we could, with 45 GUESTS in the short time window we had! If you hear yourself, or someone you know, let us know!

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I’m joined by Henry Malton for a timely conversation about the future of business and the growing role of AI. Henry shares his journey from launching an online grocery delivery service at a young age to building a business focused on AI automation, helping companies improve efficiency, strengthen customer service, and create new opportunities for growth. We talk about what business owners need to understand about AI right now, where automation can make the biggest impact, and why staying adaptable matters more than ever. This episode is a practical and honest look at how technology is changing the way we work, sell, communicate, and grow. In this episode, we cover: What the future of business could look like with AIHow automation can improve efficiency and customer experienceWhy adaptability is essential for modern business ownersLessons from building businesses across different industriesHow to approach AI in a practical, useful way

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I’m joined by Terry South for a fascinating conversation about the real power of communication — and how the ability to connect, understand, and adapt can shape an entire career. Drawing on his extraordinary journey from military service into global construction and infrastructure projects, Terry shares why communication is so much more than simply exchanging information. We talk about the value of learning languages, the doors it can open, and how understanding people, culture, and context can give you a real advantage in business and in life. This episode explores how knowledge creates influence, why clear communication is often the difference between progress and problems, and what happens when you’re willing to keep learning throughout your career. It’s a conversation about leadership, growth, and the kind of practical wisdom that only comes from working across industries, countries, and cultures. In this episode, we cover: Why communication is one of the most powerful skills you can developHow learning languages can open unexpected opportunitiesThe link between knowledge, confidence, and influenceWhat cross-cultural experience teaches you about leadershipWhy staying curious can transform your career

Send us Fan Mail What if the real competitive advantage in business and marketing isn’t louder content, smarter funnels, or more automation… but emotional intelligence? In Season 8, Episode 3, we’re joined by Gary Hosey, emotional intelligence expert and coach, who’s spent 25+ years helping leaders, managers, and teams build self-awareness and stronger behaviours — professionally and personally. Gary has delivered coaching, workshops, and development programmes to 9,000+ people, working with organisations from ambitious start-ups to FTSE 100 and public sector teams. Together, we explore how EI becomes a powerful tool for: Marketing that actually connects (and doesn’t feel manipulative)Better leadership, communication, and decision-making under pressureBuilding trust with clients, teams, and audiencesNavigating stress, change, and uncertainty in businessWe also dig into the big shift happening right now: how emotional intelligence is evolving in an AI-driven world, and what the next generation will need to thrive as technology moves faster than ever. If you want to lead better, market with more impact, and stay human in a world of automation — this episode is for you.

Send us Fan Mail In a world of endless scrolling, trending sounds, and “post 3 times a day” pressure, it’s easy to feel like you’re losing the content game before you’ve even started. In this episode, Issy and Chris sit down to talk about the power of long-form content — and why podcasting is still one of the smartest ways to build trust, authority, and a content engine that doesn’t burn you out. We cover: Why short-form content feels overwhelming (and why it’s not the whole strategy)How long-form builds deeper connection and faster trust with the right peoplePodcasting as your “source content” for weeks of posts, emails, clips, and ideasWhat to focus on if you want consistency without living on social mediaThe long game: how long-form supports sales, referrals, and reputation over timeIf you’re tired of chasing volume and want a calmer, more sustainable way to show up — this episode will give you a fresh framework.

Send us Fan Mail Season 8 kicks off with a big milestone: our very first episode recorded in the fully finished Howell Studios. We’re joined by Robert Little - entrepreneur, coach, and podcast host - for an honest, energising conversation about building a business with ADHD. Robert shares what it’s really like growing up in the whirlwind, riding the highs, hitting rock bottom, and rebuilding with purpose. Inside the episode, we chat about: How ADHD can shape your work, confidence, and decision-makingThe routines and habits that helped Robert create momentum (without pretending life is “perfect”)Resilience, reinvention, and taking bold action when you’re ready for changeWhy mindset shifts matter - and how Robert helps others break through limiting beliefsA look at Robert’s Smash Life Challenge and what transformation can actually look like in 6 weeksIf you’ve ever felt like your brain doesn’t fit the “normal” business mould - this one will feel like a breath of fresh air. New season. New studio. Proper real talk!

Send us Fan Mail Think all e-learning is created equal? Think again. In this insightful episode, we sit down with Jon Hocker from The E-Learning Group to explore why e-learning has become essential in today's world—and why quality makes all the difference between students who thrive and those who tune out. What You'll Discover: • Why e-learning is more important now than ever before • The critical link between high-quality content and student engagement • What separates effective e-learning from courses that fail to land • How to keep learners motivated, focused, and actually retaining information • The role of production value, storytelling, and design in learning outcomes • Practical strategies for creating e-learning that students actually want to complete • Why investing in quality e-learning pays off for businesses and educators alike Whether you're creating training programmes for your team, developing online courses, or simply curious about the future of education, Jon shares expert insights into what makes e-learning truly effective. Essential advice from someone who's mastered the art and science of digital learning! About Our Guest: Jon Hocker is from The E-Learning Group, a company dedicated to creating high-quality, engaging e-learning experiences that drive real results for businesses and educational institutions. Stop settling for e-learning that doesn't work. Tune in now and discover how to create learning experiences that truly engage and inspire. Subscribe for more practical business insights that actually work.

Send us Fan Mail What does it take to build a successful spiritual business, launch a major event solo, and land on reality TV? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Mart Tweedy—founder of Canny Crystals, creator of Mani-Fest, podcast host, and recent star of Channel Four's The Inheritance—to explore his incredible journey into the world of spirituality and entrepreneurship. What You'll Discover: • How Mart found his way into the spiritual business world (and why it stuck) • The behind-the-scenes reality of planning and launching Mani-Fest from scratch—completely solo • Lessons learned from building a thriving event that brings the spiritual community together • What it's really like appearing on Channel Four's The Inheritance (and the unexpected opportunities it brought) • How Canny Crystals grew from an idea into a platform that helps others thrive • Practical advice for anyone wanting to create their own event or community-driven business • The power of authenticity and staying true to your mission If you're thinking about launching your own event, building a community around your passion, or simply curious about the spiritual business world, Mart shares honest insights and actionable wisdom from someone who's done it all—his way. Real talk from a true entrepreneur who's turned his vision into reality! About Our Guest: Mart Tweedy is the founder of Canny Crystals, creator of the Mani-Fest spiritual event, podcast host, and recent star of Channel Four's reality show The Inheritance. He's passionate about building platforms that empower the spiritual community and help others thrive. Ready to turn your passion into a thriving business? Tune in now and discover how Mart built his empire from the ground up. Subscribe for more practical business insights that actually work.

Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered why some people can visualise ideas so vividly they feel real? In this fascinating episode, we sit down with Ann English, visual strategist, TEDx speaker, and author, to explore hyperphantasia—an extraordinary ability to create ultra-vivid mental imagery—and how it's shaped her career and revolutionary Ideasbook system. What You'll Discover: • What hyperphantasia actually is and how it differs from typical visualisation • How vivid imagination can be your secret business superpower • The connection between visual thinking and entrepreneurial success • Ann's signature VisionMapping™ and VisualDoodles™ systems explained • Practical ways to harness your imagination to bring ideas to life • Why ideas are worthless if they stay locked in your mind—and what to do about it • How to bridge the gap between imagination and impact in your business Whether you're a visual thinker, creative entrepreneur, or someone who's always had a wildly imaginative mind, Ann shares eye-opening insights and actionable strategies to transform your invisible ideas into unforgettable reality. Game-changing advice from someone who's turned her unique way of thinking into a thriving business! About Our Guest: Ann English is a visual strategist, TEDx speaker, and author who helps visual thinkers and ideas-rich entrepreneurs transform chaos into clarity through innovative visual strategy tools. With hyperphantasia and decades of experience in design, storytelling, and strategy, she's the creator of VisionMapping™, VisualDoodles™, and The Clarity Quest™. Stop letting your brilliant ideas stay trapped in your imagination. Tune in now and discover how to turn your visual thinking into your greatest business asset. Subscribe for more practical business insights that actually work.