Share an experience or challenge that has shaped you? Oh, without a doubt, going to Shanghai to deliver a brand-new training course. I was terrified. I was practically writing the material on the plane! I didn’t speak the language, they didn’t really speak English and everything felt so alien. I had panic attacks every night, barely ate a thing, and felt completely out of my depth. But do you know what? It showed me I can do hard things, even when everything familiar is stripped away. It gave me real confidence in my work and reminded me that the stuff I teach works - even across the other side of the world.

Best piece of advice you have ever been given? You can’t change or control another person’s thoughts, feelings, or actions. You can only control your own. It sounds simple, but it’s been huge for me, especially as a mum, a coach, and a human being. It’s such a relief when you really let that sink in.

What advice would you give to your younger self or a woman just starting her career? Have faith. Honestly, have faith that you can do it. Stop doubting yourself, stop thinking you’re not enough - not clever enough, not pretty enough, not whatever enough. You are. Give yourself those little pats on the back, even for the tiniest things. Some days, just getting out of bed and making a cup of tea is an achievement. And when it all feels too much, just put one foot in front of the other. That’s it. You’ll get there.

What does success mean to you? For me, success is showing my daughters what’s possible. And by that measure, I’m already a million times successful. It’s not about being the head of a global company. It’s about being a role model for them, showing them that they can do hard things, start again, and create something meaningful.

How do you handle challenges and changes? What's in your toolkit? Oh, all sorts! Grounding myself is big. Gratitude, mindfulness, just taking a moment to notice the sunshine or the colour of the leaves when I’m out walking the dog. Breathing helps. I’ve said it for years - if in doubt, breathe out. Then there is exercise, self-kindness, knowing when to push and when to rest. And finally, talking. I don’t bottle things up anymore. I’ve learned to ask for help when I need it and to challenge that inner voice when it gets a bit nasty.

Why is it important to support women in business and women-led business? Because, quite frankly, women have to work twice as hard to get half the recognition. And most of the time, they’re juggling everything else too - the kids, the hormones, the life admin, the lot. As Ginger Rogers said, we’re basically doing everything backwards and in heels. Women-led businesses are built on hard work, resilience, and heart. We need to champion that.