Share an experience or challenge that has shaped you? I changed my career entirely at the age of 47, transitioning from VP of marketing in a global brand to becoming a professional leadership coach and founder.
I had come to a point in my life when I needed to anchor my work in a deeper mission - championing women’s success has always been my passion, but I wanted to make it my mission. Navigating that change taught me so much - to back myself always, trust the process (which was challenging at times), and keep those eyes forwards!
Best piece of advice you have ever been given? Stay in your lane.
Comparison is the thief of joy - that's why I always look forward towards my goals and dreams and try to ignore what other people are doing.
What advice would you give to your younger self or a woman just starting her career? Back yourself more, you've got this!
What does success mean to you? Doing work that fulfils me, getting paid well for that work and having control over my time.
How do you handle challenges and changes? What's in your toolkit? I look at them as learning experiences then it's a win win.
Why is it important to support women in business and women-led business? Women bring a different lens to business than men, they are often more purpose driven, more people orientated and more caring and that can only be a good thing.
60 Seconds with Jo Glynn-Smith
My inspiration is: My grandmother. She was a jewish refugee who escaped to London from Prague in 1939 at the age of 26, with her husband and just a few belongings. Although she had never had to work before, she spoke the best english, so she started a business designing and making leather accessories and evening gowns, and eventually opened a boutique on South Molton Street. She also started a purchasing coop to enable small businesses to buy fabrics at better prices. Through her determination she was able to support her family, educate her daughters, and build a new life in London. She is my constant inspiration.
My greatest fear is: I don't have one....what will be will be.
The most courageous thing I have ever done is: Starting again at 47.
I am most proud of: I know I should say my children, and I am SO proud of who they are. But I'd have to say my podcast. it's blood, sweat and tears because I do it ALL - the editing, the recordings, the publishing, the artwork, the social - I love creating the shows, I love learning from the guests, I love the platform I am creating.
Guiltless pleasure: 'Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing' - it's pure joy!
Mantra I live by: Just Fucking Do It!! or JFDI for short 😉
Female role model: Women inspire me all the time - but I heard Dame Julia Hoggett, CEO of the London Stock Exchange speak recently and she was awesome - powerful, authentic, vulnerable and inspiring.
Women-led brand I love: Navygrey - the best investment jumpers ever!
