New Year, New You: How to Make 2026 Your Healthiest Year Yet

In this week's episode of the' Work It Like a Mum' podcast, we’re joined by Ro Feilden-Cook, a personal trainer, women’s wellbeing expert, and founder of The SHE Collective. Ro helps busy midlife women create sustainable breakthroughs in their health—without guilt or perfectionism. She’s also a mum of three and carer to her disabled son, bringing personal experience, resilience, and compassion to her work.Through her award-winning platform, she combines movement, nutrition, mindset, and nervous system support, all within a supportive, empowering community. What we cover:The 4 pillars of health: Exercise, nutrition, mindset & nervous system.Mindset hacks: Navigate setbacks, “week three wobbles,” and hit your “Magic 10” breakthrough.Exercise made simple: Find the best time to move, whatever fits your life.Nutrition without guilt: Why journaling beats calorie counting every time.Power of community: Connection and accountability that make habits stick.Stress-proof your life: Tools for managing stress, inspired by raising a child with complex needs.Self-care that works: Why prioritising yourself is the ultimate gift to your family.Business with heart: Lessons from growing a high-support membership sustainably. Key Takeaways:Self-care isn’t selfish: Taking care of yourself benefits both you and your loved ones.Consistency beats perfection: The “Magic 10” shows small wins compound into breakthroughs.Your community matters: Support and accountability keep habits alive.Food and fitness without guilt: Focus on habits that feel good, not just numbers.Manage stress before it manages you: Breathwork, journaling, and mindset tools.Adapt, don’t give up: Life throws curveballs, including parenting challenges, so adjust and keep pressing play.Why Listen:This episode is full of actionable tips, mindset shifts, and practical tools from Ro to help you show up for yourself, your family, and your future self. Show Links: Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Ro on LinkedIn hereVisit The SHE Collective website here Follow The SHE Collective on Instagram here Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount.Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this week’s episode, Elizabeth sits down with the brilliant Lindsey Roberts, coach and founder of Gold Digger Coaching, to explore the powerful (and often uncomfortable) truth about boundaries.After spending 12 years in corporate—and hitting burnout hard—Lindsey now helps women redefine success, prevent overwhelm, and create work-life balance without guilt.This conversation is honest, grounded, and full of practical shifts you can start using today.💬 What We Cover:Lindsay’s personal burnout story and the wake-up call that changed her lifeWhy boundaries matter more than ever (and why most of us were never taught how to set them)What early signs of burnout look like, and why they often go ignoredHow to begin setting boundaries, even if your workplace is demanding or the economy feels uncertainThe “micro-boundaries” that instantly create more time, energy and clarityHow to talk to your manager about priority overloadWhy changing jobs won’t fix burnout unless you fix your patternsWhat true work-life balance looks like when it’s sustainableThe transformations Lindsay has seen with clients who finally put boundaries in place⭐ Key Takeaways:Burnout builds slowly: 12–18 months of ignored warning signs usually come before the crash. Small boundaries, big impact: Even a 15-minute break can reset your energy and focus. Stress isn’t the enemy: Constant stress is. Saying yes to everything: Means saying no to yourself. Other people’s urgency isn’t yours: Their priorities aren’t automatically your priorities. Your job isn’t your identity: You are replaceable — protecting your wellbeing matters. Boundaries can be strategic: Align them with business priorities, not combative. Changing jobs won’t fix habits: Boundaries need to be built wherever you are. Rebuild joy at work: Start by recognising what drains you and what energises you.🎧 Why Listen:If you’re juggling work, motherhood and the pressure to “do it all,” this episode gives you practical mindset shifts, early burnout signs to watch for, and real insight from someone who’s lived it, leaving you feeling supported, understood and empowered to set healthier boundaries. Show Links: Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Lyndsey on LinkedIn hereVisit Lyndsey’s website here Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this special bonus episode of The Work It Like a Mum Podcast, we're joined by the incredible Rebecca Newnham — straight from her car! We discuss entrepreneurship, flexible working, and how to begin 2026 with a scalable business plan.Rebecca shares her insights on the franchise model, building regional service-based businesses, and how women can create multiple streams of income without sacrificing flexibility or freedom.What We Cover:Why more women should consider entrepreneurship and flexible business models.How to scale a business beyond yourself without losing control.The benefits of the franchise model for flexibility, support, and rapid growth.Freelancers and the future of work: why flexibility matters now more than ever.Tips for networking, client acquisition, and building impact locally.How to set intentions for 2026 and plan for a thriving business year ahead.Key Takeaways:Flexibility isn’t just a perk; it’s essential for productivity and well-being.Scaling a business takes planning and investment, but it allows your business to grow beyond just you.A franchise model can provide support, structure, and freedom while giving others the tools to succeed.Networking can occur anywhere, from supermarkets and playgrounds to online platforms, and can lead to genuine opportunities.Combining corporate experience, freelancing, and entrepreneurship can create a fulfilling and varied career path.Why Listen: Whether you’re a mum thinking about starting your own business, a freelancer curious about franchising opportunities, or simply interested in flexible ways to grow your career, this episode is packed with actionable insights, encouragement, and real-life examples of building a business that works for your life.Show Links: Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Rebecca on LinkedIn hereVisit the Get Ahead website here Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, we chat with Coralie Woodhead — renewable energy expert, mum of two, and co-founder of Vimma Energy. After 10 years in the solar industry, Coralie left her corporate career to launch a start-up while raising two young children. She shares the highs and lows of building a business from scratch, managing co-founders, and creating a product that helps households save on energy costs — all while juggling family life.What We Cover:Taking the leap from corporate to entrepreneurshipBuilding a start-up with co-founders and defining roles clearlyLaunching a product in the clean energy space and making it accessible for everyday usersBalancing motherhood and business ownershipOvercoming challenges as a first-time founderStrategic decision-making, trialling products, and choosing the right technologyThe importance of support networks, mentorship, and finding the right business coachKey Takeaways:Start-up life is messy but rewarding: flexibility can make a huge difference for working parents.Co-founder dynamics matter: leverage strengths and clearly define responsibilities.You don’t need to “look like” a founder: passion, focus, and determination drive results.Learning on the job is normal: don’t be afraid to make mistakes and iterate.Mentorship and support networks are game-changers: find someone who’s been there before.Innovation can be simple: making clean energy practical and accessible doesn’t have to be complicated.Why Listen:A must-listen for mum founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone juggling business and family. It’s packed with honest insights on building a business, managing co-founders, launching a practical product in the energy space, and creating the flexibility that makes life with kids possible — all without the usual glossy start-up narrative.Show Links:Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Coralie on LinkedIn hereVisit the Vimma Energy website here Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this episode of the Work It Like a Mum Podcast, we chat with Hannah Fleming, founder of Ocean Bug Travel, about her journey from running a stressful homewares business to creating a thriving, flexible travel business and network marketing venture. Hannah shares her honest experience of pivoting her career, building a business around family life, and breaking through industry stereotypes.What We Cover:Hannah’s journey from law to entrepreneurship and key lessons from her first business.Discovering the travel business and why it was the perfect fit.Running a travel booking business: client types, logistics, and insider tips.Understanding commissions and strategies to maximise earnings, including cruises.The network marketing side: myths, the real model, and uncapped income potential.How this industry empowers women and contributes to closing the gender pay gap.Opportunities from global expansion and being an early adopter.Practical advice for starting a flexible, low-risk business.Key Takeaways:Experience Matters: Skills from previous ventures are invaluable, even if that business didn’t succeed.Flexibility + Income: A travel and network marketing business can offer flexible work hours, low startup costs, and uncapped earning potential.Personalised Service Wins: Clients value expertise and time-saving services, especially for complex travel bookings.Network Marketing is a Business: Success depends on effort and commitment—not “get rich quick” schemes.Women Thriving: Industries without glass ceilings enable ambitious women to earn, lead, and close the gender pay gap.Low-Risk Entry: With a small monthly subscription, you can start your own travel agency without high upfront costs.Why Listen: If you’re a parent, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone looking for a business that fits around your life, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Show Links: Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Hannah on LinkedIn hereFollow Ocean Bug Travel HereFind Out More About Ocean Bug Travel Here Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount.Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this week's episode of the Work it Like a Mum Podcast, we're joined by Anna Birbeck, Director of Regions & Partnerships at IN4 Group and the driving force behind the Mums in Data (MIND) programme.Anna breaks down why data roles are flexible, secure, future-proof, and far more accessible than you might think. We explore what data jobs really involve, why mums naturally excel in them, and how the MIND programme is supporting women to restart or pivot their careers with confidence.What We Cover:Why data and AI roles are perfect for working mumsThe real barriers mums face returning to work – and how to overcome themWhat a data analyst actually does (no jargon!)Why you don’t need a tech or maths backgroundHow the 12-week Mums in Data programme sets you up for successApprenticeships as a confidence-boosting entry routeFlexible, remote, and family-friendly career optionsThe growing demand for women in data and AIHow mums’ everyday skills are exactly what employers wantWhere to apply and how programme expansion follows demand Key Takeaways:No maths or tech background required, data roles rely more on curiosity and critical thinking than coding.Data careers are future-proof, in-demand, and offer real flexibility for school hours and family life.Mums already have the winning skill set: communication, problem-solving, pattern recognition, and emotional intelligence.A 12-week programme + apprenticeship pathway provides a supported, step-by-step route back into employment.Confidence is the main blocker, not ability, and the programme is built to rebuild that confidence gradually.Employers want returner mums, they’re an untapped talent pool with highly valuable transferable skills.Why Listen:If you’ve wondered whether a career in data or AI could work for you,  especially after a career break or if you need more flexibility, this episode is a must-listen.Show Links: Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Anna on LinkedIn hereVisit IN4 Groups' website hereLearn more about the MIND programme hereRegister your interest to join the MIND programme here Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, we chat with Gemma Graystone, a Talent Acquisition Manager, mum of two, and a new side hustle success story. Gemma shares how she turned a small £10 investment into a flexible income stream during maternity leave, all while balancing life with two little ones. If you’re curious about side hustles that actually work around family life, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration.What We Cover:How Gemma discovered her side hustle and overcame initial doubtsThe simple, low-cost way she started with Utility WarehouseTraining, support, and team culture that made success achievableReal-world strategies for finding your first customersFlexible ways to fit work around family lifeIncentives, bonuses, and extra perks that make it motivatingHow she achieved £1,800 in just seven weeksKey Takeaways:Starting small works: £10 can be all it takes to begin your side hustle journeyTraining and mentorship are essential for confidence and successFlexibility is key- work around your family schedule, not against itWord-of-mouth and authentic recommendations are powerful toolsTeam support and a positive culture make a huge differenceSide hustles can provide both financial relief and long-term income potentialWhy Listen:For mums looking to earn extra income without compromising family life, this episode is a must-listen. Gemma’s story is relatable, inspiring, and full of practical tips to make a side hustle work around real life. Show Links:Connect With Our Host, Elizabeth Willetts HereConnect With Gemma on LinkedIn Here Learn More About Becoming a UW Partner HereGemma’s Partner ID is AN9145Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this week’s episode of the Work It Like a Mum Podcast, we chat with Penny Moyses, founder of Home Life and You and certified Time Hacker Coach. Penny shares her inspiring journey from working in high-pressure events to creating a movement that helps people redesign their homes, habits, and lives to truly support their wellbeing.Through Home Life and You Live, a thriving community and annual event at Excel London, Penny helps people navigate the juggle of work, family, and everything in between, showing that you can build a life and home that aligns with your values without losing yourself in the process.What We Cover:💡 How Home Life and You began, and the challenges that inspired it 🏠 Why our home environment is so closely tied to mental well-being 🧠 Practical ways to “time hack” and make space for what matters 🧺 Decluttering as a mindset shift—not just about stuff 👩‍👧 The truth about mum guilt, balance, and redefining “having it all”Key Takeaways:✨ You don’t need to do it all. Design a life that works for you ✨ Rest and space are powerful tools for clarity and success ✨ Your home, habits, and mindset are all connected ✨ Balance is something we create, not find ✨ Be kind to yourself, it’s productiveWhy Listen:If you’ve ever felt stretched too thin or overwhelmed by the juggle of work, home, and family, this episode will leave you feeling seen and supported. Penny’s honest, practical insights on time, home, and wellbeing show that it’s possible to thrive without burning out—and that balance starts right where you are.Show Links:Connect With Our Host, Elizabeth Willetts HereConnect With Penny on LinkedIn Here Visit Penny’s Website HereListen to Vikki Yaffe’s Podcast Episode: How to Take Back Your Time and Beat Burnout Here Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount.Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this week’s episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, we sit down with Jane van Zyl, CEO of Working Families, the UK’s leading charity supporting working parents and carers.Jane and Liz dive deep into what’s really holding parents back at work, from rigid systems and outdated expectations to the rising cost of childcare. Jane shares how Working Families is changing the game through free legal advice, employer partnerships, and government influence, helping to build a fairer, more flexible future of work.What We CoverThe mission of Working Families and how they support both employees and employers.The biggest barriers working parents face in today’s workplaces.Why flexible working is so much more than just working from home.Key legal rights for working parents, and how to navigate them.How small businesses can lead the way in flexibility.The story behind the Family Friendly Workplace Certification.The harsh reality of childcare costs and income inequality.Inspirational examples of progressive employers like Deloitte. Key Takeaways💬 Flexibility starts with a conversation, not a confrontation.💪 90% of people who contact Working Families keep their jobs and gain flexibility.🧩 Small businesses can be surprisingly family-friendly.💷 Work should pay,  but for too many families, it still doesn’t.🏆 Measure what matters if you want real change.👶 Leading employers are proving parental equality can be done.Why You Should Listen:If you’ve ever felt torn between work and family, this episode is for you. You’ll gain practical tips, clarity on your rights, and a fresh take on what real flexibility means. Jane’s warmth and wisdom make this one of our most empowering episodes yet. Show Links:Connect With Our Host, Elizabeth Willetts HereConnect With Jane on LinkedIn Here Visit the Working Families Website Here Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount.Support the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

In this episode of the Work It Like a Mum Podcast, we sit down with Paula Brockwell, founder and director of the Employee Experience Project, to unpack the real power of workplace culture. Paula explains why culture isn’t just about “Sunday night vibes” but is a system that drives employee behaviour, performance, and business success.What We Cover:What business culture really is and why it mattersWhy there’s no universal “perfect culture” and how alignment with business goals is keyThe role of leadership in connecting employees to the missionHow KPIs can support or harm cultureResetting psychological contracts to create empowered, high-performing teamsPreparing for the future of work with AI and evolving skill requirementsKey Takeaways:Culture is more than vibes: It shapes how people act, what’s acceptable, and how success happens.No one-size-fits-all: The best culture fits your business context, goals, and mission.Leadership matters: Great leaders connect people to the mission and help them thrive.Behaviour over motivation: Culture drives the actions that achieve results—not just good feelings.Psychological contracts: Clear, adult-to-adult agreements keep expectations realistic and engagement high.KPIs that align: Metrics work when they reinforce the right behaviours, not conflicting ones.AI and the future of work: Rethink talent, skills, and human-machine partnerships to stay ahead.Why You Should Listen: If you are a business leader, HR professional, or team manager, this episode offers practical guidance on building a culture that empowers employees, boosts performance, and helps your organisation thrive in any market. Paula’s insights take you beyond surface-level “culture vibes” to strategies that really make a difference. Show Links:Connect With Our Host, Elizabeth Willetts HereConnect With Paula on LinkedIn Here Visit Paula’s Website HereSupport the showSign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode!Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here. And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!