How One Woman’s Health Challenges Inspired Her Home-Based Business

In this weeks episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, we chat with Marina Boyce, a Utility Warehouse partner who shares how she has turned chronic illness into chronic income. Marina opens up about living with ulcerative colitis and fibromyalgia, the impact this had on her career, and how flexible, home-based work has helped her regain control, confidence and financial stability. What We CoverMarina’s journey from working in a physically demanding role to needing a flexible alternativeLiving and working with chronic illness, flare-ups and fluctuating energyWhy traditional employment wasn’t sustainable and what changedWhat a Utility Warehouse partner actually does day to dayHow Marina built income quickly through friends, family and online communitiesPromotions, bonuses and incentives and what’s possible in a short timeThe importance of flexibility, community and support when work needs to fit around healthKey TakeawaysChronic illness doesn’t mean giving up on income, ambition or progressionFlexible work can restore confidence, independence and purposeYou don’t need perfect health, long hours or prior experience to get startedSmall, consistent actions can lead to rapid momentum and resultsWork that adapts to your life (not the other way around),  can be genuinely life-changingWhy Listen:If you’ve ever wondered how to earn an income when traditional work isn’t an option, Marina’s story is proof that work doesn’t have to cost you your health to be worthwhile.Show Links:Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Marina on Facebook hereConnect with Marina on Instagram hereFind out more about joining Utility Warehouse 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!

In this episode of Work It Like a Mum, we’re diving into one of the biggest shifts facing women at work today: AI and the future of jobs.I’m joined by Heather Black, Founder and CEO of Supermums, a brilliant organisation focused on upskilling women (and men) in tech. Together, we unpack what AI really means for women’s careers — cutting through fear, hype and headlines to focus on what’s actually happening right now.With women overrepresented in roles already being reshaped by AI, this is a conversation every working woman needs to hear.What We Cover:Why AI is already changing women’s jobs — right nowThe roles and tasks most at risk (and why women are more exposed)How AI is reshaping hiring, interviews, and expectationsWhy “waiting it out” isn’t an optionPractical ways to start using AI to save time and stay relevantHow to future-proof your career without becoming a tech expertKey Takeaways:AI is replacing tasks, not entire careersWomen are disproportionately impacted — but also well-placed to adaptAI skills are quickly becoming essential, not optionalUsing AI can boost productivity, confidence, and employabilityThose who embrace AI early will have a real advantageWhy Listen:If you’re worried about AI, feeling stretched, considering a career shift, or want to stay relevant at work, this episode is for you.You’ll come away feeling informed, confident and empowered, not fearful.AI isn’t going away, but with the right mindset and skills, it can work for you, not against you.Show Links:Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Heather on LinkedIn hereVisit the Supermums website hereFollow Supermums 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 of the Work It Like a Mum Podcast, we're joined by Michelle Coulson, founder of Remote Rebellion, a consultancy dedicated to helping people secure meaningful remote work.With demand for remote roles still sky-high — and competition tougher than ever — Michelle shares honest insights into what’s really happening in the remote job market and how candidates can stand out in 2026.What We Cover:Why demand for remote work is still high — even as advertised roles shrinkThe myth that “remote jobs are impossible to get”What’s really stopping employers from offering remote rolesWhen remote work works best (and when it doesn’t)Why networking beats mass applyingHow many roles are filled before they’re ever advertisedKey Takeaways:Remote roles are competitive — but far from impossibleBlind applications aren’t enough — visibility mattersRelationships often beat the perfect CVMany remote jobs are filled via networks, not job boardsEstablished professionals have an edge in remote rolesFlexibility is still king — and employers know itWhy You Should Listen:Want to land a remote role without endless job applications? Michelle shares practical tips, networking strategies, and insider advice to help you stand out and get noticed — even in a competitive market.Show Links:Connect with our host Elizabeth Willetts hereConnect with Michelle on LinkedIn hereVisit the Remote Rebellion website here Follow Remote Rebellion on Instagram 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!

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!