The Phoenix Podcast - With Zoe Thompson

Zoe Thompson
  • 5.0 (5)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED FORTNIGHTLY
The Phoenix Podcast - With Zoe Thompson

Meaningful conversations that are packed with hints, tips and advice. Light-hearted podcasts talking about serious topics, to help you live the life you want, with confidence. Your host, Zoe Thompson, is an accredited 'Master Coach' with extensive experience in coaching, training, and speaking, Zoe empowers individuals to become confident leaders and successful entrepreneurs 'Strategy, Mindset, & Confidence for Leadership & Business Success' zoethompson.uk Intro Credit for #firewithphoenix: William age 9yrs End Credit for #firewithphoenix: Bethany and Olivia age 7yrs

  1. In Conversation with Hannah Milton: From Teaching to Dyslexia Support Specialist

    1 DAY AGO

    In Conversation with Hannah Milton: From Teaching to Dyslexia Support Specialist

    Rediscovering the Passion for Teaching: Hannah Milton’s Journey" Episode Description: In Episode 11 of 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner', we are joined by Hannah Milton, founder of Dyslexia LaunchPad and a specialist in dyslexia support. After 18 years of teaching, Hannah left the classroom two years ago to focus on helping students with dyslexia. What she didn’t expect was how stepping away from traditional teaching would reignite her love for education. Hannah shares her journey of: Hannah shares her journey of: The emotional challenges of feeling like a failure in school and how her dyslexia diagnosis changed her path How her experience as a primary school teacher prepared her for the fast-paced world of business ownership Rediscovering her passion for teaching through one-to-one sessions, and how it allowed her to focus on what she loves most—helping students The importance of prioritising tasks, whether in the classroom or as a business owner, and how this skill has helped her thrive Subscribe to 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner' and hear Hannah’s powerful story. If you're a new or aspiring business owner from the public sector, join our Facebook group to connect with like-minded individuals. Aspiring and New Business Owners from the Public Sector Connect with Hannah: • Facebook Group: Dyslexia Parent Community • Facebook Page: Dyslexia LaunchPad • Instagram: @dyslexia_launchpad

    42 min
  2. In Conversation with Clare Bradley: From Police Officer to Anger Management Coach

    16 OCT

    In Conversation with Clare Bradley: From Police Officer to Anger Management Coach

    Episode Title: From Police Officer to Anger Management Coach: Clare Bradley’s Journey Episode Description: In Episode 10 of 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner', Clare Bradley shares her incredible journey from serving 20 years as a police officer to founding her own business, The Anger Management Coach. After facing medical retirement due to a chronic pain condition, Clare battled through personal challenges, including a gambling addiction and domestic abuse. Her story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and transformation as she found her calling in helping others through emotional regulation and behaviour change. Clare reflects on: The mental and emotional challenges of leaving a career in the public sector Overcoming self-doubt and learning to believe in herself and her vision for the future The tough decision to walk away from a career that no longer served her well-being Her ongoing journey as a business owner, including exciting new opportunities like her upcoming book and TV appearance If you're in the public sector and struggling with similar decisions, this episode is a must-listen. Clare’s honesty and courage will inspire you to make choices that serve your wellbeing and future success. Call to Action: Don’t miss this inspiring episode! Subscribe to 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner' to hear Clare’s full story. If you're a new or aspiring business owner from the public sector, join our Facebook group to connect with like-minded individuals. Click here Aspiring and New Business Owners from the Public Sector Connect with Clare: Website: angermanagementcoach.co.uk Facebook Group: The Anger Management Coach Community

    53 min
  3. In Conversation with Steve Bisby: From the College to Virtual Assistant

    9 OCT

    In Conversation with Steve Bisby: From the College to Virtual Assistant

    From the College to Virtual Assistant: Steve Bisby’s Journey Episode Description: In Episode 9 of 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner', we are joined by Steve Bisby, founder of Help With Admin. Steve shares his journey from working in the public sector to becoming a trusted virtual assistant, offering services like minute-taking, bookkeeping, and social media management. In this episode, Steve opens up about: The personal turning point that inspired him to explore freelance work after spending years in the public sector How his first freelance contract opened his eyes to the world of business ownership The invaluable skill of flexible communication, learned from years in the public sector, and how it has contributed to his success in running his own business How his experience in HR at Doncaster College taught him to adapt his communication style to different audiences, a skill that’s essential in business Steve’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and growth, proving that it’s never too late to find your passion and turn it into a successful business. Don’t miss this inspiring episode! If you’re a new or aspiring business owner from the public sector, join our Facebook group to connect with like-minded individuals. Join the Conversation: [Facebook Group Link] Connect with Steve: Visit LinkTree for Websites, Blogs & Newsletter Sign-up: LinkTree - Steve Bisby

    38 min
  4. In Conversation with Naomi Rose: Balancing Passion, Purpose, and Profit

    3 OCT

    In Conversation with Naomi Rose: Balancing Passion, Purpose, and Profit

    Balancing Passion, Purpose, and Profit with Naomi Rose Episode Description: In Episode 8 of 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner', we’re joined by Naomi Rose, a business strategy and marketing expert who describes herself as a ‘digital GP’. Naomi shares her journey from leaving a stable 9-5 job to starting her first business, and the emotional challenges of stepping away from the charity and public sector. Naomi’s story is one of passion, purpose, and profit, and she reveals how you can align all three as a business owner. In this episode, she dives into: The importance of having a plan, even when the details are unclear How to balance doing good with building a profitable business Overcoming the guilt of leaving behind the charity sector How to take the leap into self-employment without knowing all the answers This episode is packed with insights for aspiring and new business owners who are ready to grow their business while staying true to their purpose. Don’t miss this inspiring episode! Subscribe to 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner' and hear Naomi’s valuable insights. If you’re a new or aspiring business owner from the public sector, join our Facebook group to connect with like-minded individuals. Join the Conversation: [Facebook Group Link] Connect with Naomi: Website: naomicrose.co Instagram: @iamnaomicrose

    37 min
  5. In Conversation with Scott Fulton: Digital Expert to Productivity Coach

    26 SEPT

    In Conversation with Scott Fulton: Digital Expert to Productivity Coach

    From Digital Expert to Productivity Coach: Scott Fulton’s Journey Episode Description: In Episode 7 of 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner,' we’re joined by Scott Fulton, founder of Digital Rebels and creator of the "Do Less Deliver More™" brand. Scott brings over 20 years of digital expertise, but his journey as a business owner has taken unexpected turns, from small website development to becoming a sought-after performance and productivity coach. Scott shares how he built his business after leaving the police force and the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way: The importance of patience and persistence when starting a business and how building trust with customers takes time How his background in digital work expanded into consulting on intranets, websites, and productivity coaching for teams The power of leveraging your network to scale up projects without needing to hire full-time employees How his passion for team productivity and avoiding burnout turned into a successful paid training programme This episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to optimise their processes and build sustainable growth. Don’t miss this episode! Subscribe to 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner' for more inspiring stories and practical advice. If you're a new or aspiring business owner from the public sector, join our Facebook group to connect with like-minded individuals. Listen Now: [Podcast Link] Join the Conversation: [Facebook Group Link] Connect with Scott: Website: ScottFulton.co.uk Digital Rebels: DigitalRebels.co.uk LinkedIn: Scott Fulton on LinkedIn

    44 min
  6. In Conversation with Laura Robson: From Healthcare to Virtual Tech Assistant

    18 SEPT

    In Conversation with Laura Robson: From Healthcare to Virtual Tech Assistant

    Streamlining Success with Systems: Laura Robson’s Journey from Healthcare to Virtual Assistant Episode Description:In Episode 5 of 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner', Laura Robson shares her transition from over a decade in healthcare science and tech to launching her successful virtual assistant business in 2022. Laura helps busy entrepreneurs thrive by setting up the systems, processes, and automation they need to streamline their businesses. In this episode, Laura delves into: How building rapport and networking helped her grow her business in the first year The transferable skills from her public sector role that have proven invaluable in her new venture The importance of setting up systems for small business owners, particularly for coaches, creatives, and freelancers who are just starting out and feeling overwhelmed Why creating the right processes allows business owners to keep going on their own, making business growth smoother in the long run Whether you’re a new business owner or transitioning from the public sector, Laura’s insights on streamlining and simplifying your business processes are a must-hear. Subscribe to 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner' to hear Laura’s story and get more valuable advice from other entrepreneurs. Don’t forget to join our Facebook group for aspiring and new business owners from the public sector. Join the Facebook Group Connect with Laura: Website Instagram Facebook Start your journey to a rewarding career beyond the public sector by tuning into this episode!

    28 min
  7. In Conversation with Karen Simpson: From Teacher to Six-Figure Tutoring Business Owner

    12 SEPT

    In Conversation with Karen Simpson: From Teacher to Six-Figure Tutoring Business Owner

    Episode 4: "From Teacher to Six-Figure Tutoring Business Owner: Karen Simpson’s Journey" Episode Description:In Episode 4 of 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner', I sit down with Karen Simpson, a former primary school teacher who transitioned from the classroom to running a multi-award-winning, six-figure tutoring business. Karen shares her inspiring journey from part-time tutoring to leaving her teaching career and building a thriving business. If you’ve ever wondered whether your skills as an educator could translate into entrepreneurship, Karen’s story proves it’s possible. In this episode, she delves into: The challenges of leaving the public sector and transitioning into business ownership How she built her business and overcame the fear of running a company The surprising similarities between managing a classroom and running a business Her mission to empower other educators to take the leap into tutoring and believe in the value of their skills This episode is packed with practical insights and encouragement for educators who are ready to step into the world of business ownership. If you’re a teacher or public sector professional thinking about starting your own business, this is a must-listen. Subscribe now to 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner' for more inspiring episodes. Join our Facebook group for aspiring and new business owners from the public sector Connect with Karen: Instagram Website Start your journey to a rewarding career beyond the public sector by tuning in to this episode!

    38 min
  8. In Conversation with Amanda Hutchinson: From Local Authority to International Brand Photographer

    5 SEPT

    In Conversation with Amanda Hutchinson: From Local Authority to International Brand Photographer

    From Local Authority to International Brand Photographer: Amanda Hutchinson's Journey Episode Description:Join us in Episode 4 of 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner' as we explore the remarkable transition of Amanda Hutchinson from a local authority emergency planner in London to becoming a highly sought-after international brand and retreat photographer. Discover how Amanda's public sector background helped shape her business ethos and contributed to her success in the competitive world of branding photography. Episode Highlights: The Leap into Entrepreneurship: Amanda discusses her decision to leave a stable job at the local authority to pursue her passion for photography. Learn about the initial challenges she faced and the strategies she implemented to overcome them. Risk Management in Business: Amanda shares how her public sector experience made her more risk-averse and meticulous in planning—traits that she has turned into significant strengths in her business. Hear how this thoughtful approach to decision-making has ensured the longevity and success of her business. Building a Client-Centric Business: Learn about the importance of being people-focused in photography. Amanda talks about connecting with her clients, understanding their insecurities, and helping them shine in front of the camera. This empathy has enabled her to attract and retain clients who are typically nervous about being photographed. Strategies for International Success: Amanda reveals how she expanded her brand to an international audience, including the steps she took to become a go-to photographer for brand retreats around the world. Lessons Learned: Reflecting on what worked and what didn’t, Amanda provides invaluable insights for new entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the need for investing in support and mentorship early on and the benefits of maintaining an ethics-based, reflective approach in all business dealings. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the public sector dreaming of turning their passion into a thriving business. Amanda’s journey offers not just inspiration but practical advice that can be applied to any entrepreneurial venture. Subscribe to 'If I Knew Then: From Public Sector to Business Owner' to catch this enlightening episode and many more. Join our Facebook group for aspiring and new business owners from the public sector to connect, share experiences, and learn together. Listen Now: [Podcast Link] Join the Conversation: [Facebook Group Link] Connect with Amanda: Instagram: [Amanda's Instagram Handle] Website: [Amanda's Business Website] Embark on your journey towards a fulfilling career outside the public sector with insights from those who have successfully made the leap!

    59 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Meaningful conversations that are packed with hints, tips and advice. Light-hearted podcasts talking about serious topics, to help you live the life you want, with confidence. Your host, Zoe Thompson, is an accredited 'Master Coach' with extensive experience in coaching, training, and speaking, Zoe empowers individuals to become confident leaders and successful entrepreneurs 'Strategy, Mindset, & Confidence for Leadership & Business Success' zoethompson.uk Intro Credit for #firewithphoenix: William age 9yrs End Credit for #firewithphoenix: Bethany and Olivia age 7yrs

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