The Midlife Entrepreneur

Jo Glynn-Smith
  • 5.0 (1)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The show that's all about building a business in midlife, hosted by professional coach and entrepreneur Jo Glynn-Smith. Each week Jo sits down with a different business owner to explore their personal stories and learn from their business journeys. These conversations are designed to inspire and motivate more people to find the courage and confidence to become a Midlife Entrepreneur. 

  1. 2D AGO

    EP30: Sophie Rowell, interior designer and Founder of Côte de Folk, the celebrated interior design studio known for creating homes with soul.

    In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast Jo chats to Sophie Rowell, interior designer and founder of Cote de Folk.  Sophie shares her transition from a 24-year career in fashion styling and art direction to interiors after a difficult period that included her marriage breaking down, becoming a single mother, her best friend dying of cancer, and a health crisis that prompted her to rethink her life. After moving from Hackney to Folkstone and renovating a Georgian townhouse, she committed fully to a career change with a three-month deadline and landed her first interiors job three weeks before it ended, quickly gaining more work through referrals. Sophie discusses relying on self-trust, managing imposter syndrome with help from a business coach, and viewing success as a mix of opportunity, effort, and determination rather than luck. She explains her intuitive approach to colour and her focus on how spaces feel, not trends. Sophie talks about scaling the business, hiring staff including her right hand Sarah, bringing in a CFO for financial strategy, and expanding into furniture, fabric, and wallpaper. She also describes her preferred working environment (tidy and uncluttered), the importance of rest for creativity, her working culture mantra 'work hard, rest hard', and generous leave policies.    00:00 Welcome + the mission behind The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:54 Meet Sophie Rowell: from fashion stylist to interiors with soul 02:34 The breaking point: single motherhood, burnout, and a health scare 04:11 Leaping without training: the 3‑month deadline and going all in 06:56 First commissions to steady pipeline 08:54 Drive and the ‘why’ 11:45 Building confidence in a new career 13:04 The signature style: colour as a gift and reading a home’s energy 15:19 Collaboration with clients: trust, pivots, and letting the building lead 16:43 Scaling the studio: hiring, interns, CFO support, and product expansion 18:11 Design philosophy: simplicity, warmth, and how spaces make us feel 22:43 Founder realities: time, holidays, rest, and creating space for creativity 29:17 'Rest Hard': Building Recovery Into Creative Success 29:28 Designing a Rest-First Work Culture  30:33 Early Nights, Deep Sleep & Finding Your Rhythm 31:37 Kids, Co-Parenting & Looking Forward to More Time 33:29 Redefining Success 35:36 3-2-1s: Best Investments 39:43 Imposter Syndrome in Creative Work  43:04 What I’d Do Differently 47:07 One Person to Thank 50:07 Closing Thoughts Visit https://www.cotedefolk.com/  Shop https://www.cotedefolk.com/shop Follow @cotedefolk Support the show Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur Contact: enquiries@joglynnsmith.com www.joglynnsmith.com MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    51 min

  2. FEB 10

    15-Minute Masterclass: 3 Ways to Build Loyalty, Community and Trust with Rachel Carvell-Spedding, CEO and Founder of Navygrey

    In this episode of the 15 Minute Masterclass, Jo interviews Rachel Carvell-Spedding, Founder and CEO of Navygrey, a B Corp certified clothing brand specialising in high-quality knitwear. Rachel shares three critical strategies for building brand loyalty, community, and trust: 'Tell the truth,' 'Make people feel something,' and 'Keep showing up.'  She underscores the importance of radical transparency, emotional connection, and consistency in business. Rachel also discusses her experiences in running Navygrey, the challenges faced, and how these principles have guided her brand's success. Tune in to hear her invaluable insights and personal anecdotes.   00:00 Introduction to the 15 Minute Masterclass 00:18 Meet Rachel Carvell-Spedding: Building Brand Loyalty 01:13 First Key to Success: Tell the Truth 06:34 Second Key to Success: Make People Feel Something 09:05 Third Key to Success: Show Up Consistently 14:30 Summary and Closing Remarks 16:34 Final Thoughts and Call to Action   You can follow Navygrey on Instagram @navygrey.co Or head to their website: https://navygrey.co/   Support the show Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur Contact: enquiries@joglynnsmith.com www.joglynnsmith.com MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    17 min

  3. FEB 5

    EP29: Helen Hopkins (AKA the Mealtime Maverick), batch cooking specialist, meal-planning strategist, and women’s wellness expert.

    Join Jo on The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast as she converses with Helen Hopkins, also known as the Mealtime Maverick. Helen, a batch cooking specialist, wellness coach, and author with a massive online following, shares her entrepreneurial journey from going viral on Instagram in 2024 to publishing her first book, Mix and Match Batch. Helen discusses the pressures and rewards of her newfound fame, the impact of her personal struggles, and how she efficiently manages her thriving business with the help of her husband. Listen to Helen’s approach to balancing creativity with business strategy, and find out her top three investments, two regrets, and who she thanks for her success.   00:00 Welcome to The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:54 Introducing Helen Hopkins: The Mealtime Maverick 02:04 Going Viral on Instagram: The Journey 03:15 The Challenges and Realities of Viral Fame 04:47 DM Automation: Managing the Influx 12:11 Balancing Personal Life and Business 16:03 Creating the Mix and Match Batch Cookbook 27:00 Balancing Family Meals 28:20 The Business Evolution 28:41 Membership and Income Streams 29:08 Affiliate Marketing Insights 30:10 The Role of Community 32:40 Working with a Partner 37:46 Future Aspirations 41:35 Reflecting on Success and Challenges 51:41 Closing Thoughts and Tips   You can follow Helen at: Instagram @mealtime.maverick https://mealtimemaverick.com/  Her new book ‘Mix and Match Batch’ is available to order on Amazon now.  Support the show Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur Contact: enquiries@joglynnsmith.com www.joglynnsmith.com MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    52 min

  4. JAN 27

    15-Minute Masterclass: 3 Ways to Elevate Your Networking Skills with Helen Brocklebank, CEO of Walpole

    In this episode of the 15 Minute Masterclass, Jo is joined by Helen Brocklebank, CEO of Walpole, for an insightful discussion on elevating networking skills. Helen breaks down the common misconceptions about networking and emphasizes the importance of shifting your mindset from 'networking' to 'connecting.' She shares practical tips including going in with an open mindset, being curious and asking open-ended questions, curating a meaningful network, and showing up consistently. Helen advocates for a generous approach to connecting people and stresses the long-term value of meaningful conversations over transactional meetings. Tune in for actionable advice on becoming a more effective and genuine networker. 00:00 Introduction to the 15 Minute Masterclass 00:43 Debunking Networking Myths 01:36 Mindset Shift: From Networking to Connecting 02:14 Practical Tips for Making Connections 06:46 Curating and Maintaining Your Network 14:34 The Importance of Showing Up 16:28 Conclusion and Key Takeaways 17:51 Closing Remarks and Call to Action   Helen Brocklebank is the CEO of Walpole, the official sector body for the UK’s £81bn luxury sector. Their work promotes, protects and develops the business of British luxury.  https://www.thewalpole.co.uk/   Support the show Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur Contact: enquiries@joglynnsmith.com www.joglynnsmith.com MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    18 min

  5. JAN 20

    EP28: Michelle Pughe-Parry de Klerk, founder of The Women’s Chapter®, a purpose-led community championing the economic and personal growth of women in business.

    In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur podcast, Jo introduces Michelle Pughe-Parry de Klerk, the founder of the Women's Chapter, a community fostering the growth of women in business. Since 2014, the Women's Chapter has reached over 30,000 women through events, thought leadership, mentoring, and initiatives, becoming the first women's network in the UK to achieve B Corp certification for its social and environmental impact. Michelle shares her journey from varied career roles to founding the Women's Chapter as a passion project driven by a need for meaningful business connections. Michelle also discusses the pivotal moments that led to the growth of the Women's Chapter, including personal challenges and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasises the importance of building a community that promotes genuine collaboration over transactional networking. This insightful episode highlights Michelle's dedication to empowering women and fostering connections that drive positive change. The conversation also covers key aspects of managing and scaling a business, outsourcing, maintaining a work-life balance, and future goals focused on simplicity and core strengths. 00:00 Welcome to The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:56 Introducing Michelle Pughe-Parry de Klerk 02:18 Michelle's Career Journey 03:52 The Birth of The Women's Chapter 06:23 Challenges and Inspirations 12:37 Building a Digital Home 15:26 Navigating Personal and Professional Changes 20:32 Expanding the Community 21:34 Managing Growth and Team Dynamics 25:45 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities 28:24 Balancing Ambition and Realism 29:13 The Entrepreneurial Mindset 29:43 Building a Supportive Community 30:19 Diverse Inspirations and Success Stories 30:57 Aligning Passion with Purpose 31:23 Reinventing Career Paths 34:59 The Value of Midlife Experience 42:44 Future-Proofing Your Life and Business 45:56 Investments Worth Every Penny 48:45 Reflections and Gratitude 50:51 Looking Forward to 2026 Support the show Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur Contact: enquiries@joglynnsmith.com www.joglynnsmith.com MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    52 min

  6. JAN 13

    EP27: Jo shares some exciting news about the upcoming season!

    In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, hosted by Jo Glynn-Smith, the focus is on new plans for the upcoming year. Jo celebrates a successful first year of the podcast, expresses gratitude to listeners, and introduces exciting new features. These include the '15 Minute Masterclass' series, aiming to provide expert advice on various business topics. Jo emphasises the importance of building a community around the podcast and encourages listeners to follow and engage with the show. Additionally, Jo announces the launch of a dedicated Instagram account for 'The Midlife Entrepreneur.'   00:00 Welcome to The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:47 Reflecting on a Year of Podcasting 01:35 Introducing the 15-Minute Masterclass Series 02:07 Building Our Community 02:29 Follow Us and Stay Connected 02:58 Join Us on Instagram 03:29 Final Thoughts and How to Get Involved Support the show Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur Contact: enquiries@joglynnsmith.com www.joglynnsmith.com MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    4 min

  7. 12/17/2025

    EP26: Jo Glynn-Smith wraps up the season and hands the mic to Song and Issie!

    In this special end-of-season and year-end episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur podcast, host Jo reflects on her journey of nearly a year in podcasting, emphasising the key theme of resilience learned from her conversations with various entrepreneurs. Jo then passes the microphone to her summer interns, Song and Issie, who interview her about her career pivot at the age of 47, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned. Jo shares insights on the importance of resilience, listening to experienced individuals, stepping out of your comfort zone, and self-belief. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about career transitions, personal growth, and resilience. 00:00 Welcome to The Midlife Entrepreneur podcast 00:41 Reflecting on a Year of Resilience 01:32 Exciting Changes and Interns 02:06 Song and Issie Take Over 02:23 Jo's Career Pivot at 47 03:37 Discovering Purpose and Coaching 06:35 Building a Business from Scratch 09:07 Navigating Ups and Downs 10:37 Transitioning Careers and Overcoming Fear 12:51 Embracing the Geek Within 13:14 Navigating Post-University Uncertainty 14:24 Creating Your Own Opportunities 15:38 Measuring Success as a Self-Employed Professional 17:04 Learning from Inspirational Women 18:30 Advice for Young Women Entering the Job Market 22:46 Final Thoughts and Farewell Support the show Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur Contact: enquiries@joglynnsmith.com www.joglynnsmith.com MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    23 min

  8. 12/02/2025

    EP25: Katherine Elphick, marketing consultant, Shopify expert, and Founder of Elphick & Co, a boutique e-commerce agency helping women-led brands grow online.

    This week on The Midlife Entrepreneur podcast, Jo interviews Katherine Elphick, marketing consultant, web designer, and founder of Elphick & Co., a boutique Shopify agency. Katherine shares her unique journey transitioning from art history at Christie's to working with luxury brands like LVMH and Burberry, and eventually running her own successful e-commerce development business focused on helping women-led brands. She delves into her background, the evolution of her business, and the challenges she faces as a midlife entrepreneur. The conversation concludes with Katherine’s valuable insights on the significance of technology, the importance of bespoke service, and her transformative experience with coaching and consultancy. She wraps up by sharing her 3,2,1 list: three things she invested in that were worth every penny, two things she would do differently, and one person she wishes to thank. 00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:27 Katherine Elphick's Journey: From Art History to E-commerce 01:29 The Importance of a Good Website for Business Success 02:36 Building Sheerluxe: Sponsored Content and Website Challenges 03:33 Katherine's Transition to Web Design 04:24 The Evolution of E-commerce and Web Design 13:54 The Role of AI in Web Development 21:00 Growing a Business and Overcoming Challenges 23:58 Future Vision: Growing and Selling the Business 25:08 Exploring Business Endpoints and Evolution 25:42 The Challenges of Service-Based Businesses 26:23 Naming and Branding Your Business 27:03 Building a Bespoke Service 28:00 Balancing Work and Family Life 29:14 Managing Overwhelm and Stress 32:40 Proactive Business Growth Strategies 35:51 Investing in People, Technology, and Coaching 40:59 Lessons Learned and Reflections 45:51 Final Thoughts and Farewell Support the show Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur Contact: enquiries@joglynnsmith.com www.joglynnsmith.com MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    48 min
See All (33)

Trailer

About

The show that's all about building a business in midlife, hosted by professional coach and entrepreneur Jo Glynn-Smith. Each week Jo sits down with a different business owner to explore their personal stories and learn from their business journeys. These conversations are designed to inspire and motivate more people to find the courage and confidence to become a Midlife Entrepreneur. 

Information

  • Creator
    Jo Glynn-Smith
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Midlife Entrepreneur
  • Show Website
    The Midlife Entrepreneur

You Might Also Like