Strings To Your Bow

Chloe Weatherhead, Andiamo Business Assistance

Welcome to Strings to Your Bow — the podcast that celebrates the real stories, unexpected turns, and unique skills that shape self-employed life. I’m your host, Chloe Weatherhead — virtual assistant, support expert, and founder of Andiamo Business Assistance, where I provide tailored small business support to freelancers, founders, and the self-employed. Each week, I sit down with inspiring guests to explore the personal experiences and professional lessons that have added ‘strings to their bow’ — those transferable skills, passions, or turning points that have fuelled their journey. Whether it’s about launching a business, pivoting careers, or finding purpose through challenge, this podcast is about honest conversations, useful insights, and celebrating the power of lived experience. If you're self-employed, thinking of making the leap, or simply love hearing how people turn their stories into strengths, you're in the right place. No jargon, no fluff — just support, connection, and inspiration, one conversation at a time.

  1. 2d ago

    Gavin Ingham From the Met to Mindset: How Change and Choice Shape Success

    In this inspiring episode, Chloe chats with Gavin Ingham, a business owner, motivational speaker, and financial adviser with an extraordinary story. From his early career in the Metropolitan Police to becoming an international motivational speaker and now a successful financial adviser, Gavin shares how embracing change and staying true to your values can shape both personal and professional success. He reflects on pivotal moments that reshaped his outlook — including losing his father, surviving the uncertainty of 9/11, and redefining success during the pandemic. Gavin’s journey shows how mindset, adaptability, and self-belief can turn life’s detours into defining opportunities. 💡 Key Themes & Takeaways Embracing Change: Why every career shift can build transferable skills and new perspectives.Mindset Matters: How personal development, NLP, and belief systems drive long-term success.Authenticity & Values: The importance of aligning success with your true priorities — not just financial gain.Action Over Intention: “It’s not who you are underneath. It’s what you do that defines you.”Balance & Family: How to measure success by the quality of your relationships, not just your results.Practical Wisdom: Prioritisation and focus — learning to identify “the one thing” that makes everything else easier or unnecessary.🌟 About the Guest Gavin Ingham has spent over 25 years helping people unlock their potential — first as an international motivational speaker, and now as a financial adviser helping clients align their finances with their life goals. His passion lies in empowering individuals and businesses to live and work in alignment with their values. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share Strings to Your Bow with anyone who might find it helpful!  Thanks for tuning in—I’ll see you next time for another inspiring conversation. Until then, keep discovering your strengths and adding new strings to your bow!  Follow me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Say 'hi' on Instagram Find out more about Andiamo Business Assistance

    30 min
  2. May 15

    Frances Day - Your Self Worth is Your Self Worth

    In this episode of Strings to Your Bow, host Chloe Weatherhead talks to Frances Day, founder of Wise Women and author of Dive in Deep to Climb High. Frances shares her journey from running a marketing agency to blending spirituality, energy work, and business coaching. She explains how writing her book transformed her life and work, how intuition plays a central role in her business, and why women should reconnect with their feminine power to lead with joy and authenticity. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Frances’ book Dive in Deep to Climb High became the catalyst for her spiritual and professional transformation.The importance of blending intuition with action in business.Why following joy and authenticity leads to long-term success.The role of the “five brains” (head, heart, gut, and two etheric ones) in decision-making.How Frances created Feminine Roar to help women in business connect with their gifts and medicine.Memorable Quotes: “When you’re in flow, opportunities and support appear.” – Frances Day“If faced with two paths, choose the one that feels good—joy raises your vibration and attracts the right clients.” – Frances Day“Being authentic builds trust, and it attracts the people you truly want to work with.” – Frances DayResources & Links: Frances Day’s book: Dive in Deep to Climb HighFrances’ initiative: Feminine RoarConnect with Frances: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesdayceo/, https://www.instagram.com/francesdaycoach/If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share Strings to Your Bow with anyone who might find it helpful!  Thanks for tuning in—I’ll see you next time for another inspiring conversation. Until then, keep discovering your strengths and adding new strings to your bow!  Follow me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Say 'hi' on Instagram Find out more about Andiamo Business Assistance

    24 min
  3. May 1

    Work, Life, and What Matters Most: Yvonne Cookson on Family, Fear, and Fulfilment

    In this episode of Strings to Your Bow, Chloe is joined by Yvonne Cookson from iThink 365. Yvonne shares her inspiring journey from accountant to tech industry professional and business leader, exploring how personal experiences, resilience, and authenticity have shaped her career and contributed to her success. Listeners will hear Yvonne talk candidly about her career pivots, launching her own award-winning accountancy practice, her personal challenges including parenting and an ADHD diagnosis, and how these experiences have influenced her professional life. Key Topics Covered Yvonne’s career journey: from accountant to business leader at iThink 365Transitioning industries and embracing new challengesBalancing parenthood with career ambitionsHow personal resilience and adaptability translate into business successThe role of authenticity in professional relationships and leadershipInfluence of role models, family, and mentorsOvercoming fears and personal achievements, including co-authoring mindfulness books and skydivingLessons learned about collaboration, trust, and diversity in the workplaceHighlights / Quotes “Business was my passion; accountancy was never my passion.” – Yvonne Cookson“What you see is what you get with me. I’m the same at work as I am in my personal life.” – Yvonne Cookson“My children have spurred me on throughout my career – anything is possible if you put your mind to it.” – Yvonne Cookson“The lessons we take from life are the foundations of our business success.” – Chloe WeatherheadResources & Links iThink 365: https://www.ithink365.comConnect with Yvonne Cookson: [LinkedIn Profile] (insert link)Follow Strings to Your Bow on social media using #StringsToYourBowPodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share Strings to Your Bow with anyone who might find it helpful!  Thanks for tuning in—I’ll see you next time for another inspiring conversation. Until then, keep discovering your strengths and adding new strings to your bow!  Follow me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Say 'hi' on Instagram Find out more about Andiamo Business Assistance

    21 min
  4. Apr 3

    Mike Mandeville - From Burnout to Business Ownership

    In this episode of Strings to Your Bow, Chloe Weatherhead talks with Mike Mandeville about his unconventional journey—from working on oil rigs in Abu Dhabi at 14 to the Army reserves, marketing, and ultimately self-employment. Mike shares how early experiences, family influences, and personal challenges shaped his approach to business, leadership, and life. Learn how: Personal and career experiences can shape your unique superpower in business.Trusting your instincts and judgment is key to self-employment success.Resilience, adaptability, and reliability create lasting impact.Key Takeaways: Success is personal—focus on stability and values, not just titles or income.Your upbringing and early experiences shape your work ethic and leadership style.Going self-employed can give you freedom, responsibility, and confidence.Being reliable and supportive is a legacy that lasts longer than monetary success.Guest Bio: Mike Mandeville is co-founder of Chip Engineering, an industrial electrical company specialising in asphalt plants. His career spans working in Abu Dhabi, the Army reserves, marketing, and now entrepreneurship. Mike is passionate about hands-on work, teamwork, and building a business grounded in trust and reliability. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share Strings to Your Bow with anyone who might find it helpful!  Thanks for tuning in—I’ll see you next time for another inspiring conversation. Until then, keep discovering your strengths and adding new strings to your bow!  Follow me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Say 'hi' on Instagram Find out more about Andiamo Business Assistance

    35 min
  5. Mar 20

    Vienda Maria - Self-Trust, Surrender, and Success: The Mentor's Mindset

    In this episode, Chloe speaks with Vienda, founder of The Mentor Training, about turning lived experiences into professional superpowers. From studying psychology to creating a globally recognised mentoring certification, Vienda shares her journey of self-trust, resilience, and embracing fear as a signal for growth. Key Takeaways Fear vs. growth: Fear is often a sign that you’re moving in the right direction.Self-trust is key: Business success comes from trusting yourself rather than copying others’ models.Life experience matters: Personal challenges often equip us with the empathy and insight to support others.Authenticity attracts: Vulnerability and honesty create deeper connections than “perfect” appearances.Adaptability mindset: Trust that life is working for you, cultivate inner safety, and surrender control over what you can’t change.Business insight: Success is less about certainty and more about being comfortable with the unknown.Resources & Links 🌐 Learn more at: thementortraining.com  📲 Follow Vienda on Instagram: @viendamaria If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share Strings to Your Bow with anyone who might find it helpful!  Thanks for tuning in—I’ll see you next time for another inspiring conversation. Until then, keep discovering your strengths and adding new strings to your bow!  Follow me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Say 'hi' on Instagram Find out more about Andiamo Business Assistance

    27 min
  6. Mar 3

    Getting Found: David Robertson's Journey to SEO Success

    In this episode of Strings to Your Bow, Chloe Weatherhead sits down with marketing mentor and local SEO specialist, David Robertson. David shares how his diverse career path — from the RAF to dentistry and finally into digital marketing — has shaped his approach to business and marketing. He explores the experiences that fuelled his curiosity, competitive spirit, and resilience, and how these traits became his superpowers in the world of SEO and local search marketing. Key Topics Covered: David’s journey from the RAF to becoming a local SEO expert.How personal resilience and life experiences influence professional success.The importance of balancing technical skills with human connection in digital marketing.Lessons learned from leading teams and mentoring others.Practical advice for business owners navigating the noisy world of marketing.How curiosity, adaptability, and ethical practices have guided David’s career.Tips for small businesses on optimising Google Maps, content creation, and visibility strategies.Resources and Links: David’s website: blueskyseo.co.ukEpisode Takeaway: David’s story reminds us that business success isn’t just about technical expertise — it’s about resilience, human connection, and curiosity. For any business owner aiming to be seen, found, and remembered, David’s approach to SEO and local marketing is both a practical guide and a source of inspiration. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share Strings to Your Bow with anyone who might find it helpful!  Thanks for tuning in—I’ll see you next time for another inspiring conversation. Until then, keep discovering your strengths and adding new strings to your bow!  Follow me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Say 'hi' on Instagram Find out more about Andiamo Business Assistance

    24 min
  7. Feb 20

    Nicole Oliver-Beeby - From Founder to New Mum – Creating a Business That Fits Your Life

    In this episode of Strings to Your Bow, Chloe Weatherhead is joined by Nicole, founder of BLiB Networking, a thriving community built to support women in business. Nicole shares her journey from launching BLiB in 2022 to building a supportive, down-to-earth network where collaboration and genuine connection are at the heart of everything. Along the way, she opens up about the realities of being a new mum and how that life change is reshaping the way she runs her business. This conversation is all about community, courage, and creating a business that truly fits around life — not the other way around. Key takeaways from this episode: Building a network doesn’t have to feel corporate — warmth and authenticity attract the right people.Community and collaboration can be the foundation for business growth.Becoming a parent reshapes priorities, but it can also spark fresh ideas and new directions.Success looks different for everyone — it’s about building something sustainable that brings pride and balance.Connect with Nicole and BLiB Networking: Instagram: @blib_womens_networkingFacebook: BLIB: Networking and Growth for West Yorkshire Women in BusinessIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share Strings to Your Bow with anyone who might find it helpful!  Thanks for tuning in—I’ll see you next time for another inspiring conversation. Until then, keep discovering your strengths and adding new strings to your bow!  Follow me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Say 'hi' on Instagram Find out more about Andiamo Business Assistance

    31 min
  8. Feb 6

    Jasmine Clarke - Finding Your Zest: From Overwhelm to Organised

    In this episode of Strings to Your Bow, host Chloe Weatherhead is joined by Jasmine Clarke, founder of Zest Productivity, senior accredited executive coach, and host of the Productivity with Zest podcast. Jasmine shares her journey from studying psychology and working in the charity sector, to building her own businesses and eventually launching Zest Productivity in 2025. With her no-nonsense yet kind approach, she helps busy professionals and business owners cut through the chaos, focus on what truly matters, and avoid burnout. From childhood entrepreneurial ventures (yes, even Tamagotchi babysitting!) to balancing family life, podcasting, and her coaching practice, Jasmine reveals how her experiences have shaped her passion for productivity. She talks candidly about the importance of knowing your priorities, building habits that stick, and redefining productivity as more than just hustle — it’s about creating space for freedom and joy. Key takeaways from this episode: Productivity isn’t about doing more — it’s about focusing on what matters most.Family, upbringing, and personal passions can have a powerful influence on entrepreneurial drive.Balance is an ongoing practice, not a perfect formula — and it looks different for everyone.Growth comes from a mix of relentless optimism, curiosity, and a willingness to adapt.Connect with Jasmine: Website: ZestProductivity.comPodcast: Productivity with Zest (available on all major platforms)Socials: Search Jasmine Clark Coach  If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share Strings to Your Bow with anyone who might find it helpful!  Thanks for tuning in—I’ll see you next time for another inspiring conversation. Until then, keep discovering your strengths and adding new strings to your bow!  Follow me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Say 'hi' on Instagram Find out more about Andiamo Business Assistance

    29 min

About

Welcome to Strings to Your Bow — the podcast that celebrates the real stories, unexpected turns, and unique skills that shape self-employed life. I’m your host, Chloe Weatherhead — virtual assistant, support expert, and founder of Andiamo Business Assistance, where I provide tailored small business support to freelancers, founders, and the self-employed. Each week, I sit down with inspiring guests to explore the personal experiences and professional lessons that have added ‘strings to their bow’ — those transferable skills, passions, or turning points that have fuelled their journey. Whether it’s about launching a business, pivoting careers, or finding purpose through challenge, this podcast is about honest conversations, useful insights, and celebrating the power of lived experience. If you're self-employed, thinking of making the leap, or simply love hearing how people turn their stories into strengths, you're in the right place. No jargon, no fluff — just support, connection, and inspiration, one conversation at a time.