Episodes

  • From Military to Purpose with Mike Jones; Building a Business that Works Without You

    From Military to Purpose with Mike Jones; Building a Business that Works Without You
    Mar 24 2026

    In this forty-ninth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Mike, founder of The Fractional Integrators, for a powerful conversation on how to scale a business without burnout and build a business that doesn’t rely on you.

    Mike shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, and how travel, philosophy and lived experience shaped his approach to business, leadership and personal growth.

    Connect with Mike:

    https://www.instagram.com/mikejones_betterhappy/

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-jones3/

    Connect with Alex:

    https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions

    https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching/
    Show more Show less
    34 mins
  • Following the Inner Call; Beth Taylor on Intuition, Awakening & Soul-Led Business

    Following the Inner Call; Beth Taylor on Intuition, Awakening & Soul-Led Business
    Mar 17 2026

    In this forty-eighth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Beth Taylor, Psychic and Intuitive Coach, for a powerful and thought-provoking conversation about intuition, awakening and building a business that truly aligns with who you are.

    Beth shares her journey from running a beauty business to stepping fully into her spiritual gifts, reflecting on the experiences that led her to trust her intuition and follow a completely different path.

    She opens up about her awakening during COVID-19, including her experience with Kundalini activation, and the process of learning to navigate fear, ego and external expectations while embracing a deeper sense of purpose.

    This episode explores what it really looks like to follow your inner call, especially when it doesn’t make logical sense or fit within traditional ideas of business and success.

    From identity shifts to self-expression, Beth’s story is a reminder that building a business isn’t just about strategy — it’s about alignment, trust and having the courage to be fully yourself.

    This conversation is honest, expansive and deeply reflective, offering reassurance and perspective for anyone who feels called to something more, but is still learning to trust themselves enough to follow it.

    In this episode, Alex and Beth explore:

    Beth’s journey from beauty business owner to spiritual entrepreneur

    Her awakening during COVID-19 and experience with Kundalini energy

    Recognising and trusting your intuition versus fear

    Letting go of ego, identity and societal expectations

    Expressing your authentic self in business and life

    Balancing structure, discipline and spontaneity

    Navigating judgement and external opinions

    Exploring new business models including coaching, community and retreats

    Practical advice for those feeling stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected from their purpose

    Trusting your uniqueness and allowing it to guide your path

    Whether you’re feeling pulled in a new direction, questioning your current path, or learning to trust your intuition more deeply, this episode offers a powerful reminder that your way is enough — and that sometimes the most aligned path is the one that doesn’t make sense to anyone else.

    Timestamps

    [00:00] Introduction and Beth’s background

    [02:27] Early influences and recognising spiritual gifts

    [06:25] Beth’s awakening during COVID-19

    [11:06] Learning to trust and accept her spiritual path

    [13:10] Intuition vs fear

    [16:28] Ego, identity and personal shifts

    [17:17] Transitioning from beauty to spiritual business

    [22:29] Early experiences, therapy and self-awareness

    [25:12] Purpose, passion and play

    [28:29] Structure, discipline and breaking patterns

    [32:23] Visibility and authentic expression

    [36:28] Navigating judgement and societal expectations

    [40:15] Future plans for retreats and community

    [43:02] Advice for those holding themselves back

    [45:58] The essence of Beth’s work and message

    Key Highlights

    Trusting your intuition even when it doesn’t feel logical

    Awakening as a catalyst for personal and business transformation

    The role of ego and identity in holding you back

    Authenticity as the foundation of a soul-led business

    Balancing structure with flow and intuition

    Overcoming fear of judgement and stepping into visibility

    Building a business that aligns with your purpose

    Connect with Beth

    Beth Taylor is a psychic and spiritual mentor who supports individuals in reconnecting with their intuition, trusting their path and embracing their authentic self.

    Her work centres around helping people deepen their sense of purpose, move through fear and step into a more aligned way of living and working.

    You can connect with Beth and explore her work here:

    https://www.bethtaylorpsychic.com/

    https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions

    https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching/
    Show more Show less
    46 mins
  • The Courage to Create your Own Path with Charlotte Williams

    The Courage to Create your Own Path with Charlotte Williams
    Mar 10 2026
    In this forty-seventh episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Charlotte, Founder of Healthy Future Marketing and holistic health practitioner, for an honest conversation about courage, reinvention and building a business rooted in purpose. Charlotte’s entrepreneurial journey began long before she started her own company. Growing up around her family’s automotive business, she developed an early understanding of entrepreneurship, sales and the realities of running a company. Those formative experiences shaped her work ethic and gave her valuable insights into the world of business. But Charlotte’s path wasn’t linear. After spending years working within the family business and other roles, she found herself navigating personal challenges with her mental health. Searching for support and balance led her to discover yoga and holistic health practices — tools that ultimately transformed not only her wellbeing but also the direction of her career. Determined to understand these practices more deeply, Charlotte trained with the Academy of Healing Nutrition, where she explored Traditional Chinese Medicine, holistic wellbeing and longevity practices, graduating in 2022. These experiences became the foundation for a new mission: helping others access the support, calm and healing she once searched for herself. Today, through Healthy Future Marketing, Charlotte supports purpose-driven business owners — particularly those in the wellness space — to share their work with confidence. Through marketing guidance, networking events, workshops and community spaces such as Namaste Networking, she helps entrepreneurs connect, grow and dream bigger in ways that feel authentic and sustainable. In this episode, Alex and Charlotte explore the power of trusting yourself, taking courageous action and embracing the slower, more meaningful path in business. Charlotte opens up about stepping away from the family business when her parents retired, the lessons she carried with her from that chapter, and the pride she feels in building something that truly reflects her values. They also discuss the importance of kindness, resilience and patience in entrepreneurship — and why success doesn’t have to come from rushing or forcing growth, but from staying aligned with your purpose. Looking ahead, Charlotte shares her vision for the future, including beginning her yoga teacher training in 2026 and launching residential retreats designed to help more people experience the calm and connection that transformed her own life. If you’re navigating change, building a values-led business or learning to trust your own path — this episode is a powerful reminder that growth often begins with one brave step. In this episode, Alex and Charlotte explore: Charlotte’s childhood influences and early entrepreneurial curiosity Lessons learned from growing up in and working within her family’s automotive business Early ventures, challenges and the realities of starting out in business How mental health struggles led her to discover yoga and holistic health Her training in holistic nutrition and Traditional Chinese Medicine The transition from the family business to building her own brand Moving away and developing independence through life experiences The creation of Healthy Future Marketing and her work supporting purpose-led businesses Building community through networking events and Namaste Networking Moments of challenge, pride and personal growth in entrepreneurship Why slow, sustainable growth can be more powerful than rapid scaling The importance of trust, kindness and resilience in business Future plans including yoga teacher training and residential retreats Timestamps [00:00] Introduction: Charlotte’s entrepreneurial roots [02:13] Childhood influences and learning from the family business [05:24] Early ventures and entrepreneurial curiosity [09:29] Health challenges and discovering wellness through holistic practices [14:11] Choosing a different path from the family business [19:58] Moving away and learning independence [23:31] Reflecting on a decade in the family business [30:32] Navigating change when her parents retired [37:13] Discovering her passion for marketing and supporting small businesses [41:10] Celebrating creative wins and overcoming business triggers [44:38] Trusting yourself and embracing slow growth [47:39] Final reflections: kindness, authenticity and building a meaningful business Key Highlights Building a business after leaving a long-standing family company How personal wellbeing can shape entrepreneurial direction Using marketing as a tool to support purpose-driven businesses The value of slow, sustainable growth in business Creating community through networking and collaboration Trusting yourself when building a values-led career Kindness and resilience as core business principles Connect with Charlotte Charlotte is the Founder of Healthy Future Marketing and a holistic health ...
    Show more Show less
    53 mins
  • Why Clients aren’t Converting - 5 Business Actions you can Take this Month

    Why Clients aren’t Converting - 5 Business Actions you can Take this Month
    Mar 3 2026

    In this forty-sixth episode of My Kind of Business, Business Coach Alex McCarthy shares five subtle but powerful ways your business might be unintentionally turning away potential clients and how to refine each one this month to improve client conversion.

    If you have been visible but not converting consistently, questioning your messaging, your offers or even your direction, this episode will help you step back and assess your business through a more strategic lens. Instead of assuming you need more visibility or a complete rebrand, Alex explains why small refinements in positioning, communication and leadership often create the biggest shifts in sales.

    Alex explores the quiet misalignments that frequently sit beneath slow business growth, including overly broad positioning, unclear calls to action, feature-led offers, lack of conviction in pricing, and creating content from pressure rather than confidence. She shares practical strategies to strengthen your foundations so you can attract clients with more clarity and ease.

    This episode is not about doing more, posting more or chasing trends. It is about refining your messaging, strengthening your offer positioning and leading your business with confidence so that the right clients feel safe and ready to invest.

    If you want to sharpen your approach, increase conversions, and build a sustainable business rooted in clarity and self-trust, this conversation will help you reset and refocus.

    This episode is perfect for small business owners, service providers, coaches, creatives, freelancers and founders who want consistent client attraction, stronger sales strategy and long-term growth without hustle or burnout.

    What You Will Learn

    Why broad or unclear positioning weakens client attraction and reduces conversions

    How to refine your messaging so your ideal client instantly recognises themselves

    The difference between creating valuable content and including clear calls to action that drive sales

    How to position your offer around emotional transformation and tangible results instead of features alone

    Why conviction in your pricing and messaging directly influences client trust and buying decisions

    How nervous system regulation and confidence affect your marketing and sales energy

    The difference between creating from pressure versus leading from clarity and authority

    Practical steps to strengthen one key area of your business this month

    Why refining your foundations is often more effective than reinventing your brand

    How confident leadership supports long-term client relationships and sustainable business growth

    Connect with Alex

    Explore 1:1 business coaching online or in person Website: https://alexmccarthycoaching.com Instagram: https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/claritycall

    Book a business connection session; https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • Breaking the Therapist Stereotype with Becca Upton

    Breaking the Therapist Stereotype with Becca Upton
    Feb 24 2026
    In this forty-fifth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Becca Upton — also known as The No BS Therapist — for a candid conversation about authenticity, individuality and building a private practice that truly reflects who you are. Becca shares her journey from childhood dreams and traditional NHS therapy roles to creating a bold, personality-led private practice supporting organised, type A women navigating burnout, exhaustion and overthinking. Her style is realistic, honest and refreshingly direct — challenging long-held ideas about what a therapist “should” look and sound like. Together, Alex and Becca explore what happens when you stop trying to fit the professional mould. From dyeing her hair and ditching formal dress codes to swearing in sessions and showing up unapologetically online, Becca explains how embracing her true self didn’t repel clients — it attracted the right ones. This episode dives into perfectionism, black-and-white thinking, and the pressure to “get it right” — especially for high achievers building businesses. Becca opens up about balancing ambition with flexibility, managing workload boundaries, and redefining success in a way that prioritises freedom and fulfilment over societal expectations. They also break down what therapy actually looks like behind closed doors — the structure of a typical session, different therapeutic approaches such as CBT, person-centred, attachment and compassion-focused therapy — and how flexibility sits at the heart of meaningful client work. From workshops and retreats to her Destress Membership and live online sessions, Becca shares her vision for growing her impact without losing the authenticity that built her brand. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t quite fit the stereotype in your industry — this conversation is your permission slip to do things differently. In this episode, Alex and Becca explore: Becca’s childhood ambitions and early career influences The shift from NHS therapy to private practice Breaking professional stereotypes in the therapy industry Authentic self-expression in business and marketing How individuality attracts aligned clients Building a “no BS” brand and setting clear boundaries Managing perfectionism and black-and-white thinking The structure and flexibility of therapy sessions Different therapeutic approaches: CBT, person-centred, attachment and compassion-focused Balancing ambition with self-care and lifestyle freedom Redefining success beyond societal metrics Future plans: workshops, retreats, collaborations and expanded offerings The power of community, diversity in personality types and client preference Timestamps [00:00] Introduction: redefining therapy on your terms [01:00] Childhood dreams and early influences [02:30] From NHS to private practice [04:00] Dyeing hair, swearing and casual dress codes [05:45] Industry norms versus authenticity [07:00] Marketing self-expression and attracting the right clients [08:30] Building a no-BS brand [09:45] Breaking therapist stereotypes [11:00] Relatability and connection in therapy [12:30] Authenticity and client retention [14:00] What a typical therapy session looks like [15:45] Different therapy approaches explained [17:45] Overcoming first-session nerves [19:00] First-year lessons in business [20:30] Flexibility and freedom in private practice [22:00] Balancing ambition with self-care [23:45] Future plans and expansion [25:15] Workload balance and perfectionism [28:00] Advice for high achievers [30:00] Redefining success [32:00] Future experiments and growth [34:00] Community and authentic connections [36:00] Individuality in professional spaces [38:00] Letting go of rigid expectations [40:00] Business as an extension of your true self [41:30] Final reflections: My kind of business is… Key Highlights Authenticity as a client attraction strategy Breaking stereotypes in traditional industries Managing perfectionism in business Building flexibility without sacrificing ambition Redefining professionalism on your own terms Creating a business aligned with personality and values Connect with Becca Becca Upton is The No BS Therapist — helping organised, type A women with exhaustion, burnout and overthinking to find balance whilst still getting sh*t done. Her approach is realistic, honest and rooted in helping clients rewire their thinking and find their grey area. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_no_bullshit_therapist Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565579537810 Website: https://beccauptontherapy.co.uk/ Destress Membership (7 day free trial): https://buymeacoffee.com/thenobullshittherapist/membership Free 9-minute breathwork session: https://buymeacoffee.com/thenobullshittherapist/intro-breathing-9-mins Resources Mentioned The Confidence Code by Katty Kay & Claire Shipman Attachment Theory Overview CBT Resources Connect with Alex Website: https://...
    Show more Show less
    43 mins
  • Why Authenticity Is Your Business Superpower with Jodie Faitakis

    Why Authenticity Is Your Business Superpower with Jodie Faitakis
    Feb 17 2026
    In this forty-fourth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Jodie Faitakis, COO of Entrepreneurial Spark and Founder of Entspired, for a powerful conversation about authenticity, resilience and the real rhythm of entrepreneurial growth. Jodie shares her journey from childhood creativity and DIY ventures to leading national entrepreneurial operations and building community-led spaces for founders in Bedford. Her story is one of lived experience — from starting her own businesses to returning to Entrepreneurial Spark in a leadership role — proving that growth rarely follows a straight line. Together, Alex and Jodie explore the myth of overnight success and what it truly means to build something sustainable. They talk candidly about juggling motherhood, side projects and full-time leadership, navigating imposter syndrome, and learning to embrace seasons of focus. This episode is a refreshing reminder that entrepreneurship isn’t about doing more — it’s about creating space. Space to think. Space to reflect. Space to grow. Jodie speaks openly about vulnerability as a business superpower, the importance of removing “human blockers”, and why no founder should have to build alone. From the lessons behind the Resilience Festival to the simple power of a brain dump, this conversation is full of grounded wisdom and practical mindset shifts. If you’ve ever questioned your pace, doubted your capability, or felt the pressure to keep up — this episode will remind you that authenticity and patience are your greatest assets. In this episode, Alex and Jodie explore: Jodie’s childhood entrepreneurial spirit and early creative ventures First jobs, retail experiences and university projects Why experiential learning often outweighs rigid frameworks Building confidence through mentorship and real-world exposure The origin and growth of entspired in Bedford The myth of overnight success and the importance of patience Balancing motherhood, full-time leadership and side projects Creating white space to unlock creativity and clarity Managing imposter syndrome and mindset blocks Authenticity as a business advantage Community, local storytelling and founder support Preparing financially and solving real problems Practical tools for overcoming overwhelm and mental clutter Embracing holistic success across life and business Whether you’re at the beginning of your business journey or navigating a new season of growth, Jodie’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience is built quietly, community matters deeply, and your way of doing business is enough. Timestamps [00:00] Introduction to Jodie’s entrepreneurial journey [01:30] Childhood creativity and early ventures [03:45] First jobs and formative work experiences [05:20] University, internships and real-world lessons [07:15] Learning beyond academic frameworks [09:05] Founding entspired and building community [11:45] Patience and the myth of overnight success [13:05] Multiple startups and the challenge of focus [15:20] Financial preparation and solving real problems [17:45] Flexibility and planning with buffer time [19:20] Creativity and the power of white space [21:00] Confidence and imposter syndrome [24:10] Authenticity as a business superpower [26:00] Personal growth through highs and lows [28:10] Resilience and overcoming setbacks [30:15] Testing ideas and identifying community needs [32:00] The power of local entrepreneurial storytelling [34:50] Juggling career, side projects and motherhood [36:35] Tough decisions and working in seasons [38:10] Quality over quantity [40:05] Creating personal rhythm and joy [42:30] Holistic success and alignment [44:15] Mindset tools: brain dumping and mental clarity [45:40] The value of space and the “Harry Potter wand” analogy [47:00] The Resilience Festival story [48:10] Removing human blockers in business [49:00] Final reflections and encouragement Key Highlights Why authenticity creates sustainable success The power of community in entrepreneurship Embracing patience over pressure Balancing ambition with motherhood and life Removing mindset blockers to unlock growth Redefining success beyond hustle culture Creating space as a strategy, not a luxury Connect with Jodie Jodie Faitakis is the COO of Entrepreneurial Spark and founder of entspired, a Bedford-based platform hosting inspirational events and community spaces for entrepreneurs. A lifelong advocate for the entrepreneurial spirit, Jodie has built her career around helping founders turn ideas into reality. From founding her own businesses to coaching startups and now leading national operations, her mission remains the same: ensuring no entrepreneur has to build alone. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodiefaitakis Entrepreneurial Spark: https://entrepreneurial-spark.com entspired: https://www.entspired.co.uk Connect with Alex Website: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/ Book onto an upcoming Business Connection:...
    Show more Show less
    49 mins
  • Building a Human Law Firm with Rachel McGrath

    Building a Human Law Firm with Rachel McGrath
    Feb 10 2026
    In this forty-third episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Rachel McGrath, family solicitor and founder of RJS Family Law, for an honest and powerful conversation about resilience, values and building a business in one of the most emotionally demanding industries. Rachel shares her non-traditional journey into law, from leaving home at 17 and working full-time while studying part-time, to qualifying as a solicitor alongside raising a family. Her story is one of grit, determination and a deep belief that there had to be a more human way to practise family law. She opens up about the realities of working in family law, including the emotional toll of supporting clients through divorce, child arrangements and domestic abuse, and how learning to manage her own emotions has been essential to both her wellbeing and her leadership. This episode explores what it really looks like to step away from the “stuffy old solicitor” stereotype and build a modern, values-led legal practice rooted in empathy, clarity and strong representation. Rachel reflects on the leap of faith it took to start her own firm, the loneliness that can come with entrepreneurship, and the mindset shifts that helped her push through fear and comparison. From outsourcing and strategic support to celebrating milestones and hiring her first team member, Rachel’s journey is a powerful reminder that success doesn’t have to mean scaling fast or losing yourself. Instead, it can mean building something boutique, intentional and deeply aligned with who you are. This conversation is grounding, inspiring and reassuring for anyone building a business in a high-pressure industry, navigating self-doubt, or carving out a path that truly reflects their values. In this episode, Alex and Rachel explore: Rachel’s childhood and unconventional route into law Qualifying as a solicitor while working full-time and raising a family The resilience and mindset required to overcome setbacks Why family law felt aligned, and the emotional landscape of the work Navigating a male-dominated industry and empowering women The decision to start her own practice and take the leap Building a boutique law firm rooted in empathy and trust Managing comparison and embracing the strengths of small business Outsourcing, support and sustainable business growth Balancing success, wellbeing and life outside of work Defining “my kind of business” as client-first and purpose-driven Whether you’re running a service-based business, working in an emotionally demanding role, or feeling the pull to do things differently, Rachel’s story offers perspective, encouragement and a reminder that there’s no single right way to build a successful business. Timestamps [00:00] Introduction and Rachel’s journey into family law [02:13] Childhood experiences and discovering law [03:08] Qualifying part-time alongside family life [05:43] Resilience, determination and self-belief [07:42] Choosing family law and supporting clients emotionally [11:04] Deciding to start her own practice [14:01] Launching the business and early foundations [17:30] Competition, comparison and boutique business strengths [22:44] Hiring her first staff member and celebrating growth [28:37] Outsourcing, support and working smarter [33:39] Emotional resilience and personal wellbeing [37:33] Future plans and maintaining a boutique ethos [44:31] Defining “My Kind of Business” Key Highlights Building a business rooted in values and empathy Redefining success beyond traditional legal norms The emotional realities of people-focused work Why independence and control matter in business How support and outsourcing create sustainability Success as alignment, impact and integrity Connect with Rachel Rachel McGrath is a family solicitor and the founder and director of RJS Family Law, an independent specialist firm supporting individuals and families through some of life’s most challenging transitions. Her work is grounded in empathy, clear advice and practical solutions, alongside robust and fearless representation when it matters most. Website: https://www.rjsfamilylaw.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rjsfamilylaw/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rjsfamilylaw/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/75015479/ Connect with Alex https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/ Book onto an upcoming Business Connection; https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions
    Show more Show less
    45 mins