Conversations of Inspiration brings you life changing wisdom along with heartbreaking stories of resilience, tenacity and triumph. Since launching two small business marketplaces (Holly & Co and notonthehighstreet), Holly Tucker MBE has spoken with more than 200 founders, creatives and entrepreneurs on this podcast who have been vulnerable enough to share what it really took to get them where they are today, with warmth and wisdom. Prepare to be inspired.
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As the year takes its final bow, Holly looks back on twelve extraordinary months filled with transformation, creativity and unexpected magic. From filming her very first TV series, Be Your Own Boss, to diving into the fast-evolving role of AI in creative businesses, Holly reflects on the moments that shaped her 2025. You’ll love this episode as it’s a celebration of connection: the friendships,…
In this episode, Dune Group’s founder and chairman, Daniel Rubin, joins Holly to explore a remarkable career spanning five decades. From his family’s shoemaking roots, to building one of Britain’s most recognisable footwear brands, Daniel reflects on what it truly takes to survive and thrive in an industry that never stops changing. With his new memoir, Sole Survivor , Daniel shares the real…
In this inspiring episode, Holly is joined by Katie Piper OBE — author, TV presenter, charity campaigner and a shining example of resilience and hope. From a happy childhood in Hampshire, to surviving a devastating acid attack in her twenties, Katie shares how she refused to let trauma define her, choosing instead to rebuild her life with courage, compassion and self-acceptance. With warmth and…
In this inspiring episode, Holly Tucker chats with Maya Raichoora — international speaker, author of Visualise and Nike’s first-ever mental fitness trainer — about unlocking the power of training our minds like our bodies. Maya shares how mental fitness and visualisation, a technique once reserved for the top 1% of elite athletes like Ronaldo, Serena Williams, Muhammad Ali and Tiger Woods, helped…
What does it take to turn a simple idea into a British beauty institution — at just 23 years old? In this episode, Holly is joined by Thea Green MBE, founder and chairwoman of Nails.INC , for an honest, enlightening and uplifting conversation about her 26-year journey building an iconic brand. From her early days as a Tatler fashion editor, to launching the UK’s first nail bars inspired by…
In this joyful and deeply honest episode, Holly is joined by pop icon, mum of five, and Kitchen Disco queen, Sophie Ellis-Bextor for a conversation that sparkles with humour, heart, and authenticity. From her early hits Groovejet and Murder on the Dancefloor to her empowering new album Perimenopop — a bold celebration of midlife and womanhood — Sophie opens up about every chapter of her journey…
You know those conversations that leave you buzzing — proud to be a woman, alive in your skin and ready to take on the world? This is one of those. In this episode, Holly speaks with Polly Vernon — journalist, author and all-round truth-teller — known for her fearless interviews with the likes of Donald Trump and Harry Styles, and her sharp, insightful writing for The Times and Grazia . Describing…
Warning: This podcast could change your life! What if business wasn’t just about profit — but about purpose, joy and soulfulness too? What if trusting your instinct could lead you to achieve great things? In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration, Holly is joined by Nikki Trott — author, speaker, strategist, and advisor — whose journey has taken her from consulting for iconic luxury brands…
What does it take to design a wedding dress—or build a business—that’s not just beautiful, but deeply meaningful and empowering? In this heartfelt conversation with celebrated bridal designer Kate Halfpenny, you’ll find yourself wanting to be her BFF as she speaks with refreshing honesty about the magical journey of creativity, courage, and self-belief. From growing up in a creative household and…
What happens when you refuse to colour inside the lines? In this joyful episode, Holly chats with Abi & Rupert Meats — the powerhouse couple behind RUDE and Everyday Sunshine, a gallery and coffee shop dedicated to optimism and community. Purveyors of positivity in every sense, they’ve been creating unapologetically bold, colourful work for 25 years. From hustling in their first studio to…
In this episode, skincare pioneer Sarah Chapman — London’s most celebrated facialist and founder of the award-winning brand Skinesis — reveals the integrity, passion and perfectionism that took her from childhood kitchen experiments and special effects makeup, to treating A-list clients including Victoria Beckham and the Duchess of Sussex. Sarah’s journey is not just about building a global…
What if one small idea — dreamt up in a London traffic jam — could grow into a business that’s brought joy to people for over 30 years? In this gentle, charming and inspiring episode, Holly sits down with Ned Trier, founder of The Gluttonous Gardener & Growbar, to hear how a simple love of growing and giving, blossomed into something truly lasting. Ned shares the story behind his slow, thoughtful…
Holly’s guest this week is the endlessly creative, hugely talented and fiercely determined Alice Temperley MBE — the visionary behind Temperley London. You may know Alice for her exquisite, bohemian-inspired designs that have graced both red carpets and royalty alike, but what truly drives the woman behind the brand? And how did she once come to be described by American Vogue as being, 'The…
Why does art make children and society powerful? Why should creativity be a right and not a privilege? In this episode, Holly is joined by the extraordinary Bob and Roberta Smith OBE RA — artist, activist, educator and passionate advocate for the power of the arts. Together, they explore why creativity matters now more than ever, especially for the next generation. From growing up in an artistic…
“Love lives in the ugly truths.” These powerful words come from this week’s inspiring guest, Donna Ashworth—author, the UK’s best-selling poet, and a true artist when it comes to capturing the human heart in words. In this deeply moving episode, Donna joins Holly for a conversation that’s as honest as it is healing. With her signature vulnerability and insight, Donna opens up about the life…
What if a simple drawing could do more than just fill a page? What if it could boost confidence, spark creativity and even provide comfort in uncertain times? In this episode, Holly sits down with the brilliant Rob Biddulph, award winning children’s author, illustrator and creative force behind the lockdown sensation Draw With Rob, a movement that inspired millions of children (and their parents)…
Do you know what it takes to become a 10-year ‘overnight’ success? How do you turn something you love into a $66 million business? And what drives you to keep going in order to make that happen? In this episode, Holly speaks candidly with Vivien Wong to learn more about her story of co-founding the mochi ice cream sensation, Little Moons. With a bold vision to introduce the UK to a whole new…
What does it take to build a legacy that spans over six decades, dressing everyone from royalty to rock stars, while staying true to your unique, uncompromising vision? In this episode, Holly has a heartfelt conversation with the legendary Dame Zandra Rhodes, a beloved figure in the fashion world whose vibrant designs and bold spirit have made her an icon. From the swinging sixties to today,…
As this year draws to a close, Holly reflects on one of the most transformational chapters of her life—a rollercoaster journey through 2024, filled with exhilarating highs, challenging lows, and moments of deep uncertainty. From the pressure of launching her marketplace under the spotlight to questioning whether she was right to take the leap again, Holly shares her raw and honest experiences…
What do you do when life, as you know it, shatters in an instant? In this episode, Holly speaks with Ed and Lois Jackson and explores the profound and life-altering journey that they have been on. Once living a dream life filled with athletic success and endless opportunities, their world was turned upside down when Ed, a former professional rugby player, suffered a catastrophic accident that left…
What if the key to a more just, compassionate world started in the classroom? In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Holly speaks with award-winning filmmaker, human rights advocate, and education activist, Leslee Udwin. Known for her groundbreaking documentary India's Daughter and as the visionary behind Think Equal , Leslee shares her journey from confronting injustice on the screen to…
What drives someone born into one of the UK’s most prominent aristocratic families to dedicate their life to prison reform, particularly advocating for the needs of women behind bars? In this episode, Holly speaks with the remarkable Lady Edwina Grosvenor, whose background might lead you to expect a life of privilege and tradition—but her story is anything but conventional. Edwina shares how,…
Imagine turning down a dream job, facing a mountain of debt, and surviving a life-or-death experience—only to emerge with a mission that’s transforming the world of giving. In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration , Matt Pohlson, co-founder of Omaze—a platform that offers life-changing experiences and prizes while raising funds for charitable causes—shares his remarkable journey. It’s…
Meet Patrick and Karen O’Flaherty, the dynamic husband and wife duo behind Pip Organic, a pioneering force in the organic food and drink industry. Their story began in the bustling heart of London, where their shared passion for health, sustainability, and community blossomed into a visionary business idea. United by their commitment to creating wholesome, organic products, Patrick and Karen…
What does it really take to build a legacy of success while lifting others up along the way? In this episode, Holly speaks with Debbie Wosskow OBE, the powerhouse entrepreneur, investor, and author behind multiple thriving businesses. From her entrepreneurial roots, Debbie grew up understanding the value of hard work and resilience - traits that have fueled her remarkable journey from founding…
Paul Hargreaves, the visionary founder behind Cotswold Fayre, a speciality food wholesaler, and Flourish, a 9,000 ft food hall, restaurant and home and lifestyle store is a journey is one of remarkable resilience and purpose-driven leadership. With an unwavering commitment to his values, Paul shares with Holly the profound impact of a life changing trip to Kenya that shifted his perspective,…
Did you know that 30% of the new clothes made every year are never sold? This year that will be 26 billion items of clothing! CEO and co-founder of This Is Unfolded, Cally Russell, is a pioneering force in sustainable fashion. Known for his bold decision to walk away from lucrative offers on Dragon’s Den, Cally has dedicated his career to disrupting the fashion industry by tackling waste and…
In this captivating episode, Holly sits down with visionary entrepreneur Nick Hounsfield, founder of The Wave and One Blue World , for an inspiring conversation about creating change, overcoming challenges, and his journey from osteopath to social impact pioneer. Nick's story is nothing short of an entrepreneurial fairytale—a dream born from £500, a love for water, and a relentless determination…
In celebration of 200 episodes of Conversation of Inspiration, this special episode tackles some of the greatest challenges faced by our society today. Set against the backdrop of political fever as the general election looms, Holly explores what the future could look like, if the most brilliant minds and founders were spearheading the policies of our country — those who truly are experts, those…
Meet Tom Herbert, the man whose life and work and steeped in the rich aromatic legacy of baking. Tom hails from a family of bakers, where the art of crafting exceptional bread has been passed down through the generations. In this episode, Holly speaks to Tom about the story of his family business, Hobbs House Bakery and delves into his journey to becoming one half of the TV show, The Fabulous…
This week, Holly meets Helen Pankhurst CBE, a woman whose life work is testament to the enduring spirit of the suffragettes. And in this episode Helen shares intimate stories from her extraordinary heritage, offering a unique glimpse into the lives and struggles of her pioneering ancestors, diving into how their legacy has shaped her own path in activism and to advancing women’s rights in the 21st…
In this week's episode, join Holly as she sits down with Ben Branson, the remarkable and visionary founder behind Seedlip, Seasn, and Pollen Projects. From the humble beginnings in his kitchen to pioneering a global brand in just four years, Ben’s story is one of creativity, dedication, and a relentless drive to challenge the status quo. Raised in a family deeply connected to farming, Ben spent…
How can you learn to be self-compassionate and live the life you want to lead? In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration meet Rosie Nixon, an accomplished author, broadcaster, consultant, and coach, best known for her 16-year tenure as editor-in-chief of Hello! Magazine. Rosie shares her experiences with stress and burnout, leading to a career reevaluation and her decision to become a life…
What’s the secret to designing award-winning and best-selling homeware for 20 years? In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration meet Antony and Richard Joseph, twin brothers and co-founders of Joseph Joseph often referred to as the ‘Apple of homeware.’ You'll hear the captivating story of their entrepreneurial journey, from a childhood surrounded by creativity to the thrill of their first…
How can you use customer data to create brand loyalty? In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration meet Edwina Dunn OBE, a true trailblazer in both the realms of big data and female empowerment. Immersed in the world of tech and data since the early 80’s, a time when customers' data was often discarded, Edwina’s vision led to creation of the groundbreaking Tesco Clubcard, turning the retail…
Can the shadow of death truly teach us the value of life? In this soul-stirring and life-affirming episode journalist, author, and podcast host Clover Stroud shares her journey through loss, creativity, and the transformative power of love and bravery, offering you a deeply personal and universally resonant perspective on living a life full of contrasts and redemption. From the beauty and…
Ready to revolutionise your fashion choices? Discover how one woman is changing the world of fashion and empowering women to turn their wardrobes into serious financial assets, with the Airbnb of clothing. In this inspiring episode, Holly Tucker chats with Eshita Kabra-Davies, the trailblazing founder and CEO of By Rotation, about transforming the fashion industry through a sustainable,…
Why did Giovanna Fletcher call her encounter with royalty 'bizarrely beautiful'? Actress, author, podcast host, a true champion of mothers and the “I’m a Celebrity” Queen of the Castle shares her extraordinary journey of resilience and empowerment. From her experience starring in the West End musical "Everybody's Talking About Jamie" to her childhood encounters with bullying, which ignited her…
Meet Perry Haydn Taylor, brand genius, design guru and true disruptor. His work shines out of many kitchen cupboards and fridges, from Dorset Cereals or Whole Earth to Gü desserts. For 30 years, Perry has helped entrepreneurs start and transform some of our most extraordinary brands with his award-winning design and marketing consultancy, Big Fish. Find out how. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE…
Dame Sarah Storey is Britain’s most decorated Paralympian and her uplifting journey is a beacon of hope, and testament to the power of resilience. They say if you believe in yourself anything is possible. This week's guest has a story of unparalleled determination, tenacity and triumph. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear how Dame Sarah’s insatiable curiosity to see how far, and how fast,…
Elvis & Kresse is a superb example of a circular business, making luxury accessories from recycled materials (mainly fire hoses). Since 2005, they’ve saved 300 tonnes of decommissioned ones from landfill and donated 50% of profits. Discover how this incredible company puts the environment, ethics and community first — to great effect. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll learn more about why…
Antonia and Jonny Philp worked tirelessly to create a hand cream that helps our nation’s NHS professionals and is commercially successful (they promise to give a month’s worth of free hand cream to a nurse or midwife with every purchase). Hear how they were tested — from Covid to Dragons’ Den — and truly found their purpose. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear Antonia and Jonny’s…
From catering events for the Hollywood elite to employing prison leavers, Alex Head opens the doors to her socially conscious catering business — and it’s fascinating. A business creating meaningful change, providing second chances for ex-offenders, and with sustainability at its heart. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear how Alex is reinventing traditional catering, transforming lives in…
Stuart Trevor has an unwavering creative vision. When he was just 19, he was the first buyer and designer at Reiss. After founding All Saints and growing it into a household brand, he wanted to help tackle the sustainability crisis in fashion. How? By launching a clothing company that doesn’t produce any clothes… WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll learn about Stuart’s inspiring mission — one…
A passionate advocate of self-acceptance, Bryony bravely challenges societal norms — her authenticity empowering women along the way. Bryony’s courage (and humour) in baring her soul is inspiring, as she shares her lifelong quest to shine a bright light on shame as a powerful way to dissolve it. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear Bryony’s honest and touching words on how mental health,…
Ruby Hammer has been rewriting the beauty narrative for over three decades and her story is one of utter authenticity. In an industry obsessed with youth, Ruby talks about embracing ageing, the power this gives us and how to do it. It’s a celebration of the beauty found in every stage of life. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE Far beyond makeup, this is a conversation about the power of knowing…
For Jools Oliver, happiness is most deeply rooted in her family values and home is definitely where her heart is. This is a conversation that focuses on what’s important in life, the relationships we nurture, the environment we create and the joy that we can take from everyday moments. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll rediscover how cherishing the small moments can help when juggling…
We have delved into the treasure trove of episodes of 2023, to bring you the most powerful words shared, the golden advice given and a healthy dose of heartfelt inspiration. For a moment of reflection, or renewed energy for the year ahead — there is a lightbulb moment here waiting for everyone. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE From Rio Ferdinand OBE, to Karen Millen OBE, the incredible guests on…
When Mike and Alison Battle couldn’t find a magical Christmas experience for their own children, they decided to create one themselves. Their journey from primary school teacher and hedge fund manager to Mr and Mrs Lapland is nothing short of remarkable, and what’s at the heart of it? Sheer creativity. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear how Mike and Alison’s life mission is to preserve…
With a love of clothing from an early age, fashion has always been part of Patrick’s DNA and the golden thread throughout his life. Yet his destiny wasn’t just about fashion, but to fulfil a mission to bring communities together, preserve the legacy of craftsmanship and champion the emotional connection we all share with handcrafted items. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll learn what drove…
