Join your host Ashleigh King as she welcomes Mayira Thomas – poet, educator, speaker, and founder of Mayfly Coaching – for a heartfelt and profound conversation that spans identity, healing, emotional intelligence, and the power of truly being seen. Mayira brings a deeply rooted, cross-cultural perspective to her work. Themes of this conversation: 🌵 Growing up between cultures, navigating assumptions and identity, and how these early experiences shaped Mayira’s mission to help others feel seen ...
May 21, 2025•1 hr
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Christina Lord – coach, creative, breathwork facilitator, and soulful strategist who helps people reconnect with their true selves, navigate life’s messy middle, and reignite their inner spark. Themes of this conversation: 🌵 The power of energy and embodiment – how emotions are “energy in motion,” and why tuning into your body is the first step to transformation 🌵 Living through the dark night of the soul – from grief and burnout to quitting her job...
May 14, 2025•48 min
🔞 Content trigger warning: Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Robert Little – coach, podcast host, former door-to-door salesman, and passionate advocate for community, connection, and living life with intention.Themes of this conversation:🌵 Embracing challenges – the importance of mental resilience for facing any challenge whether that be fasting during Ramadan to going alcohol-free for 661 days🌵Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD, the struggl...
May 07, 2025•40 min
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Dawn Young – podcaster, founder of Cluarantonn Podcast Agency, and passionate advocate for ethical true crime storytelling. Themes of this conversation: 🌵How a love for true crime and a gap in Scottish representation inspired Dawn to start Scottish Murders 🌵The bold decision to transition from co-hosting with her sister to going solo – and how it helped her find her voice 🌵Why ethical storytelling and respecting victims’ families is at the heart of...
Apr 30, 2025•47 min
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Tamma Carel – environmental consultant, founder of Imvelo, and passionate advocate for sustainable business.Themes of this conversation:🌵Growing up in South Africa and how her early connection to nature shaped her mission to protect it🌵Navigating the challenges and opportunities of immigration, and how adapting to a new country built resilience and courage🌵Building not one, but two businesses – including a SaaS platform that simplifies environmenta...
Apr 23, 2025•42 min
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Jamie Pell, occasional DJ, mental health advocate and business founder.🔞 Content trigger warning: Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Sensitive topics covered in this episode include: Suicidal ideation, isolation and loneliness, alcohol, burnout. If you find this topic upsetting and need any additional support, there are some useful contacts available at: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/postnatal-dep...
Apr 16, 2025•50 min•Season 3Ep. 10
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Kathryn Wharton, curator, community creator and storyteller Themes of this conversation: 🌵Storytelling across different stakeholder groups 🌵Curating history, and sharing stories, to amplifying stories through tech, and then marketing stories by sharing them 🌵The value of reading and books. 🌵Women in Tech and how it started. 🌵Kathryn’s gift of building community and how this has been a theme throughout her career journey as she has programmed diff...
Apr 09, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 9
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats with Ann English, a creative visionary who has profoundly impacted Ashleigh with her unique vision mapping techniques. Ann discusses her journey of self-discovery and the power of hyperphantasia—thinking in vivid pictures and multisensory experiences. They explore the importance of visual thinking, embracing strengths and dreams, and how to transform ideas into reality. Themes of this conversation: 🌵 The power of visual thinking and visual styling 🌵 Di...
Apr 02, 2025•53 min•Season 3Ep. 8
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Charlie Hoult, serial entrepreneur, family man and lover of poetry and yoga! Charlie Hoult is an award-winning business leader, angel investor, and entrepreneur. In this conversation, we explore his multifaceted career and personal journey Themes of this conversation: 🌵Charlie reflects on his experience competing in the local Mayoral Campaign, the challenges of being in the public eye, and what it means to lead in a transparent, public-facing role. �...
Mar 26, 2025•37 min
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Nic Redman, voice coach, author of On the Mic, and host of 'The Voice Coach Podcast'. 🎙️ Nic is a multi-talented accent chameleon who loves to help her clients find and celebrate their unique vocal signature. Themes of this conversation: 🌵Nic’s favourite party trick accents as a child 🌵The wonky path which brought Nic to what she’s doing now today 🌵Facing rejection on the West End 🌵Dabbling in standup and voiceover work 🌵Dyspraxia and the impact...
Mar 19, 2025•46 min•Season 3Ep. 1
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Laura Richards, host of the ‘Idea Junkies’ Podcast 🎙️Laura has a background of marketing and PR, who has found her calling in building and making apps through using AI and no-code. She’s been fortunate to secure spaces on some of the elite accelerator and incubator programmes in the North East of England and globally, providing her with the opportunity to ‘fail fast’, learn and iterate her ideas.Since this journey, Laura has founded ‘Idea Junkies’ wh...
Mar 12, 2025•44 min•Season 3Ep. 5
This International Women’s Day we feature the bright, shining light of positivity which is Sarah Jane Phelps! Sarah is committed to making the world a little brighter, unlocking each person’s purpose from within. As a self-confessed ‘Modern Day Mary Poppins’ Sarah works with individuals, organisations and families to be the best they can be. Themes of this conversation: 🌵 Overcoming limiting beliefs and unlocking potential 🌵 Breakups, faith, and personal growth 🌵 Reframing failure and embraci...
Mar 08, 2025•58 min•Season 3Ep. 4
Join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Andy Haddon, Founder of the ‘Big River Bakery’ and Host of the ‘Big River Rising’ Podcast. Andy is an academic, an activist and a change maker seeing social problems other people miss, and working out solutions to solve them for the greater good. Themes of this conversation: 🌵The ‘power of the stottie’ and how it inspires communities as messaging a tool to get people talking about important matters 🌵Finding your values, purpose and passion 🌵Andy’s ...
Feb 26, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 3
In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she chats with Kayleigh Laverick, the Founder of Mamma Social Co, and Co-host of the Mamma Social Co Podcast 🔞 Content trigger warning: Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Sensitive topics covered in this episode include: Suicidal ideation, isolation and loneliness, post natal depression (PND), neurodiversity and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you find this topic upsetting and need any additional support, there are some useful c...
Feb 19, 2025•53 min
The new season of Nurture Your Zest launches with Ashleigh King interviewing the enthusiastic, creative and curious Emma Krebs. Emma is a freelance producer who started out in podcasting and is shifting into YouTube and the creative economy. 🌵Emma shares her journey from starting her podcast, 'The Curious One' to navigating new opportunities. Emma loves chatting to people who are living unconventionally, learning from every conversation. 🌵Emma shares how the container of 'The Curious One' has ...
Feb 12, 2025•44 min
We’re thrilled to announce that #NurtureYourZest is BACK! 🌵🎙️After a little break to re-charge and re-focus, we’re so excited to bring you brand new episodes for the creative and curious, packed with inspiring stories from those who have overcome challenges, dared to do things differently, and embraced their authentic selves to achieve greatness. 💪Whether you're looking for motivation, new perspectives, or simply love hearing inspiring stories, this new season is not to be missed. Get ready t...
Feb 11, 2025•48 sec
EPISODE 23 #NurtureYourZest In this episode, host Ashleigh King sits down with Terry Blackburn, a powerhouse entrepreneur who's built 11 successful businesses from the ground up. Terry’s story is one of grit, determination, and designing a life that aligns with his deepest values. From overcoming a challenging past to crafting his path to success, Terry shares the mindset and strategies that have fueled his journey. In this episode, we discuss: 🌵 Terry’s journey from a troubled youth to becomin...
Sep 17, 2024•40 min
EPISODE 22 #NurtureYourZest In this episode, host Ashleigh King chats to Laura Kingston, Founder and Managing Editor of High Life North,a digital magazine that is dedicated to celebrating women in the North East. Laura shares the journey of transforming a seed of an idea into a thriving digital platform. In this episode, we discuss: 🌵 The inspiration behind the creation of High Life North and its evolution from a passion project to a successful magazine 🌵 Why Laura values a digital-only approa...
Sep 03, 2024•42 min
EPISODE 21 #NurtureYourZest In this episode, host Ashleigh King sits down with Steve Pugh, the founder of Roadmap MBA. Steve shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming the first in his family to graduate university. Driven by a powerful mission, Steve is dedicated to making business education accessible and affordable for all. In this episode, we discuss: 🌵 Steve’s Liverpool roots and how a humble upbringing shaped his work ethic 🌵 The need for change in higher education a...
Aug 27, 2024•40 min
In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she interviews Sarah Seed, a rock chick and self-discovery coach for women. Sarah shares her ongoing journey of self-improvement and spiritual awakening, offering insights into reclaiming your voice and moving away from the constant need to prove your worth and hide your sensitivity, particularly as a woman. In this episode, we discuss: 🌵Sarah’s personal transformation from growing up in a cult to rebuilding her life 🌵The journey of self-discove...
Aug 20, 2024•43 min
EPISODE 19 #NurtureYourZest In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she interviews Tricia Scott, founder of The Female CEO. Tricia shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey and how she navigates the challenges of being multi-passionate. She discusses the unique hurdles female entrepreneurs face and the value of finding joy in the entrepreneurial process. In this episode, we discuss: 🌵 The story of how The Female CEO was founded and the impact of the Natwest Accelerator Programme 🌵T...
Aug 13, 2024•50 min
In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to good friend and talented copywriter, Alex Thompson. Alex shares his journey, from working as a teacher in China to becoming a successful copywriter. He discusses his personal values and the importance of understanding a client's needs to deliver quality work, rather than just focusing on making money. In this episode, we discuss: 🌵 The story of how Alex and Ashleigh met at a networking event 🌵Alex’s personal journey, from working as...
Aug 06, 2024•38 min•Season 2Ep. 5
In this very special episode of #NurtureYourZest, host Ashleigh King is joined by her colleague, Samantha Castro, the Podcast Production Manager at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio.🎙️🦩 👩🏻🤝👩🏿 In honour of International Women's Day, Ashleigh and Samantha delve into and reflect on the stories of three inspirational women who have previously graced the #NurtureYourZest podcast as guests.🤩 Featured Guests:🌵Lysa Morrison: A business leader who conquered postnatal depression and sexism to bec...
Mar 08, 2024•40 min
🎙#NURTUREYOURZEST EPISODE 17 OF SEASON 2 🎙 In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she chats with Luke Shalmon, Podcast Host and DJ In this episode, we discuss: 🌵 Luke’s journey in the music industry 🌵Neurodivergence, the ideas process and insomnia 🌵Getting so lost in projects and forgetting to eat, sleep or look after yourself 🌵The ADHD brain and the difference between taking meds and not, and the trade-off between being productive or being creative 🌵The challenge of labels 🌵Lu...
Mar 17, 2023•39 min
🎙#NurtureYourZest Episode 16 of Season 2 🎙 A special episode for International Women's Day 2023 In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she chats with Sarah Heron, Colour Consultant and Menopause Style Coach. Sarah is the founder of True Colours, who helps women find their mojo through colour styling. EPISODE THEMES: 🌵 How Sarah switched careers in her fifties from Primary School teaching into colour styling on a far-reaching digital platform. 🌵 How Sarah transformed herself from a ...
Mar 08, 2023•40 min
🎙#NurtureYourZest Episode 15 of Season 2 🎙 In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she chats with Elaine Parker, the Founder of Safer Date. 🔞 Content trigger warning: Listener and viewer discretion is advised. Sensitive topics covered in this episode include: Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Rape, Knives, Murder If you find this topic upsetting and need any additional support, there are some helplines available at: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/getting-help-for-domestic-violence/ Wo...
Mar 03, 2023•34 min
🎙#NURTUREYOURZEST EPISODE 14 OF SEASON 2 🎙 In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she chats with Videographer Joel Lowson , about his unexpected path to Entrepreneurship. In this episode, we discuss: 🌵 How strange it’s being in front of the camera for a change 🌵 Rock music, kickboxing 🌵 What it was like being made redundant 🌵 Being ‘unemployable’ and a mutual hate of emails 🌵 Where to learn about video 🌵 Why you shouldn’t only measure your online success by looking at followers...
Jan 21, 2023•30 min
🎙#NURTUREYOURZEST EPISODE 13 OF SEASON 2 🎙 In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Alfie Joey , … In this episode, we discuss: 🌵 What wearing different titles means to him and why he wants to be known as a communicator 🌵 His recent role playing the character Friar Tuck and all of the Merry Men at the Customs House 🌵 The new skills he’s learned from designing theatrical sets and costumes 🌵 Why you should push yourself out of your comfort zone 🌵 The ‘dance’ between men...
Jan 13, 2023•44 min
🎙#NURTUREYOURZEST EPISODE 12 OF SEASON 2 🎙 In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Kathryn Paylor-Bent, a talented creative with an unusual story and many creative gifts. Kathryn (or Kat as she prefers to be known) has a wealth of different responsibilities: She creates handmade, adaptive fashion for all disabled communities through her business, Seated Sewing, as well as providing consultancy advice via Seated Consul. Kat is a Founding Member of The Adaptive Fashion Netw...
Dec 03, 2022•48 min
🎙#NURTUREYOURZEST EPISODE 11 OF SEASON 2 🎙 In this episode, join your host Ashleigh King as she chats to Ammar Mirza CBE, business and community leader. Ammar is passionate about his community, and being a ‘Geordie’ growing up in Newcastle upon Tyne. He shares candidly his reflections on growing up in the North East of England. In this episode, we discuss: 🌵Wearing armour and wanting to fit in 🌵His memories of the No.1 bus and the journey through the most affluent and deprived areas of Newca...
Oct 11, 2022•41 min
