Do your thing

About Do your thing

Do your thing is for small business owners wanting to build a business that actually works for them. I'm Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk. Join me as I explore how to do MY thing. We’ll hear from people who’ve made intentional choices about how they work. People who’ve gone against the grain. People who are building businesses that fit them – and helping others to do the same. We’ll talk about what’s helped, what really hasn’t, and what’s still a work in progress. The messy bits, mindset shifts, and the little things that end up making the biggest difference.

Publisher

Fliss Lee

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

7 Oct 2025

Latest episode

12 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   12 Oct 2026

   “What does money mean to you?” with Holly Dannhauser

   I heard Holly Dannhauser speak about our relationship with money and immediately thought, I need to get her on the podcast. She talked about how the things we believe about money, what our work is worth and what we should or shouldn’t be earning can influence the decisions we make without us even realising it. And it made so much sense to me. I’ve met so many business owners who struggle with money and their own sense of worth, and I know from my own experience how easy it is to pick up beliefs about money without really questioning where they’ve come from. Holly is the founder of Moon and Mountain. She works with people on the practical business stuff like strategy and direction, but also the things going on underneath that can get in the way, like confidence, money and what we believe we deserve. In this episode, Holly shares her own money wake-up call after becoming self-employed and what happened when she realised her relationship with money was influencing the way she was running her business. We talk about the beliefs and behaviours we pick up around money, why understanding them can help us make more conscious decisions, and why creatives in particular can find it difficult to put a financial value on what they do. We also get into undercharging, overdelivering because you feel guilty about what you’ve charged, and one question from Holly that I’ll definitely be taking away from this conversation: why not me? What you’ll learn in this episode: How your relationship with money can influence the decisions you make in your business without you realising it Why struggling to see the value in what you do can affect what you charge – and how much you give in return How understanding your own patterns and beliefs around money can help you make decisions with more confidence About Holly Dannhauser Holly Dannhauser is the founder of Moon & Mountain, a strategic consultancy and coaching practice built on one belief: when purpose-driven people are truly clear on where they're going, and confident enough to back themselves, they become an unstoppable force for good. As a strategist and an accredited Money Archetypes coach, Holly connects the moon – your inner world, your relationship with money and self-worth – with the mountain – the external world of strategy, direction and planning. Address both, and you have the clarity and confidence to build something meaningful on your terms. Links Visit the Moon & Mountain website (https://www.moon-mountain.com/) Connect with Holly on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-dannhauser/) Holly’s Free Money Archetypes assessment (https://www.moon-mountain.com/quiz) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and Head of Brand at Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/). Fliss helps founders and freelancers build businesses that work for them. Enjoyed this episode? I write about building a business that works for you, brand, and doing things your own way in my newsletter. Sign up here (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup). Connect with me on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/).

2. 

   5 Oct 2026

   “Whatever your big thing is, say it out loud” with Sophie Greenwood

   I’ve known Sophie Greenwood for a few years now, and she’s one of those people who can take all the ideas flying around your head and help you work out what you actually want to do with them. A couple of years ago, she ran a capacity planning workshop for my Blueprinters that was a bit of a lightbulb moment for me too. Coming from the creative agency world, I’d picked up some pretty bad habits around saying yes to work and simply working more hours to fit it all in. So I knew a conversation with Sophie about planning, capacity and how we actually make our ideas happen would be an insightful one. Sophie Greenwood is the founder of Three Beams Thinking and a strategy and planning mentor for small, creatively minded businesses. In this episode, we talk about those bigger ideas we have for our businesses – the things we’d love to do one day but perhaps don’t say out loud because we’ve got no idea how we’d actually make them happen – and how planning can help you start bridging that gap. We also get into capacity planning, why so many of us overestimate how much we can realistically fit into our working week, and why having a plan doesn’t mean you have to rigidly stick to it when things change. And we talk about how Sophie has gone from chasing the next job, promotion or pay rise to being much more driven by curiosity and making room for work that excites her. What you’ll learn in this episode: How to take a big idea and start turning it into something that feels achievable Why understanding your actual capacity can help you make more realistic decisions about your time and workload How to use a plan to give your business direction without feeling like you have to rigidly stick to it About Sophie Greenwood Sophie is the founder of Three Beams Thinking, and is a Leeds-based business planning and strategy mentor for small business owners, entrepreneurs and freelancers. After working full-time as Head of Operations for six years, Sophie became self-employed in 2022. She now supports small business owners to structure big ideas into action plans, understand their capacity, and really prioritise what will push their business forward. When she’s not surrounded by post-it notes, you’ll usually find her organising a networking event, or chasing after her two young children. Links Three Beams Thinking website (https://www.threebeamsthinking.co.uk/) Follow Sophie on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/threebeamsthinking) Connect with her on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiegreenwoodthreebeams/) Super Seconds Festival (https://www.supersecondsfestival.co.uk/) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and Head of Brand at Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/). Fliss helps founders and freelancers build businesses that work for them. Enjoyed this episode? I write about building a business that works for you, brand, and doing things your own way in my newsletter. Sign up here (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup). Connect with me on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/).

3. 

   28 Sept 2026

   “I didn't intend to start a business” with Emma Cattell

   When I first met Emma and heard the story of how she started Bobbin & Bumble, I was struck by how matter-of-fact she was about the whole thing. Because it’s a pretty incredible story. Emma didn’t set out to start a business. She needed a more practical cover for her IKEA high chair, so she bought a £5 sewing machine and taught herself how to make one. Then she realised she wasn’t the only parent looking for more practical accessories for IKEA baby equipment – and what started as something she made for herself gradually became Bobbin & Bumble. All while Emma was balancing work and motherhood. In this episode, we talk about how she went from making products herself at home to building a baby and children’s brand and moving into manufacturing, without ever really having a grand plan for where the business would take her. We also get into something I found really interesting: despite everything she’d built, Emma spent a long time downplaying her creativity and what she’d achieved. We talk about learning to take your creativity seriously, the assumptions we make about what ‘hard work’ is supposed to look like, and why doing something you enjoy doesn’t make it any less valuable. And Emma is really honest about the harder parts too – building a business alongside motherhood, having no maternity leave and struggling with postnatal depression. What you’ll learn in this episode: How Emma turned a problem she wanted to solve for herself into a product business Why it took her so long to take her creativity and the business she’d built seriously What Emma has learned from building a business without a grand plan and seeing where it takes her About Emma Cattell Emma Cattell is the founder of Bobbin & Bumble, a colourful baby and children's brand she accidentally started in 2016 after searching for a product that didn't exist. Armed with a £5 sewing machine and no idea how to sew, she taught herself and began making products from home. What started with one product has since grown into a much bigger brand, with products stocked by retailers and in family homes around the world. Links Follow Bobbin & Bumble on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/bobbinandbumble/) Follow Emma on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/emmacattell.xo/) Connect with Emma on Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-cattell/) Visit Bobbin & Bumble’s website (http://bobbinandbumble.com) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and Head of Brand at Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/). Fliss helps founders and freelancers build businesses that work for them. Enjoyed this episode? I write about building a business that works for you, brand, and doing things your own way in my newsletter. Sign up here (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup). Connect with me on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/).

4. 

   21 Sept 2026

   “Just ask, you never know what someone's going to say” with Helen Ridley

   What if you didn’t need to know exactly what your business was going to look like before you started? In this episode, I’m joined by Helen Ridley, live illustrator and founder of Helen Ridley Illustration. Helen started her illustration business thinking she’d sell cards and gifts. Five years later, she’s built a creative business around live illustration, workshops and, more recently, bringing other creatives together through her own networking events. We talk about how experimenting and trying different things helped Helen work out what she enjoys, what she’s good at and what actually makes money. We also get into building confidence, getting more comfortable with rejection and the commercial side of running a creative business. Helen shares how she approaches pricing her creative work, why choosing fewer, better-paying clients has created more space in her business, and why you sometimes need to be willing to walk away from work that isn’t right for you. And we talk about something that can easily get forgotten when creativity becomes your job: making time for your own creativity, finding inspiration away from paid work and allowing that to lead you somewhere new. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why experimenting can help you work out what you want your business to look like How getting comfortable with rejection can build your confidence and lead to new opportunities Why making time for creative dates can help you find inspiration, explore new ideas and protect your creativity when creativity is your job About Helen Ridley Helen Ridley is a live illustrator for weddings and luxury fashion and lifestyle brands. She is the founder of Helen Ridley Illustration, painting live portraits at events and weddings in the UK and beyond, capturing guests (and pets!) in just 10 minutes in a fun and expressive style. Helen also leads watercolour and illustration workshops for corporate clients, public workshops and a local networking event for creatives in Berkshire. Her clients include Westfield, John Lewis, Assouline, Butternut Box, The Cotswold Company, Hilton and 1 Hotel Mayfair. Links Visit Helen Ridley Illustration (https://www.helenridley.com/) Follow Helen on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/helenridleyillustration/) Connect with Helen on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-ridley-illustration/) Join Helen’s newsletter (https://helenridleyillustration.myflodesk.com/helenridley1) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and Head of Brand at Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/). Fliss helps founders and freelancers build businesses that work for them. Enjoyed this episode? I write about building a business that works for you, brand, and doing things your own way in my newsletter. Sign up here (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup). Connect with me on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/).

5. 

   14 Sept 2026

   “Life's too short. Just do what you want to do and don't worry about how you're perceived” with Rich Carter

   What if running your own business meant letting go of everything you’d learned about how you’re supposed to work? In this episode, I’m joined by Rich Carter, founder of Rich C Studio, graphic designer and sign painter. Since becoming self-employed, Rich has had to unlearn a lot of the rules and habits he picked up from employment, from feeling like he needed to be at his desk nine to five, to waiting for permission to do things differently. We talk about the shift from thinking of yourself as “just a freelancer” to taking yourself seriously as a business owner, being the boss you actually want to work for, and giving yourself permission to build a creative business around the way you want to work. We also get into Rich’s move into sign painting, why he stopped worrying about whether he should call himself a graphic designer or a sign painter, and what happened when he stopped looking to other people for validation and started doing more of what he actually enjoys. What you’ll learn in this episode: How to unlearn some of the rules you bring with you from employment Why seeing yourself as a business, rather than “just a freelancer”, can change the way you work How giving yourself permission to explore what you enjoy can shape a business that works for you Mentioned in this episode Rich talks about learning to set better boundaries in his business and recommends Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab (https://www.nedratawwab.com/books/set-boundaries-find-peace). You might also like: If the freelancer-to-business-owner conversation resonates, listen to my conversation with Sophie Cross too, where we talk about why freelancers need to start taking themselves seriously as businesses. About Rich Rich Carter is the founder of Rich C Studio, an independent design and sign painting studio specialising in distinctive brand identities and hand-painted signage for independent businesses. Working from his garden studio, Rich blends traditional signwriting with modern graphic design to create bold logos and characterful shopfronts that help businesses stand out and feel proud of their space. Through honest craftsmanship and a DIY spirit, he partners with ambitious shops, start-ups and local businesses who want their brand to feel as human as the people behind it. Links Visit Rich’s website (https://www.richcstudio.co.uk/) Connect with Rich on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/richcstudio/) Follow Rich on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/richcstudio/) Shop his Holly & Co store (https://holly.co/storefront/rich-c-studio?srsltid=AfmBOoqhe6w5Pu8E3tvfXDO5aMFtfAartYdwWn3Nm034vvzgI5a5ogxM) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and Head of Brand at Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/). Fliss helps founders and freelancers build businesses that work for them. Enjoyed this episode? I write about building a business that works for you, brand, and doing things your own way in my newsletter. Sign up here (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup). Connect with me on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/).

6. 

   7 Sept 2026

   “We need to take ourselves seriously as businesses and as business owners” with Sophie Cross

   What if you stopped waiting until you had everything figured out and just started? In this episode, I’m joined by Sophie Cross, founder of Freelancer Magazine and self-appointed Chief Connector. Sophie had the idea for Freelancer Magazine on 1 January 2020. A few months later, she’d announced it on a podcast, launched a Kickstarter and published the first issue. Five years on, the magazine is still going strong, and Sophie is stepping away from the editor role to focus on marketing, sales, strategy and community. We talk about what it really takes to start a freelance business or launch something new before you have everything figured out, why testing and iterating is so important, and the mindset shift from seeing yourself as a freelancer to seeing yourself as a business owner. Because you don't need a perfect plan to get started. You can take the next step, learn from what happens and allow your business to evolve as you go. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why you don’t need to have it all figured out before you start How testing, making mistakes and taking the next small step can help you build confidence Why seeing yourself as a business, rather than just a freelancer, changes how you work About Sophie Cross Sophie is the founder and Chief Connector at Freelancer Magazine Club, a community for marketing, creative and B2B freelancers, and the business magazine behind it. Links Connect with Sophie on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophcross) Get Freelancer Magazine (https://www.freelancermagazine.co.uk/) Follow Freelancer Magazine on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/72333796/) Follow Freelancer Magazine on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/freelancermag/) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and Head of Brand at Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/). Fliss helps founders and freelancers build businesses that work for them. Enjoyed this episode? I write about building a business that works for you, brand, and doing things your own way in my newsletter. Sign up here (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup). Connect with me on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/).

7. 

   22 Jun 2026

   How do you want to do business?

   This solo series is my way of taking some of the brilliant conversations I’ve had in season 1, and helping you to do something with them. I’ve loved these chats so much, but I also know it’s one thing to discuss things, and another to actually make changes in your business. So I’ll be taking the common themes across the episodes, and turning them into practical exercises to help you figure out how to do business your way. In this episode, I’m reflecting on the final big theme from season 1: figuring out how you actually want to do business. Looking back at conversations with guests like Paula, Jag and Gina, I explore why sustainable businesses are usually built through experimentation, not perfection, and share a simple exercise to help you start testing ways of working that feel more natural, enjoyable, and manageable for you. About Fliss Lee This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. Find out more about On Brand (https://www.honest-folk.com/on-brand) Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

8. 

   15 Jun 2026

   Where are your people?

   This solo series is my way of taking some of the brilliant conversations I’ve had in season 1, and helping you to do something with them. I’ve loved these chats so much, but I also know it’s one thing to discuss things, and another to actually make changes in your business. So I’ll be taking the common themes across the episodes, and turning them into practical exercises to help you figure out how to do business your way. In this episode, I’m reflecting on another huge theme from season 1: the importance of finding your people. Looking back at conversations with guests like Paula, Chris and Lucy, I explore how the right support network and the right customers can make business feel lighter, easier, and far less lonely. I also share a simple exercise to help you think about the kinds of people you naturally connect with, and how to build a business around more of those relationships. About Fliss Lee This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. ⁠Find out more about On Brand⁠ (https://www.honest-folk.com/on-brand) Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

9. 

   8 Jun 2026

   What do you need for self employment to be sustainable?

   This solo series is my way of taking some of the brilliant conversations I’ve had in season 1, and helping you to do something with them. I’ve loved these chats so much, but I also know it’s one thing to discuss things, and another to actually make changes in your business. So I’ll be taking the common themes across the episodes, and turning them into practical exercises to help you figure out how to do business your way. In this episode, I’m reflecting on a big lesson from season 1: if your business depends on you constantly running on empty, something needs to change. Looking back at what came up with guests like Jo, Morín, Gina and Lucy, I share a simple exercise to help you think about the support, boundaries, and ways of working that will help you build something more sustainable. About Fliss Lee This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. ⁠Find out more about On Brand⁠ (https://www.honest-folk.com/on-brand) Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

10. 

    1 Jun 2026

    What do you need from your business?

    This solo series is my way of taking some of the brilliant conversations I’ve had in season 1, and helping you to do something with them. I’ve loved these chats so much, but I also know it’s one thing to discuss things, and another to actually make changes in your business. So I’ll be taking the common themes across the episodes, and turning them into practical exercises to help you figure out how to do business your way. In this episode, I’m reflecting on another big theme from season 1: the importance of getting clear on what you actually need from your business, rather than chasing someone else’s version of success. Looking back at conversations with guests like Lucy and Morin, I share an exercise to help you understand your values, so you can make clearer decisions about how you work, who you work with, and what success actually looks like for you. About Fliss Lee This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. ⁠Find out more about On Brand⁠ (https://www.honest-folk.com/on-brand) Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

11. 

    25 May 2026

    Whose rules are you following?

    This solo series is my way of taking some of the brilliant conversations I’ve had in season 1, and helping you to do something with them. I’ve loved these chats so much, but I also know it’s one thing to discuss things, and another to actually make changes in your business. So I’ll be taking the common themes across the episodes, and turning them into practical exercises to help you figure out how to do business your way. In this episode, I’m reflecting on one of the biggest themes to come out of season 1: the beliefs, expectations, and ‘shoulds’ that shape how we run our businesses. Looking back at what came up across those conversations, I share a simple exercise to help you spot the beliefs shaping your decisions, so you can start making more intentional choices about how you work. About Fliss Lee This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

12. 

    15 Dec 2025

    “My cycles are my compass” with Morin Glimmer

    In this episode, I’m joined by Morín Glimmer, brand strategist, creative director, cyclical living advocate - and founder of Rosy Futures, a brand consultancy for the radically hopeful. Morín works at the intersection of business, brand and body, helping feminist founders build brands rooted in values, vision and cyclical living. After years of battling her own cycle and treating it like a weakness, discovering her 'inner seasons' changed everything and completely transformed how she works, plans, creates and supports her clients. We talk about cyclical living, capacity, burnout, creativity, and why your body is a strategic tool that most business owners ignore. Morín shares the reality of planning around her menstrual cycle, designing her business around her energy, and unlearning the belief that we have to be at the same level of productivity every day. It’s a generous, eye-opening conversation about self-compassion, rhythms, intuition and finding a way of working that actually supports you. Whether you menstruate or not, there’s something in this episode that will help you rethink how you work. What you’ll learn in this episode What cyclical living is and what it looks like in practice How Morín plans her work around her menstrual cycle Why your body is a crucial part of your capacity and brand How cyclical working improves creativity, confidence and decision-making Ways non-menstruators can work cyclically How to spot your own patterns, peaks and dips Why linear productivity leads to burnout How your brand and your body are connected About Morín Glimmer Morín Glimmer is a London-based brand strategist, creative director, and cyclical living advocate. She founded Rosy Futures, where she combines her brand development expertise, with her feminist values, and her experience of finding relief and truth in living cyclically after living with PMDD and suspected endometriosis for over 30 years. Her work blends strategy, creativity and energetic awareness - challenging traditional approaches to branding and business by putting the body back into the conversation. Follow Morin on Instagram: @rosy.futures (https://www.instagram.com/rosy.futures/) Connect with her on Linkedin: Morin Glimmer (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moringlimmer/)Visit the Rosy Futures website: http://rosyfutures.com/ (http://rosyfutures.com/) Download Morin’s free cycle tracker here (https://static1.squarespace.com/static/6551077eca742b5b58ab636f/t/68dbf2a4a686825519d2839e/1759244964617/Cycle+dial+tracker+A4.pdf) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

13. 

    8 Dec 2025

    “Free up energy to focus on what you’re really good at” with Chris Mitchell

    In this episode, I’m joined by Chris Mitchell, a Business and Leadership Coach, Mentor and advisor who helps business owners and leaders to plan with intention, focus on what matters most to them, and turn what makes them unique into their competitive advantage. After years in corporate, Chris reached a point where challenging the status quo (something he was brilliant at) wasn’t valued anymore. That realisation pushed him to start his own business and build something on his own terms. We talk about unpicking corporate expectations, shaking off the need to work 9-5, and learning how to plan your way, not the way you think you ‘should’ do things. Chris shares openly about mistakes, overwhelm, vulnerability, and the reality of figuring things out step by step. We chat about pace, permission, and the bravery it takes to do your thing when everyone else seems to be doing theirs differently. What you’ll learn in this episode Why challenging the status quo is a strength - and how to use it well The struggle of shaking the corporate 9 to 5 mindset How expectations from others (and ourselves) shape the way we work Why planning doesn’t have to be complicated What to do when you feel overwhelmed or 'spinning' Why letting go of what you’re not good at is just as important as owning what you are How defining your difference helps you stand out and speak with clarity About Chris Mitchell Chris Mitchell is a business coach, mentor and advisor who helps business leaders and business owners to get clear on what matters most to them, and how to turn what makes them unique into their competitive advantage. With a background in corporate strategy and leadership development, Chris blends practical planning with mindset work to help people create sustainable, intentional businesses that fit who they are. Connect with Chris on Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-mitchell-coaching/) Visit his website (https://www.adhdcoachingleeds.co.uk/) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

14. 

    1 Dec 2025

    “Fun doesn’t make you less professional” with Gina Buckle

    In this episode, I’m joined by Gina Buckle, a copywriter, brand voice strategist, and self-appointed Queen of Fun. Gina helps businesses inject personality and fun into their messaging without losing clarity or ‘professionalism’. After a few years as a busy freelancer saying yes to everything, Gina realised she didn’t really have a business - just a lot of work. That realisation led her to build something intentional: a business designed around what she actually enjoyed doing. We talk about finding your niche, unlearning hustle culture, and how to redefine success on your own terms. Gina shares what 'fun' really means in a brand, and how to use it intentionally to attract the right people (and put off the wrong ones). It’s a joyful conversation about self-awareness, boundaries, mindset, and why fun doesn’t make you any less professional - it makes you more you. What you’ll learn in this episode Why fun and professionalism aren’t opposites What finding your niche really looks like in practice How Gina has redefined success The mindset shifts that help you work less and enjoy it more How to find your version of fun and build your brand around it About Gina Gina Buckle is the founder of Hoot Copy, a copywriting and brand voice consultancy specialising in fun, humour, and personality. She works with businesses of all sizes to help them figure out what their authentic definition of fun is, and shows them how they can reflect this consistently across their buyer journey and marketing activity. She believes that the right brand voice should feel fun, authentic, and easy to sustain, as well as being undeniably magnetic to your audience, and that's exactly what she helps her clients to do. Follow Gina on Instagram: @gina.hootcopy (https://www.instagram.com/gina.hootcopy) Connect with her on Linkedin: Gina Buckle (https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-buckle-01219ab5/) Visit Gina’s website: https://hootcopy.com/ (https://hootcopy.com/) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

15. 

    24 Nov 2025

    “Don’t become the world's worst boss to yourself” with Jo Hooper

    In this episode, I’m joined by Jo Hooper, founder of Get Wildly Free, business coach and creator of the Me First Method. Jo spent over a decade climbing the corporate ladder in communications before realising the cost of success: two breakdowns, burnout, and a growing awareness that the system she was working in wasn’t built for her. We talk about redefining what 'work' means, unlearning the beliefs that keep us overworked and overwhelmed, and building businesses that feel good, rather than just looking good on paper. Jo shares how she helps people put themselves first in their business, set boundaries that actually stick, and has created a way of working that supports mental health rather than harming it. It’s an honest and joyful conversation about permission, beliefs, burnout and boundaries - and a reminder that success doesn’t also have to mean exhaustion. What you’ll learn in this episode: The mindset shift from overworking to ease What the Me First Method is and how to apply it in your own business How beliefs about work, productivity and worth are shaped by society What really causes burnout (and how to stop repeating the cycle) Why boundaries benefit you and your clients How to give yourself permission to build a business that fits you About Jo Hooper Jo Hooper is the founder of Get Wildly Free and creator of the Me First Method. She helps founders, freelancers and small business owners design businesses that support their mental health and the life they want to live, without falling back into burnout. Through her coaching and group programmes, Jo challenges the myths around productivity and worth, helping people work in ways that feel good, sustainable, and aligned. Links Get Jo’s Shit list here (https://getwildlyfree.myflodesk.com/ia6n0nspfp). Follow Jo on Instagram: @getwildlyfree (https://www.instagram.com/getwildlyfree/) Visit Jo’s website: (https://untold-creative.com)https://getwildlyfree.co.uk This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

16. 

    17 Nov 2025

    "The learning never ends" with Jag Panesar

    In this episode, I’m joined by Jag Panesar, founder and director of Xpand, a full-service digital marketing agency based in West Yorkshire. With 18 years in business, Jag has built Xpand into a trusted partner for brands ranging from global names like Lindt Chocolate and Tetley Brewery to ambitious SMEs across the UK. But behind those 18 years are lessons about growth, change, resilience and what it really means to 'have it all figured out.' We talk about the evolution of business: how what you want, how you work, and what success looks like, can completely change over time. Jag shares how his mindset has shifted from corporate expectations to being himself, the lessons he’s learned from failure, and why being agile and having a strong belief in yourself are essential for long-term success. It’s an honest conversation about learning as you go, trusting the process, and remembering that no one ever really has it all figured out. What you’ll learn in this episode: How Jag launched Xpand - and why risk sometimes pays off What’s changed (and what hasn’t) in 18 years of running a digital agency How his mindset around success, values and leadership has evolved Why agility and adaptability are key to surviving change Why self-belief and passion are non-negotiables if you want to keep going About Jag Panesar Jag Panesar is the founder and director of Xpand, a full-service digital marketing agency based in West Yorkshire. With over 18 years in business, Jag has built Xpand into a trusted partner for brands such as Lindt Chocolate, Tetley Brewery and His Majesty’s Prison Service. His expertise spans marketing strategy, branding, web design and social media, helping businesses connect purpose with performance. Known for his down-to-earth approach, Jag regularly speaks about how strategy drives better marketing results, championing clarity, creativity and consistency in every campaign. Links Learn more about Xpand: https://xpandmarketing.co.uk (https://xpandmarketing.co.uk)Connect with Jag on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jagpanesar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jagpanesar) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

17. 

    10 Nov 2025

    “Be confident in who you are” with Lucy Critchley

    In this episode, I’m joined by Lucy Critchley, founder of Untold Creative, a podcast and content studio. Whether you need a podcast producing, some ace social media content creating, or a hand with your email marketing, Lucy’s got the right person for the job. Lucy launched her business in the middle of the pandemic, just five months after her daughter was born. What started as a small VA business quickly evolved into a creative business with a purpose, and a brand that reflects the kind of work Lucy really loves to do. We chat about the realities of starting a business with a newborn, finding a rhythm that fits your family life, and how your brand can evolve as you do. Lucy shares how she’s built a flexible business that works around her energy, her clients and her life, and what she’s learned about defining success on her own terms. What you’ll learn in this episode: How Lucy launched her business during maternity leave What it’s really like building a business alongside family life Why self-employment is the ultimate personal development journey How your business and brand evolve as you grow, and how to recognise when it’s time for change The importance of finding clients who align with your values and the kind of work you want to do Why community and connection are key to sustaining yourself in business About Lucy Critchley Lucy is the founder of Untold Creative, a podcast and content studio that helps purpose-led businesses share their stories through podcasts, social content and newsletters. With a background in TV and radio production, Lucy combines creativity and strategy to help her clients find their voice and tell the stories that matter most. Links Follow Lucy on Instagram: @untold.creative (https://www.instagram.com/untold.creative)Connect with Lucy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucycritchley (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucycritchley)Visit Untold Creative: https://untold-creative.com (https://untold-creative.com) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

18. 

    3 Nov 2025

    “There’s power in understanding yourself in business” with Paula Dixon

    In this very first episode, I’m joined by Paula Louise Dixon, coaching and business psychologist, and founder of Hazon Consulting. Paula’s story is about trusting her instincts and building a career (and business) that fits the different parts of who she is. From teaching and working with young people, to discovering occupational psychology and starting her own consultancy, Paula’s journey is full of lessons about growth, identity and doing business your way. We talk about values, stress, self-awareness, and why understanding how you work is one of the most powerful things you can do for you and your business. What you’ll learn in this episode: How Paula found her way from education into business psychology The difference between personal and brand values, and how to make them work together Why self-awareness and stress management are key to sustainable success The importance of community when you’re doing your own thing Practical ways to identify your personal values and use them to guide decisions About Paula Louise Dixon Paula is a coaching and business psychologist and founder of Hazon Consulting, where she helps individuals, teams and organisations optimise their potential through psychology-informed coaching and development. Her work focuses on helping people understand themselves better, align with their values and build healthier, more fulfilling careers and businesses. Links Learn more about Paula and Hazon Consulting (https://www.hazonconsulting.com), and ThinkND (https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinknd-inclusive-solutions) Connect with Paula on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hazonconsulting?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app) This podcast is hosted by Fliss Lee, brand coach and founder of Honest Folk (https://www.honest-folk.com/), helping creative founders and freelancers build businesses that actually fit them. Connect with me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/itsflisslee/) or Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/flisslee/) and sign up to my newsletter (https://www.honest-folk.com/email-signup) for honest truths on building a business your own way.

19. 

    7 Oct 2025

    Introducing Do your thing

    I started my business for the same reasons you did: I was sick of being told how I “should” be doing things, and I wanted the flexibility and freedom to do life and business my way. But strangely enough, just saying “I’m going to do things differently” doesn’t actually mean it’s happening. Weird that. Turns out bringing it to life requires a fair bit of graft. It ended up taking years to get things right. Yes, years. That’s how long it took to truly leave behind the “should”s and expectations of working life that were so deeply ingrained in me. Because we all do it at some point. We work weekends, burn out, overcommit, people-please, say yes when we don’t mean it, compare ourselves to everyone else, and second-guess every decision we make. All while telling ourselves “yeah, I’m definitely doing business my way”. Ever gone full pelt in your business for the entire year, then got to December not just completely wiped out, but confused about why you’re completely wiped out? Yeah, then you’ll know what I’m on about. Cut to early 2024, and I knew things had to change. My burnout left me no choice but to stop, and take a long, hard look at what I was doing. Since that moment, I’ve been completely redesigning my business from the inside out. And this time, I’ve been doing it, not just talking about it. I’ve been at this for over a year now, and let me tell you, doing your thing feels pretty flippin’ good. I’ve learnt a lot along the way, and my business is really starting to feel like it's all mine. But don’t get me wrong, I’ve still got so much left to learn. That’s sort of why we’re here. Do your thing is a space for all of us to figure it out as we go along, and hear from some brilliant folk who are doing the same. We’ll hear from people who’ve made intentional choices about how they work. People who’ve gone against the grain. People who are building businesses that fit them – and helping others to do the same. We’ll talk about what’s helped, what really hasn’t, and what’s still a work in progress. The messy bits. The mindset shifts. The little things that end up making the biggest difference. I truly believe you can build a successful business around what you really want out of life, and make solid money while doing it. You can run a business that supports you instead of draining you. And you don’t have to follow someone else’s rules to get there. I’m Fliss Lee. I’m a brand coach for founders and freelancers, and the founder of Honest Folk. I help people join the dots between their brand, their business and their goals, so they can do their thing, find their groove, and live life with oomph. If you’re like me, you’re figuring out how to do your thing, and you’re down for some real talk, helpful habits, and a few laughs along the way. So strap in, and let’s figure this out together. This is Do your thing. Let’s go.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Contact Do your thing

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.