Episode Overview

What does it really take to turn a successful education business into a national brand?

In this episode, Claire Riley sits down with Jane James, founder of Little Voices, to unpack the realities of franchising, leadership and sustainable growth. Jane shares the journey from opera singer and single parent to building one of the UK's leading performing arts franchises.

Together they explore why franchising is never a shortcut, the difference between building a business and building a brand, the systems every founder needs before scaling, and the personal leadership challenges that come with growth.

Whether you're considering franchising, expanding your education business, or simply trying to build something that creates lasting impact, this episode is packed with practical insights and honest lessons from nearly two decades of business growth.

Sponsored by https://classroomsecrets.co.uk/

00:01 – Jane's journey from opera singer to entrepreneur

03:45 – The birth of Little Voices

05:00 – Why franchising took three years

08:00 – Leadership, growth and impact

10:45 – Is your business ready to franchise?

16:45 – International expansion

19:45 – The biggest franchising red flags

25:00 – Growing your business before you scale

27:00 – Alignment over work-life balance

30:00 – Why relationships are everything

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/educationbusinessclub/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/education.business.club/

All About Jane:

Jane James is the founder and visionary behind Little Voices, an award-winning performing arts franchise dedicated to nurturing confidence, creativity and communication in children through drama and singing. A trained singer turned entrepreneur, Jane has spent decades building businesses, empowering people and creating opportunities for children, families and franchisees across the UK. She is also the host of The School Run Podcast, where she shares honest conversations and inspiring stories around confidence, resilience, relationships, creativity and the lessons life teaches us beyond the classroom. Known for her warmth, emotional intelligence and ability to deeply connect with people, Jane speaks openly about leadership, motherhood, personal growth, faith, recovery and rebuilding identity after trauma. Through her speaking, writing and podcasting, she helps others find their voice, believe in what’s possible and lead with authenticity. Jane lives in the UK with her husband Ant and daughter Liv and is currently publishing her first book.

Website: www.littlevoices.org.uk

Podcast: The School Run with Jane & Liv on Apple and Spotify:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-school-run/id1669328609

https://open.spotify.com/show/1PX9LJu03t3Xe9Y1XMeR5A

Instagram: @littlevoiceslimited @mrsjanejames @theschoolrun_official

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mrsjanejames

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