Welcome to The Reinvention Diaries, where hosts Michelle and Nicola explore the challenges of reinvention, rediscovery, and regaining confidence. In this episode, they tackle the January blues, the silence of starting something new, and finding validation when no one's clapping yet.

Episode Highlights:

Blue Monday & January Struggles

• The hosts discuss Blue Monday and whether January really lives up to its gloomy reputation
• Michelle shares how January and February are traditionally slow months for her photography business
• The feeling of starting over each year, even when you know the seasonal cycles

The Silence of Reinvention

• That difficult phase when you're working hard but no one's noticed yet—no applause, no validation, just silence
• How silence can feel harsher than criticism when you're trying something new
• The importance of self-validation before seeking external validation (as their previous guest Rachel emphasised)

Keeping Momentum When Money's Tight

• Why the financial pressure of starting a business is one of the biggest barriers to making the leap
• The challenge of proving the concept to yourself when cash isn't flowing yet
• How being forced into change (like redundancy) can sometimes make the transition easier

Building Self-Belief & Social Proof

• "Fake it till you make it"—projecting confidence even when you're uncertain
• Starting with testimonials from friends, and building reviews
• The importance of visibility: "People buy from people they trust, and if they can't see you, they can't trust you"

The Grief of Starting Over

• Nicola's experience going from Director of Operations to beginner photographer—losing mastery and starting from scratch
• The emotional toll of stepping backward to move forward
• Dealing with self-doubt: "Whose she to tell me what to wear?" (Michelle's internal struggle)

Comparison & Competition

• Why comparing yourself to someone in year three when you're in month three is unfair
• The value of befriending others in your industry rather than seeing them as competition
• How collaboration and networking can accelerate growth

Practical Advice for Getting Through the Silence

• Say yes to everything early on (even if you learn from mistakes)
• Get your face everywhere—networking, social media, business cards
• Build proof for yourself through testimonials and small wins
• Remember: exposure doesn't pay bills immediately, but it leads to opportunities that do

Random Acts of Kindness

• Michelle's almost-act:
• Nicola's avoided act:
• A sweet mention of Nicola's 12-week-old grandson

Key Takeaway: When you're in that silent phase of reinvention—when no one's clapping yet—you have to validate yourself first, keep showing up, and trust the process. The sunshine is coming.

Connect with The Reinvention Diaries:

• Email: studio@thereinventiondiaries.co.uk
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• www.mrstylewright.com
• www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk
• Subscribe and leave a 5-star review wherever you listen to podcasts!

Former RAF officer Rachel Haith shares her journey from military burnout to empowerment coach, discovering her true calling through accidental reinvention.

Guest Bio

Rachel Haith - Empowerment coach and founder of Inspired Life Group. After 17 years in the RAF, she now helps heart-led leaders empower themselves and live a life of choice.

Key Story Points

The Breakdown

As a fighter controller, Rachel managed 16 aircraft when her brain "snapped" under pressure. She collapsed in tears at her console, then immediately declared she'd never control aircraft again. She pivoted to logistics.

Crisis of Self-Belief

Facing promotion barriers, Rachel asked herself "Am I just crap?" Her epiphany: "I'd been waiting for the Air Force to validate me. When I realized I validate me first and anything else is just a bonus, everything changed."

Accidental Reinvention

Left RAF in 2017 planning to focus on network marketing. Took a coaching diploma in 2019 for personal development. Within one month, knew coaching was her calling. COVID forced her online, leading to current success.

The Challenge

Launched her business while solo parenting (husband posted away for 6 years). Struggled transitioning from military structure to self-employment. Never doubted her coaching ability, but doubted her business skills.

Core Message

"There is always a choice. It doesn't mean it's easy, quick, or without consequences, but there is always a choice." Rachel helps people peel back layers of external voices to discover who they truly are and what they want.

Key Takeaways

1. Validate yourself first - don't wait for external approval
2. Burnout can catalyze breakthrough
3. Your expected future may change unexpectedly
4. Empowerment is your responsibility
5. Running a business requires skills beyond your craft

Words of the Year

• Rachel: Alignment + Traction
• Michelle: Consolidation
• Nicola: Focus

Connect

Website: www.inspiredlife.co.uk Podcast: The Renny Show Social: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram (Rachel Haith)

About The Reinvention Diaries

Hosts Michelle and Nicola talk to women about reinvention, rediscovery, and regaining confidence.

Contact: studio@thereinventiondiaries.co.uk Instagram: @thereinventpodcast

Michelle www.mrsstylewright.com

Nicola www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk

Michelle and Nicola kick off Season 2 of The Reinvention Diaries with a candid conversation about New Year's resolutions, holiday reflections, and their plans for 2026. They discuss the pressure of "new year, new me" culture, the concept of "wintering," and why they're opting for small, achievable goals instead of grand resolutions. The hosts share their Christmas experiences, favourite TV shows, and explore the idea of choosing a word for the year. They also announce exciting plans for Season 2, including more guest interviews focused on reinvention, rediscovery, and confidence.

Key Topics Discussed

Holiday Reflections

• Michelle's Christmas: Extremely social with 7 days of events and hosting 20+ people
• Nicola's Christmas: Hibernation mode - lazy, restful, and productive only with tax prep

TV Recommendations

• Nicola's picks: Plebs (Ancient Rome comedy) and Ted Lasso (finally!)
• Michelle's picks: The Night Manager (2016 series recap before Season 2)

New Year Philosophy

• Rejecting "new year, new me" pressure
• The concept of "wintering"
• New Year's resolutions feel outdated and demotivating

Michelle's 2026 Goals

1. Writing:
2. Voice Confident Course:
3. Taking more photos
4. Success Networking
5. Instagram Strategy
6. Weekly Routine:

Nicola's Reflections

• Celebrating 2 years alcohol-free
• Starting a "win wall" to celebrate achievements
• Avoiding massive goals to prevent demotivation
• Focusing on small, achievable changes

Style & Perception

• Discussion about how clothing communicates without words
• The importance of dressing authentically while being mindful of context
• Michelle's shift from "Personal Stylist" to "Style Coach"
• The difference between dressing for yourself vs. others' perceptions

Word of the Year

• Michelle's potential word
• Nicola's initial thoughts
• Challenge to listeners: What's your word for 2026?

Season 2 Announcements

• More guest interviews featuring women's stories of reinvention and rediscovery
• Focus on inspiring confidence and reassurance
• Reminder that listeners are not alone in their journeys
• Weekly episodes continue!

Connect with The Reinvention Diaries

• Email: studio@thereinventiondiaries.co.uk
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• Nicola: www.nicolaaucklanphotograpy.co.uk
• Michelle: www.mrsstylewright.com

Memorable Quotes

• "It might be the new year, but it's still the same me." - Nicola
• "New year, save me - just a little bit reinvented." - Nicola
• "I'm just gonna start the year with good intentions." - Michelle
• "It doesn't matter what I think about your outfit. It's what you think about your outfit that's important." - Michelle

Reinvention Diaries: The Christmas Episode – Shownotes

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola

Episode Highlights:

• Welcoming listeners to the Christmas Eve special and sharing personal Christmas traditions.
• Funny stories about Santa tracking apps, Christmas jumpers, and festive home decorations.
• Comparing Christmas Day plans: hosting big family meals vs. visiting friends and family.
• Debating the best Christmas treats: Quality Street, Celebrations, Heroes, Matchmakers, After Eights, Twiglets, and more.
• Group snack etiquette and funny anecdotes about party food, birthday cakes, and the five-second rule.
• The "shoes off" debate at holiday gatherings and festive outfit choices.
• Navigating the "Twixmas" period (between Christmas and New Year): TV traditions, Radio Times nostalgia, and must-watch Christmas movies (The Holiday, Elf, The Grinch, Miracle on 34th Street, Die Hard, etc.).
• Board games, card games, and family game night stories (including Linky, The Wheel, and the 1% Club).
• Reflections on the past year: achievements, things not done (no marathons, no TikTok dancing, no hangovers), and embracing self-acceptance.
• Discussing the importance of not caring about others' opinions and celebrating personal growth.
• Looking ahead to the New Year: planning, goal setting, and excitement for Season 2 of the podcast.
• Encouraging listeners to share the podcast, get in touch, and join the community.

Contact & Socials:

• Email: studio@thereinventiondiaries.co.uk
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk
• www.mrsstylewright.com

Season 2 Launch: January 7th

Wishing all listeners a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Reinvention Diaries Podcast – Year in Review

Episode Summary: Michelle and Nicola reflect on the past year, sharing personal and professional highlights, lessons learned, and goals for the coming year. The conversation is candid, humorous, and packed with relatable moments about growth, boundaries, and celebrating wins.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The ups and downs of the holiday season and festive events
• Personal and business goal setting (and the reality of sticking to them)
• The evolution from "personal stylist" to "style coach and color analyst"
• The importance of boundaries in business and life
• Achievements: client milestones, workshops, networking, and launching the podcast
• The power of celebrating small wins and creating a "win wall"
• Family milestones, including becoming grandparents and celebrating anniversaries
• Delegating tasks and hiring help to focus on strengths
• Honest talk about feeling unfocused, messy, and the quest for better organization
• Looking ahead: goals for 2026, including more speaking, workshops, and personal adventures

Notable Highlights:

• Michelle and Nicola share their favorite festive moments and the challenges of getting into the holiday spirit.
• Both hosts reflect on their business growth, including client numbers, workshops, and the launch of the podcast.
• Michelle discusses her decision to rebrand as a "style coach and color analyst" to better reflect her work.
• Nicola shares her achievements in photography, including headshot sessions, brand shoots, and events.
• The hosts talk about the importance of boundaries, saying no to weekend work, and delegating tasks.
• They encourage listeners to celebrate their wins, big and small, and consider creating a "win wall" for 2026.
• Family updates include becoming grandparents and celebrating a 25th wedding anniversary.
• The episode wraps up with a lighthearted discussion about gadgets, organization, and plans for the new year.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Review your own year—celebrate your wins and set realistic goals for the next.
• Consider rebranding or evolving your professional identity if it no longer fits.
• Set boundaries to protect your time and energy.
• Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks that aren’t in your zone of genius.
• Create a "win wall" to track and celebrate achievements throughout the year.

Contact us either by email studio@thereinventiondiaries.co.uk or via instagram @thereinventiondiariespodcast

Nicola - www.nicolaaucklandphotography.com

Michelle - www.mrsstylewright.com

Next Episode: Stay tuned for the upcoming Christmas special and the launch of Season 2 in the new year!

Episode Summary: In this festive episode, Michelle and Nicola dive into the pressures and expectations of the holiday season. They share personal stories about parenting wins, setting boundaries, and the importance of saying "no"—especially around Christmas. The conversation covers everything from Black Friday shopping temptations to the emotional weight of family traditions, and why it's okay to opt out of certain holiday activities.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Parenting milestones and celebrating small wins.
• The importance of carving out personal time and setting household boundaries.
• Budgeting for Christmas and resisting social/media pressure to overspend.
• Saying "no" to Christmas traditions that don't serve you (light trails, Christmas jumpers, forced fun, etc.).
• The emotional side of Christmas: family expectations, grief, and why some people opt out.
• Tips for managing gift-giving, including the "something you want, something you need, something to wear, something to read" formula.
• The value of honest conversations with friends and family about holiday spending and expectations.
• Random acts of kindness and gratitude for the little things (like wellies!).
• Listener call to action: Share your own stories about Christmas boundaries and spending.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Your lack of planning is not my emergency."
• "It's okay to say no. Not everybody likes Christmas."
• "If we can't afford it, we don't get it."
• "I don't want people to give me crap and I don't want to give other people crap."

Listener Call to Action: Share your stories about Christmas boundaries, spending, or things you're saying "no" to this year! Email studio@thereinventiondiary.co.uk or DM @TheReinventionDiariesPodcast on Instagram.

Subscribe: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe so you don’t miss the next one. We don’t always moan—promise!

Nicola - www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk

Michelle - www.mrsstylewright.com

Shownotes: Turning Criticism into Growth – Reinvention Diaries

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola Guest: Amie-Leigh Minshull, CEO & Founder of Shh! PR

Episode Highlights:

• Catch-up: Michelle and Nicola share updates on recent travels, networking, and self-care (including spa days and Christmas dinners).
• The importance of reviews and feedback in business, and how both hosts handle receiving (or not receiving) reviews.
• Introduction of guest Amie-Leigh, who specialises in PR for female entrepreneurs.
• Discussion on the emotional impact of criticism and negative reviews, especially for women in business.
• Amie-Leigh’s advice on handling criticism:
  • Don’t react immediately—pause and reflect before responding.
  • Gather facts before replying to negative feedback.
  • Respond publicly with empathy and a willingness to resolve the issue, then move the conversation offline if possible.
  • Use apologies genuinely; avoid defensive responses.
  • Learn from criticism—use it as an opportunity to improve services or products.
• Gender differences in responding to criticism: women often internalize feedback more deeply than men.
• Examples of brands turning criticism into positive PR (e.g., KFC’s chicken shortage campaign, Aldi’s marketing).
• The value of a “win wall” to remind yourself of positive feedback and achievements.
• The importance of supportive networks and cheerleaders, especially for women entrepreneurs.
• Reflections on women’s networking groups and the supportive, collaborative environment they foster.
• Final advice: Embrace criticism as a tool for growth, not a reason to shrink back.

Connect with Amie-Leigh:

• LinkedIn: Amie-Leigh Minshull
• Company: Shh! PR (www.shhpr.co.uk)
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast

Contact the Podcast:

• Email: studio@thereinventiondiaries.co.uk
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• Michelle - www.mrsstylewright.com
• Nicola - www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk

Listener Questions:

• Amie-Leigh’s favourite colour: Yellow
• Recent act of kindness: Reaching out to someone in need at a concert

Next Episode: Tune in next Wednesday for more stories and strategies on reinvention and growth!

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola

Summary: In this episode, Michelle and Nicola dive into the theme of "feeling the fear and doing it anyway." They share personal stories about overcoming self-doubt, stepping outside comfort zones, and the importance of embracing fear as a sign of growth. The conversation is filled with humor, relatable anecdotes, and practical advice for women navigating reinvention and rediscovery.

Key Topics Covered:

• Weekend catch-up: downtime, disaster movies, and family quirks
• The importance of wearing the right bra and how it affects confidence
• Social outings, shopping adventures, and the realities of high heels
• The main topic: "Feel the fear and do it anyway"
  • Why fear is a sign of growth, not failure
  • How fear of judgment, failure, and even success can hold us back
  • The role of comfort zones and habitual behavior
  • Personal experiences with clients facing their own fears (e.g., being photographed, trying new styles)
  • The power of trusting the process and embracing change
  • Dealing with naysayers and building resilience
  • The universe sending signs and opportunities for reinvention
• Random acts of kindness and the joy of giving back
• Creating a workspace that inspires productivity
• Encouragement to listeners: embrace fear, take action, and share your own stories

Call to Action:

• Share your own "feel the fear and do it anyway" stories by emailing studio@thereinventiondiary.co.uk
• Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• Like, subscribe, and leave a five-star rating to support the show

Closing: Michelle and Nicola wrap up with a message of empowerment: if you’re feeling scared, it’s a sign you’re growing. Don’t squash the fear—embrace it, move towards it, and let it fuel your reinvention journey.

Social links: Michelle - www.mrsstylewright.com. @mrsstylewright, Nicola - www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk, @nicolaaucklandphotography