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!