From Employee to Employer: How to Build a Business Without Starting Again Artwork

Work It Like A Mum

How do I know if I'm ready to return to work after maternity leave? Can I *really* make all the pick-ups, drop-offs AND get to work on time? Am I ready for that promotion? How do I balance managing a large team and demanding kids? Is now the right time to start my own business? Can I flourish in a part-time job? And the biggest question of all, can I *really* have it all? Whether you're returning to work after your first maternity leave or juggling a high-flying career with teenagers that won't do their homework, this is the show for you.Work It Like A Mum is a new podcast giving you a weekly dose of inspiration, confidence, and step-by-step tips (plus lots of comradery) to help you flourish in your career after kids. Hosted by the Founder of Investing in Women, Elizabeth Willetts, we chat with remarkable women redefining our working world. They'll share their secrets on how they've achieved extraordinary things after children, set boundaries and balance, challenges they've faced (and how they've overcome them) to define their own versions of success. Every episode is brimming with ideas, tools, hints and tips you can put straight into practice so you, too, can have a career you adore. We cover it all - with raw honesty and a few laughs to ensure you are seen, heard, promoted and hired - whilst keeping your sanity at home! Listen now to get all the inspiration you need to Work It Like A Mum.

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Work It Like A Mum

From Employee to Employer: How to Build a Business Without Starting Again

July 16, 2026 • Elizabeth Willetts • Season 1 • Episode 202

0:00 | 34:00

In this episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, Elizabeth Willetts is joined by Rebecca Newenham, founder of Get Ahead, to explore what it really takes to go from employee to business owner.

Together, they discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, the benefits of franchising, and how women can build a flexible business without starting from scratch. Whether you're dreaming of running your own business or simply curious about your options, this episode is packed with practical advice, honest insights and encouragement.

What We Cover:

The journey from employee to entrepreneur
Starting a business without building everything yourself
Franchising vs starting a business from scratch
The mindset shifts needed for business ownership
Why flexibility means different things to different people
Balancing business growth with family life
Common misconceptions about franchising
The importance of networking, coaching and community
Managing fear, uncertainty and financial risk
How to know if business ownership is right for you

Key Takeaways:

Business ownership doesn't have to mean doing everything alone.
Franchising can offer freedom with the support of a proven model.
Flexibility is one of the biggest motivations for starting a business.
Building a strong network is essential for long-term success.
Coaching and mentoring can accelerate business growth.
Fear of failure shouldn't stop you from exploring new opportunities.
Focus on your strengths and outsource the rest where possible.
Community and collaboration are powerful tools for entrepreneurs.
There isn't one right way to build a successful business.
Small, consistent steps often lead to the biggest career changes.

Why Listen:

If you've ever wondered whether running your own business could give you the flexibility and fulfilment you're looking for, this episode is for you.

Whether you're considering a franchise, exploring self-employment, or simply looking for a career that fits around your life, you'll come away with practical advice, honest reflections and the confidence to explore what's possible.

Show Notes:

Connect with Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn here

Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn here

Visit the Get Ahead website here

Support the show

Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here.

And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

UK Friendly Employers Spotlight

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