A Facilitator's Journey: Real Life Stories

Hosted by Kirsty Lewis

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Oct 2025

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A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your businesses as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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52 recent

October 17, 202556 min

Episode 49: From Newsrooms to Workshops: Jo Cook's purposeful facilitator's path

This episode is about decision-making in our businesses, the frameworks we use to say yes or no to work and how becoming more conscious in our decision-making is important to cultivate. In this engaging conversation, Jo Cook shares with Kirsty her journey from being a trainee journalist to having a multi-income stream business. Jo shares her experiences transitioning from journalism to self-employment, the challenges of working with family, and living with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. They emphasize the significance of creating inclusive work environments and the necessity of investing in personal and professional growth. The discussion highlights the need for flexibility in business models and the value of intention in career planning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connection 02:45 Navigating Networking and Professional Relationships 05:16 Career Journey: From Journalism to Learning and Development 08:20 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business and Learning 10:54 Transitioning to Self-Employment and Business Challenges 13:51 The Importance of Intention in Career Planning 16:25 Adapting to Change: The Evolution of Business Models 19:18 Working with Family: The Dynamics of Sibling Partnerships 22:10 Health Challenges: Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome 24:52 Creating Inclusive Work Environments 27:43 Quick-fire questions 33:18 SOFest, TJ 60th Birthday and wrap up! I invite you to grab a cuppa, join me on the pink seat, and tune in your ears. ____ A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: Visit Jo's website HERE Sign up to TJ's 60th Anniversary conference HERE Connect with Jo on Linkedin HERE Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Discover SOFest HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

October 3, 202558 min

Episode 48: The Importance of Community, Connection and Collaboration

In this engaging conversation, Kirsty Lewis and Chad Littlefield explore the evolving landscape of facilitation, the impact of AI, and the importance of community and collaboration. They discuss the challenges faced by facilitators in a changing business environment, the significance of positioning and value, and actionable advice for those starting out in the field. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Connector Summit and the importance of investing in personal growth and development. 00:00 Introduction and Connection 02:42 The Role of AI in Facilitation 05:24 Navigating Business Challenges 08:32 Positioning and Value in Facilitation 11:04 Shifting Business Focus 13:56 Personal Stories and Business Insights 21:04 Connection Before Content 24:20 The Shift to YouTube and Online Engagement 29:58 Business Structure and Revenue Streams 36:35 Partnerships and Collaborations in Business 43:05 The Value of Information and Implementation 45:10 Generosity Marketing and Value-Based Pricing 47:17 The Scarcity Mindset in Pricing 50:16 The Importance of Open Conversations About Money 51:46 Positioning and Pricing Strategies 56:51 Navigating Economic Uncertainty in Facilitation 01:01:04 Quick Fire Questions and Final Insights ____ A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Discover SOFest HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

September 19, 20251 hr 3 min

Episode 47: The brutal truth: My first five years as a freelance facilitator

This episode is about decision-making in our businesses, the frameworks we use to say yes or no to work and how becoming more conscious in our decision-making is important to cultivate. In this conversation, Kirsty Lewis and Dave Freeman discuss the journey of transitioning from the corporate world to becoming a freelance facilitator and trainer. They explore the challenges faced in the early stages of building a business, the impact of COVID-19 on the training industry, and the importance of finding a niche. Dave shares his experiences, including the ups and downs of his first year, the evolution of his business, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, resilience, and the brutal truth of running a business. 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:29 The Brutal Truth of Business 05:36 Leaving the Corporate World 08:10 Transitioning to Facilitation and Training 10:53 Finding Associate Work 13:40 Auditioning for Associate Roles 16:35 Year One Challenges 19:19 Year two and the Impact of COVID 22:06 Adapting to Virtual Training 24:43 Reflections on the Journey 29:58 The Evolution of a Trainer: Year Two to Year Three 33:06 Narrowing the Focus: Year Four and Niching 42:10 The Balancing Act: Associate vs Direct Work 48:10 Quick Fire Insights: Advice and Recommendations I invite you to grab a cuppa, join me on the pink seat, and tune in your ears. ____ A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Discover SOFest HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

September 5, 202522 min

Episode 46: Summer Reflections: My Facilitator's Journey!

Join me, Kirsty Lewis, founder of the School of Facilitation, as I reflect on my summer of 2025. From facilitating summits in London and Manila to traveling across Australia and New Zealand, I share my experiences, lessons learned, and insights into the world of facilitation. Discover the highlights of SoFest, the challenges of balancing work and travel, and the exciting plans for the future. Key Highlights: SoFest 2026: A celebration of community and learning with 80 participants, workshops, and inspiring speakers. Travel Adventures: Exploring Australia and New Zealand, meeting fellow facilitators, and embracing cultural differences. Lessons Learned: The importance of community, the challenges of professional loneliness, and the need for strategic planning in the business! Visit the SoFest website for 2026 early bird tickets and stay connected for more insights and updates. #Facilitation #SoFest #SummerReflections Don't delete below section - to be added to every description I invite you to grab a cuppa, join me on the pink seat, and tune in your ears. ____ A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Discover SOFest HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

July 25, 202551 min

Episode 45: Navigating Neurodiversity in Business

In this conversation, Kirsty Lewis and Tamzin Hall explore the themes of neurodiversity, the journey of entrepreneurship, and the importance of self-awareness in client relationships. Tamsin shares her personal experiences with neurodiversity and how it shaped her career as a consultant. They discuss the challenges of building a business, the significance of choosing clients wisely, and the value of utilizing downtime effectively for personal and professional growth. Towards the end of the conversation Kirsty and Tamzin explore the complexities of business ethics, the significance of unique selling points, the challenges of loneliness in entrepreneurship, and the importance of continuous personal and professional development. They discuss the ethical dilemmas faced by business owners, the need for authenticity in business practices, and the value of mentorship and accountability in achieving success. Takeaways Neurodiversity can be supported without a formal diagnosis in the business environment. Choosing clients wisely can lead to a more fulfilling business. Trust your intuition to guide you in client relationships. Utilizing downtime can lead to unexpected opportunities. Building a business takes time and effort, not just a good idea. Resistance to tasks can indicate a misalignment with your goals. Networking and planning are essential for a successful transition to entrepreneurship. Embracing your unique journey can lead to greater fulfillment. Business success is subjective and should be defined individually. Copying someone else's business model is unethical and ineffective. The business landscape can be lonely, highlighting the need for community support. Investing in personal development is essential for business owners. Ethics in business should guide decision-making processes. Continuous learning and development are vital for staying relevant in business. Trusting one's instincts is key to navigating business challenges. I invite you to grab a cuppa, join me on the pink seat, and tune in your ears. ____ A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Discover SOFest HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

July 11, 202547 min

Episode 44: Re-evaluating Success: From corporate to creative to scaling back

In this conversation, Mok reflects on his journey from corporate consulting to founding the Innovation Beehive, a company focused on unlocking creative potential in organisations. He shares personal experiences of loss, the impact of COVID-19 on his business, and the decision to scale back rather than grow. Mok emphasizes the importance of reevaluating success, prioritizing health, and making intentional life choices. The discussion highlights the challenges of entrepreneurship, the need for self-examination, and the journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling life. Mok tells Kirsty about his journey of overcoming personal and professional challenges, emphasizing the importance of self-care, financial management, and the power of saying no. The dialogue highlights the significance of resilience, personal growth, and the value of building a supportive community. The Birth of Innovation Beehive Navigating Personal Loss and Career Changes Reevaluating Success and Life Choices The Shift from Growth to Scaling Back Intentional Steps to Scale Back Transitioning from Team to Solopreneur Facing Fear and Rebuilding Life The Power of Saying No Navigating Financial Responsibilities Embracing New Ventures and Community I invite you to grab a cuppa, join me on the pink seat, and tune in your ears. ____ A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: Visit Mok's website HERE Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 27, 20251 hr 1 min

Episode 43: The Power of an Endurance Mindset in Business

In this episode, Kirsty Lewis interviews Clare Walkeden, a consultant, coach, and endurance athlete, about her journey in business and the importance of wellbeing. They discuss the transition from marketing to a focus on wellbeing, the foundations of personal and professional health, and the significance of community and connection. Clare shares her insights on maintaining balance as a business owner and the role of an endurance mindset in achieving success. In this engaging conversation, Kirsty Lewis and Clare Walkeden explore the themes of endurance, chosen suffering, and the emotional challenges faced in both cycling and business. They discuss the importance of discomfort for growth, the need for self-awareness, and the significance of community support. Clare shares her experiences with endurance cycling and how they relate to running a business, emphasizing the necessity of knowing one's values and direction. The conversation also touches on the emotional flatness that can occur with mastery and the joy found in nature and connection with others. Foundations of Wellbeing for Business Owners The Importance of Connection and Community The Five Fundamentals of Wellbeing Balancing Business and Personal Wellbeing Endurance Mindset in Business Clire's Endurance Sports Journey The Concept of Chosen Suffering Endurance Mindset in Business Navigating Emotional Flatness The Challenge of Mastery Finding Joy in the Journey Building Community and Support The Importance of Connection with Nature Don't delete below section - to be added to every description I invite you to grab a cuppa, join me on the pink seat, and tune in your ears. ____ A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Discover SOFest HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 13, 202548 min

Episode 42: Websites and SEO - What Every Freelancer and Facilitator Needs to Know

Is your website really working for you - or is it quietly gathering dust? In this episode, I’m joined by Barb Davids, a website and SEO strategist who helps business owners grow their organic traffic and make their websites work harder (without all the tech overwhelm). Together, we dive into why your website still matters - even in the age of social media - and what simple changes you can make to boost your online presence. We explore: Why having a website builds trust and credibility with clients The surprising importance of having a blog (yes, even now!) What SEO actually is — and why it’s not as scary as it sounds How to choose the right keywords and get found on Google Practical tips to improve your site without needing a full redesign Whether you’re just starting out or thinking it might be time to refresh your online home, this conversation is packed with insights to help you take small, manageable steps toward a website that really supports your business. I invite you to grab a cuppa, join me on the pink seat, and tune in your ears. ____ A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: If you purchase the Instant Blog Planner™ , you will get a free 90-minute working session with Barb. Mention 'A Facilitator's Journey' when you purchase. Visit Barb's website HERE Visit Barb's YouTube HERE Connect with Barb on Instagram HERE Connect with Barb on Linkedin HERE Listen to Barb's podcast HERE Grab your free site audit HERE Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Discover SOFest HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 30, 202549 min

Episode 41: Navigating the Legal Side of Business with Lucy Wheeler

In this episode, we dive into all things legal - what it is we need in our businesses as solopreneurs, through to partnerships or big entities. Trust me when I recommend you get the legal side of your business in order early on. My guest is Lucy Wheeler, also known as Lucy Legal. She is a lawyer who shares legal information and tips through her social media accounts and has two businesses: Lucy Legal, which provides legal templates and information for small business owners, and Wheeler Wood, a law firm that offers bespoke legal advice and services. The conversation explores what we need to have in our businesses to be legal and within the law in the UK, to protect ourselves and our customers and clients. What I love is Lucy's approach to making legal information accessible and understandable for everyone. We discuss the importance of legal considerations for entrepreneurs and small business owners and the value of seeking legal advice to save time and ensure compliance with regulations. What is Lucy Legal? Setting Up Wheeler Wood: A Bespoke Law Firm The Importance of Legal Documentation for Businesses Legal Templates for Trainers and Facilitators Understanding Legal Requirements and Compliance Educating Business Owners on Legal Best Practices The Value of Legal Advice and Saving Time Data Protection and GDPR Compliance Building a Strong Reputation through Professionalism Protecting Your Business Name with Trademarks DISCLAIMER: All of the content within this podcast recording is information only. No legal advice is provided. Both Lucy and I are based in the UK and the information shared was correct and up-to-date with English law at the time of recording. Should you need specific legal advice you should consult a lawyer in your jurisdiction. I invite you to grab a cuppa, join me on the pink seat, and tune in your ears. ____ A Facilitator's Journey is a podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 16, 202558 min

Episode 40: Me, my business and Neurodiversity

Kirsty and Hayley explore Hayley's journey into neuro-inclusion consulting, discussing the challenges and triumphs of running a business as a neurodivergent individual. They delve into the importance of community support, the complexities of pricing strategies, and the impact of self-worth on business decisions. The discussion highlights the multifaceted nature of entrepreneurship and the value of building a network of support. In this conversation. Hayley shares her experiences as a neurodivergent business owner, discussing the challenges she faced with managing day-to-day business tasks and the importance of outsourcing to improve efficiency. She highlights the significance of understanding one's energy levels and the impact of neurodivergence on daily business operations. The discussion also touches on the concept of FOMO versus JOJI, the joy of joining in, emphasising the need for a supportive and welcoming environment in business. Hayley's Journey into Neuro Inclusion Consulting Understanding Value and Pricing in Coaching Overcoming Limiting Beliefs in Business The Importance of Community and Support The Complexity of Running a Business The Role of Self-Worth in Pricing Outsourcing for Neurodivergent Business Owners Navigating Neurodivergence in Business Understanding Energy Management The Joy of Joining In vs. FOMO Investing in Yourself and Your Business I invite you to grab a cuppa, join me on the pink seat, and tune in your ears. ____ A Facilitator's Journey is the podcast that looks at how you run your business as a facilitator or trainer. You started this work because you have a passion that you want to share with organisations. However, there is the small detail that you are now running a business and this requires a whole other set of skills and knowledge. Join me, Kirsty Lewis, Founder of School of Facilitation, as I interview trainers and facilitators about how they manage their businesses. I will explore how people run their finances, price their work, scale up, scale down, decide to retire, market themselves, manage clients, and much much more. Key Links: Visit the School of Facilitation website HERE Discover SOFest HERE Connect with me on Instagram HERE Connect with me on Linkedin HERE contact@schooloffacilitation.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.