Kate Wooding - Artist, cyclist, strategist

Kate Wooding  is the type of person you want by your side in a crisis because of her ability to listen, give intelligent advice and provide you with tea and cake. A digital strategist by day Kate is also one of the art world's best kept secrets, mainly because she's shy about displaying her paintings, and she dreams of a quieter life in the Scottish countryside. Let me introduce you ....

Growing up I dreamed of being a wildlife game tracker in Africa. I read a huge amount, and I particularly loved a series of books by Willard Price about two brothers who travelled the world collecting animals for their father's zoo and getting into all sorts of scrapes along the way. I loved the idea that some people could track a wild animal and could tell all sorts of amazing things just from the way a blade of grass is bent: “It's a female lioness, and she's eaten recently. She passed this way less than six hours ago, and she's wounded”. Looking back, perhaps I took those books a bit too seriously but it seemed such an amazing skill to have, to be that in tune with nature.

My first job was in a chain of traditional menswear shops called Blazer where I learnt how to fit a gents suit, how to tie various tie knots and all about the rules of traditional dressing. It's a world I've loved ever since, and I still appreciate a proper dapper gent, especially one who can carry off a cravat. 

The best advice I ever got. I don't remember getting great advice, that's not to say that people haven't given me any, but I don't really remember words. I remember what people do more than what they say. So I guess that it's more about people who I admire, and who have done things that have made me think “I'd like to be more like that”. One of the things I most admire is people who go against the grain in order to achieve something that makes them content. I think it can be very difficult to stand out like that, to do something which is personally difficult or discomforting in order to achieve a bigger happiness.

Other people think that I am confident, and in some ways I am. I'm happy to stand up in front of a room full of people, I'm happy to argue my point of view, and I'm happy to introduce myself to someone I've never met. But in other ways I'm much less so. My confidence comes from a strong sense of not letting my insecurities define me, or hold me back. For example, I hate my legs so being on a beach in a bikini is a challenge but I remember when my godson was three we went on holiday to Devon and he loved the beach. And it was so liberating to stop worrying about how I looked, and just to run around jumping in the puddles and shallows with him. OK, no-one offered me a modelling contract but no one ran away screaming either. I don't think anyone was offended at the sight of me. I think they just saw a grown up having a really great time playing with a kid. It put all my insecurity into perspective. OK, so my legs aren't amazing: so what?

I’d be lost without Radio 4. I have it on at home pretty much all the time, and I love the mix of intelligent programmes, comedy, current affairs, drama, and of course The Archers which I've listened since I was fifteen. Obviously, it's no good at keeping me 'down with the kids' but it's brilliant at giving you a tiny insight into a huge range of people and subjects. It's perfect for a magpie mind like mine, especially because if I'm not interested in something, I know there'll be a new programme along in half an hour. I love the way that I can potter around at home (my favourite pastime), doing whatever I'm doing, with the radio on in the background – it doesn't get in the way and take up all of my attention the way that telly does.  I love my own company, and I can be pretty protective of my solitude (I'm a true introvert: being alone is a sanctuary, and I need time to recover after spending too much time with other people), and I think that Radio 4 gives me the stimulation that I need to live happily in my own world.

In the last year I have learned that I find it incredibly hard to make the time to do something that I enjoy. Which sounds crazy: if I enjoy doing it, I ought to want to make the time to do it, right? Instead I find it very difficult to put it ahead of many of the more boring things in life that just need doing. Turns out that I have very little willpower, and can find any number of reasons not to sit down and draw or paint. I know that the thing that would make me a better painter is to do just an hour every day. But I don't seem to be able to fit that in with a busy working life. Sadly, I think that there are no shortcuts, and no magic cures – I'm just going to have to knuckle down and make it happen.

My goal for the future is….. I have two goals for the future, and somehow they are linked in my head, although there's no reason why they have to be. One is to move to somewhere pretty isolated in the beautiful Scottish countryside. The kind of place where I can fall out of bed and head outside in my pyjamas and wellies with a cup of tea to contemplate the day ahead, without frightening the neighbours or becoming known as 'that crazy lady next door'. The second is to paint more. I'm trying to find ways to make both of these happen in a way that doesn't mean I have to live off tinned soup for the rest of my life.

If I could be someone else for the day I would be either Charlotte Green or David Attenborough. Charlotte Green because I have always wanted to read the Shipping Forecast on Radio 4 “Cromarty, Forth, Tyne, Dogger...” and I can't see how else I'm ever going to do that unless I invade her body for a day. It's such a marvellous string of words, it sounds like poetry, and it's different every day. I'd be David Attenborough, back in the days when he was off round the world in safari shorts, because of my childhood ambition to be a wildlife tracker – he's been to some amazing places, and had memorable experiences on his quest to see animals in the wild. That sounds like a great adventure to me.

Got a question for Kate? You'll find her on twitter @Kate_Wooding .

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Fiona Simpson - sporting communications aficionado

Fiona Simpson is a music loving, film making, photography fan with a passion for communications. She works in the sports sector and always has a story up her sleeve and a smile on her face. Let me introduce you.....

Growing up in sunny Falkirk I dreamed of being an interior designer, a DJ, a vet, a singer in a band, a hairdresser, a film-maker, a superhero, Michael J Fox’s girlfriend (after ‘Back to the Future’), a dog walker, a dancer and an astronaut. 

My first proper job was working in a video shop when I was 16. I thought it was so awesome to be able to watch films at work. I also had the pleasure of doing the lights in Fubar Nightclub when I was at university. I got a real buzz out of the interaction with the music, the crowd and the DJ.  I was the first female ‘light-jock’ to be allowed in Castle Leisure Group. They weren't keen at first but I worked hard and I changed their views on women’s ability to do that job - girl power!

The best advice I ever got was from my mum. She is a wise and lovely human being who has said many clever things over the years but I believe the most life-changing advice she’s given me was to ‘listen to your heart’. She said that we know what’s right and wrong for us in life but sometimes we don’t listen to the voice inside. In looking back at it, I can confidently say that my life changed for the better the day that I began to actually follow this advice.

The achievement I am most proud of is getting through orthognathic (double-jaw) surgery in April this year. Making the decision to go forward with the operation to correct my under bite and then coping with the massive changes it then forced upon me is something that I feel very proud of. I have a brand new outlook on life because of the way the experience changed me and how I feel about myself as a result. I can honestly say that my confidence is at an all time high but I had to go through an all-time low to get here. It involved therapy, love, time, support and above all sheer determination to get through the operation. Writing a blog on my experiences definitely helped me get through the tough times and I would hope that it might help other people who have to have a similar operation in the future.

My biggest challenge has been accepting my ‘new face’ after the operation. Looking different was simply a side-effect of the realignment of my jaw and getting used to it was a lot more tricky than I had would have imagined. I got through it with a LOT of help from some very special people in my life - I feel lucky to have come out the other side and the journey has been truly incredible.

Other people think that I am much more confident than I feel. I think through the years I have learned to disguise my inner shyness as uber confidence and it works on most people, excluding those who know me well! People often mistake my humour and opinionated ramblings for confidence but confidence is something I work hard to project every day. Working in sport has taught me that ‘If you do what you've always done, you’ll get what you've always got’ - in order to be successful, top athletes have to work on their weaknesses as often as their strengths in order to become top of their game. For me, that means never letting my weaknesses hold me back.

Change is difficult, powerful, fulfilling, terrifying and inspiring all at the same time. In my experience you can’t hide from it. I've never been one who naturally enjoys change. Some people claim to love it but I would argue that these people are big fat liars. Yet when change is thrust upon me, I am almost always unwilling. I follow the 'Fiona-Simpson-7-steps-to-accept-change-programme' which goes something like this:

 (1) ANGER at the bare faced cheek of change insinuating it is required. Then lashings of...

(2) DENIAL and ignoring of any aforementioned requirement. Followed wholeheartedly with copious amounts of…

(3) RESENTMENT and gratuitous grumbling about said change. Next we almost certainly have...

(4) (RELUCTANT) ACCEPTANCE of changing things. Then eventual...

(5) ADAPTATION to new circumstance, moving swiftly onto...

(6) EMBRACING of the change in question. Finally we arrive at enjoyment and

 (7) FULFILMENT at new circumstance (and let's face it, I’ll probably say it was my idea in the first place)

If I could be someone else for the day I would be DJ Annie Mac. She’s got my dream job on BBC Radio 1 and she’s an uber-cool DJ by night - travelling the world and making people happy with her musical magic… what a tremendous lady!

In the public eye I believe that Katherine Grainger is a great role model for women because her dogged determination and grit ensured her gold medal in London 2012 - as well as her other Olympic and World medals. She is highly intelligent, humble, funny, kind and just generally a lovely person to be around. I'm inspired by her story and by her talent as an athlete. Plus, I still think highly of her despite the fact that she once stole my pyjamas at a conference but then, that’s another story… 

Got a question for Fiona? You'll find her on twitter @ScottishFoof and can follow her personal 'ramblings', including the story of her surgery and recovery on her blog.

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Jane Campbell Morrison - CEO Snowsport Scotland

I first met Jane in a sailing club portacabin on the side of a loch last summer when she worked for RYA Scotland. I liked Jane from the second we met because of her no nonsense, gung-ho, anything is possible attitude. She oozes positive energy and is great fun to be around. In September last year Jane was diagnosed with cancer and in typical Jane style she faced it head on. Jane courageously decided to write about her experience from diagnosis, through chemotherapy treatment, to present day. Her articles are a fascinating, frank and powerful read. Jane's latest role as CEO of Snowsport Scotland sees her continue to challenge herself, bravely careering through life with a big smile on her face. Let me introduce you ....

Growing up in Canada, Scotland and France I dreamed of being a ski instructor. My parents decided to emigrate to Newfoundland in Canada and to have their children there. I loved it as I played Ice Hockey, have vivid memories of sledging outside our house, and we skied everywhere! We moved to Scotland when I was about 5 or 6, because my parents felt that there would be more opportunities for work and education back here. We sailed in the summer in our very small day boat (I have happy memories of hiding under the front of the boat with my wee brother and eating peanut butter cookies while my mum and dad did all the hard work) and skied every winter as often as possible, driving up in old cars that were freezing cold, and eating sandwiches and soup. To this day I hate penguin chocolate biscuits which were meant to be a treat but because they got so cold and then heated up they tasted a bit peculiar! My dad, my brother and I had some really great days together skiing hard and enjoying the Scottish conditions.

My first job was as a relief manageress for Flour Power bakery shops (now Greggs) which was scary when you are only 17 and have to manage ladies who are considerably older than you!

The best advice I ever got was ‘Do what makes you smile’.

The achievement I am most proud of is surviving cancer.

My mantra is a long one called Desiderata, a prose poem by American writer Max Ehrmann. Look it up.

Other people think that I am crazy and incredibly busy....more crazy though!

I’d be lost without my fountain pen, my cat and my husband although not necessarily in that order.

My biggest challenge has been/ is surviving cancer and changing jobs.

In the last year I have learned just how strong I actually am, both physically and mentally.

My ambition for the future is to have a really fast sports car! 

If I could be someone else for the day I would be Sharon Osbourne. Quite apart from being a cancer survivor (sort of – she took drastic steps to avoid getting cancer), she is quirky, not afraid to tell it how it is, looks fantastic for her age, has dealt with some very challenging situations at home and is still her own person.

In the public eye I believe that Mrs Obama is a great role model for women because she is not afraid to speak out but she does it quietly and sensibly.

Got a question for Jane? You'll find her on twitter @SnowSpScotCEO , or read her personal blog here .

Subscribe to this blog by adding your email to the relevant box on the right hand side, or follow me on twitter @AnnieBeee and search for the hashtag #WomenInMyLife. If you enjoy reading these interviews please use the share buttons below and spread the word. This article explains why I started writing it and what I hope to achieve in sharing the stories of these inspirational women.

Victoria Arnold - Founder of Desk Union

Today's 'Women In My Life' feature is with Victoria Arnold, serial entrepreneur and founder of both Desk Union and HomestayFriend. Let me introduce you ....

Growing up in the “Kingdom of Fife” I dreamed of being an Opera Singer! My dad loved rugby and I used to listen to the ‘world in union’ song on repeat! The closest I ever got was the coveted role of narrator in Joseph in primary 6… thankfully there’s no video evidence.

My first job was a weekend job at Specsavers. I got the gig after two weeks successful work experience. I was 15 and earning £2.50 per hour whilst those older than me got more for the same role. I will always remember the day that I privately vocalised this injustice to the MD. “I do the same job as everyone else here so why am I paid less?!”. It worked! I was immediately raised to £3.60 per hour. It was a massive victory for me and the first example of my self belief and determination in action in the business world.

The best advice I ever got was' What have you got to lose?' It was on these words from my family that I decided to pursue my dreams of running my business full-time. The next day I handed in my notice at work and have never looked back.

My favourite saying … you snooze you lose!

Other people think that I am extremely organise but I am actually juggling a whole circus act.

Change is inevitable. embrace it. Everything happens for a reason.

I’d be lost without my support network. Entrepreneurship is HARD. You need to surround yourself with people who can pick you up and lift you through those dark moments. I don’t have many friends, for one I don’t have much time for them and for two, most of them just don't understand me any more. But those who I consider my close friends are my sanity check, my compass and I couldn't do it without them.

The achievement I am most proud of is creating jobs. I now employ 4 people. Its an absolutely amazing feeling but also terrifying as a small business and having someone else rely on you to pay their bills. Talk about pressure!

My biggest challenge has been focus. I am naturally opportunity hungry. I get so excited by new ideas, partnerships and opportunities. I know that down the line I can fully embrace this role but for now I have to reign it in, make sales and prove my business can work. I guess one really successful business can fund my future inquisitive business nature right?

In the last year I have learned how fast a year can go and what can be achieved if you just try. Explaining the last 12 months of my life is another essay altogether. It has been the best and hardest year of my life, uncertainty, sacrifice, success, anguish, fun, elation, growth, love. It’s a roller-coaster I would ride again tomorrow though!

My ambition for the future is to be as happy as possible! This could happen in many ways. For me it’s about continuing to push and challenge myself. I know I can achieve something truly amazing in my life and I will keep trying till the day I look back and say, 'wow Victoria you rock!'

If I could be someone else for the day I would be Karl Lagerfeld. What a man. I think that’s enough said.

In the public eye I believe that role models are all around us. They are the people who appreciate every day, see the positive in every situation, smile through adversity and laugh loudly. If you can have a positive impact on just one person’s life every day then you’re amazing in my eyes.

Got a question for Victoria? You can find her on twitter @arnoldvic or contact her via the Desk Union website.

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Allie Gledhill - Author and Survivor

Allie Gledhill is a chiropractor, world traveller and owner of four legged friend, Pluto. Allie recently swapped Glasgow for her native Australia to embark on the next chapter of her life. Her first book, An Angel In The Corner, tells the tale of her road to healing after enduring violent sexual abuse as a teenager.  Allie hopes that by sharing her story of overcoming the hurt and pain to lead a happy, fulfilled life that she will support and inspire others to move forward. Allie is an incredible person and a true survivor. Let me introduce you....

Growing up in Perth, Western Australia, I dreamed of being a professional musician, someone who spent all day playing uplifting music with a group of good friends. These days I still love to play the piano and I kind of like that I don’t play for a job. I play because I love it.

My first job was in a fast food restaurant when I was fifteen or sixteen years old, serving greasy chips & chicken. I made some great friends there, people who would become friends for life and would later encourage me with my writing work and my coming out as an abuse survivor.

Other people think that I am a happy and easygoing person, with a tendency to get a bit overly excited every now again, especially over good food and/or pretty silk scarves.

The best advice I ever got was to write a book! My partner wouldn't stop nagging me until my book was written and published. It was very confronting for me to go back and re-live the most difficult years of my life, but the writing process helped me to put it all behind me and to free myself from the memories that were haunting and controlling me.

My favourite saying is ‘love your life and it will love you right back’!

Change is often an opportunity in disguise, and the more confronting the change feels, the more likely it is that we need to embrace that change. I strongly resisted going public with my story for years and years, but the desire to write my book kept niggling at me until I finally started taking small steps towards reaching my goal. The change felt overwhelming at first but it ended up feeling great.

I’d be lost without the support and love of my family and my friends.

The achievement I am most proud of is writing my story and coming out as an abuse survivor. I thought I would take my horrible secret to the grave and that no one would ever know what happened to me, other than myself and my abuser. I didn’t realise how immensely cathartic the writing process would be and how many messages of love and support that I would receive once I found the courage to share my story.

My biggest challenge has been to come to terms with my past. It had taken many hours of counselling and personal work but I have finally achieved my goal.

My ambition for the future is to use my writing to give a voice to those people who are, for whatever reason, unable to share their own stories. For many years I was frightened into silence by an adult to had power over me and made me feel like I didn't have a voice of my own. Having a voice and an outlet for communication and creativity are valuable gifts that I don’t want to waste.

If I could be someone else for the day I would be P!NK. I think it would be marvellous to wear those fabulous costumes and to fly about on a trapeze.

In the public eye I believe that Angelina Jolie is a great role model for women because she uses her personal power to draw attention to humanitarian affairs. I admire people who have a vision and a cause that is greater than themselves and I believe that she is one of those people.

Got a question or a comment for Allie? You can occasionally find her on twitter @_allie_g and her book is available here.

Subscribe to this blog by adding your email address to the relevant box on the right hand side, or you can follow me on twitter @AnnieBeee and search for the hashtag #WomenInMyLife. If you are a first time visitor to this blog then this article explains why I started it and what its all about. If you enjoy the articles please do share it using the buttons below.

Kate Bordwell - Strategist

Kate Bordwell is a strategist for a large creative agency, a keen cyclist with an infectious giggle and a liking for yoga, and champagne cocktails. She's a deep thinker, has a cool head and is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. Let me introduce you...

Growing up I dreamed of being an actress and the UK's first Green prime minister. Perhaps it was from a combination of wanting to be listened to and to change the world – I've always been ambitious! At school I did science subjects and messed up my A-Levels because I was in a million after school clubs and was quite distracted by them – art, history and politics were really my thing. I ended up studying history at university which made my career options wide open when I graduated. I tried a few things out but settled on planning and strategy in agencies because it’s intellectually challenging, you get to do a lot of people watching, and it’s different every day.

My first job taught me that clients are very hard to please and so are the public. If you can do both, then perhaps you’re onto a winning formula, but it’s not actually that simple. Advertising or digital marketing or PR or whatever, it’s a creative business. Sometimes you’ve got to work out how to sell something the client doesn't like initially but you know will do their brand the world of good because it’s going to engage their customers in the right way.

The best advice I ever got was to play the game. Twenty years later I'm still not sure I've ever taken it though.  My dad gave me the advice, and I think he got the advice from his dad. I don’t think any of them actually took the advice. I'm not sure why I was given the advice, given the fact that it’s potentially not worked for three generations of my family, but I do have my own spin on it. It’s interesting to sit back and work out what the ‘games’ in your life actually are, who’s playing them and what the rules are. It often gives you the perspective you need if you’re thinking about your next move, what the best thing to do is.

Other people think that I am... I have no idea what other people think. I've been told that I seem quite calm and together which has to be a good thing, even if I'm more like a swan, gliding on the water and paddling like mad below the surface!

Change is good. 

I’d be lost without my family and friends. Pretty much everything else can be replaced.

My biggest challenge has been learning to be comfortable in my own skin. I guess most people find this as they ‘grow up’.

In the last year I have learned lots about babies. And become much more patient. I also appreciate my work a lot more than I did. Work-life balance takes on a new meaning when you are a parent because everything you do is suddenly for someone else, as well as for you.

My goal for the future is to keep on being happy in the Now. 

The achievement I am most proud of is my baby. But she did a lot of the work herself. I'm also proud of my education, which has been extremely rich and varied, challenged me, and given me lots of pointless things to think about and made me the person I am today. I'm from a family that takes education extremely seriously. You’re never alone with a good book.

If I could be someone else for the day I would be my daughter Lucy. It would be great to be that happy about simple things and for everything to be new and exciting again. I love seeing how curious she is about absolutely everything, the most mundane objects and situations fascinate her. Life is one big adventure waiting to be discovered, and I try to remember that!

In the public eye I believe that the female Olympians were a great role model for women because they showed what's possible if you believe in yourself and work hard. And that success isn't just about how you look. 

Got a question or comment for Kate? You'll find her on twitter @kbordwell or visit her blog here.

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Anna Devitt - Comedian and Actress

Anna Devitt is a funny girl, literally. An actress, comedian and winner of the Scottish Variety Awards Best New Scottish Comedian 2013, she has sold out gigs at the Glasgow International Comedy Festival and received five star reviews for her Edinburgh Fringe Show. Anna’s recent appearance with ‘Truffle’ on Britain’s Got Talent has taken her career to another level and to pinch her own phrase she’s now ‘more popular than Jimmy Choo’s on 50% off day.’ Let me introduce you …

Growing up in Glasgow I dreamed of being a teacher or an actress. I used to make all the kids in my street put on shows for the neighbours and I would host award ceremonies. This desire to perform and teach has continued into my adult life and I now run ‘Laughter Therapy’ workshops with fully qualified therapists to help children and teens boost their self-confidence and laugh their way to a better life.

The best advice I ever got was ‘Enjoy Life’. This pearl of wisdom was written in my Primary 7 dictionary by Miss Maud, my teacher at Barsail Primary School. The other piece of advice that sticks with me was given by my Aunt Denise, ‘Be true to yourself’. Sadly she died when I was 19, taking her own life after a long fight with bi-polar disorder.

Other people think that I am bolshie, go getting and opinionated. This is probably quite true but I’m also a really caring person and I do enjoy hearing more about good things happening to other people than talking about myself all the time!

Change is scary, but the only way to move forward in life. I am currently in a phase of change as I have relocated to London from Glasgow and am starting a new chapter. I perform gigs up and down the country and often find myself in unfamiliar places and situations but that’s goes with the territory of being a comedian, and it’s an exciting step up the career ladder.

I’d be lost without my close friends, both the girl ones and the guys. Friendship is something I place a high value on.

My biggest challenge in my younger years was finding career opportunities due to my lack of high school education. My biggest challenge now is to continue growing as a comic and continue to overcome my fears.

In the last year I have learned that life changes really quickly and that the people who really love and care for you will stand by you whether you’re wrong or right. I really believe that life is way too short to waste doing things you don't enjoy.

The achievement I am most proud of is the first ever show my company, Direct Devitt, produced called "Mammy". It was written by my Aunt Cathie and I got to star alongside my best friends Sharon Rooney and Katrina Lamont and my sister Kathryn. It sold out and went to the Edinburgh and Henley Fringe in 2011 and received five star reviews from the audience. Skinny Mag gave it 3 stars and that incredible response marked a turning point in my career.

My ambition for the future is to inspire young people to go after for their dreams regardless of the start they had in life. My own dream is to have my own talk show, similar to Graham Norton’s but with politicians. I would ask them direct questions without them having preparation time, solely to see them panic. I feel it would get a more honest response. I would also have a section interviewing sellers of the Big Issue because they genuinely are the most interesting people I have ever met. I like real people; they have the stories worth listening to. 

In the public eye I believe Dawn French is a great role model for women because she's from an ordinary background, worked her way up and leads a reasonably normal life. She seems very down to earth and comfortable in her own skin. She's an amazing comedian and writer and she works very hard.

Got a question for Anna? You’ll occasionally find her on twitter @DirectDevitt or contact her via her website.  

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Image (C) Malcolm Cochrane Photography

Leah Hutcheon - founder of Appointedd

Leah Hutcheon, founder of software salon management system Appointedd, is a force to be reckoned with. She is a colourful, bubbly, erudite woman who lights up the room with her energy and takes life in her stride. An ex journalist and magazine editor she has an inquisitive mind and is the only person I know who uses the word ‘Golly’. She’s fun, she’s brave and she’s going places. Let me introduce you…..

My first job was dressing up as Mr Blobby on Central Pier in Blackpool to have my photo taken with kids. I have always had a job, ever since I was about 14 and the more random jobs often provided the best experiences.

The best advice I ever got was ‘You have to work hard to get what you want’. My mum and dad are tremendously hard workers, so I’ve never shied away from a good graft!

My favourite saying is… The mantra of #GoDo was drilled into me during my time at Entrepreneurial Spark. It was like a lightbulb moment when I realised if I just got on with stuff without over-thinking it then, nine times out of 10, good things happen. There’s nothing more damaging to a startup than inactivity.

Other people think that I am ….. I featured in BBC2 documentary ‘The Entrepreneurs’ and received lots of lovely emails afterwards. I was told I came across as a savvy and confident business woman, which is miles away from how I feel most of the time. I have a massive case of imposter syndrome!

Change is a really good thing. I believe that you should always be moving forward.

I’d be lost without my husband, Hutchie. I met him while at university and he’s my absolute rock. There have been some big ups and downs on my journey with Appointedd, but it’s always alright because I have Hutchie to come home to.

My biggest challenge has been…well, I totally underestimated the timescales involved in building cutting edge software. I was quite naive really, but looking back I’m glad I didn’t know how hard it would be or I may never have started the project. They say ignorance is bliss, and I certainly wouldn’t have been so ambitious about what we could create had I known more about software development. But it’s just meant I’ve had a steep learning curve and had to raise my game! I have been lucky enough to hire talented people to plug the gaps in my knowledge and together we make a strong team.

The achievement I am most proud of is winning £30k from the Scottish EDGE Award. Being awarded the cheque by John Swinney MSP was one of the proudest moments of my life. I was also being filmed for the BBC documentary at that time so it was caught on camera for posterity.

In the last year I have learned what it’s like to be a wife and what it’s like to be an employer. So far, so good on both counts...

My goal for the future is to roll out our software into other industries to enable as many small businesses as possible to take bookings online. I'm confident we can do it.

In the public eye there are so many women I admire, from Michelle Obama to JK Rowling, but I have to say I probably most admire Karen Hanton. She was the founder of Top Table and really pioneered the online booking space. From one female solo tech founder to another, I know how hard that must have been for her.

If I could be someone else for the day I would be Shirley Bassey. How amazing would it be to belt out tunes like she does?

Got a question for Leah? You can get in touch with her via twitter @LeahHutcheon or by visiting the Appointedd.com website. 

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Jo Macsween, Haggis aficionado and Author

In this week’s feature the woman in my life is Edinburgh based Jo Macsween. Often described as creative and energetic this well-spoken, ‘tweed-with-a-twist’ wearing lady has a passion for life beyond Scotland’s food and drink industry. My favourite thing about Jo is that she never fails to surprise and impress me, with recent adventures including writing a book, competing in a triathlon and dancing the foxtrot. Let me introduce you….

My first job was teaching English as a second language in Budapest.  It was 1991, the Russian tanks had not long departed and the outside of my flat was riddled with the scars of bullet holes…..an exciting time for a young green graduate!

The best advice I ever got was ‘sleep is under rated, make sure you get plenty’. Most of us live under the illusion that one day our work will be done, but the truth is it won’t, so it’s a good idea to go home and catch up on some of that precious sleep.

My favourite saying is …well…. I have a few! ‘You can’t make diamonds without pressure’ ‘Nothing succeeds like success’ and ‘Whether you think you can or you think you cannot, you are right!’ All three make valid points.

I’d be lost without a Moleskin notebook and my favourite pen. By writing notes I connect and make sense of my thoughts and ideas.  I have the equivalent of a ‘giant Moleskin’ on my office wall in the form of a whiteboard about 3m x 2m.  It’s great for team meetings to progress projects and ideas.

In the last year I have learned how valuable instincts are. Trust intuitions and listen, even if the hard data seems to point in a different direction. 

My biggest challenge has been growing our business, Macsween Haggis, during the recession. Increasingly this growth will be delivered by managing a team I never had before so I need to learn to be a coach and mentor and deliver the vision with them. You need a brilliant team to achieve success.

The achievement I am most proud of is the relationship I have with my husband, Roger.

My goal for the future is to ensure Macsween is a leading edge, best in class business that remains true to its core values as it grows.

If I could be someone else for the day I would be Baroness Jane Campbell (Baroness Campbell of Surbiton) a cross-bench party peer and campaigner for equality for disabled people.  She herself was told that she would never reach adulthood.  She gets up every day with fire in her belly to make life better for so many other people and rejoices that she is alive to do so.  I think it would be an honour to be in her shoes for a day.

In the public eye I believe that Dame Joan Bakewell is a great role model for women because she is vibrant, intelligent and sassy. Let’s have more wise and mature woman visible in the media please!

Got a question for Jo? You can get in touch with her on twitter @JoMacsween #WomenInMyLife or via the Macsween Haggis website. 

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Jennifer Semple of First Class Physio

I first met Jennifer Semple at an event where she stood up to 'pitch' her business, First Class Physio, to a large audience. The opportunity to pitch was open to everyone but the majority took the safe option and stayed in their seats. I could see that Jen was a bit nervous but watched her expression change from 'Eeeek' to 'I've nothing to Lose' to 'I can do this!' I asked Jen to feature on my blog because I really admire her quiet confidence, calm demeanour and 'go for it' attitude. She's the kind of person who is often described as 'worth watching' and for all the right reasons. Let me introduce you.....

Growing up I dreamed of being a wife and a mother. That’s a bit cheesy, but while my older sister knew she always wanted to be a maths teacher (I was the only Primary 3 pupil who knew up to her 8 times table), I never thought of myself in any specific job. I did go through a phase of wanting to be a beauty therapist too but my teachers steered me towards university instead.

My first job technically, was collecting Avon catalogues for my big sister when I was about 14. I don’t remember being paid for that though! Officially, I worked at the Co-Op every Sunday for 10 hours and didn't enjoy it. My second job was much more interesting – at the cinema. I loved it there, and met some lifelong friends.

Other people think that I am intelligent or “a big geek” as my business partner Rachel puts it! I often get asked why I'm smiling, so maybe people think I'm smiley. Or just a little strange…

The achievement I am most proud of is gaining First Class Honours in Physiotherapy. I find it odd myself that my greatest achievement so far is an academic one, but it’s something I worked so hard for and can absolutely count as my own.

Change is something that happens to me without me either instigating or realising it half the time. I'm very much a “let things happen” kind of person, and I usually accept change quite easily.

I’d be lost without company. Other people. I don’t do very well when I'm on my own for long periods, I like conversation too much. It’s not that I feel specifically depressed, but I definitely thrive in busy environments. I'm aware of this now and know when to seek out some company to cheer myself up.

In the last year I have learned how to surf, sort of. I have the theory but not the ability to stand up just yet! I have also learned that the most annoying text message sound (you know, the really irksome “beep-beep-beep beep beep beep-beep-beep” Nokia one?) is actually Morse Code for “SMS”. I'm sure I have learned lots of more useful things but those two stand out.

If I could be someone else for the day I would be Kate Middleton, or the Duchess of Cambridge, or Catherine – mainly to find out how others address her. We actually have some superficial things in common: we’re around the same age, we both have (younger!) men who are in the RAF, and we both were at home in the UK while they were in the Falklands. But her life is otherwise probably completely different and I’d like to experience that, just for one day.

In the public eye I believe that Sue Perkins is a great role model for women because despite being in the public eye, where the temptation to be someone else seems to overcome many people, she always comes across as distinctly herself. She’s funny, she’s smart, she speaks to people the way I imagine we all speak to one another. Actually, she’s normal, and isn't afraid to show it.

My goal for the future is to achieve that elusive work-life balance that everyone talks about. For me this would mean working maximum 5 days a week, and to take up weekend hill-climbing with my fiancé. And be able to surf standing up.

Subscribe to this blog by adding your email to the relevant box on the right hand side or follow on twitter @AnnieBeee and search for the hashtag #WomenInMyLife. You can get in touch with Jennifer by visiting the website or on twitter @1stClassPhysio.

Margaret Gibson - Chief Executive Women's Enterprise Scotland

Margaret Gibson has a penchant for brightly coloured tights, funky shoes and is a secret fan of wrestling. Well known for her hard work ethic and passion for helping others to achieve their full potential, Margaret genuinely cares about people and is a great listener, which possibly explains her phenomenal ability to remember names and faces. She is living testament to her mantra of ‘be kinder than people expect you to be’.

After 20 years working with PSYBT Margaret has recently been appointed Chief Executive of the Women's Enterprise Scotland and is the perfect candidate to be interviewed for ‘Women In My Life’. So let me introduce you...

My first job was helping my brother with his paper-round, he was 12 and I was 10, we were both cute kids so we used to make a fortune in tips.  I've always had some sort of job since then, ice-cream van assistant, shop girl, gallery attendant, barmaid, telephonist, nanny, singer and loads more, they all helped me to get me through college.  I've paid my own way from the age of 14. I've always been an independent spirit.

Growing up I dreamed of being a home economics teacher from about the age of 11.  I thought that it would be great cooking and sewing all day.  In sixth year I gained a place at the old ‘dough school’ but two months before I was due to start I changed my mind (much to everyone‘s surprise including mine) and decided to keep cooking as my hobby. Instead I enrolled onto a Marketing and Communications course and loved it.

The achievement I am most proud of is working with young people who thought they could not do anything, then watching them start businesses, create jobs, make profits and then helping others to do the same thing.  I was also chuffed to complete a 5km swim with my son to raise cash for a cancer charity.

The best advice I ever got was ‘You have two eyes, two ears and one mouth; therefore you should listen and watch twice as often as you speak'.  I cannot tell you how important that has been to me. I've been told I have the best ‘bullshit detector’ ever and combining the above advice with watching who pushes their chairs back under the table after a meeting is always a clear sign. (Those who do are generally good guys!)

My biggest challenge has been seeing my parents getting older and less able and feeling a bit useless as nature and the ageing process takes over.  I still have them both though so that is something that makes me happy.

Change is painful, revealing, scary, exciting and rejuvenating. I have just been through the biggest year of change I have ever experienced in my life. I encountered all of those feelings and sometimes all at once. I'm happy to report I have survived and thrived though!

I’d be lost without my fantastic husband and two children, they make me laugh, (a lot of the times at myself), make me feel loved and appreciated and very, very lucky.

My goal for the future is to continue to help people reach their goals, travel more, see my kids taking strides ahead with their lives and cuddling up with my husband to watch a great film or the next episode of ‘Breaking Bad’. I think it is good to have goals but don’t get too caught up thinking they have to be life changing or gigantic.

In the public eye…. I believe that  Dr. Maya Angelou  is a great role model for women because she overcame so many challenges in her young life and used them in a positive way to create a life filled with great things – everyone should read ‘I know why the caged bird sings’. She is now 85 years old and still producing wonderful work.  She is a poet, educator, activist, historian, producer, actor and director and a total inspiration to millions of women all over the world.

Thanks to Margaret for featuring in this blog and huge congratulations on the new role at Women's Enterprise Scotland. You can occasionally find Margaret on twitter at @RummleGumption

Subscribe to this blog by adding your email to the relevant box on the right hand side or follow on twitter @AnnieBeee and search for the hashtag #WomenInMyLife.