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This week we get to speak to Nikie Foster, founder of Curious Lighthouse as she shares her journey and philosophy on happiness and discusses the importance of living in the moment. Her approach to life, focusing on the quest for happiness above all is something we could all benefit from.

Or LISTEN to the podcast on your preferred podcast platform via www.digitalcircus.life today!

Living in the now

Nikie's life philosophy centres on the pursuit of happiness. It is her ultimate goal and from the sounds of it, has been her main focus since she was very young girl. She believes that its not just about achieving temporary contentment but finding joy living in the now. Its the living in the now, and enjoying the small things that keeps life interesting and fulfilling. 

You can absolutely reflect on the past, and you can acknowledge the future, but you really need to make the most of the current moment. Don’t get bogged down by past regrets or future anxieties. They haven’t happened yet.

The Role of Curiosity

Nikie's career path really demonstrates her love for variety and her embrace of curiosity and change. From aspiring to be a  Radio One DJ [ much like Alan!] to engaging in diverse professions, each role Nikie has undertaken reflects her pursuit of happiness in her experiences. This adaptability and openness to change is a real superpower.

And now in her current role in learning and development Nikie's innovative use of Lego in her training programmes really exemplifies her belief in the power of engaging and enjoyable activities to enhance learning and happiness. By combining fun with professional development, she shows that happiness and personal growth can be achieved simultaneously, enriching both personal and professional lives.

So it's really simple. We could all do with being a bit more Nikie. Live in the present, embrace change, and find joy in the journey of life. We are absolutely in control of our own happiness.

Thank you Nikie, we’re so glad that we have you in our life! We really hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did recording it!

Find out more about Nikie here…

Visit the Curious Lighthouse website

Connect with Nikie on Linkedin.

Follow her adventure over on Instagram here.

Imogen's story is not just one of overcoming her own health adversities but also of using her experience to help others navigate their path to wellness. Born with eczema and a severe cow's milk protein allergy, Imogen Tingay's early years were fraught with health challenges, including an anaphylactic shock in infancy, ongoing gut health issues, and a reliance on steroid creams in her later teen years. This reliance eventually led to a condition known as topical steroid addiction, a turning point in her life.

Or LISTEN to the podcast on your preferred podcast platform via www.digitalcircus.life today!

Find out more about how Imogen used her experience to then qualify as a registered dietitian that helps other people with a similar challenges.

Topical Steroid Addiction

As Imogen entered her teen years, the use of steroid creams became more frequent, leading to a condition known as topical steroid addiction. This condition, characterised by the body's dependence on steroid creams, eventually causes severe withdrawal symptoms when usage is stopped. The lack of widespread recognition of this condition by the medical community only compounded the problem, making her recovery even more challenging.

The rise of the funpreneur words on a. bright mulitcoloured block background. Yellow Tuxedo

The Path to Becoming a Dietitian

Imogen's health journey took a dramatic turn when she decided to address her health issues head-on. The realisation that traditional medical advice was leading her down a path of temporary fixes without addressing the root causes motivated her to research holistic health approaches, focusing on nutrition, exercise, and wellness. This personal transformation not only improved her health but also inspired her to help others facing similar difficulties.

By delving into nutrition and adopting a holistic approach to her health, she managed to gain control over her condition, sparking a career change that would see her become a registered dietitian. 

A Vision for Wider Wellbeing

Imogen's overarching goal is to improve overall wellbeing for many people, a broad but deeply personal objective stemming from her own experiences. By working privately with clients, primarily on skin conditions and gut health, she leverages her expertise to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Her journey from suffering to healing has instilled in her a deep desire to use her knowledge and experience to assist those facing similar health challenges.

Making a Difference as a Dietitian

Now, as a registered dietitian, Imogen has taken her personal experiences full circle, utilising her insights to guide others through their wellness journeys. Her focus on diet and holistic health practices stands as a testament to the power of embracing a comprehensive approach to health. By challenging the quick-fix mentality often seen in traditional medical settings, Imogen advocates for sustainable, long-term solutions that address the root causes of health issues.

Find out more about Imogen

Visit her website The Nutrition Nest here.

Connect with Imogen on LinkedIn here.

Follow the Nutrition Nest adventure on Instagram.

If you’ve landed on this blog the chances are the word FUNPRENEUR has piqued your interest and you’re looking to know more. Hoorah, you’re in good company!

We’ve been in business together for twelve years now. It’s been quite the adventure and, for the most part, a fun one. But something has always niggled us. We’ve never truly felt like we “fit” the mould of proper businessy business people. We’re never going to be the ones in suits sat around Lord Sugars board room talking about boring things like ROI.

We say “Down with the corporate BS and up with the fun.” 

And the more we talk to people in our community the more we realise that under the surface something really is bubbling away. A new breed of business owner is emerging. One that cares a lot less about that BS that we’re spoon fed about how to be successful. They are much more about business success on their own terms.

The rise of the Funpreneur is coming. Because quite frankly, if you’re not having fun and enjoying it why the hell are you still doing it???

So, what exactly characterises a Funpreneur? What sets them apart?

Funpreneurs don’t need to keep telling you that they are authentic because its a trending buzzword. Its just something they are. In a world inundated with cookie cutter brands and generic marketing campaigns, Funpreneurs stand out by forging genuine human connections with their audience and the communities that they sit in. They are more interested in the people behind the business than how pretty their Instagram grid is looking.

Similarly, Funpreneurs are not afraid to think outside of the box, to experiment with unconventional ideas and take the odd calculated risk. They recognise that the world isn’t black and white and that it’s in the grey [ or the yellow!] where the magic really can happen.

Making work fun

One of the defining traits of a Funpreneur is their ability to make work feel like play. They totally reject the notion that success has to come at the expense of happiness, opting to create a work environment for themselves that is vibrant, inclusive and well…fun! 

We’ve slowly been cultivating the idea of Funpreneurship over the last few years with Yellow Tuxedo. From silly little touch points with our audience, our approach to teaching  and events like our virtual coffee mornings we run each month which could well be the least networkingy network events you’ll ever attend!

When we started those coffee mornings we just wanted to create a space for people to come together, those who might be sitting alone working from their dining room table in their home, to know that they weren’t alone and that our virtual kettle was always on. Four years later we have people skipping their formal networking meetings that they were booked onto [ like naughty school kids] to come and hang out with us because quite frankly they are sick of the death by elevator pitch approach to networking.

When we started The Digital Circus..

Back in 2020 we created our community, The Digital Circus. And although it is a membership built to support business owners with their online visibility, one of its core pillars is the fact that it is a space for different business owners from all walks of life to celebrate and champion each other in creating businesses that mean something to them.

Now in 2024 one of the driving forces of The Digital Circus is the notion of fun, freedom and flexibility. And thats pretty much why we at Yellow Tuxedo will never call ourselves a marketing agency. Our responsibility is to help give you the tools and the mindset to grow your business the way you want to, not to tell you how you “should” talk, act and make your audience feel with your marketing campaigns.

Both through Yellow Tuxedo and The Digital Circus we are all about the importance of human connection throughout the adventure of entrepreneurship.

Fun is different for everyone

One important thing to note when we discuss Funpreneurship as a concept is that we recognise that the word “fun” is different for everyone. And that really is okay.

Not everyone associates fun with silliness and stupidity like Alan does ????. But it really is the feeling you get when you are doing something you love and it gives you satisfaction. So whether its the fact that you are giving yourself time with your loved ones, sitting quietly with a nice cup of tea at the temperature its meant to be consumed at or going bungee jumping on a Saturday morning that is totally your decision. Nobody can “fun” shame you for doing it wrong!

Surrounding yourself with other people who appreciate the idea of funpreneurship will help you achieve that work/life blend that we should all strive to achieve.

We’re only on this planet a short time. Make sure that time is spent wisely. 

Why connect with people on a human level in business.

Human connection is something that Yellow Tuxedo will sing about until we’re on our death beds. We really do feel its the missing piece for so many business owners trying to carve out their space in the digital landscape.

Cultivating genuine relationships with your customers, your teams, your business community, can only lead to bigger and better things, including trust, brand loyalty, new ideas, collaborations and further happiness for all.

And one step even further, finding the time to play together will only strengthen these things even more.

Finding time to play

One of the biggest factors in funpreneurship is the idea of play. And when we mean play we don’t mean play and fun just for the sake of it. It is scientifically proven that harnessing the power of joy and creativity that comes from allowing yourself to play can drive innovation, can foster collaborations and ultimately make more of a positive impact on the world.

You just have to look at Lego and their creation of Serious play to get an idea of why we all need to let our guards down and play more.

Over the coming months Yellow Tuxedo will be delivering a series of events that build upon the idea of play being an important factor in helping you to build out your creative vision for your business, to help you make an emotional connection with your audience, to expand your comfort zones and ultimately help you unlock your inner Funpreneur.

Are you a Funpreneur?

If you’re questioning whether you actually are a Funpreneur or not, let us ask you this. Are you a regular business owner who wants to just run your business on your terms and not be told what to do every 5 seconds?

Do you like the idea of surrounding yourself with other regular people who want to lift you up and help you realise how awesome you are?

Then Funpreneurship is for you. Life is too short to take it too seriously.

So, here's to the rise of the Funpreneur – may their spirit of adventure and passion for fun inspire us all to dream bigger, laugh louder, and never stop playing.

On July 11th we’ll be hosting our very first Funpreneurs BIG DAY OUT here in sunny Hampshire on the South Coast of England. We would love for you to be a part of it. Details will be released shortly but in the meantime why don’t you sign up to our newsletter to be one of the first to know when the event goes live.

Adam Carley’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity and the power of creativity. His journey, marred by health challenges and personal loss, showcases the transformative role of creativity, design, and the importance of the little things in life. We were so glad that he agreed to talk to us on The Digital Circus LIFE podcast.

Or LISTEN to the podcast on your preferred podcast platform via www.digitalcircus.life today!

From Adversity to Creativity

Adam’s life changed drastically when he was diagnosed with a heart condition, a pivotal event that led him to massively reevaluate his life's path. His health challenges have brought to light the importance of enjoying the smaller moments in life, those little joys that create a tapestry of happiness often overshadowed by life's more significant hardships.

Throughout the interview Adam's quest for happiness emerged as a central theme in his life, particularly after his health diagnosis. For Adam, happiness is not about achieving grand success or financial stability but about finding joy and contentment within his own life.

Creativity as a Lifeline

Adam’s creativity has remained a constant, empowering force over the years. It has allowed him to navigate through life’s ups and downs, eventually leading him to embrace his identity not just as a business person, but as a creative designer. Despite facing moments of darkness, driven partly by the tragic loss of his mother who was also a creative, Adam has found purpose in helping others.

Adam thrives on creatively solving problems for his clients, helping them realise their businesses' potential through design and strategic thinking. This perspective allows him to offer unique solutions that go beyond conventional business strategies, underlining the power of creative thinking in driving business success.

join the the Yellow Tuxedo fabulous coffee morning

What can we learn from Adam?

Amidst the challenges, Adam's story highlights the importance of cherishing life's small moments. He advocates for finding joy in the everyday, a philosophy that has not only helped him navigate through his darkest times but has also become a guiding principle in his life and work.

His story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of creativity. It teaches us the importance of finding happiness within, cherishing life's small joys, and using our unique abilities to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Find out more about Adam

Adam Carley is the founder of TouchSkye Designs a Creative Consultancy based in the South of England.

Visit the TouchSkye Designs website here

Connect with Adam on Linkedin here

Follow the TouchSkye adventure over on Instagram here

Not content with interviewing just one half of Yellow Tuxedo, the wonderful Trisha Lewis came back for more and recently had a great conversation for the Self Belief Unsquashed Podcast. In this interview discuss at length how you can feed your growth both personally and professionally. They also go on to discuss why one of the biggest factors of personal growth comes down to the team you surround yourself with and how Alan's background with the Scout Association has given him so many life skills that are applicable in the business world.

“It’s about fun, safety and adventure. And all of a sudden, you’re an adult with all of these skills that you don’t really remember learning then they just built into you.”

From  a Top Gun Maverick mantra to Scouting stories to very real observations about community, fun, motivation – squashing and unsquashing – this is a rich listen.

Find out more about Trisha...

Visit Trisha's website

Subscribe to her YouTube channel

Connect with Trisha on Linkedin

Alex Chell is the owner of Ardington Creative, brand design specialist based in Hertfordshire. In today’s interview for The Digital Circus LIFE she talks about what it means to be a team of one in your business but juggling a large family team of four children in your personal life. Alex’s shares with us her experiences and shares valuable lessons to networking, client goals, personal development, and the prospect of evolving a business alongside personal growth.

Or LISTEN to the podcast on your preferred podcast platform via www.digitalcircus.life today!

Personal Goals: Identity Beyond Parenthood

On a personal level, Alex’s venture into business was more than just about professional fulfillment; it was also about retaining a sense of self beyond the realms of parenthood. After experiencing a loss of personal identity with the birth of her first child, the business became a sanctuary where she could engage in intelligent conversations and challenges, keeping her identity vibrant and alive. She is now a mum of four building a business on her terms.

The conversation also touches on how, through the process of becoming a parent, many lose sight of their hobbies, interests, and sometimes, their identity. The struggle to maintain one's identity while navigating the demanding role of parenthood is a common theme, further complicated by expectations and the physicality of motherhood. Something that many of us can resonate with.

virtual coffee morning

Future Prospects and Learning

Looking forward, Alex has been contemplating the evolution of her business as her children grow and become more independent. The idea of possibly expanding the business to include a team that handles the design work while she focuses more on client strategy and relationships reflects her vision for growth without boundaries imposed by time.

Because its an important point. At some point your kids are going to fly that nest, and when they do, will you be able to remember who it is you are and what you want to achieve with your time on this planet??

Find out more about Alex

Visit Ardington Creative here

Connect with Alex on Linkedin

Follow her adventure over on Instagram

Vaishali is no stranger to Yellow Tuxedo and The Digital Circus. In fact she has been a valued member of our community for 3.5 years now and has even featured on The Digital Circus LIVE stage before. We were so pleased when she agreed to chat to us for The Digital Circus LIFE podcast. With 24yrs experience of running her business its no wonder she is one of the most successful entrepreneurs we know.

In todays interview Vaishali talks lots about moving beyond our own comfort zones to get the job done, even if you are the shyest of characters. Unlike being an employee, being an entrepreneur puts that responsibility on your shoulders to win and retain the business. No-one else is going to do it for you.

Or LISTEN to the podcast on your preferred podcast platform via www.digitalcircus.life today!

The Evolution of a Business Visionary

Vaishali’s story begins with an individual who, despite harbouring a natural shyness, has been compelled to step out of their comfort zone due to the inherent demands of entrepreneurship. This journey is not just about personal growth but also about the evolution of a steadfast commitment to making a meaningful impact. With a family legacy of entrepreneurship and philanthropy, the vision for Vaishali’s business was clear from the start: to create work that not only brings joy but also makes a positive difference in the world. 

GIF-The-Digital-Circus-Banner-Ad-Website-CTA

A Staunch Commitment to Philanthropy

Not many people realise it but Vaishali comes from a long line of successful entrepreneurs in her family.

Rooted in a generational legacy, the commitment to philanthropy has been unwavering. From the inception of their business, a pledge was made to donate a portion of profits to charitable causes. This practice has not only endured but strengthened over the years, becoming a foundational pillar of their business ethos. It reflects a deep-seated belief in the importance of making a difference, regardless of the business landscape or personal challenges encountered along the way.

Building Strong Foundations and Networks

Vaishali’s success in business is attributed to several key practices: delegation, building a committed team, nurturing client relationships, and continuously learning. The ability to delegate effectively, particularly in areas outside of your own expertise, was a lesson ingrained from the beginning. Building a team that shares the business’s ethos has been crucial, with long-standing members indicating a healthy, fulfilling work environment. Client relationships are cherished and maintained with integrity, mirroring the lessons learned from a family business that has thrived through generations based on trust and consistent value delivery.

Reflections and Future Aspirations

Looking back, there's much for Vaishali to be proud of, notably the courage to expand and adapt by establishing a new business base internationally with her move to Dubai. This move signifies not just business growth but also personal resilience and adaptability — crucial qualities for any entrepreneur.

For aspiring successful entrepreneurs , Vaishali’s journey underscores the importance of maintaining flexibility, pursuing opportunities with a positive attitude, and the transformative power of self-belief. 

Find out more about Vaishali

Visit the Creative ID Website here

Visit the Ananya Cards website here

Connect with Vaishali on Linkedin here

Follow the Creative ID adventure on Instagram here

Or LISTEN to the podcast on your preferred podcast platform via www.digitalcircus.life today!

In today's fast-paced and frequently impersonal digital marketplace, the importance of community, personal connections, and genuine interactions has never been more critical for small businesses. 

This week we chat to the wonderful Sarah Phelps from Sarah and Maude, a vintage printing press company about the power of community and authentic connections. Having started a business on the other side of the globe and bringing that business back to the UK, Sarah truly believes that it was her small business community that got her through what was definitely a challenging transition.

Harnessing the Power of Community

Sarah talks about  the vital role that community plays for solo entrepreneurs and small business owners. Operating a business solo can often lead to feelings of isolation and detachment. However, by actively engaging in a supportive community that understands the unique challenges and joys of small business ownership, entrepreneurs can find solace, encouragement, and practical assistance. 

Sarah herself illustrates this point through her involvement in a WhatsApp group, a small business community for other printers where small business owners share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. This kind of community not only provides emotional support but also serves as a valuable resource for troubleshooting and creative brainstorming.

The Importance of Authentic Connections

In discussing her passion for wedding stationery projects and working with small businesses, Sarah reveals the profound satisfaction derived from forming authentic connections with clients. This level of personal engagement not only enriches the service she provides but also transforms clients into long-term relationships and friends. Sarah's experience underscores the value of authenticity in business interactions, demonstrating that genuine human connection can indeed lead to both professional success and personal fulfillment.

join the the Yellow Tuxedo fabulous coffee morning

For small business owners like Sarah, the road to success is paved with challenges, but also with opportunities for both personal and professional growth. Engaging with a supportive community, prioritising personal well-being alongside business goals, and fostering authentic connections with clients are not just strategies for business success; they are essential components of a fulfilling entrepreneurial journey. By embracing these principles, small business owners can navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship with confidence, resilience, and a sense of connectedness that enriches both their professional and personal lives.

Find out more about Sarah..

Visit the Sarah and Maude website here

Follow her adventure over on Instagram here

Vanda Varga is an NLP Master Practitioner and trainer. In this episode she shares her journey towards discovering her vocation and life's purpose from a very young age. She emphasises that her goal has always been to make an impact on the world, albeit not by reaching a specific number of people but by touching at least one person's life positively every day.

Or LISTEN to the podcast on your preferred podcast platform via www.digitalcircus.life today!

The Power of NLP and Vocation in Making an Impact

Throughout the conversation, Vanda talks about her career transitions and how each step, although sometimes driven by intuition rather than a calculated plan, led her to where she needed to be. Specifically, her training in NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) and her work in conductive education and neural rehabilitation were pivotal in honing her ability to inspire and help change people's lives.

Networking and The Ripple Effect

Vanda discusses the concept of networking and its role in amplifying her to impact the world. Initially intimidated by networking, she reframed her approach by focusing on learning about others, fostering a genuine curiosity about each person she meets. This shift not only made interactions more comfortable but also enabled her to serve her purpose of connecting people and facilitating positive change through those connections. The idea of a ripple effect is central here—by influencing just one person, that impact can spread to thousands or millions over time, creating a legacy of positive change.

The Role of Education and the Desire to Learn

A significant takeaway from Vanda’s experiences, especially during her trip to Malawi with Emily, is the paramount importance of education and the desire to learn. Whether it’s teaching skills in a Malawian school or training new NLP Practitioners, the emphasis is always on empowering individuals with knowledge and skills to better their lives and those of their communities.

Trusting the Process During Confusion

In the episode Vanda candidly shares her moments of confusion, especially when contemplating the scope and direction of her impact on the world. However, she views confusion as a potent state for learning and transformation, signifying that breakthroughs and clarity is ahead. This perspective helps her navigate uncertainties about how best to fulfil her purpose while remaining open to new ways of making a difference.

Vanda’s story is a testament to the power of purpose, education, and positive influence. Her journey illustrates how one person's dedication to making an everyday impact really can ripple outwards, potentially touching millions of lives and leaving a lasting legacy.

Find out more about Vanda

Visit Vanda’s website here

Follow her on Linkedin

Visit her on Instagram 

Emily without Alan!

It is very rare that Emily and Alan go their separate ways when it comes to Yellow Tuxedo, but Trisha had a very clear plan when it came to getting us on our own! We're well known as a duo, we are a team, a pairing. But we are also two very different individual human beings. Trisha wanted to explore the idea of individual identity when you're part of a team. And what an incredible discussion that turned out to be!

The teams she works with...

When you start to think about it, across the breadth of what we do both personally and professionally we work within many teams big and small. To talk about them all in this one interview would have been impossible so we chose to discuss three very important groups.. The team of two that is Yellow Tuxedo, the team of many which comes in the form of The Digital Circus community which is filled to the brim with individuals, and the team of strangers that Emily led to Malawi last year to achieve great things.

A MASSIVE thank you to Trisha for inviting Emily on for this fascinating episode. Worry not, Alans episode will be coming very soon with his very own individual identity!

Find out more about Trisha...

Visit Trisha's website

Subscribe to her YouTube channel

Connect with Trisha on Linkedin