The Bizzimumzi Podcast

Latest Episodes:

S2 / E32 : Emma Hollingsworth, Vegan Cookbook Author of Vegan Chocolate Treats Jul 25, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of Bizzimumzi, Ashley is joined by special guest Emma Hollingsworth, a passionate advocate for healthy food and wellbeing. Emma shares her inspiring journey of transforming her lifestyle and embracing a healthier way of living.

Emma's story began when she felt sluggish and lethargic in the run-up to her wedding. Determined to make a change, she embarked on a journey of active avoidance, positivity, and self-acceptance. By cutting out gluten, refined sugar, dairy, and additives, Emma discovered the power of nourishing her body with whole foods and fresh, organic produce.

As a certified Health Coach, Emma expanded her impact by supplying local cafes, farmers markets, and renowned establishments like Selfridges food hall with her healthy desserts. She also became a recipe creator for high-profile brands and shared her expertise through baking courses and her bestselling book, Vegan Treats.

During the conversation, Ashley and Emma delve into various topics related to healthy living. They discuss the importance of leaning on support to navigate the demands of daily life, listening to one's body to understand its unique nutritional needs, and allowing children to make their own food choices. Emma also shares insights on how a vegan lifestyle, while not for everyone, can positively impact existing health issues.

To top it off, Emma reveals that she is expecting her fourth child and how her cravings have not deterred her commitment to vegan eating. Her story serves as an inspiration for anyone seeking to nourish their body, embrace a healthy lifestyle, and find joy in the journey.

Tune in to this uplifting episode of Bizzimumzi Chat as Ashley and Emma explore the transformative power of healthy eating, self-care, and self-discovery. Get ready to be motivated and encouraged to embark on your own path to wellness!

To learn more about Emma Hollingsworth and her Vegan Cookbooks head here: https://mrshollingsworths.com/

Join the Bizzimumzi community here: https://bizzimumzi.com/

S2 / E31: Cheryl Neufville, Midwife, Doula & Birth Advocate Jul 18, 2023

Show notes

Join Ashley as she excitedly welcomes Cheryl Neufville to this week's Bizzimumzi podcast episode.

Cheryl is a passionate midwife, doula, and advocate for birth. Having completed her midwife and doula training in Uganda, Cheryl has dedicated herself to amplifying the voices of women who struggle to express their desired birthing experiences. In this episode, Ashley and Cheryl delve into their mutual admiration for Boston and its plethora of tourist attractions. They also explore the challenges and joys of traveling with young children. Cheryl graciously shares her enlightening journey of training as a midwife in Uganda and sheds light on her current experiences as she balances work and motherhood. Lastly, Cheryl discusses her ongoing commitment to utilising her voice as a powerful advocate for women throughout their unique birthing journeys. Tune in for an inspiring conversation!

The Bizzimumzi Podcast is brought to you by coffee-infused host Ashley Verma. This show is created to share all the ups, downs and all arounds of the wild world of parenting. Each week Ashley will be joined by a fellow inspiring, thriving and surviving Bizzimumzi – who will share their own journey. This podcast is your weekly opportunity to take a deep breath as we try to navigate the wild world of parenting; think of this podcast as the safe space where we are not too hard on ourselves, we share our humility and relish in overcoming the inevitable failures that simply happen. This is a podcast for those who are unapologetically At Its Best, even when ‘At its Best’ means the dishes aren’t done, there is crayon on the walls and your hair hasn’t been washed in forever. We Are Bizzimumzi. We love hearing from you! Get in touch with any topic suggestions, questions and feedback at: info@bizzimumzi.com

S2 / E30: Amanda Frederickson, Chef & Author of Simple Beautiful Food & Owner of Radish Jul 11, 2023

Show notes

Join Ashley Verma in an exciting episode as she welcomes the talented Amanda Frederickson to this week's Bizzimumzi podcast. Amanda, a professional cook, food stylist, and acclaimed author of The Staub Cookbook, has an impressive culinary background. After attending the renowned San Francisco Cooking School and working at the Michelin-starred restaurant SPQR, she found her calling in the Williams-Sonoma Test Kitchen. There, she honed her skills, developing recipes, testing products, and co-writing eleven Williams-Sonoma Test Kitchen cookbooks. In 2020, Amanda launched her own cookbook, Simple Beautiful Food, and shortly after, she embarked on a new venture, opening her first health-focused fast-food restaurant, Radish, in Nashville, Tennessee.

In this engaging episode, Ashley and Amanda dive deep into their parenting journeys, discussing the transition from corporate life to pursuing their passions in the culinary world. They explore the challenges, triumphs, and valuable lessons learned along the way. Some of the exciting topics they cover include:

Building a business and staying confident after having kids: Amanda shares her personal experiences and insights on juggling motherhood while building her culinary empire. Discover how she stayed motivated, maintained confidence, and found balance in her professional and personal life.
Pursuing passion and becoming a chef: Ashley and Amanda explore the transformative journey of following one's passion, leaving the corporate world behind, and pursuing a career in the culinary arts. Gain inspiration and practical advice for taking the leap and embracing your true calling.
The importance of a supportive village: Both Ashley and Amanda agree that raising children and building successful careers require a supportive network. They discuss the significance of having help, whether it's through a nanny or relying on family and friends. Discover how leaning on others can empower you to do it all.
Quick ideas for busy moms in the kitchen: Amanda, a master of culinary efficiency, shares practical tips and quick meal ideas for busy moms. Learn how to prepare delicious and nutritious meals even on the busiest of days.
What's in the pipeline for Amanda's business: Get an exclusive glimpse into Amanda's future plans for her culinary endeavours. Discover the exciting projects she has in store and the inspiration behind them.

Prepare to be inspired by Amanda's journey of culinary success, motherhood, and pursuing her passion. This episode is filled with practical advice, heartfelt discussions, and the belief that with determination and a supportive village, anything is possible.

You can follow and learn more about Amanda Frederickson here: https://www.amandafrederickson.com/

Tune in to the Bizzimumzi Podcast on your favourite podcast platform to catch this engaging and empowering conversation!

S2 / E29: Charlie Barker (Launder), Creator of Bumps and Burpees Jul 04, 2023

Show notes

Join Ashley Verma as she warmly welcomes the incredible Charlie Barker, the visionary behind Bumps & Burpees, to this week's captivating episode. Charlie, the founder of Bumps & Burpees, established this empowering platform in 2014 with a mission to provide unwavering support and empowerment to women during their pregnancy and throughout their journey into motherhood. With her expertise, she has guided countless women to stay fit, strong, and confident through this transformative phase. From personalised one-on-one training to engaging Instagram fitness classes and the newly launched online platform dedicated to pre and post-natal fitness, Charlie has revolutionised the way women approach their health and wellness during and after pregnancy.

In this heartfelt conversation, Ashley and Charlie delve into a range of engaging topics, sharing personal experiences and insights that will leave you inspired. Here's a glimpse of what they discuss:

Traveling with the little ones: Charlie opens up about the joys and challenges of traveling with children, offering practical tips and heartfelt anecdotes that will resonate with every parent.
Sharing the heartbreak of miscarriage and overcoming fear: Charlie bravely shares her personal journey of navigating the heartbreak of miscarriage, offering solace and encouragement to those who have experienced similar challenges. Discover how she found the strength to overcome fear and embrace hope.
Charlie's journey of falling pregnant and the beauty of unexpected surprises: Explore the emotional rollercoaster of Charlie's first pregnancy and the unexpected joy of discovering she was expecting again soon after. Her story is a testament to the resilience and miracles of life.
Working with pregnant fitness challenges: Charlie shares her inspiring journey of working with pregnant women facing unique fitness challenges. Gain insights into the transformative power of exercise during pregnancy and the incredible impact it can have on both physical and mental well-being.
Building her business, Bumps & Burpees: Discover the entrepreneurial journey behind Bumps & Burpees as Charlie discusses the triumphs, setbacks, and invaluable lessons she learned along the way. Her passion for empowering women shines through as she shares her vision for the future.
The importance of working out during pregnancy: Dive into a meaningful conversation about the significance of maintaining fitness during pregnancy and the benefits it offers to both mother and baby. Charlie's expertise and personal experiences make this discussion invaluable.

Prepare to be inspired as you listen to Ashley and Charlie's dynamic conversation filled with wisdom, resilience, and a shared commitment to supporting women throughout their incredible journey into motherhood.

To learn more about Charlie and Bumps and Burpees head here: https://www.bumpsandburpees.com/

S2 / E28: Allison Jandu, Creator of The Potty Training Consultant Jun 27, 2023

Show notes

Join Ashley Verma in an insightful episode as she warmly welcomes Allison Jandu, the brilliant mind behind The Potty Training Consultant. As a parent faced with the daunting task of potty training her first child, Allison experienced the overwhelm of conflicting information and the lack of science-based support she craved. Determined to make the journey smoother for others, she delved into extensive research, accumulating over 5,000 hours of study to create evidence-based resources.

Now, Allison has built an entire community where parents can come together without judgment, ask the tough questions, and receive evidence-based facts that lead to potty training success. In this engaging conversation, Ashley and Allison cover a range of topics, including:

African Adventures and Safari with Kids: Discover Allison's firsthand experiences of traveling in Africa and embarking on a safari adventure with her little ones. Join them as they reminisce about the joys and challenges of exploring new places as a family.
From Forensic Scientist to Stay-at-Home Mom: Learn about Allison's life pre-kids, where she worked as a forensic scientist. Delve into the decision-making process of leaving a fulfilling full-time corporate job to embrace the role of a stay-at-home mom.
Potty Training Journey and Business Inspiration: Explore the transformative experience of potty training two children and how it sparked Allison's entrepreneurial spirit. Discover the motivation behind founding The Potty Training Consultant and the impact it has made on countless families.
The Expansion of The Potty Training Consultant: Gain insights into how Allison's business has grown and evolved over time. From humble beginnings, learn about the milestones, challenges, and future plans for her successful venture.

Join Ashley and Allison as they share stories, wisdom, and the joys of parenting while navigating the world of potty training. Whether you're a parent facing this milestone or simply curious about the journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

Lean more about Allison Jandu and The Potty Training Consultant here: https://www.pottytrainingconsultant.com/

S2 / E27: Sophie Bertrand, registered Nutritionist & co-author of Forking Wellness Jun 20, 2023

Show notes

Ashley is thrilled to welcome nutritionist Sophie Bertrand on for a Bizzimumzi chat.

Sophie Bertrand is a Registered Nutritionist, co-host and co-author of Forking Wellness, owner of her nutrition consultancy and Mum to her son Romeo.

With a BSc in Psychology and MSc in Clinical Nutrition, she understands the importance of marrying the two together to support good health. There is so much more to eating well than just ‘eating well’. Healthy looks different on everyone and Sophie helps to empower people to see looking after their health as a lifestyle.

On today's Bizzimumzi podcast episode, Ashley & Sophie discuss:

Meeting for the first time at Ashley's barre studio, Define London
The difference in carrying baby #1 & baby #2
Sophie's challenges finding herself again after her first child.
Both gals share resent towards their partners postpartum.
Sophie chat about her nutrition business and when/why she went back to work so soon.
Nutrition during pregnancy
How to get the little ones to eat more veggies.
Hacks in the kitchen.
Words of wisdom to a newly expecting Bizzimumzi.

Follow Sophie Bertrand here: https://sophiebertrand.com/

S2 / E26: Natasha D'Anna, Mom / Creator / Author of "Any Two Can Be Twindollicious" Jun 13, 2023

Show notes

Ashley welcomes Mom, Content Creator & Author of "Any Two Can Be Twindollicious", Natasha D'Anna.

Natasha started the blog in 2012 when her twin daughters were 18 months; which was when her children's book Any Two Can be TwinDollicious received a Mom’s choice Award. This led to the build of a community which continues to thrive today. As a mom of 3 ; she continues to nourish her audience with tips, tools and content that serves them best. Our TwinDollicious & co readers engage in our social media posts for influence in creating a sibling bonded lifestyle. “As a writer, I blog about family lifestyle with fashionable twins who are bonded through things in common.” We cover travel, lifestyle hacks and diy fun, product reviews, as well as events in and around NYC.

On today's Bizzimumzi episode the gals chat about:

The upside to social media and the joys of connecting with other Moms.
What did it mean to become a mother.
Finding out you are expecting twins as a first time parent.
Bed-rest was Natasha's entire first pregnancy and how she handled it.
Integrating baby #3 after having twins.
Managing three very different personalities in the household.
Writing a book and the joy it brought.
Natasha shares what she has learned along her motherhood journey.
Best advice for the expecting Bizzimumzi.

The Bizzimumzi Podcast is brought to you by coffee-infused host Ashley Verma. This show is created to share all the ups, downs and all arounds of the wild world of parenting. Each week Ashley will be joined by a fellow inspiring, thriving and surviving Bizzimumzi – who will share their own journey. This podcast is your weekly opportunity to take a deep breath as we try to navigate the wild world of parenting; think of this podcast as the safe space where we are not too hard on ourselves, we share our humility and relish in overcoming the inevitable failures that simply happen. This is a podcast for those who are unapologetically At Its Best, even when 'At its Best' means the dishes aren't done, there is crayon on the walls and your hair hasn't been washed in forever. We Are Bizzimumzi. We love hearing from you! Get in touch with any topic suggestions, questions and feedback at: info@bizzimumzi.com

S2 / E25: Michelle Dempsey-Multack, Mom / Coach / Author of "Moms Moving On" Jun 06, 2023

Show notes

Ashley welcomes Michelle Dempsey-Multack onto this week's Bizzimumzi podcast.

Michelle is a writer, mom, coach, speaker, and genuine girl power enthusiast. Michelle attended American University as a Journalism major, graduated Hofstra University’s Communications program with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, and then earned a Double Masters Degree in Education from Adelphi University.

Originally from New York, Michelle grew up fascinated by the hustle and bustle of New York City. She was aching to “make it” as something, anything, ever since 9th grade.

“I remember walking into my first day of high school, and one of my teachers announcing “Whoa, this one is powerful – we’re going to have to watch out for her,” Michelle recalls. That sentence has always stuck with her and has motivated her to always keep moving, harder and faster, toward her dreams.

Michelle moved to Miami in her late 20’s where the “second part of her life” began. She married her daughter’s father and they brought beautiful Bella into the world. Years later, Michelle remarried her now-husband Spencer, and they live in North Miami Beach where they are raising their beautiful blended family, sneaking in as many ski trips as possible, going to every concert they can, and truly enjoying this new phase of their lives.

On this weeks Bizzimumzi episode, Ashley & Michelle chat about:

Growing up in NYC
Michelle's unstable up-bringing due to her parents divorcing
The strength she built within herself to heal
Why becoming a Mom at first was scary
Her personal divorce and how she and her ex put the effort in to co-parent for their daughter
Why she coaches others to make smart and healthy choice when navigating divorce with kids
Advice for struggling parents with co-parenting
Passing the torch to the expecting Bizzimumzi

The Bizzimumzi Podcast is brought to you by coffee-infused host Ashley Verma. This show is created to share all the ups, downs and all arounds of the wild world of parenting. Each week Ashley will be joined by a fellow inspiring, thriving and surviving Bizzimumzi – who will share their own journey. This podcast is your weekly opportunity to take a deep breath as we try to navigate the wild world of parenting; think of this podcast as the safe space where we are not too hard on ourselves, we share our humility and relish in overcoming the inevitable failures that simply happen. This is a podcast for those who are unapologetically At Its Best, even when 'At its Best' means the dishes aren't done, there is crayon on the walls and your hair hasn't been washed in forever. We Are Bizzimumzi. We love hearing from you! Get in touch with any topic suggestions, questions and feedback at: info@bizzimumzi.com

S2/ E24: Shrimoyee Chakraborty, Chef & TV host of Apple TV's; India Bites May 30, 2023

Show notes

Ashley is thrilled to welcome Chef & India Bites TV host, Shrimoyee Chakraborty, on the podcast for a Bizzimumzi chat.

Shrimoyee Chakraborty grew up in Jodhpur Park in South Calcutta where her mother taught her to cook at an early age. Relocating to the UK to study for a master's degree at Manchester Business School, Shrim found herself hosting a mini supper club for her fellow students and setting up a hugely popular blog. Moving to London, Shrim was shocked to find that authentic Calcutta food was almost impossible to find. Determined to redress this, she launched a series of London pop-ups in 2015. The venture was a huge success and Shrim soon left her job at an economic think tank to follow her love of food and cooking full-time. She opened her first restaurant, Calcutta Street, in Fitzrovia in July 2016. Calcutta Street Brixton opened in June 2017.

Known for bringing authentic Bengali cuisine to London, Shrim has been featured in publications from the Independent to the Financial Times, the Telegraph and Grazia, and Calcutta Street has been lauded by globally-recognised food critics.

On today's Bizzimumzi Episode Ashley & Shrim chat about:

The mutual love of India and traveling all around.
The journey of a 1st time mom and still working.
The importance of splashing fun into the days when things get too stressful.
Chatting all things Santa even in the month of May.
Shrim's cooking journey and her relationship with her Mom.
Reflecting back to when they were naughty kids.
The inspiration behind Shrim's supper clubs.
Raising a daughter as a thriving Entrepreneur.
Traveling with the little ones.
Really learning about your personal strength after having a child.
Learning from the little ones to navigate the days.
Passing words of wisdom to expecting Bizzimumzi's.

S2/ E23: Steph Douglas, Creator of online shopping sensation, Don't Buy Her Flowers May 23, 2023

Show notes

Ashley welcomes Steph Douglas onto this weeks Bizzimumzi podcast.

Steph has a background in Brand Marketing, she started Don't Buy Her Flowers in 2014, after receiving eight beautiful, well-meant bouquets when I had my first baby and realising that flowers are a terrible gift when what you need is TLC and reassurance.

Don't Buy Her Flowers now creates thoughtful gift boxes for any occasion, from new mums and birthdays to get well and bereavement. Steph created a platform where customers can put together bespoke gifts, selecting products they know the recipient will love, which are then gift wrapped and include their message handwritten.

In this episode Ash & Steph chat about:

Reflecting back to becoming a first time Mom
Finding identity after baby #2
Finding your village and leaning on them for support
Building Don't Buy Her Flowers
Expanding the business and sharing with her kids
Words of wisdom to an expecting Bizzimumzi

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Sophie Bertrand is a Registered Nutritionist, co-host and co-author of Forking Wellness, owner of her nutrition consultancy and Mum to her son Romeo.

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