Anything But Ordinary

What if luxury wasn’t about more… but about less?In this episode, we explore the rise of slow luxury and how it’s reshaping the future of high-end hospitality. I’m joined by Jamie Purcell to unpack what this shift really means, moving away from fast-paced, transactional experiences towards something far more intentional, immersive, and meaningful.We dive into how iconic destinations like Le Manoir are evolving to meet this new demand, where guests aren’t just looking for five-star service, but for connection, presence, and authenticity. From the influence of Raymond Blanc’s extraordinary journey to the next chapter of Le Manoir, this conversation reveals how tradition and innovation are being carefully balanced in a changing industry.Jamie shares insight into the emotional and physical layers of luxury travel today, why mindfulness is becoming central to the guest experience, and how hospitality brands are adapting to global uncertainty while still delivering something truly special. There’s also a fascinating look at career pathways in luxury hospitality, the importance of relationships, and how passion continues to drive success in such a competitive space.This is a conversation about more than just hotels, it’s about the evolution of luxury as a lifestyle, where slowing down is no longer a compromise, but the ultimate indulgence.For more information please head to the below links:Zoe Jackson:https://shireandwoldstaffing.comhttps://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Jamie Purcellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-purcell-9a937a78/

What really goes on behind the scenes of the ultra-high-net-worth world?In this episode, I sit down with John Bower, co-founder of Bower & Bower Luxury Concierge, to pull back the curtain on the world of exclusive access, discretion, and high-stakes service. From private jets and rare collectibles to impossible-sounding requests, John shares what it actually takes to build a business trusted by some of the world’s wealthiest individuals.We get into his unexpected journey from engineering and physiotherapy into luxury concierge, how the business grew from a family-run operation into a global name, and why trust, reputation, and relationships are everything in this world.This is a fascinating conversation about luxury, pressure, entrepreneurship, and the unseen work behind the polished image.For more information please head to the below links:Zoe Jackson:https://shireandwoldstaffing.comhttps://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==John Bowerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/john-bower-bsc-hons-469773339/https://www.instagram.com/bowerandbower_ygc/

What does it really take to build trust in the world of private capital and high-net-worth investing?In this episode, Zoe is joined by Laura Mann for a fascinating conversation around private capital, alternative investments, and the reality behind wealth-building in global finance. From her early days in UK banking to building powerful networks in Dubai, Laura shares how relationships, credibility, and long-term thinking shape success in a world often misunderstood from the outside.We dive into the difference between private and public markets, why high-net-worth investors think differently about risk, and how private investments can offer stability away from the day-to-day volatility of traditional markets. Laura also breaks down areas like private credit and litigation funding, while challenging the idea that these opportunities are only for the ultra-wealthy.This is a really insightful episode for anyone curious about wealth, investing, and what really sits behind the polished image of global finance.In this episode, we cover:Laura Mann’s journey from UK banking into the global private capital spaceHow relationships and sport help build trusted investment networks in DubaiThe key differences between private capital and public marketsWhy private investments can offer more stability than traditional marketsA look into private credit and litigation funding portfoliosHow private investments can be accessible from as little as £20,000The different mindset high-net-worth investors have around riskHow geopolitical shifts are impacting Dubai and the future of wealthThe truth behind the glamour of Dubai and what wealth really looks like behind the scenesFor more information please head to the below links:Zoe Jackson:https://shireandwoldstaffing.comhttps://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Laura Mann:https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-mann-b72a9927/https://balqiscapital.com/

Welcome to Anything But OrdinaryIn this inspiring episode of Anything But Ordinary, Zoe sits down with Sian Haley, founder of Opulent Miles, to unpack the realities of building a business in the ultra-luxury travel world, where exceptional service, resilience, and authenticity are everything.From managing high-pressure, last-minute requests for elite clients to navigating the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship, Sian shares what it really takes to succeed behind the scenes of a business that looks glamorous from the outside.She opens up about how growing up surrounded by luxury and family-run businesses shaped her entrepreneurial mindset, the lessons she learned from the rise and fall of her previous fashion venture My Best Friend’s Wardrobe, and how personal loss, resilience, and staying true to her values have all played a huge role in the woman and business leader she is today.This conversation dives into the sacrifices that come with entrepreneurship, the power of building genuine relationships, and why luxury is about far more than aesthetics — it’s about trust, discretion, and delivering unforgettable experiences.Sian also shares her innovative business model designed to help others monetise travel and create financial freedom, while empowering more women to build lives and businesses on their own terms.This is a powerful conversation about ambition, resilience, reinvention, and what it really means to create something extraordinary.-----Zoe Jackson:https://shireandwoldstaffing.comhttps://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Sian Haley:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sian-haley-b792952a/https://opulentmiles.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/opulent_miles_/

Welcome to Anything But OrdinaryIn this episode, Zoe sits down with Kate Wallace, Director at Tysers, to explore the often misunderstood but fascinating world of insurance for ultra-high-net-worth individuals. From global property portfolios to fine art collections, luxury handbags, and even celebrity memorabilia, Kate shares what it really takes to protect the assets and lifestyles of clients whose lives are anything but ordinary.Kate explains how her career in insurance evolved into a highly personal and relationship-driven role working with private clients across industries including entertainment. Rather than the stereotypical image of insurance as purely paperwork and policies, Kate reveals a profession built on trust, discretion, and deep understanding of each client’s lifestyle — from visiting homes to assess risks, to coordinating specialist valuations for everything from artwork to iconic stage outfits.Zoe and Kate also discuss the hidden complexities of protecting high-value lifestyles in an increasingly digital and visible world. From cyber risks and social media exposure to underinsured properties and the importance of covering domestic staff, Kate highlights how modern insurance goes far beyond homes and cars. Instead, it forms part of a wider network of experts quietly working behind the scenes to safeguard clients, their families, and the extraordinary lives they lead.-----Zoe Jackson's Links:https://shireandwoldstaffing.comhttps://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Kate Wallace's Links:linkedin.com/in/kate-wallace-971970125https://www.linkedin.com/company/tysers/https://www.tysers.com/

Welcome to Anything But OrdinaryIn this episode, Zoe is joined by celebrity private PA Simon Cole for an honest and insightful conversation about life behind the scenes of the entertainment industry. Simon shares his unconventional journey from child actor to supporting high-profile figures, reflecting on what it truly means to deliver an “anything but ordinary” life.From red carpets and global travel to managing chaos with calm precision, he reveals the reality behind the glamour and the vital role private PAs play as the unseen force keeping extraordinary lives running seamlessly.The conversation also explores the emotional intelligence required in private service, the importance of boundaries, and the growing conversation around wellbeing and burnout in NDA-heavy roles. Simon speaks candidly about redefining the PA profession, building community through LinkedIn, and why authenticity, confidence, and self-respect are essential for longevity in the role.It’s a powerful reminder that behind every polished public figure is a trusted professional quietly making the magic happen. ---Zoe Jackson's Links:https://shireandwoldstaffing.comhttps://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Simon Cole's Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-cole-345a5036/?originalSubdomain=uk

Welcome to Anything But OrdinaryIn this episode of Anything But Ordinary, Zoe sits down with Jeremy Chandar, Director of Mobility and Relocation at Pinewood Relocations, to explore the highly specialised and deeply human world of UHNW and private family relocations.Far beyond “moving boxes,” Jeremy shares how his work involves navigating complex international logistics, climate-controlled transportation for art, wine and collections, and the emotional realities that come with helping families uproot their lives. With over 33 years in the industry, he explains how discretion, trust and understanding human behaviour shape every assignment — whether coordinating a cross-border move, managing cultural integration, or solving extraordinary challenges like removing a grand piano through the roof or moving a safe down glass stairs when no crane can reach.Zoe and Jeremy also discuss why a relocation done poorly can have lasting consequences for families and employers, and why private PAs, estate managers and client-facing professionals need visibility into the full process — from visas and schooling to customs, insurance and emotional support. Jeremy highlights the Pinewood philosophy of “who cares wins,” emphasising that successful relocations rely just as much on empathy as on logistics.The episode offers a rare look behind the scenes of a sector where privacy is paramount, stakes are high, and the smallest details can profoundly shape a client’s experience.---Zoe Jackson's Links:https://shireandwoldstaffing.comhttps://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Jeremy Chandar's Links:https://pinewoodrelocations.com/linkedin.com/in/jeremy-chandar-270a348https://www.linkedin.com/company/pinewood-relocations-limited/

Welcome to Anything But OrdinaryIn this episode, Zoe sits down with Angharad Jones, founder of Harrad & Bloom, to explore the art of creating truly lived-in luxury experiences. Ang shares how her background working on luxury French barges and Alpine chalets shaped her instincts for hospitality, eventually inspiring her to launch Harrad & Bloom in the Cotswolds. What began as single-property summer residencies evolved into a high-touch concierge service for UHNW families, global brands, and guests craving thoughtful, personal experiences that feel effortless. From last-minute client requests to the intimacy of working inside private homes, Ang offers a candid look at what real luxury looks like behind the scenes.Zoe and Ang discuss the unexpected realities of serving high-profile clients, the role of intuition, the essential relationships with PAs and household teams, and the importance of authenticity in an industry that can often feel superficial. Ang reflects on building a brand rooted in genuine warmth and responsiveness, the strange and wonderful moments that come with her work and the instinct-led approach guiding Harrad & Bloom as it aims to expands across the UK and Europe. The conversation is equal parts inspiring and grounded, offering an honest portrait of what it takes to build a business defined by care, discretion, and exceptional service.---Zoe Jackson's Links:https://shireandwoldstaffing.comhttps://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Angharad Jones' Links:https://www.harradandbloom.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/angharad-jones-918179156/https://www.linkedin.com/company/harradandbloom/https://www.instagram.com/harradandbloom/