We kick off the episode by dissecting the nuanced differences between coaching and mentoring. We explain that while coaches help individuals draw their own conclusions, mentors offer the benefit of their hindsight and experience.

Drawing from our year-long journeys with Flourish in Food mentoring scheme, both hosts share personal anecdotes about the monumental shifts in their careers over the past year.

Lucy opens up about her hesitations around seeking a mentor despite feeling the need for one, and how partnering with Flourish in Food opened the door to a transformative mentoring relationship with Charles Banks. She recounts how this relationship has empowered her to realign her business and personal goals confidently.

Amy mirrors these sentiments but, in her journey, her mentor Debbie Davies has been instrumental in helping her expand her consultancy without losing her personal touch.

We also explore the best practices for a fruitful mentoring relationship, touching on the importance of clear roles, setting expectations, maintaining momentum, and checking in on the relationship’s progression.

We also differentiate between mentors, sponsors, and allies, underscoring the significance of each role and we encourage listeners to reflect on their own networks and suggest practical ways to cultivate and maintain these relationships.

Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Amy clarifies the difference between coaching and mentoring.

[00:00:15] - Lucy and Amy introduce the episode’s focus on mentors, advocates, and allies.

[00:01:30] - Amy and Lucy reflect on their experiences with the Flourishing Food mentoring scheme.

[00:03:09] - Lucy shares how her mentoring relationship helped her rebrand and find direction in her business.

[00:07:01] - Amy explains the importance of structure in mentoring meetings and how to get the most out of them.

[00:07:58] - Amy shares her experience with her mentor, Debbie Davies.

[00:11:28] - Differences between coaching and mentoring.

[00:18:38] - Importance of sponsors and advocates and how to find them.

Links and Resources:

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

Find her on Instagram or LinkedIn for further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy.

Oh For Food's Sake is sponsored by Microsearch Laboratories: https://micro-search.co.uk/

See you next time!