“It’s a team effort”
From Barrister to Business Owner: How Jennie Smith Found Freedom with the Right VA Team
Behind Every Successful Leader – Episode 12: Jennie Smith on Reclaiming Time to Focus on Growth
In this episode of Behind Every Successful Leader, Holly Copsey is joined by Jennie Smith, a former criminal barrister turned safeguarding consultant and founder of Safeguarding Today Ltd. From the courtroom to consultancy, Jennie’s journey is one of growth, grit, and learning how to let go.
In the early days of launching her business, Jennie found herself doing everything solo – a reality many founders know all too well. But everything changed after a conversation on a camping trip introduced her to a new way of working. That chat led to her teaming up with Kelly Wingham and later Michelle, forming the virtual support duo that Jennie now calls her “dream team.”
Together, they’ve brought structure, confidence, and a sense of calm to her business. From handling operations and admin to stepping in during personal challenges, Kelly and Michelle have allowed Jennie to step back, lead creatively, and build a consultancy that works on her terms.
Jennie doesn’t sugarcoat the emotional reality of being a business owner – but she’s clear on this: you don’t have to do it alone.
Key Takeaways
- Virtual assistants are essential for small business growth
- Strong team relationships lead to creative freedom
- Delegation is not just smart – it’s necessary
- Building a business can be lonely – support networks matter
- Female founders supporting one another creates lasting impact
- Recognising your value as a business owner fuels further success
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How Jennie went from “doing it all” to building a business that supports her life
- Why delegation was the game-changer in allowing her business to scale
- The emotional journey of running a business while managing personal struggles
- How Jennie’s VA and ops manager have become her most trusted collaborators
- Why she jokes, “I’m not the boss – Kelly is!” and means it with pride
🎥 Watch the episode above to see how building a supportive, values-led VA team can transform not just your business – but your life.
Connect with Jennie Smith & Safeguarding Today Ltd:
🔗 Jennie on LinkedIn
📘 Safeguarding Today on Facebook
🎧 Jennie on Captivate – English Football League episode
Connect with Jennie’s VA, Kelly Wingham & Jigsaw Virtual Assistance:
🔗 Kelly on LinkedIn
📘 Jigsaw Virtual Assistance on Facebook