Jodie Fraser has had a very exciting August!

August is upon us – it’s the month of holidays, summer fun and time off for many people. It’s also the time of the Olympics (from July 26) and the Paralympics (from August 28).

So how are small business owners coping with the month often known as ‘silly season’?

Today we're talking to Jodie Fraser, Residential Leasehold Specialist and Consultant based in Bristol.

How was August for your business?
August has a significance for me as it signified the incorporation of my property consultancy, specialising in leasehold advice and mentoring.

This is an exciting milestone for me to enhance my skill set and help other businesses to thrive.

What are your personal plans for this month?
We have a family holiday this month, which we’re looking forward to before our daughter starts school in September.

What advice/tips would you give to small business owners trying to navigate the ‘holiday’ period?
If possible, try and connect with your customers/clients. Reach out to check everything is working well with your professional relationship. You could also collaborate with other small business on a joint venture that aligns with both of your values.

It’s the Olympics or Paralympics this month – any thoughts, memories or relevance to you or your business or organisation this month?
I have fond memories of the London 2012 Olympics where one of my clients carried the torch through Cheltenham.

I’m also proud to know Paralympian Louise Hunt-Skelley who spoke to me on my podcast Beyond Four Walls about creating inclusive living spaces - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/beyond-four-walls-with-jodie-fraser/id1719281421?i=1000645003962

August 20 was World Photo Day. Can you share a photo which means something to you this year so far?
This photo signifies the love I have for my grandmother who passed away this month. She suffered with Alzheimer’s for 10 years and my mother and I cared for her during that time. We miss her terribly, but her fight has also made me realise just how much of a struggle people face when diagnosed with dementia and how professionals like myself need to show compassion and understanding around this issue.

Did you know August 21 was World Entrepreneurs Day? What does this word mean to you, and do you apply it to yourself?
To me, being an entrepreneur means freedom. It’s certainly not a decision to be made lightly as it’s incredibly stressful, especially if you don’t have the right people around you, but I firmly believe that if done right, and with the right guidance, it can be incredibly rewarding.

Can you name one business you’d like to give a summer shout out too? Who has gone the extra mile for you recently?
I have to give a huge shout out to Dionne Popplestone for her support and guidance over the past few months. She’s helped me more that she realises - www.dionnepopplestone.co.uk

Have you got any events planned for the autumn you’d like to shout about – either that you are running or attending?
I’ll be attending a number of conferences that are being run by The Property Institute over the next few months where I will be speaking about lone working and wellbeing.

For more information visit www.jodiefraser.com (currently under construction)