From Dollhouses to Dream Spaces; Kate’s Bold Career Change into Interior Design

In this eighteenth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Kate Parslow; a warm, thoughtful interior designer based in Shrewsbury, Shropshire.

Kate’s journey into business is rooted in a lifelong love of creating spaces that feel personal and full of soul. It all started with a doll’s house her dad made her when she was ten — a moment that sparked her obsession with homes that truly reflect the people who live in them.

After a detour in her twenties, it was a conversation with a friend at forty that gave her the final nudge to pursue interior design for real. Since then, Kate has built a business grounded in curiosity, kindness, and creativity — blending vintage, inherited and new pieces to create homes that aren’t about perfection, but about personality.

In this gentle, reflective episode, Kate talks about building a business later in life, navigating imposter syndrome, and the real power of our environments to impact how we feel day to day. She also shares honest advice for anyone wanting to make a change — no matter what age or stage you’re at.

We chat about letting go of pressure, trusting your instincts, and creating a business that truly feels like your kind of success.

If you’ve ever felt behind, questioned your path, or needed a reminder that there’s no deadline on following your passion — this episode is for you.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and welcome 01:15 – Childhood inspirations: the dollhouse story 05:30 – Overcoming doubts and training in interior design 10:45 – The turning point at 40 15:00 – Starting her business and juggling family life 20:30 – A transformative client story 30:00 – How home design can support wellbeing 35:45 – Managing imposter syndrome 40:00 – Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs 45:30 – What “my kind of business” means to Kate

What to Expect

✦ The story behind a creative career change at 40 ✦ How childhood passions can shape your future ✦ The emotional impact of thoughtful home design ✦ Honest talk about imposter syndrome and self-trust ✦ Encouragement to start, no matter where you’re at

Connect with Kate

🌐 Website: @kparslowinteriors 

Connect with Alex

📅 Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession 📸 Instagram: alexmccarthycoaching.com