Redefining the Trade; Katie Corkill’s Story of building a Painting & Decorating Business

In this twenty-fourth episode of My Kind of Business Alex is joined by Katie Corkill – Founder of Katie Corkill Decorating, an award-winning entrepreneur who has carved her own path in a traditionally male-dominated industry, moving from corporate life into trade business ownership with resilience, curiosity and determination.

Katie’s story is one of courage, adaptability and growth. From early influences that sparked her curiosity, to leaving behind the security of a corporate role to pursue more meaningful work, her journey highlights the importance of mindset, integrity and persistence in building a business.

Today, Katie is not only running her own painting and decorating business but also showing what’s possible when you reframe fear as opportunity and embrace the challenges along the way.

In this conversation Alex and Katie explore:

• How childhood influences and encouragement shaped her entrepreneurial spirit

• The “quarter-life crisis” that sparked her transition from corporate to trades

• The challenges and triumphs of starting her own business

• Why mindset shifts are crucial for overcoming self-doubt

• The role of resilience, honesty and hard work in sustainable growth

• Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start their own journey

Whether you’re considering stepping away from a corporate job, starting a business from scratch or simply need encouragement to take that next bold step, Katie’s journey is a reminder that perseverance, adaptability and integrity will carry you through.

Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction: Alex welcomes Katie to the podcast [01:15] Childhood curiosity, family influences and early skills [05:30] Transitioning from corporate to exploring trades [09:45] The leap into business ownership [15:20] Mindset shifts and reframing fear [20:10] The role of support networks in business growth [24:00] Katie’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs [28:30] Lessons in resilience, honesty and fairness [32:00] Looking ahead: what’s next for Katie

Key Highlights

• The influence of childhood experiences in shaping entrepreneurial curiosity

• How a “quarter-life crisis” can lead to meaningful career change

• The importance of mindset when facing challenges and self-doubt

• Why honesty, fairness, and resilience are cornerstones of sustainable business

• Katie’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on taking calculated risks

Connect with Katie https://katiecorkilldecorating.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/katie_corkill_decorating/

Connect with Alex Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com