In this Tea Break, I talk about the response to The Country Woman Podcast, overcoming self-doubt, why kindness and encouragement matter more than we realise, and the recurring lesson every guest seems to share: don't be afraid to be a beginner.

If you've been waiting for permission to try something new, consider this your sign.

In this episode, Jessica shares how an adventurous childhood and a career in the military first sparked her love of shooting, before leading her into game shooting, deer stalking, fishing and a life immersed in the sporting countryside.

We talk about the importance of understanding where our food comes from, why confidence often comes from simply saying yes to new opportunities, and why women shouldn't feel intimidated about stepping into traditionally male-dominated spaces. Jessica also shares her thoughts on country clothing, how the right kit can give you confidence, and the advice she'd give to any woman who's thinking about giving field sports a try.

It's an uplifting conversation full of laughter, encouragement and genuine passion for the countryside. Jessica's energy is completely infectious, and I finished recording this episode with the biggest smile on my face. I hope you do too.

In this first Tea Break, I share how my own relationship with food has changed since becoming involved in the countryside. We talk about eating wild game, supporting local butchers and farm shops, why I'd rather know my food's story than pretend it doesn't have one, and how learning more about deer management has challenged my own assumptions.

This isn't about telling anyone what they should believe or how they should eat. It's simply an invitation to understand the countryside a little better, ask questions, and have open conversations—even when we don't all agree.

Put the kettle on, and let's have a chat.

Before we dive into the stories of the incredible women joining me on this podcast, I thought it was only fair to introduce myself.

I certainly didn't grow up in the sporting countryside. Outside of horses, this world was completely new to me. But one working cocker spaniel, a few unexpected invitations, and a habit of saying "yes" to opportunities I knew very little about completely changed the direction of my life.

In this first episode, I share how I found my way into shooting, working dogs and country life, the people who encouraged me along the way, and why I started The Country Woman Podcast.

I also introduce the three questions guests on the podcast will answer, and talk about why I hope these conversations encourage more women to try something new, ask questions without fear, and discover just how welcoming the countryside can be.

Whether you've spent your whole life in the countryside or you're simply curious about it, I hope you'll find something to relate to.

Put the kettle on, settle in, and welcome to The Country Woman Podcast. New conversations celebrating the women behind the sporting and rural countryside every week.

We chat about how starting a new hobby to spend more time with her Dad turned into a life travelling the world, what it's really like working on driven shoots in America, and the differences between British and American shooting traditions. From loading guns beneath mountains to sharing drives with moose, bears and even the occasional mountain lion, Elsa's story is one of saying yes to unexpected opportunities.

We also talk about women entering the sport, overcoming imposter syndrome, travelling for work, countryside fashion, and why confidence often comes after you've taken the first step.

Whether you're already part of the sporting countryside or simply curious about it, this is a relaxed conversation about adventure, opportunity, and finding your place outdoors.

Put the kettle on, settle in, and enjoy another Country Woman story.