Do you have a word for each year? For me in 2019 it was inspired as I embarked on my blogging journey. 2020 was patience as I worked hard to build my brand and establish myself as the undisputed Queen of Customer Service. 2021 was believe as I kept the consumer faith against the odds and in 2022, I was grateful for every single opportunity and for all the amazing people who helped make my dream a reality. My word for last year was alignment as everything came together beautifully at last. Please read on to find out why.
The story so far
In 2019 I was featured in national press as one of the Top 5 Consumer Champions in the UK and made a live TV debut on BBC Breakfast covering regifting. It’s hard to believe that I tentatively started to write a blog not really knowing where it would lead. Fast forward to the present day where I’m not only a respected consumer champion specialising in travel in my own right but am also a published author* radio presenter and award-winning UK Moneyblogger.
Radio
My first ever radio appearance was with Kate Justice on BBC Radio Gloucestershire when I had just started to write the blog. and I absolutely loved it. Since then, I haven’t stopped for breath and am now a go to consumer expert for radio stations nationwide.
Following the success of the Sunday Breakfast show, Consumer and Business shows on Dean Radio which serves the Forest of Dean, I now present the weekly Forest Lunch Box. Many thanks to Briar for all the fabulous recipes he serves up in Butty’s Kitchen. I’m looking forward to seeing what gems he’ll share in 2024.
This year has seen the beating heart of BBC local radio ripped out through the creation of a ‘digital first public service.’ To make matters worse it’s not just the changes that have been made but the brutal way they have been implemented. One by one we’ve seen many experienced and respected presenters disappear from the airwaves and the service which people have loved and depended on desecrated beyond recognition. My thoughts are firmly with all those affected by these senseless and shortsighted changes. I sincerely hope 2024 brings new opportunities and better times.
I have loved my monthly consumer catch ups on BBC Radio Gloucestershire with Faye Hatcher and weekly chats with Jason Rosam on BBC Radio London Early Breakfast covering consumer and finance news. 2024 will not be the same without my radio faves. I love you both loads and very much appreciate your support and the invitation to join you regularly on your shows. Undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year was heading to the big smoke and appearing with Jason (and lovely producer Patrice) live in the studio in December for an All About the Money special.
Blog
Since its humble origins the blog has gone from strength to strength as a platform for showcasing my expertise and achievements. I remain proud to champion the very best of companies – and challenge the very worst. If you’ve got a problem with a company that’s not listening then please do get in touch. I’ve never forgotten my ‘why’ for the blog; it’s to help people and I do so with gusto on a daily basis.
2023 saw me taking the blog to a whole new level with the help of the blogging guru that is Emma Bradley. If you’re thinking of starting one, please do take a look at Top Blog Coaching*. Having a power hour with Emma and joining the Hobby to Heyday Facebook group is one of the best blogging decisions I ever made. I’ve now quadrupled my monthly blog earnings and daily views. 2024 is set to be a fabulous year for the blog.
Television
TV wise over the years I’ve popped up on BBC1, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, GB News and Talk TV. Highlights have included filming for flagship BBC shows such as Watchdog, Rip Off Britain and Morning Live. Points West with Dave Harvey was also great fun to work on. Although I still firmly believe I have a face for radio, you never know I might just be popping up again very soon with my new catchphrase, “Hi Dave, me again…..”
National Press
Wow, just wow is the best summary of media coverage again this year with visibility my new middle name. You name it and I’ve been in it. I’ve become a regular contributor to Take a Break magazine with a series of consumer and moneysaving articles, the next one coming out this month. I’ve also continued to be featured regularly in national press and had bylines in The Daily Mirror. An overview of articles can be seen on my Work With Me page if you’d like to take a look.
My best decision media wise since starting the blog was to attend a course by Fiona Scott which she ran with my journo fave Jill Foster. Would definitely recommend Fiona’s expertise to anyone wishing to increase their profile and maximise PR opportunities. Many thanks also to Guy Lambert for his words of wisdom, support and guidance. A proper nice chap and a pleasure to work with.
Conferences and Events
A very exciting move forward this year has been to attend local and national customer service conferences and events as a guest speaker. It was a pleasure to be invited to be a part of The Big Debate at the Bathroom Manufacturers Association annual conference alongside revered industry representatives as the Voice of the Consumer. I was also super chuffed to be invited to be the keynote speaker at the very first Zenith Customer Service Conference in Leeds. In 2024 I’ll be working with not just one but two fabulous speaker agencies and also a marvellous agent. Please do watch this space to see where I’ll be and when.
What’s next for Lady Janey?
In 2024 I will mostly be writing and babbling and focusing on what I want to do rather than what I (or others) think or expect me to be doing. Priorities, aims and achievements have aligned perfectly and I’m sure 2024 will be another very memorable and successful year.
Happy New Year everyone. Thank you for all the genuine love and encouragement.
Take care and stay fabulous!
Janey x
NB Please note this post contains affiliate links whereby I receive a fee for referrals/purchases.
