Shownotes: Turning Criticism into Growth – Reinvention Diaries
Hosts: Michelle & Nicola Guest: Amie-Leigh Minshull, CEO & Founder of Shh! PR
Episode Highlights:
- Catch-up: Michelle and Nicola share updates on recent travels, networking, and self-care (including spa days and Christmas dinners).
- The importance of reviews and feedback in business, and how both hosts handle receiving (or not receiving) reviews.
- Introduction of guest Amie-Leigh, who specialises in PR for female entrepreneurs.
- Discussion on the emotional impact of criticism and negative reviews, especially for women in business.
- Amie-Leigh’s advice on handling criticism:
- Don’t react immediately—pause and reflect before responding.
- Gather facts before replying to negative feedback.
- Respond publicly with empathy and a willingness to resolve the issue, then move the conversation offline if possible.
- Use apologies genuinely; avoid defensive responses.
- Learn from criticism—use it as an opportunity to improve services or products.
- Gender differences in responding to criticism: women often internalize feedback more deeply than men.
- Examples of brands turning criticism into positive PR (e.g., KFC’s chicken shortage campaign, Aldi’s marketing).
- The value of a “win wall” to remind yourself of positive feedback and achievements.
- The importance of supportive networks and cheerleaders, especially for women entrepreneurs.
- Reflections on women’s networking groups and the supportive, collaborative environment they foster.
- Final advice: Embrace criticism as a tool for growth, not a reason to shrink back.
Connect with Amie-Leigh:
- LinkedIn: Amie-Leigh Minshull
- Company: Shh! PR (www.shhpr.co.uk)
- Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
Contact the Podcast:
Listener Questions:
- Amie-Leigh’s favourite colour: Yellow
- Recent act of kindness: Reaching out to someone in need at a concert
Next Episode: Tune in next Wednesday for more stories and strategies on reinvention and growth!
