From Kitchen Table to National Press: How Sharing Your Story Can Grow Your Business

This summer, I had one of those pinch-me moments — seeing my name appear in both The Sunday Times and The Metro.

For someone who started out as a childminder at my kitchen table, juggling nap times with note-taking and snack prep with spreadsheets, it felt surreal. But it was also a reminder of something powerful: you don’t need a PR agency or a marketing degree to get your story noticed.

You just need to tell it.

How It Started

My Sunday Times feature focused on the reality behind the “free hours” scheme for childcare providers. I spoke about the pressures many of us face — how government funding often doesn’t cover the true cost of quality childcare, and why so many passionate childminders are sadly closing their doors.

It wasn’t written to gain attention. It was written to tell the truth — because someone needed to. And that honesty resonated.

Then, just a few weeks later, I found myself quoted in The Metro, this time in a completely different context — sharing what summer looks like through the eyes of a childminder balancing work, motherhood, and memory-making.

“If that sounds exhausting, Emma Muir will be looking after nine children this summer – and giving them a summer to remember.

As a childminder she’s challenged with entertaining toddlers to teens, as her own kids aged 11 and 16 will also be in her care.

‘This summer I’m determined to give the children the kind of childhood memories that stick — National Trust picnics, boat rides, beaches, parks, forest trails, and everything in between,’ explains Emma, who’s also the founder of Nurture Parents.

‘Juggling ages one to 16 while trying to give everyone a fun, memorable summer is a balancing act, and even as a professional, I sometimes struggle (and fail!).

My 11-year-old is happy to help if he has a clear task — and a chocolate brownie as bribery. My 16-year-old supports in a quieter way, mainly by being independent and self-sufficient.’”

Read the full Metro feature here.

Two very different stories — one about policy and advocacy, the other about everyday family life — yet both came down to the same thing: being willing to share my experiences to help others.

Why It Matters

Press features like these don’t just raise awareness for your business — they build trust.

When people see your name in recognised publications, it adds credibility. It tells parents, customers, and colleagues that your voice carries experience, authenticity, and professionalism. But even more importantly, it proves that small business owners — like childminders, nanny’s and small nurseries — can be part of national conversations.

What I’ve Learned About Marketing (and Myself)

I’ve learned that visibility isn’t about shouting the loudest. It’s about showing up authentically, speaking from experience, and adding value where it matters.

You don’t need to chase journalists or try to fit into someone else’s story. When you use your own platforms — especially LinkedIn — to share your thoughts, experiences, and expertise, the right people will find you.

Yes, even The Sunday Times.Even Ofsted.

They’re watching — I’ve seen it myself.

A Real Example of Impact

During my recent Ofsted pilot inspection, one of the inspectors told me they had already read my article about the pilot experience online. They thanked me for speaking up so openly and for the work I’m doing to support the profession.

That moment meant a lot — not just personally, but as proof that our voices do reach the people who need to hear them.

So, Where Do You Start?

Here’s my simple advice:

• Build a strong LinkedIn presence. Treat it like your digital business card — a place to showcase who you are, what you stand for, and the difference you make.

• Share your story. Talk about the why behind what you do, what you’ve learned, and what you care about.

• Be consistent. You don’t need to post daily — just show up with purpose and authenticity.

• Stay professional, but human. People connect with real voices, not polished slogans.

And if that sounds daunting — don’t worry.

As part of the Nurture Co Network, I’ll be running a Marketing Chat very soon on how to optimise your LinkedIn profile to attract attention from the right kind of people — including journalists, local partners, and even Ofsted.

Because they are out there.They are watching.And when your story is told with heart, they will listen.

Final Thoughts

Your journey matters. Whether you’re a solo childminder, nanny or a small setting owner— your experience has the power to inspire, educate, and connect.

If you’ve ever thought, “Who would want to hear my story?” — the answer is: far more people than you think.