Episode · The Disenfranchised · In this episode, Ed interviews Julie, a franchisee turned franchisor, as they discuss her journey through various jobs, the benefits of franchising, and the impact of Techie Tots on children’s education. Julie shares her experiences working in different industries, the challenges she faced, and the skills she acquired along the way. She also talks about her decision to become a franchisee and later take over as a franchisor, highlighting the importance of confidence and passion in pursuing a career. Join us as we delve into the world of franchising and the joy of working with children. Episode Highlights: Julie’s first job at a shoe shop and how she got it through her sister’s connection The valuable skills Julie learned from her various jobs, including customer service and management The challenges of being a single parent and finding flexible working arrangements Discovering Techie Tots and the decision to become a franchisee The benefits of being a franchisee, including support, proven methods, and the opportunity to work around family commitments Julie’s experience running Techie Tots classes and the impact on children’s confidence and skills The expansion of Techie Tots to include junior classes and plans for future growth The importance of loving what you do and having confidence in your abilities Julie’s proudest moments, including taking over as a franchisor and revamping the business Thanks for listening and if you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button for the latest episodes! For more insights into the franchising world check out The Franchised at - ⁠www.thefranchised.com⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thedisenfranchised/support

Overcoming fears by following your passion - Julie Barber - TechyTots

Julis is the CEO of techyTots Ltd, a children's coding class, working with parents and schools to introduce children to coding in a fun and hands-on way.  
Julie lives in Greater London with her two grown-up daughters and a family dog.  

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Julie Barber

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Background: Julie Barber, 47, is the CEO of TechyTots, an award-winning children’s coding franchise based in Sutton, Greater London. Julie’s journey from a struggling single mother on benefits to the successful leader of a thriving business is nothing short of remarkable. With a background that includes leaving school at 16 and working various jobs to support her family, Julie’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Personal Story: Julie’s life took a significant turn when she became a single parent at 30, after her divorce. For 17 years, she juggled multiple jobs, from call centres to working in schools, all while raising her two children on a limited income. Life was challenging, particularly when her youngest daughter developed severe anxiety, leading Julie to resign from her job and become her full-time carer. During this period, Julie relied on universal credit and carer's allowance, struggling to make ends meet while ensuring her children had the best possible upbringing. In 2018, Julie’s life changed when she became a franchisee with TechyTots, a company focused on introducing young children to coding. Her passion for the business and dedication to its mission led her to buy the company in 2021, transitioning from franchisee to CEO. This move came with its own set of challenges, particularly in terms of confidence and managing a network of franchisees, but Julie tackled these by upskilling herself through a business management course. Achievements and Impact: Since taking over TechyTots, Julie has maintained the highest-grossing franchise area and expanded the company by bringing on new franchisees. Her work with TechyTots has had a profound impact on the community, particularly through partnerships with schools, the London Borough of Sutton and the Department of Education to provide coding education and HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programs. TechyTots recently won the 2024 Clubhub award for Best Children’s Coding Franchise, a testament to the company’s growth and Julie’s leadership. Unique Angle: Julie’s story is unique and compelling—a single mother who spent years on benefits, navigating the complexities of raising a child with severe anxiety, and working low-paying jobs, now leading an award-winning business. Her journey from surviving on universal credit to no longer needing state support and even achieving personal milestones, like finally landscaping her garden after 20 years, is a powerful narrative of perseverance and success. Moreover, her experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she retrained as a COVID vaccinator despite a lifelong phobia of needles, adds an extraordinary layer to her story. Purpose of the Article: Julie hopes to share her story to inspire others who may be facing similar struggles, particularly single parents or those doubting their potential to achieve success. She also wishes to highlight the impact of TechyTots in empowering children through early coding education and encouraging others to consider franchising as a viable and rewarding career path. &nbsp;<blockquote>From a single mom on benefits to CEO of award-winning TechyTots Franchise —let’s talk about my journey of resilience.</blockquote>

Inspiring Story of a Single Mom's Journey from Struggling on Benefits to Successful CEO

2024 CLUB HUB AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED Club Hub is delighted to announce 16 award winners for 2024. Julie Barber who runs TechyTots Ltd was awarded Franchise of the Year (up to 15 franchises) The Club Hub Awards are the only national awards for children’s activity providers with entry by application form only, no voting. The awards are independently judged by a panel of expert judges, winners are selected based on their commitment to excellence, innovation and growth of their business, demonstrated through their business performance, achievements, brand values and passion for what they do. The awards are offered across 16 categories. 86 finalists were shortlisted from 315 applications, representing 165 Club Hub member businesses. The standard of applications was very high and represented a diverse range of kid's activities, clubs and related businesses.&nbsp;I am thrilled to have won the Award for Best Franchise (with up to 15 franchisees). This achievement is a result of the hard work of all our franchisees and staff who have been bringing TechyTots classes to children and schools throughout the UK introducing children to important coding skills. – Julie Barber CEO TechyTots Ltd&nbsp; The winners were announced at the Club Hub Event 2024 on Saturday 11 May at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel, Birmingham and on Grow Radio. The annual awards recognise and showcase the dedication and achievements of businesses in the sector. “Huge Congratulations to all our Club Hub Award Winners this year. It was amazing to present your award on Saturday and celebrate all your achievements. I very much look forward to following your business journeys for years to come”. Tessa Robinson, Founder and Director of Club Hub UK ENDS FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Emma Hewitt, Event Manager emma.hewitt@club-hub-app.co.uk NOTES TO EDITOR: Club Hub is an app and website for parents that helps them quickly and easily find local clubs and activities for their children clubhubuk.co.uk We work with club owners and activity providers to fill their empty spaces and grow their businesses&nbsp; In 2023 we received over 1 million users, over 3 million page views and over 88,000 bookings or messages for children’s activity providers We offer the UK’s Number 1 service for parents seeking activity providers. From antenatal to age 18; from Dorset to Aberdeen – we’ve got it covered! &nbsp;<blockquote>I am thrilled to have won the Award for Best Franchise (with up to 15 franchisees). This achievement is a result of the hard work of all our franchisees and staff who have been bringing TechyTots classes to children and schools throughout the UK introducing children to important coding skills. – Julie Barber CEO TechyTots Ltd</blockquote>

TECHYTOTS WINS NATIONAL CLUB HUB AWARD

Julis is the CEO of techyTots Ltd, a children's coding class, working with parents and schools to introduce children to coding in a fun and hands-on way. Julie lives in Greater London with her two grown-up daughters and a family dog.

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