What happens when your business is rooted in purpose - but your own wellbeing starts to suffer?
In this episode, I’m joined by Tony O’Neil, founder of Animalia Apparel - a Glasgow-based fightwear brand with a powerful social heartbeat. Tony started Animalia after working in youth sports development and seeing first-hand how much his local community needed more support and connection.
Now, he partners with world-class fighters, reinvests profits into youth-led community activities, and even invites locals to help design products. But behind the impact is a raw, honest story of what it really takes to build a business while managing poor mental health.
In this episode, we talk about:
- The origin story of Animalia and its community-driven mission
- What it’s like to fall into entrepreneurship without a clear roadmap
- How Tony navigated burnout and mental health challenges while leading a brand
- Why your wellbeing must come first — even when others are relying on you
- The power of going back to basics and building stronger business foundations
Whether you're running a mission-led brand or just need a reminder that it's okay to slow down - this episode is honest, human, and full of heart.
🥋 Check out Animalia Apparel:
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The Freedom Method Podcast is for women on a journey to find freedom through online business. Whether you're in a 9-5 or you're already a female entrepreneur, but your business is feeling anything but free - this podcast helps you build an online business that works for you, not one you work for.
Hosted by Sophie Biggerstaff - online business coach, strategist, and founder of the Freedom Model Method.
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