Episode 120: Why Sign Language Is Great for Babies with Julie Hetherington

The Business Awards Show

In this episode of the Business Awards Show, host Debbie Gilbert interviews Julie Hetherington, a TinyTalk franchisee who transitioned from a chartered accountant to running baby signing classes. Julie shares her inspiring journey, explaning how she became a TinyTalk franchisee in April 2010 in the South Birmingham Area. She emphasizes the benefits of baby signing for early communication, teaching everyday BSL signs to families to help them communicate with their little ones before they can speak and beyond. Julie has forged strong links with her local community and outlines how she did so and the benefits it has brought to her business.

Previous to her life as a sign teacher, Julie was a qualified Chartered Accountant and both External and Internal Auditor for a large professional firm in Birmingham. She is an expert practitioner in this field, gaining a degree in Accounting and Finance.

Through the episode, she discusses her experiences as a franchisee, her recent Lifetime Achievement Award at the Club Hub UK Awards, and her charitable contributions. The episode highlights the significance of recognition in business. Additionally, Julie demonstrates the ability to remodel your life to align with the needs of young children if you're committed enough. And Julie's commitment to personal growth and community engagement come across loud and clear.

{1:47} Julie's Journey from accountant to franchisee.

{4:06} Benefits of baby signing.

{6:06} Julie's class structure.

{7:36} Choosing to buy a franchise.

{9:00} Franchise support and longevity.

{9:28} Due dilgience for potential franchisees.

{13:10} Winning a Lifetime Achievement Award.

{16:55} Julie's charitable work.

{17:54} The joy of being recognised locally.

{18:30} Forging community links to build a successful business.

{20:06} Julie's growth plans.

{20:31} Investing in personal development.

{21:16} Learning to understand British Sign Language.

{22:02} The communication differences between hearing and non-hearing communities.

{24:10} Julie's words of wisdom.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Julie: https://www.tinytalk.co.uk/julieh

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinytalk_southbrum_julieh

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TinyTalkSouthWestBirminghamandNorthWorcestershire

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwEytCppzI8&t=5s