A masterclass in ambition and resilience

Michelle Niziol’s journey is a masterclass in ambition, resilience, and building on your own terms.

As the founder of multiple businesses, Michelle has become one of the UK’s most respected entrepreneurs in her field. But behind the awards and achievements is a story of relentless drive, self-belief, and navigating the challenges that come with breaking through in a competitive industry.

In this exclusive Nuwsletter interview, Michelle shares the reality behind her success – her story is a reminder that success isn’t about luck, it’s about consistency, courage, and staying the course when others would walk away.

Get to know Michelle Niziol

• Based: Oxfordshire, UK
• Favourite Business Book: “Shoe Dog” by Phil Knight, an inspiring reminder that the biggest successes start with grit and perseverance.
• Podcast Recommendation: “Diary of a CEO “– I love hearing the unfiltered, behind-the-scenes journeys of entrepreneurs.
• Business Hero: Sara Blakely – she built Spanx from scratch and showed the world what’s possible when you stay authentic and bold.
• If I wasn’t a business owner I would have been: A fashion designer with my own brand. I’ve always loved creativity, design, and building something that makes people feel good.
• Outside of the office you can find me: Strength training in my home gym, socialising with friends, or at a concert soaking up live music

You’ve built multiple businesses across different sectors. What sparked the first step into entrepreneurship for you?

Being on the brink of being homeless at 17 changed my life. I knew I wanted stability and control over my future, so I decided to create it myself. I bought my first property at 18, and by 25 I had built a multi-million-pound portfolio.

Entrepreneurship wasn’t just about making money. It was about creating freedom and building a life on my own terms.

What’s one misconception people have about building a business in property or finance that you wish more people understood?

That it’s just about the numbers. It’s not. It’s about people – their dreams, their fears, and their goals. If you focus on genuinely helping people, the numbers will follow.

Can you take us back to a time when you felt like giving up? What did you learn from that low point and how has it shaped your journey?

There was a point where my businesses were growing faster than I was, and I felt completely overwhelmed. I thought about walking away. But I learned that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. That low point taught me to build a strong support system and to stop trying to do it all alone.

How do you balance ambition with personal life? Do you believe balance is possible or is this just a myth in entrepreneurship?

Balance isn’t about a perfect split. It’s about being fully present in whatever you’re doing. When I’m with my children, I’m all in. When I’m working, I’m focused. I also prioritise my health and wellbeing; you can’t lead effectively if you’re running on empty.

What’s one decision in business that scared you but changed everything?

Saying yes to national TV when I went on “The Apprentice”. It terrified me, but it gave me incredible opportunities – media exposure, partnerships, and the confidence to show up on bigger stages.

How has your definition of success evolved over time? What does “success” look like to you now?

In my 20s, success was about numbers: profit, properties, and growth. Now, it’s about freedom. The ability to choose who I work with, where I spend my time, and the impact I can make, particularly helping other women in business achieve their potential.

You’re a big advocate for business. What advice do you give to those struggling with self-doubt or imposter syndrome?

Everyone feels it, even the people who look like they have it all figured out. I remind myself that fear often sits next to growth. Focus on your progress, not perfection, and surround yourself with people who genuinely support and elevate you.

What daily habits or mindset shifts have been non-negotiables in your journey?

Daily strength training keeps me grounded and energised. Journaling helps me clear my head and set intentions. And I protect my diary like a non-negotiable – if it’s not scheduled, it doesn’t happen.

What’s the one piece of business advice you come back to time and time again?

“Do it scared.” If something excites and terrifies you at the same time, you’re probably on the right track.

If Nuwsletter readers remember one lesson from your journey, what do you hope it is?

That you can rewrite your story no matter where you start. I went from being nearly homeless at 17 to building multiple businesses. Your circumstances don’t define you. Your decisions do.