business un-boxed

Business Un-Boxed: Real-World Wisdom for Ambitious Women

From California to the UK, from single mum to CEO—unlock practical strategies, honest advice, and the confidence to build your own success story. Welcome to Business Un-Boxed—where lived experience meets business expertise.

I’m Mandy Wolfe, and my journey proves you don’t need a perfect path to build a powerful career. After earning my business degree at Saddleback College in California, I moved to the UK in 2000, became a mum to two amazing daughters, and faced the challenge of single parenting after divorce in 2011—with no family nearby and only part-time work experience. But I didn’t let that stop me.

I taught myself Sage and QuickBooks, found flexible bookkeeping jobs, and worked my way into office management and accounts roles for small businesses—fishermen, hairdressers, garages, and tradespeople. I adapted, upskilled, and thrived.

 With over 25 years of hands-on experience across sectors—maritime, eco-energy, tourism, beauty, and grassroots community organisations—I bring a uniquely broad and respected perspective to coaching and consultancy.

As founder of Wolfe & Co Consultancy and former CEO of Lyme Bay Fisherman’s CIC, I’ve built a reputation for delivering practical, mission-driven support to SMEs, sole traders, and CICs. My work has been nationally recognised—from speaking at the Coastal Futures Conference (2023), to being nominated for Fishing News “Initiative of the Year” (2024), and featured in the Exhibition of the Seas (2024).

 Whether you’re pivoting careers, launching a new venture, or simply feeling stuck, I help people and organisations navigate change with courage. My approach combines strategic business expertise with governance, operational experience, and a deep commitment to personal growth.

I’ve raised over £600,000 in funding, authored a 130+ page how-to guide for CICs, and delivered results for a diverse client base—from grassroots initiatives to nationally recognised programmes.

In 2025, I also produced a 30-minute documentary that breaks down the five core methods of inshore fishing, each explained in engaging 3–5 minute segments. It’s available to watch on YouTube and is already being used by educators, policymakers, and community leaders to gain a better understanding of the realities of sustainable fishing.

Suppose you’re ready to update your CV, build new skills, launch a business, or manage the day-to-day realities of running your own venture. In that case, you’ll find step-by-step advice, encouragement, and a community that understands the unique challenges women face in work and life after 40.

• 2017: Stepped up as Acting General Manager at a holiday park, proving leadership under pressure.

• 2018–2022: Project Manager for the world-renowned Blue Marine Foundation, delivering high-impact marine sector projects.

• 2023: United x50 U12M boat fishermen to create the UK’s first grassroots, fishermen-led CIC—and became its founding CEO.

• 2023–2025: Raised £600,000+, delivered 14+ community projects, and ran a CIC with a team of two.

• Today: Helping you unbox your own business potential—no matter where you’re starting from.

• 1:1 and group coaching for women, single parents, and anyone ready to take control of their career.
• Support with business planning, funding applications, and project management.
• Real-world advice on bookkeeping, office management, and building a business from scratch.

• Practical guides and templates for business plans, funding proposals, and more.
• Monthly “Un-Boxed” sessions—live Q&A, accountability circles, and guest expert interviews.

• Join a supportive network of women and entrepreneurs who get it.
• Share your wins, challenges, and questions in a safe, empowering space.

 I know what it’s like to start over—with no safety net, no family nearby, and no formal education beyond a community college degree. I became a single parent in a new country, juggling work, motherhood, and the challenges of survival. I didn’t have connections or a clear roadmap. What I had was grit, heart, and a refusal to give up.

I taught myself everything—from bookkeeping to governance, from funding bids to running a nationally recognised CIC. I climbed the ladder with barely any help, often learning the hard way. And if I can do it, so can you. My approach is honest, practical, and rooted in real experience—not just theory. I’ve lived the mess and the magic of building something meaningful from the ground up. I’m not here to impress you—I’m here to empower you.

All I’ve ever wanted is to be the kind of friend, mentor, and guide I needed when I was struggling. That, to me, would be my most outstanding achievement. I am a woman’s warrior. And if you’re ready to rise, I’ll be right beside you.