About this episode
In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur podcast, host Jo welcomes Sophie Fawcett, a brand strategist, cancer survivor, and the founder of TONIC, pioneering medical apparel. Sophie shares her inspiring journey from shaping major UK fashion brands, to founding TONIC after experiencing the inadequacies of traditional hospital wear through her own shoulder surgery. With sustainability and thoughtful design at its core, TONIC aims to provide dignity and empathy to patients during their most vulnerable times. Sophie discusses how her personal battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma solidified her mission, transforming her from a founder into a user of her own innovative garments in chemotherapy wards. Listen as she delves into the creation process, the challenges faced, and her future aspirations for TONIC, truly making health and recovery more humane through stylish, functional medical wear. 00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast00:15 Meet Sophie Fawcett: Brand Strategist and Cancer Survivor00:37 The Birth of TONIC: Redefining Patient Wear01:05 Sophie’s Personal Journey with Cancer01:24 The Emotional Impact of TONIC’s Mission01:38 Welcome Sophie to the Podcast01:50 Sophie’s Journey Through Chemotherapy02:40 The Inspiration Behind TONIC04:30 Challenges with Traditional Medical Apparel05:23 The Development of TONIC’s Product Line05:46 The Importance of Dignity in Patient Care06:32 TONIC’s Unique Approach to Medical Apparel08:54 The Role of Design in Medical Apparel13:24 Building the Business: From Idea to Reality19:37 The Investment Journey and Future Plans25:08 Passion for the Business26:04 Challenges of Running a Business26:54 Innovative Medical Solutions29:07 Patient Experience and Research32:34 Marketing and Sales Strategies34:57 Reflections and Future Goals39:46 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs46:37 Gratitude and Support48:19 Conclusion and FarewellSupport the showEdited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BXFor bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneurContact: enquiries@joglynnsmith.comwww.joglynnsmith.comMUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.ioPHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com
