Abi Hookway From Debt to Millions
It's Your Time - A podcast by Jo-Ann D'Costa-Manuel OBE

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In this episode, Jo-Ann Abi Hookway discuss her journey of resilience and financial transformation. After facing the challenges of divorce and significant debt, Abi defied the odds by embracing her passion for property investment, ultimately building an impressive £8 million portfolio. KEY TAKEAWAYS Empowerment Through Financial Independence: The journey emphasizes the importance of women taking control of their finances and not relying on partners for financial security. Building wealth is portrayed as a personal responsibility that can lead to greater freedom and empowerment. Mindset Shift: A crucial aspect of success is changing one's mindset from "I can't" to "How can I?" This shift encourages individuals to seek solutions and opportunities rather than focusing on limitations, fostering resilience and growth. Learning from Challenges: Embracing challenges and failures is essential for personal growth. Confidence is built through overcoming obstacles, and these experiences can serve as valuable lessons in the journey toward financial independence. Teaching Financial Literacy: The importance of educating children about money management and investment is highlighted. Understanding the three uses of money—spending, saving, and investing—can empower the next generation to build wealth and avoid common financial pitfalls. Community and Support: The narrative underscores the significance of community support, particularly among women. Sharing knowledge and experiences can create a ripple effect, where individuals not only change their own lives but also inspire and uplift others in their journey toward financial freedom. BEST MOMENTS "I thought, a lot of people say, follow your passion and do what you love. So what do I love? I like people and I like property." - Abi "My money mindset was terrible. Nobody tells you what to do with money, do they?" - Abi "You cannot tell yourself anything that's going to close your parachute." - Abi My Social Links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jo_ann_official_uk/ HOST BIO Jo-Ann is a trailblazing voice for midlife reinvention. An OBE recipient, celebrated media professional (MTV, BBC, ITV, Sky), and lifelong champion for empowerment, she brings a rare blend of credibility, warmth, and transformative insight to every episode of It’s Your Time. Don’t be fooled by her 4ft 11 frame—Jo-Ann is a true pocket rocket. Her strength, wisdom, and heart are larger than life, igniting confidence and clarity in every woman she meets. From philanthropic work alongside billionaires to intimate personal breakthroughs, Jo-Ann’s journey is both inspiring and deeply relatable. As a coach, mother, and advocate for purposeful living, she helps women break through self-doubt and rediscover their voice, dreams, and power. With a signature mix of authenticity and elegance, Jo-Ann is not just a host—she’s your invisible wingwoman, best friend, and biggest cheerleader whispering, “It’s your time.” PODCAST DESCRIPTION Midlife isn’t a crisis—it’s your greatest comeback. It’s Your Time is the transformational podcast for women ready to turn the dream they thought had passed them by into the life they live now. Hosted by OBE-awarded media powerhouse and reinvention coach Jo-Ann, and launched in partnership with Soho House, this is where some of the UK’s most high-profile women—across media, business, wellness, and the arts—share the deeply human experiences every woman faces. Through unfiltered conversations, hard-won wisdom, and uplifting rituals like personal affirmations, Jo-Ann helps midlife women rise higher, dream bolder, and live fuller. This is where self-doubt fades, clarity rises, and long-held dreams come home. Write the book. Launch the business. Love your reflection. You’ve earned your wisdom—now it’s time to use it. Because when the world says slow down, we say: step up. It’s not too late. It’s Your Time.