Mandy Weston, co-founder of TownSquare, which aims to create, nurture and grow start-ups and small businesses, talks about Sheryl Sandberg, rugby, and Jumanji...

1. What was your first Saturday job?
I worked in the local laundrette - it was an eye opener for sure.
2. What motivates you?
It might sound corny but anything I can do well which allows me to be a positive role model for my three daughters. They inspire me, and so it’s my mission to try and inspire them.
3. And what irritates you?
Right now, commercially it’s the lack of focus on digital inclusion and training opportunities for the over 50s. In a personal sense, bad manners at the dinner table! It’s nit-picky but it drives me insane.
4. What one wish would you grant to Gwent?
The region has so much potential but it needs more investment, particularly in its transport infrastructure. Hopefully, the metro project can work through its issues and have an impact. 
5. Who do you most admire in business?
I know that business-related books can sometimes be hit or miss for some people, but I was once told to read Sheryl Sandberg’s book Lean In. It discusses how she met all the challenges of a senior role in a large company while just being a normal woman dealing with divorce, remarriage and kids. Even through tragedy, she is still able to be a strong voice for equality for women at work. I don’t ever really get star struck, but her story – and savvy investments - is inspiring.
6. Rugby v football
It has to be rugby for me. Not only is the sport itself a spectacle, but comradery between players and fans alike is wonderful. There is nothing quite like hearing the anthem at the national stadium – it never fails to give me goosebumps. 
7. What was the last book you read?
It was actually a John Green book that my daughter had recommended because I enjoyed Fault in Our Stars. It was definitely a teenage read so I pretend Lean In was my last book. 
8. What do you do to relax?
I have two dogs so long walks for sure. I also love a spa day with friends and, more importantly, no phone signal.
9. What dreams are you still fulfil?
I wouldn’t say I have one big pie-in-the-sky dream. I’m happy to take opportunities as they come. While it’s important to have a plan, you should never shut yourself off from unexpected opportunities. Some of the most rewarding work has come from the peripheral.
As for bucket list items, I would love to do a real rustic safari, perhaps in combination with some work on a project in somewhere like Africa for a while; something like help build a school etc.
10. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
I have to admit it was the Jumanji remake/sequel. It was awesome and very funny. I love going to see updated movies to see how they adapt.
11. Favourite food and place to eat it?
I love oriental-style food, so Wagamama’s, Yo Sushi etc. My favourite restaurant, though, is probably the Custom House in Penarth.
12. What car do you drive?
A Mini convertible.
13. What one song would you have on your iPod?
Stereophonics – It Means Nothing.
14. Coffee v tea
Green tea, to make me feel healthy after I have drunk too much coffee!
15. What’s your favourite TV programme?
Torchwood
16. Do you tweet? 
Yes, @mandyweston_
17. If you were an animal, what would you be?
A dog, because I am very loyal.
18. Proudest moment?
Not sure that’s fair as I have three daughters, but I was absolutely bursting with pride when my eldest walked down the aisle in June 2016.
19. And most embarrassing?
I fell in a river three years ago, hit my head and suffered a suspected a neck injury so was rescued by firemen and blue light to hospital. It was all over Facebook which was a bit embarrassing! I had fractured my C2 though, so it’s a good thing the experts were there.
20. What advice would you give to someone wanting to be successful in your line of work?
In the startup space, I would say be prepared to work really hard and long hours in the early days. Good things take time and at the beginning, you may have to learn to convince people your vision will work. If you can place yourself in the right environment with the right people to turn that belief and determination into productivity, you will reap benefits in the end.