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What happens when you stop performing and actually start expressing yourself? In this episode of Creatively Eccentric, I sit down with singer, songwriter, and coach Tommy Ludgate. Together, we explore the emotional landscape of artistry—from early musical roots and nature to navigating the inner critic and marketing without losing your soul. Consider this your invitation to trade perfectionism for curiosity and reconnect with what’s underneath. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info Tommy Ludgate Instagram Website: voice and identity coaching Takeaways Exploring the influence of early music experience on creative confidenceNavigating the inner critic and finding one's creative voice Self-awareness is a continuous journeyUnderstanding and managing the inner critic is essential for creativity Chapters 00:00 Exploring Voice and Identity 01:06 The Influence of Early Music Experience 02:10 Navigating Creativity and Self-Expression 03:00 The Inner Critic and Creative Confidence 06:03 Finding Your Creative Voice 08:35 Unpacking Emotional Patterns in Creativity 14:04 Discovering Creative Identity 18:20 Reflecting on Artistry and Clarity 19:25 The Journey of Self-Awareness 20:50 Navigating the Inner and Outer Voice 22:11 The Power of Vision Boards 25:29 Understanding and Managing the Inner Critic 29:11 Embracing Emotions in Creativity 33:32 Nature, Reflection, and Creativity 36:02 Balancing Freedom and Structure in Creativity 38:12 The Creative Voice and Self-Expression Creatively Eccentric™️

The conversation of Studio Draw(er) Ross Martin delves into the unfulfilled promises of the creative industry, the importance of authenticity, weird sources of inspiration, quirky workspace elements, and misconceptions about his work and personality. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info Ep28 Why Creative Process Matters More Than Perfect Outcomes Instagram: Draw and Deliver Website: Draw and Deliver Host at Creative Mornings Cardiff Takeaways Authenticity is crucial in the creative industryWeird sources of inspiration can lead to unique and innovative work Chapters 00:00 The Creative Industry's Unfulfilled Promise 53:25 Authenticity in the Creative Industry 56:06 Weird Sources of Inspiration 01:01:01 The Quirky Workspace 01:04:39 Misconceptions and Self-Trust Creatively Eccentric ™️

In this episode of Creatively Eccentric , I sit down with freelance illustrator, designer, and animator Ross Martin to explore what it really means to create authentically. We chat about why curiosity and world-building are at the heart of his work, how he's learned to value the creative process over chasing the perfect outcome, and why leaving room for exploration often leads to the most interesting ideas. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info Instagram: Draw and Deliver Website: Draw and Deliver Host at Creative Mornings Cardiff Creatively Eccentric ™️ Takeaways Embrace authenticity in creativityValue the process over the outcome Self-discovery through creativityBalancing emotional engagement in animation Chapters 00:00 Embracing Authenticity in Creativity 01:07 The Value of World Building and Curiosity 10:09 The Shift from Outcome to Process 14:08 Balancing Perfection and Exploration 18:10 Human Side of Creativity vs. Polished Outcomes 22:11 Struggle with Industry Expectations 25:20 Understanding Self through Creativity 26:17 Client Expectations and Values 27:22 Emotional Expression in Animation 28:06 Nuance and World Building in Animation 30:05 Observing People through Animation 31:13 Balancing Emotional Engagement in Animation 32:14 Artistic Restraint and Viewer Engagement 40:43 Self-Discovery through Creativity 43:01 Advice for Creatives 49:35 Creating a Connected Creative World

In Studio Draw(er) Shola shares insights and experiences related to these themes, providing valuable perspectives on the creative industry and personal creative processes. The conversation covers various themes including career reflections, industry frustrations, design misrepresentation, cultural appropriation, creative chaos, inspiration and influence, and a creative flop. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info Ep26 Learning Upwards Shola Ladeji Instagram: ac.cess mag Takeaways Career reflections and existential moments are crucial for personal growth and professional development.The importance of authenticity, intentionality, and ethical considerations in the creative industry. Chapters 00:00 Career Reflections 34:08 Industry Frustrations 36:08 Design Misrepresentation 37:39 Cultural Appropriation 40:06 Creative Chaos 46:42 Inspiration and Influence 48:16 Creative Flop Creatively Eccentric ™️

Shola Ladeji, a designer, strategist, and mentor, shares his non-traditional journey in the creative industry, emphasising the power of being a generalist, learning through failure, and navigating the challenges of creativity. He provides insights on avoiding noise, chasing meaningful work, and supporting emerging talent. Shola's diverse experiences and perspectives offer valuable lessons for creatives at all stages of their careers. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info Shola Ladeji Instagram: ac.cess mag Takeaways The power of being a generalist Navigating non-traditional career paths Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shola Ladeji 00:29 The Journey of Shola Ladeji 02:16 Learning and Resilience in the Creative Industry 03:18 Outsider Thinking and Creative Resilience 05:36 The Power of Being a Generalist 06:59 Navigating Non-Traditional Career Paths 09:16 Judging and Mentoring Emerging Talent 11:03 Diversity in Creative Judging 13:00 Opportunities and Breakthroughs 14:33 Advice for Emerging Talent 18:24 Avoiding Noise and Focusing on Meaningful Work 21:21 Dealing with Creativity and Hard Times 26:55 Advice on Job Chasing 28:48 Connecting with Shola Ladeji Creatively Eccentric ™️

In this episode of Studio Draw (er), Jo Hooper discusses the challenges in the coaching industry, the impact of trends, the importance of setting boundaries, and the significance of honesty and self-reflection in personal and professional growth. Takeaways Setting boundaries is underrated in the coaching industryBeing honest with oneself and others is important for personal and professional growth Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Ep 24 - The Truth About Success Jo Hooper's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getwildlyfree Jo Hooper's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@joiswildlyfree Guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getwildlyfree YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@joiswildlyfree Chapters 00:05 Target Audience and Coaching Approach 00:06 Navigating Creativity and Industry Frustrations 05:26 Productivity Myths and Misconceptions 09:54 Honesty in Business Practices 14:38 Challenging Assumptions and Stereotypes 16:57 Valuing Time and Expertise Creatively Eccentric™️

Many traditional business models prioritise profit and growth over the personal well-being of the entrepreneur. This often leads to burnout and dissatisfaction. Jo Hooper believes that the conventional mindset of working tirelessly for success can be detrimental. She highlights that many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of thinking that long hours equate to success, which is not true. Instead of sacrificing their personal lives for work, she encourages entrepreneurs to design their businesses around their lives.   Topics Life-first business model Unconventional choices and authenticity Pricing realities and mindset shifts Social media authenticity and visibility Societal conditioning and work culture Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Jo Hooper's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getwildlyfree Jo Hooper's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@joiswildlyfree Guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getwildlyfree YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@joiswildlyfree Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jo Hooper's Coaching Philosophy 00:46 Target Audience and Coaching Approach 03:16 Embracing Unconventional Choices 05:19 Leaving Corporate for Mental Health 07:37 Balancing Life and Business 10:38 Redefining Work and Life Priorities 10:55 Recognising Sacrifices for Success 14:51 Challenging the Status Quo in Work 17:40 Uncomfortable Truths for Creatives 20:46 Confronting Criticism with Humour 21:47 The Challenge of Specificity in Communication 23:31 Embracing Authenticity and Personal Growth 24:30 Finding Joy in Content Creation 25:47 Uncovering Your Creative Voice 26:50 The Importance of Authentic Expression 29:07 Overcoming Fear of Visibility 32:51 The Need for Self-Validation 36:13 Backing Yourself for Success 37:54 Navigating Life Changes with Grace 41:19 Valuing Time and Expertise Creatively Eccentric ™️

What started in Season 1 as a quick end-of-episode question about desk clutter has evolved into its own dedicated companion show. For every main episode, my guests will be opening up their Studio draw (ers) to share raw sketches, unfinished experiments, bizarre creative habits, and half-baked ideas that usually stay hidden away. ⭐️New Season 2 Episodes Starts 3rd of September 2026⭐️ Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Creatively Eccentric™️ Takeaways Dedicated bonus episode Studio Draw (er)Blending real-world creative experiences with systems and mindsets

I reflect on our journey, sharing behind-the-scenes breakthroughs and how the show has evolved since launching in 2025. We revisit key moments on visibility, fearlessness, unmasking. Catch up on past episodes during the break, and get ready—Season 2 launches September 2026! Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Creatively Eccentric™️ Episode mentions Steve Chapman Nathalie Edwards Louisa Shaeri Kayleigh Hall Shamsul Rosunally Angela Lyons Dominique Van Werkhoven Johanna Paverdy Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome & Season 1 Overview 00:45 - Key Themes: Visibility, Fearlessness & Eccentricity 01:43 - Steve Chapman: Unbecoming & The Sandwich Metaphor 03:06 - Nathalie Edwards: Breaking Generational Expectations 03:59 - Louisa Shaeri: Situational Mutism & Unmasking 05:23 - Kayleigh Hall: Identity, Culture & Community 06:35 - Shamsul Rosunally: AI & Independent Storytelling 07:27 - Angela Lyons: Diverse Event Representation 08:44 - Dominique Van Werkhoven: Standing Out vs. Tokenism 10:47 - Johanna Paverdy: Barriers for Diverse Founders 12:15 - Behind the Scenes: Building Foundations 14:02 - Strategic Shifts & Guest Waitlists 16:03 - Pitching Boldly & Cold DMs 17:34 - Birmingham Design Festival & Unapologetic Visibility 20:36 - Season 1 Wrap-Up & Season 2 Launch

Sunni shares insights on cultural representation, emotional impact, and finding inspiration in unexpected places. The conversation also explores the challenges of transitioning careers, the impact of storytelling in design, and the significance of visibility and representation in the design industry. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Shari Fairclough Bio Instagram Takeaways Design for the soulLearning from failure Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sunni's Work and Background05:22 Learning from Failure and Finding Inspiration10:53 Personal Identity and Cultural Representation in Design16:32 Transitioning Careers and Passion Projects23:04 The Creative Process and Design Inspiration29:20 Weird Sources of Inspiration in Design Creatively Eccentric™

Is networking really about making connections, or can it sometimes feel transactional? Are design festivals built for extroverts? In this bonus episode, I'm joined once again by graphic designer Bhavini to reflect on our experiences at Birmingham Design Festival 2026.  We share honest reflections on attending events as designers, overcoming networking anxiety, finding confidence in creative spaces, the hidden costs of attending festivals, and why it's important to choose events that work for you. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info Ep21 From Almost Quitting to Finding Joy Again B81 Designs Instagram Mentions Birmingham Design Festival - https://birminghamdesignfestival.com Sisterland Festival - https://sisterlandfestival.com All Flows Milton Keynes - https://allflows.co.uk Cannes Lions - https://www.canneslions.com The House of Oddities - https://hoodares.com/ Ellmer Stefan - https://www.instagram.com/ellmer.stefan/ Key Takeaways Networking as introverts and creativesBuilding genuine creative communitiesAccessibility, affordability and inclusivity at creative eventsTips for attending design festivals for the first timeWhy it's okay to leave events that don't feel right for you Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Birmingham Design Festival 12:48 Networking Experiences and Insights 17:56 Navigating Networking Events 22:27 Accessibility and Inclusivity in Design Festivals 27:26 Financial Barriers to Participation 31:53 Diversity in Speakers and Opportunities 35:25 Final Thoughts on Event Participation Creatively Eccentric™️

Bhavini Lakhani, a graphic designer and branding specialist, shares her journey of creativity, confidence, and self-discovery. She discusses the impact of her structured upbringing on her design approach, the challenges of client experiences, and the process of rebuilding self-confidence. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info B81 Designs Instagram Takeaways Creativity isn't always confident, clear, or linearThe process of rebuilding self-confidence is ongoing and requires self-trust and support Comparisonitis: The impact of social media on creativity and the importance of finding one's own path.Finding Inspiration: The value of outdoor experiences and the impact of personal projects on creativity.Design Tips: The importance of legibility, contrast, and avoiding creative traps in design work.Wise Words for Creatives: The importance of enjoying the work you do and avoiding creative burnout. Chapters 00:00 Challenges of Client Experiences and Rebuilding Self-Confidence09:08 Challenging Design Rules and Client Expectations16:05 Rebuilding Self-Confidence and the Journey of Creativity34:39 Wise Words for Creatives Creatively Eccentric™

Kala shares her journey as a creative entrepreneur, navigating spaces where representation matters, and embracing her African heritage through fashion and business. She discusses overcoming industry pressures, building confidence, and supporting other women founders. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Website - https://bykalax.com/ Instagram - https://instagram.com/kala Twitter/x - https://twitter.com/kala Takeaways 1. Be Bold: Embrace your voice and share your story unapologetically. 2. Seek Representation: Ensure that others are seen and heard in spaces where they are often overlooked. 3. Create Opportunities: Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; make your own path. 4. Build Confidence: Understand that confidence can be cultivated through experience and resilience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kala's Journey 03:43 Embracing Bold Voices and Zero Apologies 06:29 Navigating Underrepresentation in Journalism 09:23 Building Confidence in a Male-Dominated Industry 12:01 Creating Opportunities in the Creative Space 14:44 The Power of African Prints in Fashion 16:00 Authenticity vs. Industry Expectations 18:03 Finding Your Authentic Self 18:46 Embracing Individuality in Branding 19:37 Cultural Significance of African Prints 22:19 Everyday Visibility Through Fashion 24:56 Supporting Small Businesses and Female Founders 27:44 The Importance of Community and Support 29:35 Creative Processes and Inspirations 33:35 Learning from Career Mistakes 37:35 Advice for Aspiring Creatives Creatively Eccentric™

Emmelie identifies as a self-taught designer, a label that fills her with both confidence and uncertainty. While she has gained valuable skills on her own, the absence of a formal degree can sometimes make her question her capabilities. Despite societal pressures to pursue traditional education, Emmelie’s journey illustrates that creativity can flourish outside of conventional pathways. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery in the creative world. By embracing her messy journey and the community around her, she has transformed her passion for design into a thriving career. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Chapters 00:00 Emmelie Coulson's Background and Creative Focus 02:13 The Role of Illustration in Inclusive Design 03:17 Resonance with Bold Voices and Messy Journeys 03:53 Self-Taught Career Change and Educational Path 04:49 Challenges of Traditional Creative Education 07:11 Transition from Interior Design to Creative Business 08:07 Confidence and Career Shifts 09:43 The Pressure to Figure Out Creative Paths Early 10:10 Starting Creative Side Projects 12:04 Networking and Community Support 14:03 Building Client Confidence and Brand Clarity 15:34 The Role of Comfort Zones in Growth 18:16 Final Push to Leave Employment 20:41 Defining Bold Unapologetic Branding 20:53 Art for Expression vs. Strategy 22:56 Vibrant Branding for Female Entrepreneurs 23:42 Benefits of Bold Visuals for Female Founders 24:41 Revisiting Inner Child and Authenticity 25:30 Client Success Stories and Business Transformation 27:01 Common Questions and Misconceptions in Creative Work 34:30 Reflections on Nonlinear Creative Journeys 34:50 Lessons on Patience and Going at Your Own Pace 35:05 The Importance of Self-Compassion in Growth 36:33 Connecting with Emmelie Coulson on Social Media Key Topics Creative journey and career changeThe importance of confident, unapologetic brandingChallenges and misconceptions around branding and illustrationThe role of inclusivity in design and marketingStrategies for building confidence and overcoming self-doubt Guest Instagram Contact - Website Creatively Eccentric™

Gary Lewis, a multifaceted copywriter, shares his journey through the creative landscape, emphasising the importance of embracing messy journeys and neurodiversity. He discusses the evolution of copywriting, the significance of emotional connections in marketing, and the challenges faced by working-class creatives. He also highlights the power of storytelling and the role of allyship in fostering supportive creative environments. Connect Pitch Heather: [email protected] Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Takeaway Neurodiversity and career developmentThe importance of professional alliesThe role of copywriting in creative expression Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gary Lewis 00:53 Intro - Gary Lewis 02:00 Navigating a Messy Journey 06:19 The Impact of Neurodiversity on Work 09:12 Understanding Neurodiversity in Marketing 12:04 The Role of Class in Copywriting 17:36 The Power of Copywriting for Creatives 23:32 The Power of Copywriting 29:02 The Role of Authenticity in Communication 33:16 Empathy and Support in Business 38:26 Building Alliances and Community 41:13 Creative Habits and Inspirations 46:30 Encouragement for the Underestimated 48:40 riverside_heather_ebanks_raw-audio_creatively_eccentric_0150.wav Guest Gary Does Copy Creatively Eccentric™