No Shame, Big Goals: Scaling & Selling a Creative Agency with Emily Jeffrey-Barrett

In this candid and energising conversation, our host, Katy Cowan, sits down with Emily Jeffrey-Barrett, founder of creative agency Among Equals, to mark its fifth anniversary. From launching in lockdown with nothing but patio furniture and ambition to opening a second office in Dubai, Emily shares the real story of building an agency entirely on her own terms. They talk openly about what it means to take up space as a woman in business: being talked over, underestimated, and navigating the exhausting tightrope between being "too much" and "not enough". In fact, they had to record the episode twice after having too much fun the first time around — which sparked a deeper conversation about likability, being taken seriously, and the narrow boxes women are still expected to fit into. We also hear about Among Equals' unique philosophy, its bold plans for the future (including an eventual sale), and what real disruption might actually look like in the creative industry. Funny, honest, and packed with insight — this is one to bookmark if you're dreaming of building something of your own. This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.