The Portrait Show

Filmed in my childhood bedroom where my own story began. In conversation with my cousin Anil Patel.—𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻Do you want to mark the moment and help your team grow together?This is for you.We are all made from the same colours, blended differently. When everyone is seen and heard, your team grows far. Together.—𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘁?A handcrafted book that features each team member. Their portrait, their words illustrated into a story. Woven into one book. To say this is who we are.—𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?Over the last 20 years, I’ve worked in many teams. I’ve learnt the real heartbeat of a team isn’t found in meetings. It’s in the moments where you feel seen as you are.The Team Storybook captures that. It’s like the Storybooks I do for individuals, but for the whole team. Everyone gets a portrait and their story illustrated. Coming together in one book that unifies the team.—𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲?Every person has unspoken magic.This surfaces the unseen magic in every person.Everyone gets the same space in the book. Flattening the hierarchy.Creating a shared book where every voice matters, equally.Building a culture where everyone belongs.—𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘁 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗱?People leave companies without ever feeling seen. There is a cost to that emotionally and financially. We’ve all had those conversations outside of work that go deeper than anything in a meeting. This gives a space for that depth without needing a pub or a drink. It’s a way to build better relationships especially for remote or growing teams.—𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀?It’s a simple 3 step process.1. Listen. I sit with each team member. Hear their story.2. Draw.I create a portrait and an illustrated story for each person. Same space, same care, same reflection for everyone.3. Remember.Everything is woven into one digital (and optionally printed) storybook. Something tangible you can hold.Optional extras: such as wall art to remember the experience.—𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁?It surfaces the unseen voices. Boosts morale. Supports retention. Builds culture from the inside out. Giving companies a moment to pause, reflect, and invest in their people. Instead of losing people, deepening with who's already there.—𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗼 𝗶𝘁?During moments of change. When you're hiring, scaling, or shifting direction. Could be every quarter or yearly, like a reflective team yearbook.—𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁?The cost reflects the team size and any optional extras. It’s not just a book. It’s a tool for creating togetherness within your growing company.—𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗽?A simple complimentary 15-minute conversation.Explore where your team is at and how your Team Storybook could support you to grow further together.—𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲Website → team-storybook.comEmail → [email protected]

Filmed from my childhood bedroom with my cousin Anil Patel. We grew up together in the 90s.—𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻The first storybook was made for our Ba.She shared her story in her own words from growing up in India, to moving to the UK, to raising our parents, to how we arrived.Back then it wasn’t a business. Just me, being curious. Getting to know where I came from.Now two years later, it has grown into a service I offer. Helping people pause, reflect and move forward with clarity.What better way to introduce this more formally and officially than with my cousin who is part of the family story.—𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘁?Your Storybook is a handcrafted illustrated book that helps you make sense of where you’ve been, see where you are now, and step into your vision with clarity and confidence.—𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀?You talk. I listen. I draw.I reflect your story back to you in an illustrated storybook, digital and/or printed with optional extras such as podcast episode to share your story.Start unsure. Finish knowing exactly who you are and where you are going.—𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗻𝗼𝘄?Life moves fast. It is easy to get caught in do-do-do and not take time to pause, reflect and prioritise where you’re going next.Your Storybook helps you mark that shift.—𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁?When you see yourself clearly, you feel empowered to take bold steps. Whether that is making a career change, launching a business, navigating life transitions, or simply celebrating how far you’ve come.—𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗮 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗻’𝘁 𝗾𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗽𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀?See yourself clearly.Be your vision confidently.—𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗽?A simple complimentary 15-minute conversation.Explore what’s shifting in you and how Your Storybook could help you walk your path forward with clarity.—The future is unwritten.Want to write yours together?—Website → your-storybook.comEmail → [email protected] more about Anil Patel

Are you a soul trader or a small business owner who wants to be seen and heard for who you truly are?This is for you.—𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝘀Born from a conversation we had on The Portrait Show, two months ago. Excited to announce a new offer crafted by Terry & Me.Storybook for Soul Traders is a visual storybook crafted in words & pictures that represent you and your business.—𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀Words with Terry.Pictures with Me.Coming together to create a written and illustrated storybook that captures the essence of who you are, what you do and why you do it.—𝗗𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲?Your message feels like it’s hidden under layers?You spend more time tweaking your copy than doing the actual work?You are in limbo, knowing change is due but unsure how to begin?—𝗟𝗲𝘁’𝘀 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁No longer get stuck trying to communicate who you are, what you do and you do it.We craft your brand in a way that reflects your full truth so people feel it. You get clear language and visuals that help you sell with soul. Empowering you to step into the next chapter of your business with confidence.—𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁You get a bespoke visual storybook in words & pictures that represent you and your business.No more hiding. No more undercharging. You get a digital and / or printed storybook that embodies your worth and helps others see it too.—𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱?Let’s start with a 15-minute intro chat.No pressure, just a warm conversation.Email us at [email protected] & [email protected]—𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲Website → www.storybookforsoultraders.com—Keep squeezing out your juice & let us help you do that.🌻&🍊

Matt is a Speaking Coach.Speaking is a topic close to my heart knowing the pain with my own journey with a stammer and the struggle to communicate clearly and express. I know I’m not the only one.I did a speaking session with Matt and we reflected afterwards.—In our conversation we focused on loneliness and creating connection through speaking. The feeling of having all these amazing thoughts in your mind. But if you can’t express them, it is difficult to fully connect with people as your whole self. I’ve struggled with this, and I know I’m not the only one.Which is why I wanted to host Matt on the podcast.—Matt helps people find their voice in high pressure situations, usually that shows up in public speaking support but it is really speaking in public. Matt holds training retreats, works one to one with individuals and right the way through to working with corporates.—𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 Matt’s journey really started 12 years ago. When he brought together three threads from his own passions and journey. 1. Improv – for self-expression and confidence. 2. Coaching & facilitation – the role he grew into within the agency he was working in. 3. Inner work – looking at his own patterns especially around fixing/helping.Matt pivoted from process based work to working with people.Matt went through the journey of finding his own voice, then built a business around it. Started with workshops around creativity and collaboration. People were coming to Matt for help with public speaking, so 7 years ago doubled down on that as a core offering and it has taken off from there.—𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝟲-𝗣𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗲 𝘅 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻Matt guided me through Pillar One of his 6-Point Speaker Programme.The full programme helps people increase their confidence and competence to express through their voice.Pillar One is ‘Prepare & Rehearse’ Prepare → a framework that brings your body your mind you voice online at the same time. Rehearse → how to shape content through speech rather than thinking. I loved the way Matt has turned speaking into what feels like a sport. It threw me back to being in in a swimming lesson as a kid.—𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿...1. Speaking is like driving a car. Use all your gears.2. It is okay to really slow down. You can say more than you think in 1 minute.3. It is okay to pause and remove filler words → which actually diminishes the quality. We go much deeper on the episode. —Learn more about Matt Matheson - thespeakingcoach.com

Sex & creativity isn’t just connected, it’s the same energy expressed in different ways.—𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆Sophie is a sex life coach and a workplace culture consultant. The founder of Sex & Soul & Ordinarily Different Ltd as well as running a burlesque school helping others step into and own their sexual energy.—𝗦𝗲𝘅 & 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆We talk about how sex is in everything we do, think and feel even if we don’t acknowledge it. The energy of creation, connection, and releasing. How our sacral chakra is both our sex centre and our creative centre.—𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗹 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘃𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸We unpack the creative journey in the work sense alongside the dating journey.𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 (𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 = 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴)How finding clients and dating both relate in terms of building connections and finding alignment. The importance of first impressions and energetic attraction, seeing trust and curiosity as the foundation of any great relationship.𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 (𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝘅 = 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴)Sex in its primal sense is for procreation and for pleasure. Acknowledging everyone has their own flavours, it’s the same energy we are using when we are in a state of flow.𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 (𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁/𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 = 𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗶𝗿𝘁𝗵)Releasing creative work into the world can feel vulnerable. We talk about the importance of aftercare, integration and checking in as the relationship or business grows.—𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 & 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆 & 𝗔𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲We talk about creating psychological safety, continuous dialogue, and care throughout the creative journey.𝗗𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗰𝘆Sex is most commonly linked to physical intimacy but there is energetic intimacy.𝗕𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 & 𝗙𝗹𝗼𝘄Knowing where we can go and where we can’t. Building a culture of trust in both work & personal relationships.𝗔𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻Just as relationships require tending to stay alive, so does creativity. Checking in with creative desires like we check in with sexual desires.𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝘅Talking about sex is one of the most challenging yet liberating conversations we can have. How societal shame around sex translates into creative blocks. The importance of curiosity over performance (in both sex & creative work).—Sex & creativity are two sides of the same coin when you embrace one, you free the other transforming how you show up in the world.How can you step further into your sexual energy to fuel your work & personal relationships?—This was recorded at Your Away Day by ⁠Joel Lawton⁠. Resonating with the episode, a day where Joel encourages people to lean into being over doing.—Learn more about Sophie Bryan

Joel is a Business Partner & Personal Coach. For far too long work has been about productivity and being a cog in a machine. Stuck in the doing.Through the lens of our friendship and the work we have done for each other we had a conversation about the 'Future of Work.'—“We spend 50% or more of hours at work, we should be putting ourselves first to allow the work to happen.” - Joel Lawton—𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗪𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝘁I met Joel at the first sharing circle held at IceBreakers UK in August 2023 a men’s community Joel founded in Brighton centred around weekly cold-water dips.I started my own journey to better understand masculinity wanting to understand how to show up in the modern world and connect as a man. David Chambers, Rick Cooper, Richard Day, Tom Woodfin, Beth Derry, Tim Bidey have been influential coaches & mentors on that journey guiding me through the inner work which led me to meet Joel.—𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗝𝗼𝗲𝗹 𝗦𝗲𝗲 𝗛𝗶𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆Sometimes you need someone outside of you to reflect back to you the journey you have been on, so you can see yourself clearly and move forward with your path with further clarity.That is the work I did for Joel.I supported Joel to further recognise his own journey empowering him to continue forward with a further polished ‘why’.—𝗝𝗼𝗲𝗹’𝘀 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆Joel shares his story of leaving a successful business he co-founded after 13 years. Joel grew disconnected from the business which spilt into other areas of his life. Realising he was the only person who could change this, Joel shares the story of leaving the business and how his new business In Your Corner was born from his own inner work journey.—𝗝𝗼𝗲𝗹'𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀Joel’s core offerings (so far) are Your Away Day giving people one day a month to work on their business, and one on one coaching where Joel gives people support to build their business in-line with the life that they want and need.Now, In Your Corner is growing further into a community. That is at the heart of what Joel is building. Putting people in a place where they can mingle and create. Field Food, Seb Royle, Solomon Slade, Marina Chisholm, James Gallagher, Peter Middleton & Katie were mentioned as some of the awesome people within the growing community.—We dive into…⭐️ - What success is and how success is different for everyone.❤️‍🩹 - How the boom in the wellness industry is a reaction to the world we live in. 💫 - Fix the root cause of 'our experience of the workplace' creating a world where we finish the work day feeling energised and don’t need to 'fix' ourselves.🌏 - Coming back to remembering businesses start from people and businesses are created to serve the needs of people. Focus on the person creating the best conditions to get work done.& more—Learn more about Joel LawtonWebsite - inyourcorner.coInstagram - _in_your_corner🌳

Do you want to show up confidently as You in your videos? This episode is for you.—This was only the 4th time I have met Kevan in person, yet we have been able to get to know each other and grow a friendship through the videos we each share online. —𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗞𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗻Kevan shares an insight into how he helps people present themselves online including video content & strategy.—𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆Growing up on a farm in Arkansas, Kevan was taught the value of hard work from the beginning. Initially took an academic path. Later realised he was most interested in philosophy & connecting with people. After a year travelling Kevan fell into production finding himself on the road with NSYNC on their production team.Flowing into rigging, working in lighting & sound for blockbuster films like Hulk & Born Ultimatum and rigging shows for the likes of Jay-Z, Elton John, Madonna.After a course at London Film Academy Kevan fell further in love with film as a way to express and create connection, moving Kevan towards his own content creation business.—𝗞𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗻'𝘀 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻Kevan helps his clients show up consistently where they are address the needs and concerns of their audience. Inspired by Hip-Hop, helping people resonate from their core and what they stand for.—𝟯 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁: 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄 → 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 → 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁Kevan helps his clients go from zero to building familiarity with their audience. Different stages require different forms of content. Kevan maps this out with his clients over six months.Know → Easy to connect with content helping your audience get to know you.Like → Create a deeper connection with your audience sharing “this is what I care about”.Trust → Scripted content that demonstrates expertise and offers solutions.—𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘃𝘀 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆The way you package your content has to be in congruent with what you offer.Difference between authentic and being lazy. If it is a message that is worth saying, then say it in a way that the audience will be receptive to it.—𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗜Podcasting & video are among the most real forms of communication. Kevan shares how he uses AI as a tool to amplify organic ideas not replace them.—𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗲The more you show up, the easier it gets. Confidence builds through repetition. Like surfing, the more you surf the less you are fall off your board.—𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆Content creation and sharing your message works. It builds relationships, creates opportunities and connects you with people who should be in your world. That is how we got to know each other.We made this episode because sharing content works.—Learn more about Kevan Smith

I sat down with Beth Derry. We have a conversation about trusting yourself on the journey of growing your own business.—𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆Beth’s business Lovely Messy Humans was born in 2023. It has emerged slowly. Coaching based on the science of being human and where we come from. Beth teaches ways to regulate our nervous system and apply it to our everyday life.—𝗣𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗣𝗶𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 & 𝗪𝗮𝗸𝗲-𝗨𝗽 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘀I open up about my redundancy for the first time, sharing how losing my role in 2023 at a pension startup I helped to build from scratch, was heartbreaking but forced me to reflect on who I am and what really matters.Beth shared her own pivotal moments. Opening up about self harming when she was young and how changes in her personal life in later life, led her on a path to work with different coaches to understand herself better.Realising we create every aspect of our reality. By looking at our different subconscious levels we can reframe to make life radically different.—𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 & 𝗘𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻Beth’s experience in emotional regulation led her to create an anger workshop with our mutual friend Tom Woodfin centred around building a healthy relationship with Anger. That is where we first met.We discuss our primal need to belong which is why people tend not to get angry in fear of being rejected by the tribe.However when we look at our nervous system it makes sense. Teaching it is okay to lean into anger and how it tells us important messages such as a boundary crossed. By feeling anger early we can find healthy ways forward.—𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 & 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗮One of the most profound aspects of Beth’s work is Havening, a technique that uses touch and guided visualisation to reprocess past experiences. Beth has used it on her own path and is now certified to offer it as a service.I had one session with Beth in May 2024 which helped me unpack a difficult past breakup.Beth guided me through the memory. We took the memory out of my mind and untangled it shifting my perspective to see it through a different lens. Without realising it at the time seeing that one memory through a new lens gave me a new sense of belief.—𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱Till now Beth hasn’t turned Havening into a public offer.Beth hired me and together we designed the entire journey. Helping Beth to create a commercial framework to release gently into the world. We share an insight into the creation journey.—𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆One special thing about Beth is she has walked her own self discovery path and now using her experiences to help people who are on it now, trusting her intuition letting that be the guiding light forward.—Learn more about Beth Derry & Lovely Messy Humans

Hansa is the founder of the charity Holding Space Eastbourne doing amazing work providing support to Parents & Carers. Hansa shares the origin story from how she started the charity to now working with workplaces through her consultancy business.I wanted to bring Hansa on the podcast to raise the awareness.Being a son myself I’ve got a close relationship with my mum and as I get older I have way more appreciation for what my mum went through in order to give me the life that I’ve been able to have. Looking at her life as an adult there are certain things in the workplace that are overlooked.The work Hansa does plays into what I advocate for in my own work which is going beneath the skin and championing the person above the product or service that they employed byWe recorded the episode after the 'Draw a Day for You' workshop I gave at the last Holding Space Coffee Morning—𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗪𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗡𝗼𝘄We met in November 2024 at the Speakers Collective Southern Summit.Hansa had just got back from a solo trip to India. I gave a talk about authentic expression within which I shared my origin story. We bonded over our connection to India evolving into getting to know the work Hansa does growing into me contributing a workshop at the Coffee Morning to now producing this podcast episode!—𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 & 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆Holding Space was born 5 years ago.Sadly too many young people are struggling and there is not enough support for parents & carers.Hansa on her own journey with her daughter who was struggling with her mental health set up a Facebook page looking for help.People started posting saying “I can relate to this” and it grew organicallyinto Holding Space a safe space for parents & carers to come together. Becoming the only charity of it’s kind in East Sussex offering peer to peer support through 1 on 1 sessions, workshops and events like the coffee morning I was a part of—𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿Hansa is now taking the next step from growing the charity into now spreading better support for parents & carers in the workplace through her own consultancy businessOffering bitesize support such as 1 hour workshopsBorn out of Hansa’s own lived experience. So many parents & carers have to give up their job because their child or whoever they are caring for have to come first. Hansa is passionate about parent & carer support and is now helping organisations to embed it into their working practices to create cultures where people feel comfortable and not scared of losing their jobs. Increasing positivity helping organisations to thrive empowering their staff—Thank you Hansa for sharing your storyAre you a parent or carer or a business owner that wants to build support for parents & carers in your workplace?Get in touch with Hansa Raja to learn more

We have a very exciting announcement, we published a Book! It’s called Conscious Living: 10 Life Story Comics and it is now available to buy on Amazon.This has been a beautiful creative process. Now it is something real and tangible.Written by Peter MiddletonIllustrated by Asis Patel—𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆The idea was born on 18th January 2025 after we exchanged a few voicenotes, then we created something from nothing, around our other commitments, to be able to share with you today.Really proud of what we have achieved together. A dream come true for both of us publishing a book.—𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗲...Peter shared the words and stories and I had the experience of bringing those to life visually, that has meant a lot to me because it has been a very natural process.The book is called Conscious Living and this has been a very conscious process. It has been two energies coming together to create something tangible that people can now experience and enjoy which feels like an embodiment of the book itself.The interplay between the words and the illustrations. Without the words the illustrations wouldn’t exist.Together we have created meaning.—𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗿...I feel Awe-struck, I’ve dreamt of creating something like this. We have done and it’s so authentic.The authenticity comes from how much we held within the process. We wanted to make a beautiful book but even the way we were curious with each other; reflecting our ideas off of each other. Asking: What would it mean to do this and how would we want to do this?Some of the concepts in the book are big but also simple, they are just human experiences. The journeys that we all go through day to day. Trying to get out of our stress and into our love and abundant mind, that is not as easy as it sounds.Love the way we have turned some of those into a simple way to understand those journeys.Proud of what we have achieved, it is worth it just for that, to have those illustrations in your hands.Let’s hope it lands for other people as well and people enjoy it.—𝗧𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿...We chose one of our favourites comics in the book ‘Being Kind’ and read it aloud for you to hear.—No Artificial Intelligence was used in the creation of this book purely the Animal Intelligence of two people.The Original Ai—𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗯 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗽𝘆...We have an e-book and a paperback available on Amazon.https://amzn.eu/d/0qvUBEE—Enjoy & Loads of lovePeter & Asis x

Put all your energy into your next creation and not worry about the creation you are going to do after that. Be present. Let that creation inform the next one—Today I am sharing my journey with six colour portraitsThat is how I’ve done it. Started by connecting with my own truth4 years later that truth has built a community and an income. Two things that were not planned from the beginning—𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁I had just moved to Brighton in 2021. I wanted to create a portrait like I did as a kid. I picked up the same 6 colours I used to use. I painted a self-portrait. Feeling it said more than I could say with words—𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝘅 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀Few weeks later it was the Euros. England got to the final. Saka & Sancho & Rashford missed their penalties and got racially abused. Labelled as ‘black’ that made no senseI created a portrait of them using the same 6 colours and there was no ‘black’—𝗦𝗶𝘅 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝘅 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀I spoke to Fora Sports a shop in Brighton. A friend nudged me. They commissioned me to paint six football legends. Pelé. Maradona. Gazza. Ronaldo. Mbappé. Haaland. Each from a different decadeThe message was born. We are all made from the same 6 colours blended differently—𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁𝘀I picked the paintbrush back up in 2023 at the time I was part of a men’s group. The founder shared their story. I created a portrait to reflect back to them the impact they had had on me and the other men within that groupThe journey continued into painting portraits of my family. my ba. my mum. my brother. Connecting back to my origins getting to know their stories through creating their portraits—𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘄I started painting portraits of people I had met in Brighton. I picked six men and six women as a way to give backNow it wasn’t just me and a paintbrush there was an entire community forming around these six coloursWithin the process of creating a portrait I go deep into feeling that person and what they mean to me. I write that down and channel it back building a meaningful connection with each person I paintA friend within that group encouraged me to do a showHe told me "Even if no one comes. I’ll be there."I invited people. Sixty Six came—𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗮 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴After the show I had the belief of the value. I launched a paid version of the portraitsThe initial run of commissions covered living costs for three monthsFrom a single portrait to making a living as an artist—𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗜 𝗔𝗺 𝗡𝗼𝘄Today my business has evolved beyond portraits but grown with the same message. Helping people bridge the gap between inside truth and outside expression because we are all made from the same colours and owe it to share our unique gifts—What are you going to create next?

Terry Bower is an amazing person and storytellerWe met two weeks ago at a workshop ran by Terry atBusiness & IP Centre Sussex alongsideMike MonkFrom the moment we started talking we instantly connected. We both share a similar mission helping people uncover their true essence through their storiesTerry is the co-founder ofInside Stories going into the depth of stories with words. I bring stories to life visuallySo we had an idea. What if we combine our worlds?—𝗖𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿We are crafting an offer that brings our expertise together. Helping businesses shape and visually share their stories. Today’s podcast episode is the first step in that journey—𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀?Terry explains Inside Stories craft stories for businesses. The story of what you do. How you do it. Why you do it. They make your story clear and memorable so when someone asks 'What do you do?' You can tell them a story that helps them remember you—𝗖𝗮𝗽𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗵𝗲 '𝗝𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗲'The process is about uncovering your purpose. How you want your audience to feel & think & know & what you want them to do. Ultimately what is the thing that sets you apart?Take two oranges for example. They look exactly the same on the surface. What is the thing that makes you go 'I want that one'. Same for a business. What is the thing that makes someone say I want to work with you?That is the thing we are capturing—𝗕𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 ‘𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗮𝗹’...Terry did his 2 Hour Pitch & Purpose session with me literally just before recording this episodeAs someone who also helps people tell their story. Terry did that for me. There is a reason why I’ve arrived at doing storytelling and Terry went deep within that and pulled out specific threads to help me see my own 'what' 'how' and 'why' clearly with me talking and Terry capturing in words—𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀 & 𝗣𝗶𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀Terry and I tell stories differently but our approaches complement each other perfectly. Terry goes deep into the details with words and I simplify and bring it to life visuallyWe did a visual experiment. Terry is a happy optimistic loyal person and a sunflower is one thing that encapsulate them all. Thank you for sharing your words to create the cover pictureTogether we craft business stories in words and pictures—𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿We are crafting a new offering at an accessible price...Your Business Story in Words & Picture crafted for your businessThis will be something you could share on social media on your website or with potential clients as a true reflection of 'Who you are' 'What you do' and 'Why you do it'We are looking for business owners who want to be bold and tell their story in a way that feels uniquely themDoes that sounds like you? Stay tuned—Keep squeezing out your juice & we will be in touch with more soon

"Art is not what you see, but what you make others see." — Edgar Degas — Are you wanting to earn a living creating your art? This episode is for you — Michael Cheetham is a Photographer based in Brighton We had a conversation about being an Artist earning a living doing what you love Spotlighting Michael’s services we talked through the journey of fulfilling people’s needs doing what you love whilst remaining authentic promoting yourself without undervaluing yourself — 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 → 𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗻 From being the kid always with a camera to growing into offering services nationally and internationally. Michael has packaged up his artistry in a way that is accessible. We go into 'how' he has done that — 𝗔𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝘀 𝗮 ‘𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲’ Photography is less than 20% of the business. The delivered product is photographs but it is about the journey Michael takes people on. We explore Michael's method further — 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 → 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 Within a service ‘capturing life’ Michael shares it’s not just a camera and a few photos it’s an entire lifestyle. Like many art forms where your entire life is an embodiment of what you offer choose networking over emailing allows people to get a feel for who you are — 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 ‘𝗘𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲’ → 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗲𝘀 In the moments when the business hasn’t formed yet but you can see it could in the future. How can you feel progress? Collect case studies! Create artefacts practicing your own creative process that you can share. Just like Michael did in the early days trying different experiences building him a broad portfolio. Gaining the ability to say ‘for that I have done this and my approach was this…’ — 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗲𝘀 = 𝗢𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗴𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 Something done is better than perfect. Practice putting yourself in the arena practice creating for people getting to know how you operate One case study is a piece of your work squeezing the juice of your artistry into in digestible form like an orange segment — 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 → 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗽𝘀 & 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗲𝘀 Keep creating for you. That will keep the spark alive. Then when you want to turn it into a business move into solving problems for other people with your artistry People always ask how have you done this in the past? “I didn’t just get a job with Giorgio Armani did the 400 jobs before” — Michael Cheetham — Give yourself 1 hour this week... What is one piece of your art you can create? Who would you love to show? 1 step is 1 case study. Keep taking the next step and watch your collection grow — Learn More about Michael Cheetham → Amity Weddings (www.amityweddings.com) → Photography Service (www.michaelcheethamphotography.com)

Podcast Episode → Origin story of UnitedUs with Jan Rust — We met to have a conversation about brand storytelling and Jan shared the origin story of UnitedUs — Jan is one of the creators of UnitedUs a Brighton based brand agency I first met Jan in 2022. I was in awe of the high quality brand identities UnitedUs had created and reached out We explored the art of brand storytelling within larger companies flowing into the story of UnitedUs and the importance of relationships within creating authentic brands — 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱𝗨𝘀 → 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗮 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 Founded in 2012. UnitedUs started out as a partnership between Jan and Luke Taylor Started with a spontaneous coffee. Spiralled into them talking about print & digital. Jan more digital and Luke more print they started collaborating on projects. Turning it into a company born as PixaDot. Evolving into a more strategic brand agency rebranding as UnitedUs Now helping clients uncover their unique visual identities by first unpacking the story they want to tell aligning it with their business goals — 𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 ‘𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗹’ 𝘄𝗵𝗶𝗹𝘀𝘁 𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 Over the years people have come and gone but UnitedUs has maintained it's core. Jan shares how they have kept the culture authentic and not forced — 𝗔𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Jan shares how each client is different but the fundamental process stays the same. Asking who are they? What makes them tick? Why do they exist? understanding what will make them different. Taking note then amplifying it through creative ways such visual identity or written word etc — ‘𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆’ 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱𝗨𝘀 We go into the strong sense of family at UnitedUs. The studio feeling like family home. Clients feeling like in-laws. Jan shares how they navigate together towards a shared purpose with similar values — 𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗮 𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 Jan shares how they facilitate giving everyone a voice when working on a wider company level brand project then weave it together to create a ‘hook’ — 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 Jan shares how creativity is not just all out expression. The team having a level of confidence & maturity knowing they are paid to create value for clients. Deadlines creating guard rails helping to focus. Creativity thriving unlocking challenges together  — 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 Beyond branding Jan shares how they are leaning into the role as a socially conscious agency and working with students navigating challenges like getting into the industry with the rise of AI Ultimately with the mission to be a good influence and a force for good — Thank you Jan for sharing the story of UnitedUs and how you create brands for larger companies that authentically connect with their audience — Check out UnitedUs → unitedus.co.uk

One of the core messages in Solomon’s work is ‘Loving Yourself’ connecting to a message in my work ‘Squeeze Your Juice Out’Both of us help people own and express their authentic selfAs a Coach (Solomon) and Artist (Me) this is the story of how we did that for each other—Solomon is Mental Fitness Coach who has developed a skills-based approach to mindfulness treating it like going to the gymSolomon became one of the first people to commission me to create his portrait in 2023Towards the end of 2024 I enrolled onto Solomon’s 6-week ‘Mental Fitness’ programme and Solomon hired me to create the ‘Book’ to go alongside his ‘Portrait’ to help him get clarity on his business narrativeWe finished working together exactly one year on since I created the portrait for Solomon marking a full circle moment—𝗪𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗻’𝘀 ‘𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗶𝘁𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀’We go into ‘Loving Yourself’ and learning to treat ourselves like we would our best mateSolomon goes into his early meditation experiences which revealed his critical inner-chatter challenge. How boredom and frustration during those early meditations sparked curiosity reframing them as opportunities for exploration. Growing into creating ‘Mental Fitness’ a practical approach to mindfulness like physical fitnessSol shares how he helps his clients reframe the sabotaging voices within them uncovering the 'gold' beneath them. Stripping away unhelpful layers to connect people back with their ‘essential self.’I share my own experience of being guided by Solomon. Sharing insight into experiencing the ‘Mental Fitness’ framework turning my own sabotaging voices into strengths over 6-weeks—𝗪𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 ‘𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁 & 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸’ 𝗜 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗻Solomon shares how having a tangible book from his internal thoughts distilled into a concise narrative has given him the ease and flow to present who he is and what he doesSolomon talks about the value of turning complex ideas into something tangible acting as an anchor for him growing forward—𝗪𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 '𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲𝘀'How we both create space for people within our work where exploration can happen freely without judgementThe delicate art of holding creative expression and structuring it to make sense being a co-explorer rather than a guru balancing vulnerability with guidanceViewing life as a game helping people become the main character of their own story. Breaking free from societal structures to create their own path—𝗧𝘄𝗼 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀Loving Yourself → Treat yourself like your best mate. Notice when a critical thought appears catch it and flip itSqueeze Your Juice Out → Create something daily for 1 minute (scribble, write, paint, express you) do it for 100 days and see what grows—Learn more about Solomon Mehta-Slade → Website🧠

Your origin story is powerful connecting you all the way back to why you began doing what you do today in the first place Whether you’re starting a new business or simply getting to know someone sharing your story creates depth making you easier to trust and connect with I help people people tell their story. Being a role model of that myself this is me sharing my childhood love for characters and how it informs my work today — 𝗠𝘂𝗺 𝗙𝘂𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝘆 𝗜𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 As a kid my Mum used to read me children’s books sparking my imagination and planting seeds of creativity from an early age I became obsessed with Mr Blobby. When my Mum took me to Mr Blobby Land I was blown away being inside his world built purely from imagination Looney Tunes and taken to DisneyWorld as well. Being inside worlds that isn’t this one completely stretched my imagination. It felt like anything was possible within them — 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝘆 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗩𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 At school I was drawn toward art. In Year 7 my form tutor noticed my obsession with drawing characters and suggested “Asis why don’t you create a character for everyone in the class?" I created caricatures of all my classmates. Becoming a thread of what I became to do later in life capturing the essence of people and showing it back to them — 𝗔𝗿𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 & 𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 Curiosity led me to Leeds Art College. I designed smoothie bottles. Exploring the idea of putting skin around feelings turning abstract emotions into physical forms Moving me into university studying Design for Industry at. One project I’m proud of was designing bird feeders I sketched them and then made them real. They didn’t exist before I imagined them. Realising through drawing you can create life and bring ideas into the world — 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗴𝗴𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 In my final year I faced something deeply personal. My stammer. I created a product called SpeechBubble an app that helps people reflect on speaking situations. Generating characters Characters born from exploring my own vulnerability turning a challenge into something healing — 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝘁 𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 Today the thread of storytelling character creation and helping people express themselves continues in the six colour portraits I create each connecting to the six chakras with the seventh being your ultimate essence Growing into now helping people turn their streams of consciousness into illustrated books unpacking their origin stories turning their thoughts and feelings into something tangible that they can carry forward — 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 From the very beginning to where you are now. There is a thread in your past that has led you to this moment. This is my origin story I would love to hear yours. Feel empowered to share Would you like to explore your origin story? send me a message — Inspiration Art & Courage Comic Book & Thank you Mum for fuelling me with creativity from Day Zero

The message I want to share today is get to know your loved ones whilst they are here This weekend was significant because it was one year on since I had my last cup of chai with Ba my grandma who passed away unexpectedly at the end of last January at age 88 — The Origin I recorded this episode on January 3rd after finishing within Rosanna Cooper’s workshop called Write From The Guts. That is exactly what it is a monthly space where Rosanna guides people to write from deep within themselves I help other people share their origin stories. If I help other people do that I want to be a role model doing that myself The workshop gave me the courage I needed to share this with you — Ba’s Story January 5th 2024 was the last time I had chai with Ba Sharing today on January 6th 2025 it’s officially one year on Sharing to celebrate the life of Ba and the importance of hearing the stories of our loved ones whilst they are here My grandma was close to my heart. Without her I wouldn’t be here Feeling the fragility of time not knowing how long we had left I felt the need to record Ba and capture her share her story within her own voice Ba shared her amazing story growing up in India. Born in Devadh in 1935. Coming to the UK moving to Luton in the 1950’s moving to Otley in 1980’s where I came along in the 90’s We sat together navigating through her story. I sat and listened. Recording her sharing & celebrating back to her I created a portrait of Ba in the same six colours I always use connecting us together across generations — Message For You Get to know your loved ones whilst they are here That could be your older family members. Get to know their stories Ask them. What was it like in childhood? What was the journey to get to here? It was amazing to do that with my grandma. I was able to see what was inside of her and feel her amazing story By going through the journey together I now have a connection back to where I come from and how I arrived to be here I heard her story in her own words. We now have a time capsule Whenever I want to I can hear her and feel her presence with Ba's portrait smiling — Where I Come In It is not always easy to see yourself. It is not always easy to know what to share. It is not always easy to see your own value That is where I come in As someone who helps people uncover and share their stories I can guide you in capturing these moments in your life Together we can create a space to explore and honour the stories within your family or even your own life The experience I had with my grandma was lifechanging If it wasn’t for me initiating and listening to Ba’s story I would never have heard it It has given me a sense of connection to my roots and to her as a person she is now part of me and her story lives on I want to help you experience that same connection with your loved ones and with your own story — Your story is your superpower that guided you to now Whether it’s the journey of a loved one or your own Send me a message and let’s unravel those stories into a time capsule together to live on and travel with you into the future 🧡

It can be painful to carry stories with limiting messages about who we are and what we’re capable of. Often shaped in childhood and reinforced throughout life. These stories can become barriers to our creativity and expression leaving us feeling unseen and unworthy of sharing our unique essence with the world. This is where the oranges comes in—Rosanna is an Art Psychotherapist. Rosanna gets to know what is going on inside of individuals helping them realise and see themselves resonating with the work I do helping people craft their narrativeWe are both passionate about helping people realise the beauty within themselves empowering them to believe that they have something unique to offer into the world that can sometimes be hidden beneath layers of shame and doubt—How We MetWe met in September 2023 at ‘Into the Heart’ an ecstatic dance in Brighton. I had decided to stop drinking and was looking for new ways to connect with people. I was drawn to the free spirited nature of ecstatic dance with the invitation to move authentically to the music with no right or wrong way to danceThe thing that drew me to Rosanna was her creativeness and her light hearted humour. She was really expressive just being herself moving to the music. We connected and through conversation it turned out we shared similar values—Our WorkI had the opportunity to create a portrait for Rosanna reflecting Rosanna’s unique essence back to her to see herself outside of herself. Relating to the work Rosanna does through her Art Psychotherapy practice helping people unravel and unlock themselves so they can be who they truly are—Our Orange StoriesSomething that is central to both of our journeys is the symbol of an orange. Symbolising the unique creative juice within each person and having the courage to express it. We both share our orange stories—Whilst eating oranges we unpack…🍊 - Shame and VulnerabilityHow the orange peel symbolises the protective layers we carry. The shame that keeps us hidden. Vulnerability is the act of peeling away those layers and allowing yourself to express your truth into the world💦 - Creativity and ConnectionHow creativity is an act of connection. Sharing unedited expressions of ourselves creates bridges of connection inviting the next person to do the same🌊 - The Shared ‘Juice’How sharing our creativity is actually generous. How it is a way of including ourselves into the world following our longing for belonging by saying I am going to open myself up here and bring myself in. If you hide away you are hoarding all your gifts being ‘alone’. Where is the fun in that?—The MessageThe more you express the more you let yourself out the more people see you and the more people connect with you creating a healthier world healing together through our expressed creationsAllow yourself to express and squeeze out your 'juice'—Learn more about Rosanna Cooper

How would you talk if you couldn't talk?—As a kid I had a stammerI struggled to say words that started with certain lettersI struggled to say D wordsI struggled to say B wordsI used to avoid saying themThere were other words and sounds I struggled to say. I avoided saying them. Blocking me from connecting with people as my full selfI dreamed about being able to speak fluently—The JourneyIn 2013 during the final year of my university degree at Northumbria for the first time I confronted my stammer head on creating an app which was born out of me exploring the inner dynamics of a stammer in my final major projectComing through the other side of that and living life post university I reached a point where I needed to confront it further walking into the therapy room for the first time in June 2019On November 6th 2024 I shared my story of reaching fluency at Sound Affects hosted by Jak Hutchcraft sharing the journey I have been on to find my voice going into parts that I don’t always feel comfortable to open and share spreading the message let the juice in you → out—The SongOn the other side of the talk I connected with Ken of Rooftop StudiosHe said the things I shared in the talk are things that people don’t always talk aboutLeading to Ken inviting me into his studio to produce a songThat evening I went home and got my guitar out and I sang a song as a way to encapsulate that nightOne month later we produced that song in Rooftop Studio. I played it. Ken recorded it. Alex mixed and mastered itIn 2 hours—From having a stammer and struggling to talk to being on the other side of it being able to share and say what I’ve got to say fluently. I feel proud—The MessageI want to share is…You can share your voice tooYou’ve got something amazing to say inside of you we all doAllow yourself to express itDon’t let fear push you downAllow yourself to push forward and express what you’ve got to say because it matters the world wants to and needs to hear youLet that day be today and then tomorrow and the day after thatIf I canYou can too—Thank you Jak for the invitation to share a talk at Sound AffectsThank you Rosanna & Keith & Jason & Tim & Cevat & Alex & Karl & Laurence & Simon for coming to see the talkThank you Ken x Alex of Rooftop Studios for producing the song together

Debbie is a Business Coach doing business coaching in a way that is regenerative staying true to the natural cycles of the earth We first met at Summercamp by The Happy Startup School we really connected on the trip with shared values and our friendship has continued since growing into doing business for each others businesses — What we created I created a portrait & a song for Debbie to reflect Debbie’s business back to Debbie Debbie helped me further frame the underneath business strategy for my business — We had a reflective conversation sharing our creative business journey… — We dive into Debbie’s business origins… Debbie has always been a lover of the outdoors where she feels the most ‘alive’ drawing her to do a degree in earth sciences Debbie went down a corporate path initially but always had the ‘niggly’ feeling something wasn’t quite right she left that path and started her own coaching practice coming across 'regenerative business' marrying business coaching with her earth science background Now supporting people to act on the ‘spark’ of something Helping people follow the ‘aliveness’ in their work Debbie see’s her job as connecting people back to their essence of their business to the core of what they do and why they do it and why it is something important to bring into the world Seeing the ‘thing’ people are creating and seeing the potential in it that they might not see and helping them get it out of them Taking the time to get to know people and getting to know their strengths and what makes them tick where the aliveness appear for them and creating a structure around that — How our businesses resonate That is how we resonate there is a real overlap in work that we both do. Debbie’s work compliments the work I do helping people get to know themselves by getting to know the story that got them to this point by see the journey to get to where they are now to support them to move forward with clarity — Doing business for each other Finances aside something great has come from us doing business for one another opening doors for future opportunities Debbie really saw my business. The structure process she has guided me through has been super valuable for me to go through making me really enquire about my business and how I structure it — Debbie on receiving her portrait... Riding on the edge of fear and excitement it felt like a surprisingly vulnerable process to go through and I felt really supported and held within that. The process of having it done and afterwards as well has felt like an unraveling in a good way. Working through the process has felt like such a powerful learning for me — The power of reciprocal reflection It is impossible to see all parts of ourselves in isolation sometimes we need another person to be the mirror for us to show. Sometimes we can't recognise our own superpowers but we can recognise them in other people. Being able to reflect back those shadow parts that are more challenging sometimes requires a well held space supportive safe space — Bringing it back to the common root I often talk about in my work that we are all made from the same colours blended differently linking back to Debbie doing business in flow with the natural cycles of the earth — Learn more about Debbie Lee → www.debbielee.co.uk

Simon & I did a portrait of each other we reflected on the journey we went on together from meeting to both getting on stage to share our storiesMeeting & the spark of connectionWe first met at a Happy Startup School Masterclass at Platf9rm in Brighton at the end of 2023. I was launching my offering of creating portraits in six colours. Simon shared his profession as a photographer capturing life authentically. Our worlds collided connecting over creating art that reveals true essenceFrom connecting to collaborationAfter first meeting our paths went in our own directions then we met again at Summercamp in September 2024. We picked up where we left off sharing our perspective on art and our creative journeys. One week later Simon reached out with an idea. “Why don’t we do a collaboration?”  Simon taking photos of me and me creating a portrait of Simon. No grand plan other than an exchange of artThe year before reuniting at SummercampOver the year before Summercamp I kept seeing Simon’s work on Instagram I was drawn towards his raw creativity and themes around being yourself & authenticThe collaboration wasn’t on my mind but I resonated with Simon’s approach capturing the true essence of somethingThe collaboration day → October 4th 2024On October 4th 2024 Simon came over to my flat. I started the portrait by drawing an outline of Simon then we went for a walk Simon captured photos of me playing with his collection of camerasIt was less formal and more about getting beneath the surface and capturing each others in a natural unposed wayThe portrait processI was creating Simon’s portrait and hearing Simon’s story simultaneously. Simon shared what photography means to him and his passion for the craft. I wasn’t only listening I was also feeling what he was saying. Those feelings translated onto the canvas in each brushstroke. Brushstrokes were light heavy fast slow. The portrait wasn’t just capturing the look it was also a representation of the emotions we were both feeling in the momentSimon on capturing photosFor Simon capturing my portrait was a free flowing process with no pressure to get the perfect shot. It was about being in the moment experimenting with what felt right. Simon had no idea what the photos would look like until they were developed. Keeping the capturing purely in the momentBeing seen and heard authenticallyI’ve been looking for someone to take photos of me that I can use for my business. I wanted to have someone capture me doing the work. Simon didn’t just take photos he saw me in a way that was natural and realCapturing naturallyWe both have a natural approach to capturing people. Simon blends into the background documenting life in an authentic unobtrusive wayFor me creating a portrait is about getting to know the person listening to their story and feeling the energy of who they areOur processes became a dialogue between us a creative exchange that reflected one another back to each other Shared creative journeyWith art you often see the work but don’t always get a chance to meet the artist behind the workThat was a cool aspect of our collaboration experiencing each others creative process in the moment flourishing our friendship through creating the workFull circle moment & exchanging portraitsWe both got on stage and gave talks sharing our stories supporting each share those talksI was already booked in to give a talk at Sound Affects but doing Simon’s portrait in the build up grounded the talk that I gave. We exchanged the portraits we created of each other live during the talkOne week later Simon gave a talk at Woodzy & FriendsSummaryThis collaboration has been more than just an exchange of art. It’s been a gentle organic process that has helped both of us grow pushing past the fear of public speaking moving closer to being more ‘ourselves’—a story about creating connection through creating art giving our creativity a voice—Learn more about Simon Edwards → Instagram

I was blessed to meet Miguel at Speakers Collective Southern Summit. After the workshop I gave we got talking. As a Photojournalist & Filmmaker & Psychotherapist Miguel’s work deeply resonated. One phrase he shared stayed with me"Through my work I give a voice to the voiceless."It immediately connected with my own mission helping people to tell their story being true to themselves both on the inside and the outside—After our initial conversation we followed up with a phone call and it felt right to invite Miguel onto the podcast and create an episode togetherOur discussion unfolded naturally touching on themes that are at the core of both our passions storytelling and the courage to express who you areHere are some of the insights we shared:—Capturing the true moment - Finding the balance between being in the moment and resisting the temptation to over-edit or script it. Authenticity is key don’t get too caught up in making it “perfect” or capturing what you “think” people want to seeThe danger of over-scripting - as soon as you start over-scripting the moment is lost instead read the environment and connect with the person you’re with letting the story unfold organicallyThe stories are already inside you - instead of relying on a script which could feel forced or repetitive feel the moment choosing the stories to share in that momentThe purpose of a story - The essence of a story is connection and relating to people with the same storylines even if the circumstances are differentThe power of sharing stories - if you are alone with your demons they are more powerful sharing those stories with others allows you to connect with people who have faced similar challenges and together explore how to deal with those storylines weakening the power of those struggles bouncing forwardThe mind as a library of stories - Seeing the inside of your mind like a library. Walking through the aisles bringing stories out as and when you need them rather than relying on automatic pre-scripted storiesLet go of old stories - to grow you must let go of old narratives. Like a snake sheding it’s old skin you must shed old stories that no longer serve you to become stronger and evolveThe courage to use your own voice - it’s easy to follow the loudest voice but it takes courage to speak with your own trusting to connect with others with your truthSharing trigger moments - a single trigger moment can feel scary or sad or even cause anger but that can also be the start of a powerful story. It isn’t about having everything figured out sharing the raw beginnings with others can guide it into a more powerful directionRelease what drags you down - sometimes it’s difficult to let go of the parts of you that are holding you back but letting go of what no longer serves you so you can move forward with greater clarity and strengthThe power of language - creative language that could be used for something destructive could also be used for something constructive. Changing something that is a weapon of destruction into a weapon of creation. Freeing the creative energy inside of you into a piece of valueSteps in the creative process - by dividing the creative process into smaller steps points of connection are created that could be used to connect with others who share your creative process or teach someone else something valuable bursting open the journey to creation with rich opportunitiesThe trap of overthinking - it is easy to get stuck in your own thoughts. It’s essential to act and not just thinkAllowing yourself to express and capturing the truth - At the heart of storytelling is the ability to express your truth. Giving a voice to the voiceless means allowing yourself and others to speak freely without fear of judgment—Thank you Miguel it was an honour to connect about storytelling and the power of letting your true self shine through giving voice outside to the you inside of you—Learn more about Miguel Amortegui → miguelamortegui.com

Do you want to get clear on the vision of your business? — That is exactly what I helped Sarah Samuel do in one day — Sarah is a published author on books on Mindfulness, and an experienced group leader, coach, therapist and breathwork facilitator moving towards launching her new programme ‘Sacred Rage’ In one day I helped Sarah release her future vision for her business out of her mind and brought it to life in the form of an illustrated book to see her vision outside of herself Completely illustrated by Sarah! — We did that in 3 steps… Step 01 → Listen I guided Sarah through her vision by listening deeply and asking thoughtful questions creating space for Sarah to share freely and openly Step 02 → Illustrate Together we divided the vision into 16 pages each representing a part of Sarah’s business vision. I guided Sarah through illustrating each page unleashing Sarah’s inner artist and clarifying her vision within her own hand drawn style Step 03 → Book I packaged up the 16 pages into a complete book giving Sarah a tangible visual story to now use to communicate her business vision authentically to new potential clients and collaborators — “Asis really got me Sharing with him what I want to create really increased and focused the energy of the day and the expression of what I want to express It was a relaxed day he really structured what I was saying into 16 pieces which covered what is it I am doing who it is for why would they need it why my own story is relevant and the actual offer Structuring it into 16 pieces like a presentation slide Asis really encapsulated what I was saying into a few words & visuals” — Learn more about Sarah Samuel → sarahsamuel.co.uk — Want to illustrate your vision outside of you? Let’s have a conversation. Send me a message and let’s explore how we can do this for your business

Have you ever wanted to see yourself outside of yourself to help you see yourself to show yourself to others? — That is exactly what I helped Marc Convey create a 16 page illustrated book that reflects Marc to help him see his vision outside of him — Marc has had a profound journey so far overcoming trauma at an early age defying the odds transitioning through life carving his own path filled with adventure rising to the top of the poker world and founding multiple companies now on a path as a solopreneur moving as a speaker inspiring others to own and tell their story at his core blasting through adversity as he goes inspiring others to do so too We reflected on our relationship that only started 2 months and the creation journey of the book I created for Marc — 3 Highlights... Dissolving Structure for Free Expression → How removing structure created space for Marc to be able to freely express himself evolving into a stripped back illustrated book helping Marc seeing himself outside of himself a Lo-Fi Creative Process → How a stripped back lo-fi creative process was liberating for Marc and how it helped him feel empowered to fully unleash the creative right side of his brain to further evoke his left side Turning squiggly thoughts into a readable story → Marc has a unique gift as a super-connector. He had an idea for a speaking event when we first spoke to then go ahead orchestrating and knit it together in only six week. We met at the start of that journey the thoughts were already there. I helped Marc piece them together helping him further realise the super connector quality in himself channelling it towards bringing the Speakers Collective Southern Summit to life — Read more about Marc Convey → on Substack

—We both believe everyone has got their own unique essence within them already—I had the privilege of supporting Joel at Your Away Day a retreat day for founders & solopreneurs and in turn I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the space in between supportingThe day led to creating a spontaneous podcast episode with Peter Middleton a friend and a soulful life coach which came from Peter asking the question ‘how was last night?’ asking about the talk I shared at Sound Affects hosted by Jak HutchcraftIn the moment thought the most honest answer would be good to capture in its purest form as it came out to share with othersSo the podcast episode was born…—I shared a reflection of the talkI shared my origin story the journey of struggling to speak with my stammer to finding flow stateI shared how I am channeling energy towards storytelling and helping people see themselves through visual and sounds to turn their intangible essence into something tangible—Peter further opened up about how he is bringing heart connection to the modern world and how is reinvigorating spaces of connectionSpecialising in coaching people around transitions Peter shared how he is helping people find more connection bringing more belonging into their life whilst walking alongside them to help them create agency in that space—We spoke about how our worlds meet as a creative and as a coach to help people flourish & grow—Thank you Joel for creating a warm inviting away day filled with rich peopleThank you Jak for inviting me to share a talk at Sound AffectsThank you Peter for the enriching reflective conversation and an insight into the soulful coaching you are offering and doing for people in the world—( we kept the podcast episode pure with no edits keeping it pure and true to the moment)—Learn More...Peter MiddletonIn Your Corner by Joel LawtonSound Affects by Jak Hutchcraft

On a recent visit to Otley to see family in the house where I grew up good friend & designer Dave King came over and the conversation flowed into a collection of topics We spoke about… 🎶 - The Beatles - We explored the idea of getting out of your own way and letting creativity flow reflecting on how if John and Paul had judged their early ideas too much the world might never have seen the magic of the Beatles 📖 - Going to India Together - We discussed the importance of connecting with family stories. Before our trip I took the time to hear my Grandma’s story in her own words. Experiencing the places tied to those stories deepened my connection with her showing how experiencing someone's story can bring you both closer 🔎 - Traveling - We talked about the value of venturing into the unknown. There’s so much we don’t know until we allow ourselves to experience it and embracing that uncertainty can lead to incredible discoveries that were unknown before 🏖 - Holidays - We reflected on the balance between exploration and relaxation. Sometimes it’s okay to trust yourself to just be in the moment allowing things to unfold naturally — Great Question from Dave… If you were an ice cream flavour which would you be?

Recently met Sian Carr a childhood friend and Phycologist in Otley the town where we both grew up We spontaneously started recording our conversation which flowed into a shared stream of consciousness — We spoke about… How the distinctive sound of someone’s voice can feel like home and connect you back to the experiences you shared with that person How to capture the authentic nuance of a conversation in front of a microphone Creating your own internal success and not be bound by societal expectations Nurturing your inner child keeping your unique life spark alive to not hold yourself back and experience your one life to the fullest — What adventure does your inner child want you to take them on next?

Do you ever feel like you are not ready to do something? or spend time talking about doing the thing? or get stuck planning time to do the thing? — Marcus is a motivational speaker & coach & musician. We met for a coffee for the first time to talk about how we could collaborate One of the things we spoke about came to life We got talking about our passion for writing songs then started talking about making a song together four days later we did exactly that jamming together for the first time we made a song We created something from nothing letting it flow pushing past the planning voice and created one of the things we wanted to create resonating on common ground — Next time you meet someone you want to create something with could you use the time planning to create the thing to actually create the thing? — Learn more about → Marcus Thomlinson

If you want to do something go let yourself out and play and create and share with someone because you never know what it might mean for them I went for dinner in Unithai a family run Thai restaurant in Hove in an unexpected conversation with Mr Phong (the owner) we got talking about music sparking an act of genorisity within him lending me his Phin a Thai string instrument I returned the Phin today and wanted to share the story to celebrate Mr Phong & his supermarket restaurant Unithai — Keep expressing yourself and sharing you don’t know what it might spark in another person — Visit → Unithai in Hove⁠

If you made a song in under 5 minutes and shared it with the world how would it sound?

Mark Currie is a filmmaker & a family friend & an Everton fan & once a football coach In 1993 Mark created the story The Man Who Was Different which celebrates the importance of difference and being yourself I first heard about the story in the 2020 lockdown impacting me on my own journey of expressing my inner self outside I was lucky to have a chance to sit down with Mark to hear about the story in his own words Mark shares a behind the scenes view of the story why he first wrote it and how it is still relevant today Originally a script he wrote to help himself he self published it into a book and now turned it into a film to spread it even further Now Mark is using his story as a vehicle to inspire the next generation & beyond sparking conversations about difference and embracing creativity Reinforcing the message within people that we are all special and we all have value to express — Learn more about → The Man Who Was Different See Mark's Film Studio → Catapult Films

Had a Friday night out with Tim Keiff in Bradford Tim is a Design Leader & a Father & a good mate of mine When I freshly graduated in 2014 I was lucky to join and become part of XD the experience design team Tim started & led within DAZN (called Perform at the time) Two blokes in a pub on a Friday night we reflected back on the 10 years since how a Friday night was then vs how it is today Sharing how life has grown us with the essence that it is okay to just be yourself

Simon came over for a cup of tea to talk about being the first guest on a podcast whilst being the first guest on the podcast Simon is the author of ‘Reframing Marketing’ We met cold water sea swimming at IceBreakers Simon commissioned me to create their portrait and a friendship evolved organically since On the episode Simon shares their story from being a kid in Chichester to sound engineering on Big Brother 7 to now helping people to engineer their marketing to authentically serve the world as themselves Simon has a lovely smile counter balanced with real honesty and grounded where they don’t shy away from speaking truthfully each time we've spent time together I walk away feeling happy I got to know the business side of Simon listening to their podcast having gotten to know Simon as a person first I can wholeheartedly say the two worlds feel like the same person Whilst being a role model to their own book Simon’s approach to doing marketing is like a trusted mate in the know pushing you and having your back and helping you on your way up with robust methods & processes Simon’s story is one of instinct flowing from one thing to the next throughout life reframing marketing for themselves on the way showing the world how it can be done authentically growing a business supporting others to do exactly that for themselves too The essence of the conversation is about being you & being more you is only way to grow in a world becoming more ‘artificially’ intelligent — more from Simon… Reframing Marketing Podcast → https://open.spotify.com/show/5mOYTssDia4T54ekTKLa3I?si=fcb77d4351614c68 Reframing Marketing Book → https://reframingmarketing.com

Why just talk about a podcast when you can talk about a podcast whilst being on a podcast? I went to see Karl for a cup of tea catching up on life we spoke about starting a podcast whilst starting a podcast. We met cold water swimming in Brighton & Hove within the IceBreakers community we’ve become good mates since bonding over product designing life and musing over the twists & turns we go through living it. Karl is an incredible person super down to earth & himself whilst living a full life of adventure with the added bonus that we can also be super real with each other too. Starting a podcast like starting anything you have to trust yourself to say the first word otherwise you will never have the chance to finish and enjoy the reward of sharing the finished product just like this podcast (episode)