Not Just B.S

For our season finale we are turning the tables and answering your questions - along with a few unforgettable ones from our guests this season. Nothing is off limits.. apparently. It's warm, it's witty, and yes - we are absolutely running on caffeine and perseverance. Join us for a final laugh, a few honest truths, and a celebratory wrap on a season filled with creativity, courage and some very questionable decisions!

This week we’re joined by business empowerment coach Kirsty Heap, who’s on a mission to help people stop comparing, start creating, and build businesses that actually fit them.Kirsty shares her journey from HR to coaching, how being dyslexic and ADHD once felt like being lost in the forest — and how she turned that into her strength. We talk about finding fresh ways to tackle tricky tasks, breaking big goals into manageable chunks, and why accountability can make all the difference when you work for yourself.We also dig into the realities of running a creative business, leaning into nature for clarity, and what it really means to be true to yourself when the world keeps shouting “do it this way.”Practical, funny, and full of truth bombs — this one’s for anyone ready to stop comparing and start trusting their own rhythm.www.kirstyheap.com

This week, we’re talking about tipping points — those moments in life and creativity when you’re ready to give up… or finally get going.From the BBC’s Riot Women and the lessons it offers about using your voice, to our own battles with perfectionism, songwriting procrastination, and learning new skills we explore how frustration can flip into fuel.We share how close we came to giving up on our newsletter, what keeps us hanging on, and how “enough is enough” can sometimes be the push you actually need.Funny, honest, and a little too relatable — this one’s for anyone standing at their own tipping point.💬 Plus, we’d love your questions for our upcoming season finale — send them in!

This week we talk to creator Becky Burchell about her latest project, Women of the Dark Skies — a nighttime pilgrimage across Cranborne Chase exploring the ancient history of the North Dorset landscape.We discuss what it means to trust your creative instincts, how nature adds its own unpredictable elements, and why inviting audiences to spend time alone in the dark can be so powerful.Becky opens up about working outdoors, fear and safety in modern life, and creating profound audience experiences that reconnect people to something deeper. We also chat about authenticity, avoiding the “busy fool” trap, and letting things unfold in their own time.A reflective and uplifting conversation about courage, creativity, and what happens when you finally let go of control. 🌙Find out more about when you can be part of Women Of The Dark Skies at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/73427297153

Remember when promoting a show meant drawing a poster and handing out photocopies? Simpler times!In this episode, we talk about the highs and lows of getting people through the door — from when to cancel an event to when to hold your nerve and trust your audience will show up.We dive into whether COVID broke the collective trust between venues and ticket buyers, how tough it can be to afford theatre tickets (especially if you don’t live near one or have a family), and why accessibility — in marketing and in mindset — really matters.Plus, we dream up some radical new ideas for audience engagement… like pet-friendly theatre. 🐾 Because hey, if the dog can come, maybe more people will too.A funny, heartfelt chat about community, courage, and keeping the lights on — one ticket at a time.

This week we chat with Ruth Woods, creative practitioner and founder of Craft School Oz, about her winding creative journey — from jobs that fuelled her imagination to those that simply paid the bills.Ruth shares brilliant insights into running a creative business, the balance between creativity and admin, and how social media can be a friend (not a foe) for makers. We also talk about her self-publishing success, her new workshops on getting your own book out there, and the importance of doing it now — at any age.An inspiring listen for anyone who’s ever said, “I’ll start when…”https://www.craftschooloz.com

It's a bit of a whirl-wind this week - we're getting ready for a show, doing Susan's hair, and recording a podcast all at once (because...multi- tasking creatives right?!) In between the tonging and the pre-show nerves, we chat about what it really means to be an 'emerging artist' - and why that label shouldn't just belong to the young! We talk about the challenges of building a creative career outside of big cities, and why your post-code shouldn't define your potential. A funny, honest, behind the scenes catch-up from two artists who are still very much emerging - just with better hair!You can book tickets for Glitter Guilt and Good Intentions on our website now!www.belle-street.com/gigs

This week. we're joined by multi-disciplinary artist, musician, illustrator, performer and mermaid Anne-Louise Richards, who shares her journey of accidentally falling into a creative career and embracing it full-time over the last year.We talk about the reality of collaborating with others, the pressure to have it all figured out by thirty, and how comparison can cloud your creative path. Anne - Louise also opens up about mental health, managing her energy (and her 'spoons'), and why knowing when to say no is just as important as saying yes.From finding inspiration to juggling disciplines, she reminds us all to hang in there, trust your gut, and remember - it does get better.@ALRjewellery @mermaidnerissa @anne_louise_sings

It's just us this week - no guests, just stories, laughs and a few lessons form the road. We're talking about a frustrating gig into a teachable moment, why you're always learning as a creative, and how communication, delegation, and better systems can make all the difference.We share why artists are sometimes reluctant to delegate, what venues and organisers could do better, and the bravery it takes to get your show to new places.Light hearted, honest, and (hopefully) a little reassuring you've ever walked away from a gig thinking ; "Well... that could have gone better."

In this episode, we sit down with singer-songwriter Ben Francis to talk about the power of manifestation, the people who believe in us, and why mental health should never be a taboo subject.Ben shares openly about the struggles of songwriting, the search for authenticity, and the questions every creative faces: Is this what I truly believe in, or am I just doing it for someone else?It’s an honest, uplifting conversation about creativity, courage, and what it really means to be part of something bigger.If any of the issue we chat about in this episode we can recommend getting in touch withThe Brave and Determined - a mental health charity who help provide life saving early intervention counselling.

We’re back with Season 5! And we’re kicking off with some honesty: if you want to create, perform, or put yourself out there — you’ve got to be prepared to suck (at least at first).In this episode, we catch up on life, talk about facing fears 100 times over, why telling the truth works when selling your work, and what to do when imposter syndrome barges in. From crawling up Gold Hill in Shaftesbury to falling on your arse, we share the messy, funny, and very real side of showing up as creatives.We also dive into energy exchange with venues and clients, whether you should ever work for free, and the importance of building evidence that you can do this — because you’ve done it before.Join us, laugh with us, and keep going with us. And if you want extra encouragement for your creative victories, come and join our “Dare to Do” Facebook group.

In our season finale, we're turning the tables and answering your questions. From how we met, who inspires us, and the musicals we'd cast ourselves and our guests in - nothing's off limits.It's funny, it's honest and a little unexpected.... the perfect way to wrap up the season.

This week, we’re joined by artist Andrea Jenkins, whose creative journey has taken her from painting in a hyper-realistic style to embracing bold, abstract expression.We talk about the music that fuels her work, the joy and freedom she’s found since becoming a full-time artist, and the power of finding your creative tribe when you work alone. Andrea shares why she retired early from teaching art, the compromises creatives sometimes face between making money and making art, and the advice she’d give to anyone wanting to start now — no matter their age or experience.It’s an honest, joyful conversation about reinvention, persistence, and trusting the creative process.

This week, Susan and Joni dive into what it really means to live, create and finding your Inner 'wild' without compromising yourself. Bring inspired by Glennon Doyle's 'Untamed 'and Elizabeth Gilberts 'Big magic' We talk about creative ruts, is it ok to settle, the awkward reality of “living our values,” and the sheer effort it takes to keep going when life is throwing everything at you (including dodgy gigs and wardrobe malfunctions!). There’s laughter, truth, and the reminder that staying wild doesn’t mean being fearless — just stubborn enough not to quit.

This week we chat with international private chef, TV presenter and food writer Philippa Davis whose culinery adventures have taken her from high-end kitchens to the front of the camera.We talk about her journey to success, the performative pressure of cheffing, hilarious behind the scenes stories and how she kept going - even when no one was watching.Philippa shares why showing up, staying busy, and saying yes to the next thing can be the secret ingredient to long-term success.

Can we be very honest.... it was hard to show up for this podcast! Our storage on our phones and our emotional 'storage' is full to the brim!But we did show up and it was great to talk through some of the issues we are finding hard and the minute and as soon as we begin to chat things through we found ourselves laughing in no time! Recorded during the peak of the heatwave you may hear one of our fans eating in the background as we chat about needing a PA and a bouncer, the struggles of running a business when you have other people needing you to show, the effectiveness of focusing on one task for a short amount of time and the pitfalls of trying to grow a creative business!So if you're feeling a little weary don't worry - we feel you! Take half an hour to yourself and laugh along with us at this journey we are on from being scared to doing it anyway!

This week, we’re joined by Linus Karl and Josef Martin of Awkward Productions — the fearless, funny duo behind Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story and the new interactive romcom The Fit Prince.We talk with them about turning bad reviews into buzz, building a global audience, and why saying yes to your wildest creative instincts might just be the key to success.They share Fringe highs and lows, tips on audience interaction (including when it goes wrong), and the story behind becoming the first couple to get married on stage at the Edinburgh Fringe.If you’ve ever waited for permission to start, this your sign.

In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of our new cabaret - revealing the heart, humour, and real-life chaos that shaped the set -list. From multitasking to perimenopause, meditation to being heard in a noisy world, every track was chosen because it says something we've felt - and that you probably have too. It's about more than performance. it's about telling the truth .. in perfect harmony give or take).We also talk a lot about our new merchandise - fabulous fans!

In this episode, we talk to somatic movement expert and Nia teacher Dorit Noble about how movement, meditation, and creativity all live in the body — not the mirror. We explore how healing happens when we stop trying to make it all look “good,” and start tuning into what we actually feel.Expect a soulful, surprising conversation about connecting to the unconscious, creating without performance pressure, and why your body already knows the way .

Joni and Susan discuss the expectations we put on ourselves, other people and the weight of everyone else expectations!

Joni de Winter and Susan Grant are back and this week they have a very special guest Actor/Musician Geri Allen. Geri is currently starring in 2024 Oliver Award Winner for Best New Musical 'Operation Mincemeat'. In amongst Geri's brilliant stories about the industry we discuss how Geri made her West End Debut in her 40's whilst navigating being a new mum.We talk about how we can be made to feel that it's too late to 'make it', as well as her career highs and lows so far, creative processes and why we make trauma funny.This episode is filled with hilarity and sound advice and is a 'must listen' for anyone who feels disappointed with where they find themselves in their career or hasn't even started yet. Let Geri's story inspire and motivate you to move forward with true 'gumption'!

Season 4 Episode 1 of The Not Just B.S Podcast In the episode we dive into the messy middle of the creative process - where motivation hides and deadlines loom. We talk about recognising that you're actually moving forward (even if it doesn't feel like it), learning to sell yourself without cringing and why sometimes you have to trust the final version. We also discuss setting aggressive but realistic deadlines and the good old question of how much you trust your gut feeling! Whether you're chasing a project, starting over, or working. out the right way ahead with a current project - this one is for you!

In this season finale, we hand the mic to you! Listeners and past guests fire questions our way — from the funny to the heartfelt — as we reflect on creativity, chaos, and what’s next.

In this powerful episode we sit down with our guest, actor Benedict Hurley, who opens up about the rollercoaster of performing through personal trauma, teaching young people to find their voice, and the pressure of not fitting into the casting mold.From grief to the stage, popularity to self-worth, this is a raw honest conversation about showing up when life hits hardest.Whether you're a creative, a` parent or someone who's been told you don't quite 'look the part' this one's for you!

Joni de Winter and Susan Grant discuss their latest creative projects and how the advice from their guests this season have affected the creative process of creating their two new shows. They also chat about creative spaces and the 'Dare to Do' group on Facebook - an online space for creatives to set themselves challenges and talk about how they are getting on with their creative projects.

We are excited to introduce our guest this week - Jason Ward. Jason is a creative consultant that we love working with and we thought it was about time to introduce him to our podcast audience. Jason has over 20 years of senior strategic, creative and operational experience with established brands including Disney, Carnival Uk and Celebrity cruises. We love his approach to starting, developing and seeing creative projects realised - and we have chatted through so many of ideas and projects with him. His advice and pointers have been invaluable and so we just had to invite him to be a guest.Find out more about Jason onwww.jasonwardcreative.comwww.jasonwardcreative.substack.com@jasonwardcreative

Our guest this week is Bryony Purdue, singer, song writer and producer extraordinaire! We talk to her about how she has built a successful career and about writing and producing her new EP. There are lots of great stories and advice for creatives so get comfy and settle in!www.bryonypurdue.com@lifeofbryony

This week Joni de Winter and Susan Grant talk about confidence - how you loose it and how you find it again!

In episode 2 we welcome our guests Gemma Ashley and Mark James who together perform as CODA. They are currently touring theatres in the UK bringing the magic of The West End and Broadway straight to you.We chat to the duo about their journey, how they came to be work together and their experience of touring theatres with their show.There is a LOT of laughter and some great stories and advice! Find out more about CODA at www.musicalcoda.comor check out their socials@codamusicals

Not Just B.S is back! Episode One - Welcome back to the podcast where we are on a quest to find the best advice for your creative projects to come alive. In this episode catch up with what's been happening with us, learn a bit more about what we will be covering this season. We talk about the importance of having faith in the seeds of hard work that we plant when we are working on a project. Other topics covered - badge making, brownie badges and knighthoods!

In the final season of season 2 Joni and Susan walk you through their process of reviewing their year and setting goals for the coming year. They also introduce you to their Facebook community of creatives 'Dare to Do'. Please do join the group for support, inspiration and accountability. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1420198345624644

Joni and Susan talk to Claudia the owner of Deadly Is The Female, a boutique and online shop based in Frome specialising in vintage Hollywood style. We talk to her about her thought process on taking the leap to starting the business, getting back into being creative and design and how she cultivates a supportive and unique community both in the shop and online. We had such a wonderful time listening to her story and being inspired by her 'Just Do It Anyway' attitude. We know you will enjoy it it too!Find out more about Deadly Is The Female at www.deadlyisthefemale.com or on instagram and TikTok @deadlyfemale

This week on episode 6 we answer your questions! Covering all topics from inspiration, dream duets and who would win in a fight!You asked we answered.. and tried not to go off on too many tangents!We hope you enjoy this bumper episode!!

Susan Grant and Joni de Winter continue their mission to talk to passionate people who are 'Just Doing It'. And in this episode they take you to school again whilst talking to Carolyn Hopkins, entrepreneur, props designer, food judge and owner of Dorset based businesses The Truckle Truck and Filthy Cheese. We talk to her about launching a new business from scratch, mixing creativity with business and well - lets face it - we talk a lot about cheese!Be inspired by something a little different today and give this a listen!Support Carolyn online or see where she will be next with her cheese vans at www.thetruckletruck.com or on instagram at @truckletruck.

Joni and Susan are back, discussing the benefit's of dwelling on your successes!

Our special guest for this episode is artist, Jess Luck. Prepared to be fully inspired by what Jess has learned about getting over the boundaries we put in our own way when we lack self confidence to step into our creativity. We abslolutely loved talking to Jess and felt incredibly inspired - we hope you do to!You can find Jess Luck on Instagram, @Jessluckart or at www.jessluckart.com

Frogs? Elephants? And self help books... we take you through what we have been discovering about just getting things done whilst still being kind to yourself!

Susan Grant and Joni de Winter, otherwise know as Belle Street - are back with Season 2 of their podcast!In episode one the talk to the founding members of mental health charity The Brave and Determined and find out the importance of being relentless when jumping in with new projects that you feel passionate about!To find out more about The Brave Determined and how to support them, follow them on @thebraveanddetermined or visit their website www.badco.co.uk

In the final episode of Season one we discuss all the things we have learned through the process of starting our podcast including the wisdom we have gleaned from our three fabulous interviewees this season. Oh and we have set you a little homework to be busy with until we meet again for Season 2!

In Episode 7 we talk to Amber Harrison and Karen Brazier who run award winning bookshop Folde based in Shaftesbury, and their experience of taking the leap and how it feels in the free fall afterwards!. The two friends started the new business amidst the challenges of lockdown stepping away from their well established careers into the brand new ventureIf you need inspiration on how to get started, advice on how to make a success of your project whilst sticking staying authentic to your brand and a good laugh while you're at it - then this podcast is for you!Check out their business at https://www.foldedorset.com or @foldedorset

In Episode 6 we open up a conversation about how hard it can be when you're a creative and life gets tough. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of having to show up when you're handling life's challenges. But don't worry, despite touching on subjects such as grief and overwhelm we have made sure to include some Belle Street ridiculousness.

Welcome back to episode 5 of the Not Just B.S Podcast!In this episode we interview Natalie and Matilda Bourchier, owners of new business Sorelle. We were really inspired by these amazing sisters who after having the seedling of an idea for a flower farm, took an exciting leap together which resulted in them sucessfully creating and running a fresh, popular and evolving business.Check out sorelle on instagram @sorelle_dorset or at https://www.sorelledorset.com

In our fourth episode 'F*ck Off Fabulous' we discuss the dreaded 'Imposter Syndrome'. We use stories from our fun and failures to talk about ways in which Imposter Syndrome can affect your confidence and try stop you from achieving your goals. We hope this episode can help you shake off the self doubt and get you believing that you really are F*ck Off Fabulous!

Welcome to episode 3 of our podcast -'Bravery Is Addictive'.In this epidose we talk with the inspirational Alice Perry. It is an conversation full of laughs and thought provoking ideas. We talk together about her new projects and how when you allow yourself to be brave amazing things can happenCheck out Alice on Instagram @pezzzzle

Welcome back to episode 2 of our podcast, 'Get Over Yourself'. Join us as we discuss some of the hurdles of starting your own project - whatever it may be. Offering insights from our own experiences of getting over ourselves with some of our most challenging projects and sharing tips on how you can too!

In this episode we introduce ourselves, for those of you who don't know who we are and share how we embraced the power of showing up for ourselves.