Scwair One - Starting From Scratch

My guest for episode two has spent almost 40 years doing the thing I've spent my whole life avoiding.Sara Starling is a voice artist, broadcaster, and storyteller. She started with a drama degree, spent nearly 20 years at the BBC as a studio manager, announcer and newsreader – including the World Service... then left to build her own voice studio from scratch. She's been doing that for 20 years too.She also, it turns out, was quite shy.In this conversation we talk about the one mindset shift that makes speaking to a room feel manageable, why a bad experience reading aloud in class can follow you for decades, how voice notes are quietly one of the most powerful communication tools most people are ignoring, and what it actually looks like to stay calm on air when everything around you is falling apart.The line that stayed with me: "It starts as a pencil mark. Then it gets inked in. Then it's a marker pen. And then you just believe it."That's about the story we tell ourselves when we stumble. Worth hearing the rest.I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

I've had a lifelong aversion to speaking.It started when I was a kid. Friends took the piss out of me for stuttering. People finished my sentences. I went through periods where I couldn't listen back to my own voice – it was so monotone, so flat. I put people to sleep. I still do. My wife nodded off last week as I talked about work.And yet I've spent 20 years helping other people communicate.Behind the camera. Behind the brand. Very comfortable back there.This podcast exists because I finally got uncomfortable.Speaking of Success / SÖS – is for people who are crap at speaking but want to be better. Not a masterclass. Not a performance coach telling you to stand up straight. Just honest conversations about what it actually takes to find your voice – from people who've done it, and one person who's still figuring it out.That person is me.Episode one I'm flying solo.Or at least... crawling to the start line on my own.Where this started, why now, and what I'm hoping this becomes.The guests start from episode two.If you feel like me about speaking... let's talk.We just might get along.I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

What if your personal brand wasn't something carefully crafted but rather something that emerges naturally when you consistently show up as yourself?That's exactly what happened to Thomas Woodhams, who built a quarter-million following on TikTok before finding his home on LinkedIn, where he now creates content about recruitment, career advice, and neurodiversity.In this illuminating conversation, Thomas shares his journey of accidental brand-building through authenticity. From creating sketch videos with tea towels on his head to illustrate workplace scenarios for neurodivergent individuals, to sharing his own ADHD diagnosis journey, Thomas demonstrates how being genuinely yourself resonates more deeply than polished corporate personas.Joining the discussion is Inga Sleinere, a 'vision alchemist' who helps solopreneurs translate their essence into visual identities that feel authentic. Inga approaches personal branding from a more strategic angle while still centering authenticity at the core. "Personal branding is almost a by-product of showing up consistently," she explains, emphasising that trying to look too 'professional' can actually work against you.Both guests offer practical wisdom for anyone building their presence online. They advise keeping visuals simple rather than trying to 'jazz it up', which often creates visual noise. They discuss how commenting thoughtfully on others' content can be more powerful than your own posts, and why understanding your purpose – whether building community or generating leads, should guide your content strategy.Perhaps the most valuable takeaway is that personal branding serves both altruistic and practical goals. Thomas shares that he creates content not just to help others but as a form of 'safeguarding' for his future – building relationships and establishing expertise that could help him navigate career changes.Whether you're just starting out on social media or looking to refine your existing presence, this episode offers a refreshing perspective – focus less on crafting a perfect personal brand and more on consistently sharing your unique perspective and knowledge. The personal brand will emerge naturally as a consequence of your authenticity.-TL;DRIn this episode you'll learn...• How Thomas built a quarter-million TikTok following before focusing on LinkedIn where he now creates content about recruitment and ADHD.• How personal branding emerges as a byproduct of consistently showing up as yourself rather than something intentionally constructed.• Why simple visuals outperform complex designs.• How human connection through humour and relatability creates stronger engagement than corporate jargon or buzzwords.• Small shifts in commenting style and engagement with others can significantly impact how you're perceived online.• Why video content is increasingly important, even if you're camera-shy.Check out the show notes @ scwair1.comAnd connect me, Thomas and Inga on LinkedIn if like me, you like meeting new people.I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

This episode of the Scwair One Podcast was recorded during another one of my 12-hour open Zoom calls, designed to create meaningful connections between people in my network.I had the pleasure of chatting with the ultra-inspiring Arber Ismaili – a shining light on LinkedIn, known for spreading positivity and raising awareness about the challenges autistic people face on a daily basis. Arber shares profound insights and genuine messages of kindness and hope, while talking about some personal hurdles he comes across and ultimately, how he stays positive You'll discover:How Arber's positivity journey beganThe challenges of multitasking and sensory sensitivities faced by autistic individualsThe importance of recognising and respecting neurodiversityWhy kindness and authenticity are his guiding principlesHow LinkedIn became a platform for his positivity and impactful connectionsHis advice on spreading joy and starting your own journey of online positivityThis conversation is a powerful reminder to be kinder, cherish each day, and create a positive legacy. Connect with Arber on LinkedIn to follow his inspiring work and learn more about autism awareness. Sit back and get ready to be uplifted!I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

This episode of the Scwair One Podcast  was another one recorded during one of my 12 hour open• Zoom calls.It features a conversation with awesome marketing & branding expert Mychael Owen. Mychael helps brands and businesses be more interesting.He’s had an interesting entrepreneurial career:From his early days as founder of an award-winning design & marketing agency leading to a plethora of advisory roles, to founding multiple businesses and brands, including the fashion label Always Wear Red, luxury holiday home The Old Post Office... he also enjoys exercising his writing legs with his brilliant blog 50 Odd – the diary of a man who stopped waiting.He’s a lecturer, growth coach and writer.He’s also none of the above.And all of them.And he’s currently writing a book.Which I find really interesting.This is a long one... because there is just so much gold inside.You'll learn:The benefits of being interestingThe difference between marketers and publishersWhy if you're not seen or noticed – everything else is irrelevantWhy downtime IS lifeHow he discovered marketing and grew a business on the wayHow his gut told  him how to stand outWhat he's writingWhy he wants to kill marketersWhy he doesn't care about the Linkedin algorithmHis take on personal brandsWhy stand up comedy would make him cryWhy Mychael is like EminemAbout taking pills and writing booksThe saddest story about a last birdHis process for writingWhy we should be aware of the echo chamberYou can find Mychael at:mychael.co.UkI'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

Is AI a threat or a friend?And how can it help your business?Welcome to the Scwair One Podcast. I'm Andy Greenhouse and I'm on a mission to discover what it takes to start something from scratch.  Recorded during one of my 12 hour open• Zoom calls, this is Part 2 of my conversation with AI enthusiast and analyst, Frank Mendoza. In this episode Frank takes questions and we bring in others on the call who talk about their own positive (mostly) experiences of using AI in their work.A bit about Frank:As the Founder and Managing Partner of Catalytics, Frank boasts over 20 years of experience in strategy and data science, working with Fortune 500 enterprises to solve business challenges with advanced analytical solutions. Join us as we discuss the everyday experiences of AI, the potential impact on the creative industry, and how AI can complement your work.From exploring ChatGPT and GPT-4 to discussing the power of prompts and AI-generated poetry, our conversatin covers a wide array of topics that showcase the potential of artificial intelligence. We delve into AI's role in the creative industry, discussing potential challenges and benefits, such as the use of AI for creative iteration and identifying patterns. We also touch on tools like Obsidian and Roam Research, which utilise knowledge graphs in fields like healthcare.The conversation also covers AI's potential pitfalls, including creative copyright issues, bias, and the future manipulation of humans by AI. They explore the importance of understanding AI's capabilities and limitations and how it can be utilized in small businesses. Lastly, they discuss the AI wars in the context of SEO and Microsoft's investment in AI technology.Get ready for a thought-provoking and informative discussion on the world of AI, its applications, and the potential future we face in this AI-driven world.In this episode we cover:Help with pattern detectionKnowledge GraphsCreative copyright issuesSummarising with Chat GPTReinforcement learning and kindnessAI manipulating humansAI biasAI for small businessesThe beginning of the AI wars and the demise of SEOShow Notes : scwair1.com/podcast-exploring-AI-2023I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

I've heard of Chat GPT, but how do I use it for my business? This episode will help you figure it out.Welcome to the Scwair One Podcast. I'm Andy Greenhouse and I'm on a mission to discover what it takes to start something from scratch. Recorded during one of my 12 hour open• Zoom calls, in this fascinating episode of The Scwair One Podcast, I talk to AI enthusiast and analyst, Frank Mendoza. As the Founder and Managing Partner of Catalytics, Frank boasts over 20 years of experience in strategy and data science, working with Fortune 500 enterprises to solve business challenges with advanced analytical solutions. Join me as we discuss the everyday experiences of AI, the potential impact on the creative industry, and how AI can complement your work.From exploring ChatGPT and GPT-4 to discussing the power of prompts and AI-generated poetry, our conversatin covers a wide array of topics that showcase the potential of artificial intelligence. We delve into AI's role in the creative industry, discussing potential challenges and benefits, such as the use of AI for creative iteration and identifying patterns. We also touch on tools like Obsidian and Roam Research, which utilise knowledge graphs in fields like healthcare.The conversation also covers AI's potential pitfalls, including creative copyright issues, bias, and the future manipulation of humans by AI. They explore the importance of understanding AI's capabilities and limitations and how it can be utilized in small businesses. Lastly, they discuss the AI wars in the context of SEO and Microsoft's investment in AI technology.Get ready for a thought-provoking and informative discussion on the world of AI, its applications, and the potential future we face in this AI-driven world.In this episode we cover:How we use AI in our every day livesChat GPT and how to use itWhat a Hype Cycle crash isAI learning typesAI-generated poetryThe power of promptsThe impact on the creative industriesHumanity and AIGaming detection systemsAI for creative iterationShow Notes : scwair1.com/podcast-exploring-AI-2023I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

Ever thought you think differently to other people?As if your perspective of the world isn't quite what others see? Yep. Me too.In this special live-recorded episode, I chat with ADHD coach Astrid McGuire about what to do if you recognise characteristics of ADHD in yourself but have never been diagnosed.Our conversation kicked off  the second of my open• sessions – a series of 12-hour Zoom conversations where people can drop-in to talk and meet others who are like... or differently-minded.We also opened up the 'floor' to questions from others on the call.In our chat, Astrid talks about her background, how she dealt with her own diagnosis, how things have changed since the early days and how ADHD is sometimes misunderstood.Show Notes : scwair1.com/podcast-adult-ADHDIn this episode you'll learn:Why you shouldn't rush into diagnosis.That nothing is black and white.Why you should take advice with a pinch of salt.The importance of sleep.How social media can be both useful and a problem.How time-blocking helps your everyday.Why 'intensity' of ADHD is a key.Where to find help and advice.I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

'Most people don't meditate because they sit there with their thoughts and they hate it' Michael Townsend Williams is an international coach, speaker, entrepreneur and author of Do Breathe: Calm your mind. Find focus. Get stuff done, which has sold over 25000 copies worldwide. He also co-created BreatheSync, the world’s first bio-feedback breathing app for iPhone, which has been downloaded in over 100 countries and he's recently co-founded the 'welldoing' company Do Breathe.Michael is also an advisor to the children's education charity Inside Out.You can find Michael on LinkedIn, or at dobreathe.com.I wanted to chat to Michael ever since I read his book Do Breathe.It turns out I wouldn't be disappointed.He talks openly about his career, his experience and focusing on the right things to move yourself forward.The conversation is split into two parts, for easy 'digestibility'.There's so much great stuff in here, that you'll want to listen to both episodes.The first episode 'How To Breathe' is available on the Scwair One Podcast.In this episode you'll  learn about:A deep dive into finding focusTrusting your IntuitionHow he makes breathwork engaging and immersiveReal success vs financial successThe great recalibration and over stimulationHow we could all do with a support team around usMentorshipCoaching stylesProductivityThe myth of work-life balanceMotivation and being creatively blockedI'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

'The thing with the breath is it's a Swiss Army Knife' Michael Townsend Williams is an international coach, speaker, entrepreneur and author of Do Breathe: Calm your mind. Find focus. Get stuff done, which has sold over 25000 copies worldwide. He also co-created BreatheSync, the world’s first bio-feedback breathing app for iPhone, which has been downloaded in over 100 countries and he's recently co-founded the 'welldoing' company Do Breathe.Michael is also an advisor to the children's education charity Inside Out.I wanted to chat to Michael ever since I read his book Do Breathe.It turns out I wouldn't be disappointed.He talks openly about his career, his experience and focusing on the right things to move yourself forward. This conversation is split into two parts, for easy 'digestibility'. There's so much great stuff in here, that you'll want to listen to both episodes - the second will be published very soon.In the meantime, you can find Michael on LinkedIn, or at dobreathe.com.I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

In this episode, actor/director Geoff Searle shares his wisdom with host Andy Greenhouse on how to get over your inhibitions when recording your own voice for a podcast.This short episode is full of practical tips from an honest perspective and will help you with your own vocal uncertainties.I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

When my business partner left the company, I realised you can’t make decisions alone. Those ideas need to bounce off other brains, returning to yours either validated or in need of further opinion.If you reach out beyond your immediate connections you can find like-minded people ready to listen and give you feedback. Surrounding yourself with mutual or co-mentors who understand your mindset can be game-changing.They read the same books, understand your mindset and more importantly than anything, share their knowledge and experience in a relevant and supportive way.If you run a small business from home or you’re growing a company from scratch, advice and support from people who understand is invaluable. Sharing ideas with those people in order to validate them or grab some essential feedback is key to motivating you to move forward.You both become your accountability partners – invisibly driving each other on to the next small step.It’s because of the importance of mentoring that I set up The Mentor Exchange – so people can connect with other like-minded people and get to know them, talk about their thoughts and ideas, share advice and support, in a space which is secure and inclusive.I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

Scwair One is an initiative starting from scratch – helping new entrepreneurs find their own path through the ever-more saturated landscape of starting a new business, enterprise or charity.Have you ever wanted to start some something – a new career or business, but didn’t know how or where to start?You’re not alone.The Scwair One podcast will help you get motivated, find focus, meet mentors and grow your idea into reality.The best thing about it – it’s real. It’s authentic… and it’s not for everyone.Each episode will evolve into the next. As your host, creative director Andy Greenhouse, I'll be sharing my experiences of building a business and talking to inspiring people who’ve changed their careers, started movements, companies, charities and projects.I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.

Before I hit publish on Apple Podcasts I realised something. Starting this podcast would be an opportunity to embrace the difficult conversations which people are having in 2020.As the podcast starts its journey to an unknown destination, there are huge, game-changing protests currently happening across the globe.Conversations can change peoples' perceptions and opinions and audio is the simplest, most accessible way to have those conversations. That's why I wanted to record a quick prologue for the Scwair One podcast separate from the intro episode, to acknowledge the ongoing struggles and to lend my support where I can.I'm Andy Greenhouse.And I'm a creative evolutionist.I help people, brands and businesses evolve in an ever-changing landscape.Find me writing daily on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygreenhouseMy video agency @ swhype.comAnd if you're looking for your tribe... Maybe I'll see you at Scwair1.