Balancing Acts

Will Robbins and Ben Cohen are the Lovely Boys, an online comedy sketch duo.Both of them are stand up comedians and together their sketches have amassed 45,000 followers on TikTok.Happy listening :)SteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Matty Hutson is a musical comedian and improviser at the Free Association. He has reached the final of Musical Comedy Awards twice. During the pandemic he used his time wisely and began making online content, going viral numerous times on Twitter and Tiktok. He has also appeared on Sky Sports and Soccer AM performing comedy songs about football. Matty is currently writing his next Edinburgh Fringe show which he will be performing this Summer. Happy listening :)SteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Zehavah Handler is a registered BACP psychotherapist and trained in CBT-i practitioner sleep councillor, a programme helping people suffering from chronic insomnia. Her training incorporates existential, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural modalities.Happy listening :)SteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Darryl Edwards is a movement coach and best selling author. He is the founder of the Primal Play Method and a physical activity, health and play researcher.He regularly presents as a keynote and motivational speaker and his April 2019 TED talk "Why working out isn't working out" has now been viewed over a million times. Darryl is author of the best-selling books "Animal Moves" which highlights why humans should move like the animals we are. In late 2020 he released a children's picture book called “My First Animal Moves”. Darryl's work has been published in leading national and international press such as Men's Health, Women's Health, Top Santé, Elle Magazine, Men's Fitness and The Daily Telegraph, and featured on the BBC documentaries Eat to Live Forever, and Doctor In The House. He has also appeared in the full-length documentaries Love Paleo and The Human Longevity Project.Happy listening :)Steve Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Henry Normal is a writer, poet, TV and film producer and founder of the Manchester poetry festival (now literary festival).Co-founding Babycow Productions Ltd in 1999 with Steve Coogan, Henry exec produced and scripted edited many of the shows of its 17 and a half year output during his tenure as MD. Highlights of the Babycow output during this time include: Philomena, Gavin & Stacey, Moone Boy, Marion and Geoff, Nighty Night, The Mighty Boosh, Redd Dwarf and of course Alan Partridge. Since retiring in April 2016 Henry has written and performed 7 BBC Radio 4 shows, a normal family, a normal life, a normal love, a normal creativity, a normal nature, a normal universe and a normal communication combining comedy, poetry and stories about bringing up his autistic son. The shows are available on BBC Sounds. In June 2017 he was honoured with a BAFTA for services to the TV industry. He was recently given a honorary doctorate of letters by Nottingham Trent University, another by Nottingham University, and has a beer and a bus named after him in Nottingham. Henry performs poetry at literature Festivals around the UK and has 10 recent poetry collections out from Flapjack Press including a hardback selected works 'The Escape Plan'. Henry also has a memoir ‘A Normal Family' published by Two Roads Press telling the story ion his family which was co-written by his wife Angele Pell. Happy listening :)SteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We're back with part 2 of the compilation of answers to the final question I ask all guests on Balancing Acts.Featuring in order of appearance are:1) Bel and Clare (Ep.70) 2) Ethan Lawrence (Ep.65)3) Naomi Shragai (Ep.66)4) Simon London (Ep.68)5) Christine Rose (Ep.62) 6) Anirban Dasgupta (Ep.58)7) Dugan O'Neal (Ep.64)8) Rachel Stubbings (Ep.53)9) Will Robbins (Ep.38)10) Gytha Lodge (Ep.46)11) Neil Webster (Ep.56)Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this weeks episode I've compiled some of my favourites answers to the question I ask every guest on Balancing Acts: What does the idea of balance mean to you or not? Featured in running order are the following:1) Athena Kugblenu (ep.55)2) Zuby (ep.54)3) Nat Luurtsema (ep.48)4) Adjani Salmon (ep.51)5) Rosie Holt (ep.39)6) Shane Todd (ep.52)7) Esther Manito (ep.36)8) Tom Houghton (ep.41)9)Heydon Prowse (ep.45)10) Barry Ferns (ep.35)11) Oenone (ep.63)Happy listening :)Steve Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Liz Earle MBE is a champion of women's health, media influencer, author of 36 books, TV presenter, podcast host and charity-founder. For more than thirty years, Liz has remained a respected and award-winning authority in the world of beauty, natural nutrition, health and wellbeing. She is dedicated to sharing her knowledge as a broadcaster (having started her TV career on ITV's This Morning in 1989, she's still a contributor to the show), writer and trusted household name, as well as being a bestselling author with a range of lifestyle titles and a multi-brand founder.Liz's entrepreneurial spirit started from a young age and developed when she put her name to several successful brands. These includeLiz Earle Wellbeing and Liz Earle Fair and Fine, an award-winning range of ethically sourced, Fairtrade jewellery. In 1995, Liz co-founded the Liz Earle Beauty Co, which was sold in 2010 and she finally left the beauty brand in May 2017. In 2007, Liz Earle was awarded an MBE for her services to business and she has also received an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from both Portsmouth University and Staffordshire University.Liz is an expert in feel-good food and natural physical and mental healthcare, consistently sharing her simple and accessible tips in a practical and empowering way. Her straightforward, thoroughly researched and honest approach has earned her a place as a trusted visionary in the world of wellbeing.Liz has five children ranging in ages from 30 down to 10, is now divorced, and divides her time between her London studios and a regenerative farm in the West Country. Happy listening :)SteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Remi Nicole is a writer, director and performer.A native of Holloway, North London, Remi grew up fired by a passion for story-telling, which she explored by endlessly writing music, fiction, plays and poetry. After training as an actress at the Birmingham School of Speech and Drama, she graduated in 2004 then swiftly landed a variety of stage roles including Two Step and Playboy of the West Indies before becoming a regular cast member in BBC TV series Hyperdrive alongside Miranda Hart plus appearances on ITV's William and Mary, The Bill and Holby City (BBC). Known in British fashion circles for her effortless style, Remi went on to guest co-present Freshly Squeezed with Nick Grimshaw in 2007 but it was in the music industry that she became best known, fast cementing her status as a respected singer/songwriter.Garnering widespread and global acclaim from Vogue, MTV, The Guardian and more, Remi became the centre of an A&R bidding war after releasing her first demo. Signing with Island Records, Remi released her debut guitar-based, frank-talking pop album My Conscience and I in 2007, which encapsulated observational wit and relatable real life tales of dead-end jobs, failed relationships and urban London life.Illustrating her natural passion for singing live, Remi has toured with the late, great Amy Winehouse and performed at festivals, namely Glastonbury, Latitude, Bestival, V and T4 at the Beach. In 2009 she released her second album, Cupid Shoot Me, then signed a new publishing deal with Sony ATV before exploring other creative avenues - launching a clothing line, modelling for international brands including Nike and art directing fashion photographic shoots.Remi subsequently moved to LA where she transitioned into writing and directing and created Lit By The Moon, an eight-part drama television series. The plot chronicles Remi's own experience of moving to California and follows a female British singer with an unfaltering belief in the American dream. Now 37 and a Mother of two, Remi has returned to London and is focussing her creative energy on writing and directing and has a number of projects in development.Happy listening :)SteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ashley is a comedian and writer from North West London. He went from being homeless to winning the London Comedy Stores brutal King Gong competition, gigging at all the top comedy clubs up and down the country, hosting The Gormania Podcast and writing and directing his proof concept film Diamanté. Ashley also found time to launch and MC at the infamous South Kensington Comedy Club.To listen to this conversation please click here.Happy listening :)SteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Bel Knight and Clare Hoey are a writing partnership working across TV, film and podcast projects.They wrote and starred in their debut play It's Not Cute Anymore, which ran at Underbelly at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2018. The play was optioned as a TV show and they now have six original TV shows and a podcast in development: Delilah Must Die, a black comedy drama in development with Big Talk that made the Brit List in 2021. Dody The First a mockumentary with Roughcut. Flutter, a romantic comedy with Sid Gentle. Heart Squad 5, a Y2K whodunnit with Firebird Pictures and BBC Studios. King Hit, an Australian zillennial noir with NBC Universal and That's Showbiz Baby, a musical comedy podcast with Audible.They are writing their first feature film for Netflix, due to shoot in Summer 2022.Happy listening :)Steve​Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ryan Dalton is the host of the nature and wildlife podcast 'Into The Wild'.Ryan spent seven years as a comedian, performing all across London, Surrey and Berkshire, alongside the likes of Paul Foot, Sara Pascoe and Joel Dommet.He also ran his own nights, The Comedy Wire, based in Surbiton, Surrey and Bracknell, Berkshire, where he would often MC. At the start of the pandemic Ryan decided to leave stand up and solely focus on growing the already successful podcast.In each episode of 'Into The Wild', Ryan chats to experts in the field of natural science. Discussing everything from facts of individual specie, to more complex conservation topics. Happy listening :)SteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon has a well-deserved reputation as a broadcast ‘all-rounder'. His television career started at the Daily Mirror as the paper's youngest ever television critic. He then joined LIVE TV as a presenter fronting the daily show Live With London as well as the Breakfast Show alongside Claudia Winkleman. He was the roving reporter on the Saturday night National Lottery Show, before joining the BBC's City Hospital presenting team. After presenting shows for several major broadcasters he joined the production team of the BAFTA award-winning So Graham Norton before producing V Graham Norton, which won a NTV Award. He then joined Talkback as Head of Comedy Entertainment and has held executive television roles at Fremantle, RDF and back at the BBC where he was the Creative Head of Comedy and Head of Comedy North. Simon is also an expert in digital media after a stint as Social Content Director for The Stylist Group. More recently he was Head of Original Programming and Content for Africa Media Works' Yanga TV, winning the channel a Screen Nation Award in 2019 for Favourite Black Broadcaster.Simon has given talks at Google, You Tube and Guardian Panels about content creation. He is also a regular contributor on Talk Radio and BBC Radio London where he discusses news, current affairs and pop culture. Finally, he is the co-founder of KidRated – a website where children review family days out and attractions.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve#TV #podcast #balancingacts #simonlondon #stevewhiteley #comedy #BBC #production Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stephen is one of the few people in the UK who is fully trained in the Neuromuscular Activation technique known as Be Activated.Over the last thirteen years, he has trained in a wide range of advanced physical therapy, injury assessment, exercise rehabilitation and sports performance improvement techniques. Be Activated is a ground breaking and relatively new method used by elite sports teams and professionals to effectively treat injury and revolutionise performance. A former national medallist swimmer and a single figure handicap golfer himself, Stephen has Activated Olympians, Paralympians, Ladies & Mens European and PGA tour golfers, world record holders and me...Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve#BeActivated #NeuromuscularActivation #injuryrehabilitation #balance #balancingacts #stephentomlinson #stevewhiteley #apple #spotifySupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Naomi is an author, freelance journalist, business consultant and psychotherapist.She has written for The Times and The Guardian and since 2008 has been a regular contributor to the Financial Times, where she writes predominantly about the psychological aspects of working life. Her first book, The Man Who Mistook his Job for his Life, was published by Penguin in August 2021.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve#financialtimes #worklifebalance #psychotherapy #balancingacts #podcast #stevewhiteley #naomishragaiSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ethan is an actor and comedian.He has starred in Bad Education both the TV series and feature film, starring Jack Whitehall. Ethan has also starred in Modern Horror Stories on Comedy Central and more recently as James in Ricky Gervais' After Life.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve#actor #acting #rickygervais #afterlife #jackwhitehall #stevewhiteley #ethanlawrence #balancingacts #apple #spotifySupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Dugan is a writer, director and actor.He has directed music videos for the likes of Duck Sauce, Haim and Temper Trap and lots of very funny commercials. He was a staff writer on the animated TV series Dream Corp LLC. Dugan also sits on the board of directors for non-profit group OMG Cameras Everywhere.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve#duganoneal #spikejonze #filmmaking #stevewhiteley #balancing acts #apple #spotify #podcastSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Oenone is an influencer, presenter, podcaster and comedian.Her podcast Adulting has been downloaded over 3 million times. Oenone creates content about fitness, feminism, books, jewellery, politics and everything in between.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve#oenone #influencer #podcaster #instagram #balancingacts #stevewhiteley #apple #spotifySupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Christine Rose is a TV comedy writer.Christine has written on shows including Graham Norton, Jonathan Ross Show, Chatty Man, Have I Got News For You, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Would I Lie To You, Roast Battle, Horrible Histories and awards shows such as the BAFTAs, The Brits and The Royal Variety. As well as reality shows, dating shows, survival shows and loads more. Christine won the TV Best Comedy Writer in the 2020 Funny Women Awards.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

James Farmer is a comedian and writer.James has worked as a writer on some of the most successful UK TV shows. From pretty much all of Jimmy Carr shows, to the Last Leg, Romesh on the Ranganation and Frankie Boyle on his shows. As a stand up he has supported both Jimmy Carr and Patrick Kielty on tour. Jimmy Carr on several dates for his Funny Business tour. In 2015 he went on the road again to tour support for Patrick Kielty.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Tony Kent is an author and criminal barrister.Tony grew up on a council estate in west London, he came from an Irish family of builders some of whom, including his older brother, found themselves on the wrong side of the law. It was during one of his brother’s brushes with the law that Tony decided he wanted to be a barrister. Fast forward today and Tony runs one of the UK tops law firms representing some of the most notorious gangsters and criminals.Tony's first novel, Killer Intent, a political thriller, was one of the ‘must reads’ of 2018. It was selected for the Zoe Ball Book Club and is currently being adapted into a TV series. His second book, Marked For Death, followed and was picked by the Richard & Judy Book Club. His third novel, Power Play, is a highly-topical thriller of corruption and power, cementing Tony’s reputation as one of the most exciting new names in crime fiction.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shaun Pye is a writer and producer. Shaun has written for numerous TV shows including The 11 O'Clock Show, Have I Got News For You, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, They Think It's All Over, Armstrong and Miller, Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, Would I Lie to You?, Frankie Boyle's New World Order and The Reluctant Landlord. In addition Shaun co-created the BBC3 animated sketch comedy Monkey Dust. He also co-created The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret starring David Cross, Sharon Horgan, Blake Harrison, Will Arnett, Spike Jonze, Sara Pascoe and Amber Tamblyn. The series was broadcast on Channel 4, Netflix and IFC. Shaun created and wrote the BAFTA-winning There She Goes with his wife Sarah Crawford. The series was originally on BBC 4 and then subsequently got moved to BBC 2. It stars David tenant and Jessie Hynes and is based on Seans own experiences with his daughter Joey, who was born with a chromosomal disorder. As an actor Shaun in best known for his role as Greg Lindley-Jones on Ricky Gervais's sitcom Extras.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Anirban is a comedian and writer from India.Anirban Dasgupta gave up his sales job to pursue comedy. He was of the founders of Comedified, one of the first legit comedy groups of Kolkata, and was instrumental in establishing a comedy scene in the sleepy city. In 2018, Anirban released his Amazon Prime Special called 'Take It Easy'. His dark comedy series Afsos is currently streaming on Amazon Prime. Anirban's stand up clips have accumulated millions of views on Youtube.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

KG The Comedian is an actor, comedian and writer.KG is best known for a YouTube viral hit called Shadrack & The Mandem which culminated in millions of views, with fellow comedian Marston. As an actor he he starred in Famalam, King Gary, Ted Lasso, Sliced, Bloods, Time Wasters and Just A Couple. He also recently featured in Mo Gilligian’s documentary, ‘Black British and Funny. As a stand-up comedian, KG has performed at The Glee Club, O2 Indigo Arena, Catford Theatre and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.KG also co-hosts the podcast 'Undefeated' with Travis Jay.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Neil is a writer, exec producer and co-founded the comedy drama production company Happy Tramp.Happy Tramp have produced a sitcom series for BBC1, a sketch show for BBC2 (Morgana Robinson’s The Agency), a BAFTA nominated short film for BBC3 and numerous half hour films for Sky Arts Urban Myths series, two of which (written by Neil) were nominated for an International EMMY.In 2017, Neil relocated to Scotland, where he established Happy Tramp North. The company have gone on to produce the highly acclaimed drama Guilt for BBC2/BBC Scotland, as well as the sitcom Semi-Detached for BBC2. Prior to Happy Tramp, Neil co-founded the legendary comedy production company Zeppotron in 2000, working as Creative Director until 2012. Where he was oversaw writing, producing, exec producing, developing talent and dealing directly with commissioners at all levelsNeil also co-hosts the podcast 'I can't believe it's not Buddha' with Lee Mack.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Athena writes and performs comedy. She is a member of the BBC Comedy Room 2019/20 and was awarded the BBC Felix Dexter Bursary for BAME up-and-coming comedy writers in 2020. She’s also a nominee for the 99 Club Female Comedians’ Bursary and a former BBC New Comedy Award Finalist. She has written for Horrible Histories, the Russell Howard Hour, Radio 4’s The Lenny Henry Show, Dead Ringers, News Quiz, Newsjack, The Now Show and is a lead writer for Sketchtopia.She’s been a guest on Mock the Week and is a regular co-host of The Guilty Feminist. She’s also written for The Guardian, Time Out and Stylist Magazine and makes regular appearances on BBC Radio 5 Live and Talk Radio. Athena is the host of podcast Keeping Athena Company, interviewing interesting people whilst eating fried plantain. If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Zuby is an independent rapper, podcast host, author, public speaker and creative entrepreneur, with over 500,000 followers across social media. He was born in England, raised in Saudi Arabia and is a graduate of Oxford University. He has sold over 25,000 albums independently, performed in 8 countries and achieved over 10 million online video views. Zuby has featured on The Joe Rogan Experience, BBC, Fox News, Sky News, The Adam Carolla Show, The Rubin Report, The Candace Owens Show and The Ben Shapiro Show, and more.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to actor/writer/director Rachel Stubbings (https://twitter.com/RachelStubbings).Rachel is a BAFTA nominated writer whose credits include The Athena (Sky), 8 Out Of 10 Cats (C4), Mock The Week (BBC2), The Last Leg (C4), Trollied (Sky) and Invasion Of The Book Readers (BBC). She is currently developing her short Good Grief as a feature film. As an actor Rachel has recently starred alongside Karl Pilkinton in Sick Of It (Sky), Julia Davis in Sally4Ever (Sky/HBO) and in the very funny Whenever You're Ready, written and directed by Craig Ainsley which is currently being developed as a sitcom. Rachel has also directed numerous shorts and as part of directing collective Barabara, recently signed to Sharon Horgan's production company Merman.In addition to all of the above Rachel runs and curates Shooting The Brreze, a popular short film night and is also head of short courses for comedy writing and producing at the National Film And Television School.We discuss:Rachel recently being appointed the head of short courses for comedy writing and producing at the NFTS and what she enjoys about teaching. Why she decided to learn stop motion during lockdown, her resolution to direct more and the pros and cons to being a jack of all trades. She recalls the moment her drama teacher saw something in her and encouraged Rachel to pursue acting. Rachel describes how she get into stand up. Why she thinks she would have got further along with her writing if she wasn’t doing stand up. Why she likes to collaborate. What she loves about running her short film shooting the breeze and why she loves the short film community.Why shooting commercials is a good training ground to direct narrative. Rachel explains how she conveys her ideas as a director to her DOP and how she learned her film grammar on set. Why she finds patching and sewing therapeutic. The importance in knowing when to park an idea and give it space to brew. Why having a co-writer to motivate you. How working in all the various forms is now paying off for Rachel after years of struggling. Her love for zombie and violent films. Why happiness is not conducive to Rachels style of comedy, why she won’t do therapy and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to comedian/actor/presenter Shane Todd (https://twitter.com/shanetodd). Shane began performing stand up at the age of 19 and then began posting videos on YouTube, as part of the Harlem Gun Club a Northern Irish based comedy collective. He has performed solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Mandela Hall and Ulster Hall. Belfast Telegraph hailed Shane as “King of comedy”. In February 2019, Shane joined the cast of the BBC Northern Irish mockumentary sitcom Soft Border Control. He also presents the Shane Todd show on BBC Radio Ulster and hosts his own podcastsThe Shane Toddcast and Tea with me.We kick things off with Shane explaining why he doesn't drink before a gig. We discuss the importance of having friends who’s feedback on your material you trust. Shane recalls how he got into stand up and how it took him 10 years of performing, before he overcame the nerves and anxiety. He describes the Northern Island comedy scene and what he learned from performing stand up in New York. He explains how his approach to writing has changed over the years and how lockdown has given him the opportunity to go over and analyse his material.On a more serious note, Shane confesses why he had to go cold turkey on football manager. We debate the merit of of writing material on a notepad rather than a laptop. He explains how he used his experience of getting diagnosed with crohn's disease, as an opportunity to adopt a more positive mindset and attitude. Shane also talks about the experience of being a new Dad and why he prefers not to do material on his family. Why he started creating content and how roasting the Ulster rugby team led to Shane going viral. And why scheduling making content didn’t work for him. We also cover how Shane got into radio presenting and why things fell into place when he was more his authentic self; his love for playing football, why God is never described as a best selling author and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to writer/director Adjani Salmon (https://www.instagram.com/s.adjani).Adjani is an award winning writer and director from Jamaica. Before graduating from the Met Film School, he wrote and directed a 13-episode web series, which achieved over 40,000 views in 3 months. In 2013, Adjani moved to the UK to pursue his Masters in Directing Film. His graduation film, His Father’s Son, screened at numerous film festivals internationally, including Cannes, Blackstar and the Montreal World Film festival. He is the writer, producer and lead actor for Dreaming Whilst Black and co-founder of 4Quarter Films.Adjani explains how the accumulation of a few years work led to him having a positive 2020, career wise. We discuss the danger in getting caught up in the industry rather than making your next independent project. He recalls how he moved from Jamaica to the UK to pursue his dream of being a filmmaker and what he got out of going to film school. Adjani describes how his experiences of working at Pinewood studios influenced ‘Dreaming Whilst Black’. He talks about the experience of winning film festival awards all over the world and going viral, but why Adjani still felt the series underperformed.We discuss why the short film festival circuit should be given more industry love and respect. The importance in getting feedback from your filmmaking contemporaries and why to choose them carefully. Why Adjani decided to only direct one episode and to bring onboard other people to direct the web series. He also explains what motivated him to re-write the ending of the series on the day of shooting it.Adjani highlights his favourite filmmakers and highlights why he setup his own production company. He shares his thoughts on whether there been progress in the push for diversity in the TV and film industry and why he is driven to become self sustainable. We question when you get a set back on a project, does that mean it's not meant for you or that you have to work harder? How to figure out what is the idea you should focus or take action on and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to comedian and presenter Tom Deacon (https://twitter.com/TomHDeacon).Tom has been performing live stand-up for the last 12 years and has notched up 4 Edinburgh solo shows. He has presented for the likes of BBC2, BBC Radio1, The Capital FM breakfast show and YouTube football channel Copa90. Tom has also made guest appearances on BBC2’s The Rob Brydon Show, Dave’s One Night Stand and ITV2’s Fake Reaction. He is currently the host of F1 Esports Pro Series.Tom explains how he got into performing stand up comedy and presenting and how he got signed early on his career to Avalon. He describes the struggle between transitioning from club sets to an hours show at Edinburgh Fringe. And the negative impact that bad reviews of his show had on him and his run. Tom also breaks down his writing process on stage and the pressure of performing on TV when you only have one take.We discuss Toms desire to travel the world in order to have more to say on stage. He opens up about the challenge of having to hold back as a presenter and how it affects his creativity as a stand up. Tom also describes the experience of gigging with James Acaster early on his career and watching him die on stage twice. He recounts his time as a presenter at BBC Radio One and talks about the idea of sacrificing parts of your dreams/creativity, in order to achieve balance and happiness. Tom says it's ok to accept that the goal you set out to achieve, in hindsight, is actually not quite what you want.Tom highlights the power of saying no to opportunities and to prioritise your own well being. How to deal with haters and social media comments. The importance of being proud and happy with your own work. What it's like interviewing huge stars and how to keep your shit together. The experience of travelling round Europe as a presenter for Copa90 and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to documentary maker and journalist Andrew Gold (https://twitter.com/AndrewGold_ok).Andrew speaks 5 languages, has lived in 6 countries and produces award winning documentaries on bizarre and controversial subcultures. His documentary Exorcism The Battle For Young Minds was broadcast on BBC3 and was Sunday Times' Pick of the Week. He has also created documentaries for HBO and hosts his On the Edge with Andrew Gold Podcast, which was featured as an Apple New and Noteworthy show.Andrew explains why his life hasn’t changed much since the pandemic. We talk about how he's come to live in 6 countries over the last 6 years and becoming fluent in 5 languages along the way. He breaks down how he became a documentary maker and figured out how to develop his own niche. How he used his time whilst working as a journalist at the Sun, to get better at being in front of camera. He describes the process of moving to Columbia and starting his learning curve making documentaries from scratch. And then moving to Buenos Aries and getting his first BBC3 documentary series commissioned and HBO buying his pilot. We discuss the idea of faking it till you make it and why it's important to stick to your guns. Andrew explains why it's essential to embrace fear of the unknown. He describes the crash that comes when your project is complete and the emotional and mental impact that came with making a documentary on paedophiles. He talks about how he’s grown his podcast, interviewing big name guests along the way, what that experience was like and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to writer, director and author Nat Luurtsema (https://twitter.com/natluurtsema).Nat has written for Mock The Week (BBC), 8 Out Of Ten Cats (Channel 4) and with her sketch group Jigsaw, Nat has had two Radio 4 series, and three sell-out Edinburgh runs. Her adult non-fiction title Cuckoo in the Nest was a Sunday Express Book Of The Year. Girl Out of Water, Nat’s debut children’s book was longlisted for the Waterstones' Children’s Book of the Year.Nat describes how she transitioned from radio presenting to performing stand up and sketch to then writing/directing films and becoming an author. She explains why she stopped acting and performing stand up to focus on her writing/directing career. Nat also breaks down how she took a DIY approach to learning the craft of filmmaking.She describes how she would often manifest having great gigs and how she has incorporated manifestation on a regular basis into her filmmaking career. She explains why she never googled herself or her reviews as a stand up and now also as a filmmaker and why she does so many creative endeavours. We discuss the importance of not being self-deprecating and being kind and empathetic towards yourself.Nat describes how she met her film producers, she talks about the importance of having a solid working relationship with your agent and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to comedian and writer Nathan Caton (https://twitter.com/NathanCaton)Nathan began performing stand up comedy at the age of 19 and since then he has been on Live at the Apollo, Mock The Week, Don’t Hate The Playaz, Comedy Gala, Russell Howard’s Good News and his own series Gran Jury. He also wrote and performed in his BBC Radio 4 sitcom, Can’t Tell Nathan Caton Nothing and starred in a pilot for Paramount Comedy (now Comedy Central) entitled The Nathan Caton Show. He has also written for the children's series Rastamouse and has appeared several times on the BBC Premier League Show as well as his ever-growing podcast, Nathan Caton’s Football ForumWe kick things off talking about the challenge of switching off and why Nathan finds it hard to take time out from his career. He explains his love hate relationship with social media. Why he felt getting his Comedy Central TV pilot came too early and why he didn’t let it affect him when it didn’t get a series commission. Nathan describes how early on in his stand up career, he tried to balance gigging and getting up for an early morning lecture; while studying architecture and then whilst juggling part time work at Heathrow airport. He breakdown his first Edinburgh Fringe experience and describes life on the road as a touring comedian. We discuss what qualities you need to commit to being a stand up comedian and Nathan explains how his family have instilled a strong work ethic in him. He breaks down the benefit of collaborating with writers who come from a different perspective and point of view and emphasises the importance in staying present to develop new material. We discuss how Nathan switches off from stand up through weight lifting, swimming and doing HIIT work outs and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to author/playwright/screenwriter Gytha Lodge (https://twitter.com/thegyth).Gytha set up her own theatre company after graduating from Cambridge with a degree in English and began to tour productions. Her one-act play Otherwise won a Fringe award in 2010 for best new play. After beginning the UEA Creative Writing MA in 2011, Gytha began writing for screen and in prose. She was shortlisted for the Yeovil Literary Prize and the Arts' Council England fiction awards, and developed a large online following for her young adult and children's writing, culminating in close to two million reads on platform Wattpad. Her first novel She Lies in Wait was published in March 2019, it is a Sunday Times Top 10 bestseller, and was a Richard and Judy Book Club pick. She is signed with Penguin Random House worldwide for the first three books in her crime series featuring DCI Jonah Sheens. Her third book in the trilogy 'Lie Beside Me', is released in February 2021.Gytha kicks things off talking about what impact the clothes we wear, whilst working from home have on our productivity and focus. She breaks down how she balances single parenting while writing during lockdown. We discuss the importance of routine and having a space dedicated to your writing and Gytha advises to let yourself love the process of writing.She shares her experience of studying English at Cambridge University and explains why after graduating she set up a theatre company, which then went on to win an Edinburgh Fringe Award. And we discuss the importance of knowing how to pitch. Gytha breaks down how she juggled doing an MA in creative writing, being a single parent and running a business at the same time. She describes how she built an online following for her writing on Wattpad and gained over 1.8 million reads, whilst waiting to hear back from publishers on her first novel.And how it took Gytha till her seventh novel to get a three book publishing deal with Penguin, which then enabled her to quit her job and write full time. She emphasises the importance of empathy and not basing your self esteem on your career and gives her one tip to aspiring authors and writers. Gytha also shares her love for gaming, rock climbing, rowing and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to writer/director/performer/producer, Heydon Prowse (https://www.twitter.com/HeydonProwse).Heydon began his career creating hidden camera political stunts with the viral creative agency Don't Panic. Many of these videos gained international press coverage. This led to the BBC3 show 'The Revolution Will Be Televised,' which Heydon co-wrote and co-starred in with Jolyion Rubenstein. The show went on to win a BAFTA, a Rose d’Or and a Broadcast Award over three seasons. Other TV shows include Democracy Dealers on BBC3, Revolting on BBC2 and The Ministry of Justice on Channel 4. As well as directing documentaries for the likes of Vice and The Guardian, Heydon also hosted and wrote the BBC2 documentary called The Town That Took on The Taxman. He most recently created the Spotify podcast series Sex, Lies & DM Slides, featuring Gizzi Erskine and Sydney Lima.Heydon breaks down how he got into making hidden camera political stunts on YouTube with Don’t Panic. He describes what it was like outing MPs, who lost their jobs as a result of his stunts and the anxiety that came with dealing with the online aftermath. Heydon talks about the anxiety that came with being behind illegal stunts that could have imprisoned him and the crash that comes after filming such highly adrenalized productions.He explains why he felt it was unwise to loose skills in producing and directing, as he became more front of camera talent. We talk about dealing with imposters syndrome and this idea of being an introverted performer. We discuss how social media has made comedy more of level but the curse that also comes democratising content. Heydon describes the struggles of pitching to commissioners and how The Revolution Will Be Televised got made. Why he has decided to focus on creating mainstream entertainment content and how the Spotify series 'Sex Lies and DM slides' came about.Heydon explains the strength in being part of a network and the opportunities that arise as a result, why it’s not necessary to have an agent anymore and why creating content is only 10% of what leads to eventual success. He reveals what strategies he used to create viral videos and why he wears so many creative hats. We talk about this idea of constructive procrastination, the challenge with writing scripts on spec, the importance in toughening up as an artist and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to the founder of Hoopla, Steve Roe (https://www.hooplaimpro.com).Steve co-founded Hoopla in 2006 with his friend Edgar Fernando and they started running improv classes and courses.Hoopla are the founders of the UK’s 1st improv comedy club. Recommended by The Guardian, The Independent, Time Out, The Evening Standard, The Daily Telegraph and more. Prior to covid, their theatre had shows performing 7 nights a week featuring people who have trained with Hoopla. Hoopla also provide corporate training for clients including Google, Facebook, Accenture, Apple, London Business School, Comedy Central and more.We kick things off talking about Steve's new exercise regime after having covid. He explains how he co-founded Hoopla and eventually walked out of his full-time job in TV, to commit to growing it as a company. Steve warns why not to full into the trap of being the impoverished artist and we agree how temping can be a meditative process. Steve also breaks down the pros and cons of growing a company organically and not taking investment.He talks about the struggle of transitioning from being a performer to having to take a step back to run the business. Steve explains his circle decision making process, which helps him decide which projects to work on. He emphasises the importance of focussing on the audience and what’s fun or you, rather than being worried about the competition. Steve talks through how and why Hoopla opened their own improv venue. What to do when you get to the end of your 5 year plan. Why he took a management course with Open University and what the key takeaways he learned from it were. How he got better at delegating. He breaks down the 5 why’s you need to ask yourself before launching something new.Steve also describes the healthy state of the UK improv scene pre-covid and believes it is on track to compete with the US. He explains why, he does the Alexander technique, why he did hypnotherapy during covid, his annual birthday ritual, why he loves going on solo walks and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to writer/director/improviser Jacob Reed (http://jacobreed.net).Jacob has directed for Jimmy Kimmel Live, Comedy Central, Funny or Die, Nickelodeon and BuzzFeed. Over the past decade Jacob has also worked as a teacher and performer at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. His two man improv group Tremendosaur has had multiple show runs at the UCB and been featured in The Hollywood Reporter, New York Magazine and The Wall Street Journal. As a creative director for BuzzFeed, Jacobs videos received hundreds of millions of views. Jacob was also the co-host of the Before You Were Funny Podcast.Jacob kick things off describing what life is like as a new Dad during a pandemic and how not having free time is keeping him focussed.How it feels having such a long break from performing improv and why Jacob is trying to be less goal driven and strategic in his approach to his art. He breaks down how his improv experience has informed his style of directing and helped him develop a more collaborative approach. We talk about his improvised short film that recently got accepted into Raindance.Jacob describes time working as BuzzFeed's creative director, overseeing 18,000 pieces of content and how he tried to balance that with his own projects. He explains the 50/50 formula when crewing up on new shoots and the challenge with being a creative, writing a script and then handing it over to a director. Jacob talks about why he regrets following peoples expectations of what they perceive him to be in the entertainment industry and explains why not to put yourself in a box.He also breaks down what it was like directing Jimmy Kimmel live and how he’d given up on having a career as a director, before he got the call about the job. He also describes the working process on the show, what it's like working in Hollywood, why he loves teaching improv & loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to comedian and raper Joe Jacobs (https://www.instagram.com/jesterjacobs).Joe Jacobs is a comedian, rapper and writer. He has shared bills with acts including Bill Burr and Stewart Lee. He has been seen/heard on Channel 4, BBC Radio 4, BBC 6 Music, Radio 1XTRA and gained millions of views online. In addition to stand up, as rapper Jester Jacobs, he’s put out music since his debut Mental Disorder in 2008. Joe has also performed two critically acclaimed solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.We kick things off talking about our shared dislike for hebrew school. Joe explains why it's important to keep perspective during these pandemic times. He describes the struggle of writing new material when you don’t have the deadline of performing at gigs. Joe breaks down his approach to creativity and the importance of having structure and routine. He explains why he likes writing new material before a gig/set and how he has dealt with the anxiety and adrenaline that comes with performing.Joe Jacobs on making his BBC Radio 4 documentary 'Hip-hop's Laughing Stock' and the importance of structure and routine. We talk about Joe's recent documentary 'Hip-hop's Laughing Stock' and how he it got commissioned on BBC Radio 4. He talks about the difficulty with feeling joyful but not looking joyful or happy and how it’s cost him getting promoted at work We exchange stories of growing up in the 'burbs' and getting jacked, how smoking weed in our teenage years affected us and Joe describes his mindfulness practice and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to comedian Tom Houghton (https://www.instagram.com/honourabletom).Tom has shared line-ups with the likes of Michael McIntyre, John Bishop, Jason Manford and Jack Whitehall and has supported Daniel Sloss, Justin Moorhouse and more recently Milton Jones on tour. Tom has performed 3 critically acclaimed solo Edinburgh Fringe shows and a sold out run at London’s Soho Theatre.Previously with The Noise Next Door he has appeared on BBC1, BBC3, ITV3, Channel 4 and has featured in‘The Jim Jeffries Show’ for Comedy Central and most recently filmed ‘Roast Battle’ also for Comedy Central.This was great chat, we covered lots of ground. Tom talks me through his work out regime during lockdown, the experience of supporting Milton Jones on tour and breaks down his several year comedy career plan. He also describes the challenging transition of leaving his improv group 'The Noise Next Door' to pursue a career as a solo stand up comedian. Tom explains the benefits of performing Improv for 10 years, the pros and cons to touring solo and how it led to panic attacks. And Tom also defines the strategies he used to get himself into a healthier place mentally and emotionally.We talk about the importance of having hobbies that have nothing to do with work, with no outcome and how Tom learned to value life experiences over his career. Tom also describes his relationship with his military Dad and what it was like living in the Tower of London!He explains why the best acts don't feel they are competing against each other and why you shouldn’t do it, he details his experiences of creating online comedy content and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to Daisy Squires, Lou Marillier and Sophia Seymour, the co-directors of the Guardian produced documentary 'Teranga' (https://www.terangathedocumentary.com).Teranga documents an Afrobeats migrant-run nightclub in Naples offering a safe space for the city’s asylum seekers. The film follows Fata and Yankuba, who fled dictatorship in Gambia, only to find themselves living in a politicised limbo, as they wait for a response to their asylum requests. The three film makers explain how they met, why they wanted to tell this story and how they struck up a friendship with Fata and Yankuba and immersed themselves in their lives.With the funds raised from the film, Daisy, Lou and Sophia hope to support Fata and Yankuba in their respective aspirations.For further information on how you can help please go to: https://www.terangathedocumentary.com/get-involved.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to actor and comedian Rose Holt (https://twitter.com/RosieisaHolt).Rosie's recent hilarious and satirical videos on Twitter have gone viral. Her performances are so good, that same people think her character is a real person. Rosie explains why she decided to quit performing stand up comedy and how lockdown led her to start creating videos.If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteveSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/balancing-acts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to actor and comedian Will Robbins (https://www.instagram.com/willyrobbins)Will reached the final of the Brighton Komedia new comedian of 2020 competition. He recently starred in Comedy Centra's 'Transaction' and writes and acts in sketches on Instagram with his comedy partner in LOL's, Ben Cohen. Will kicks things off describing his creative partnership with Ben and how they started creating sketches together. We talk about the advantage of making content with a friend. Will describes how an hallucinogenic trip changed his view and approach on the world. We discuss our former life working in the music industry. How Will got into stand up and the struggles that comes with the early days of gigging on the open mic circuit.Will shares the experience of acting in Comedy Central's 'Transaction' and the challenges that come with not being able to improvise. He breaks down his daily 30/30/30 ritual of journalling, stretching and meditating and explains the positive impact it’s had on him since incorporating it as part of his routine. We discuss the benefits of self-discipline, share our love for silly comedy and Will explains how it's influenced the sketches he creates.We talk about Will's first job as a runner at BBC entertainment commissioning department, which made live at the Apollo and describes his experience of being a researcher on Russell Howards Good News. Will explains the satisfaction that comes with seeing through and finishing a creative project, but the fear that also comes with it. He breaks down his sketch writing process, why dialogue on IG doesn’t work and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to comedian Joe Hobbs (https://www.joehobbs.co.uk).Joe has been nominated for the BBC New Comedy Award in both 2018 & 2019. He was listed on the BBC's top jokes of the Fringe 2019 and was the Amused Moose National New Comic Award Breakthrough Comedian Winner 2018.We kick things off sharing our hoarding tendencies and discuss why clear outs are so cleansing. Joe tells his journey from growing up on a council estate in Northampton, to becoming a stand up comedian in London. He also describes his time living in South Korea for two years and the liberating feeling of starting again, where nobody knows who you are. Joe explains his strategy of flirting with men who want to pick fights with him, due to his 6ft 8 stature. We share what’s the one thing we’d both do if we were kids again. Joe breaks down his struggles with being ADHD, up until he was diagnosed at the age of 28. The positive impact that meditation and taking medication has had on him. We talk about why ADHD is not treated as a serious disorder, Joe’s struggle with needing time away from projects and how the only consistency in his life, is his need for change. And how being on medication affects Joe when he’s on stage. He also explains how he has a more healthy relationship with his standup comedy career, why he feels less inclined to experiment and take risks on stage and loads more!If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to comedian Esther Manito (https://www.esthermanito.co.uk).Esther is the first female comedian to perform at Dubai Opera House, she's an Arab woman of the Year nominee, an Asian Woman of the Year Finalist, a Funny Women Regional Finalist and a So You Think You’re Funny Finalist.Esther and I describe the most random gigs we have performed at, she talks about her Edinburgh Fringe experience and what it was like, to be the first female to perform at the Dubai Opera House. We also debate whether or not it's acceptable to promote and show off about your career wins.Esther describes how becoming a stand up comedian has affected her enjoyment of watching stand up on TV. We talk about our dislike for performing in stand up competitions and the trauma of dying on stage in front of your peers. Esther explains how she got into stand up comedy, whilst trying to balance being a Mother of 2 on maternity leave. How she attended a stand up comedy course and initially hid it from her husband, friends and family. And dealing with the judgement of her friends and family once they found out what she’s doing.We also talk about how the pandemic has affected her comedy career. Esthers love for true crime podcasts, cycling, walking and loads more! If you like this episode please do rate and review the podcast on Apple.Happy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to comedian, writer, director and co-founder of Angel Comedy, Barry Ferns (https://barryferns.com).Barry has as written for the BBC, Channel 4 and Radio 4. His short films have been selected for The LA Comedy Film festival, Raindance and North by Northwest and he has won the Malcom Hardee Award for Comedy, as well as the Mervyn Stutter Spirit of the Fringe award. And in addition, Barry has been nominated as one of the best MC’s in the UK.We kick things off, talking about the need to eat healthily, to feel good and how Barry needs a creative outlet everyday, to make him feel balanced and normal. We discuss Barry’s creative projects and the time management involved in running them alongside Angel Comedy.Barry describes how he started stand up as a 17 year old and then took a 10 year sabbatical to write and perform in sketch comedy, with Chris Head. He explains that part of the reason he created Angel Comedy, was because he felt people wouldn’t want to hire him, so he built his own space where he could do what he liked; whilst also offering stage time to fellow comedians.We discuss what society deems as being creative and the idea of glorifying the tortured artist. The tension between being creative and wanting to be seen to be creative on social media. Barry explains that we’re not lazy at the things we enjoy and are good at, where as we’re lazy at the things we don’t enjoy. We also talk about whether the multi hyphenate approach is best, or just to focus on getting better at one thing at a time. Barry also emphasises the importance of learning how to network.We share our experiences of attending US short film festivals and Barry describes how friends and family crowd funded to cover his flight and accommodation to attend the LA Comedy Film Festival. He talks about the struggle of selling and putting your art out there.Barry also describes the experience of attending a zen dojo and vipassana 10 day meditation retreats and a 2 month long meditation retreat, in the middle of the jungle in Burma. He opens up about his struggles with depression, explains the importance of keystone habits, we discuss psychedelics and loads more!Rating and reviewing the podcast has never been easier, just click on this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/balanceHappy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to screenwriter Mark Boutros (https://www.mark-boutros.com).Mark co-wrote the one-off comedy drama about Muhammad Ali, The Greatest Of All Time, which was broadcast on Sky Arts as part of their Emmy nominated ‘Urban Myths’ season. He has had script commissions from numerous established TV production companies and his original sitcom Broken Beth was a silver award winner at the 2016 PAGE International Screenwriting Awards in the TV Comedy Pilot category. He has recently developed a new live action series idea with CBBC, and written on Romesh Ranganathan’s The Reluctant Landlord Series 2 for Sky and he is currently developing a pilot for Studio 71. He has also worked as a writer, producer and script editor in comedy entertainment on shows such as 8 Out Of 10 Cats and Through The Keyhole.We kick things off talking about the pressure of feeling like you have to be productive during lockdown. Mark describes his career and how he went from being an edit producer to a scripted TV writer. And how he decided to drop the back up plan and do an MA in creative writing. He says his transition from working in TV to becoming a proper writer started in 2004 and only just finished and that he never thought it would take this long. Mark describes the experience of writing on Romesh Ranganathan’s The Reluctant Landlord and dealing with imposter syndrome and how he got past it. And he talks about the pressure of having to say something and contributing in a writers room. Mark also explains how as soon as you get something you want, that’s when the pressure kicks in. Mark talks about his process when writing his own projects and how the story always starts with developing characters. He breaks down his daily routine and describes the questionnaire he creates for all his characters. Mark explains that he usually writes what he cares about at that time and why he loves researching. We discuss why Mark doesn’t like to watch a TV show that everyone is talking about and why he prefers watching documentaries over sitcomsMark says he prefers writing solely rather than co-writing with someone else and describes the varying ways he works when collaborating with stand up comedians. He describes how doing the artists way has helped him develop his writing and loads more!Mark's book ’The Craft Of Character' is out now on Amazon.Rating and reviewing the podcast has never been easier, just click on this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/balanceHappy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to radio presenter and DJ, AJ King (https://www.instagram.com/kingajking).AJ was the winner of the Kiss 100 'Chosen One' competition and has gone on to have an illustrious career both as a radio and TV presenter. And as a DJ he has played at some of the biggest and best clubs across the globe. AJ is also an ambassador for the Prince's Trust and works with numerous other charities.We kick things off talking about how we met and describe the experience of co-presenting a radio show together and what we learned in the process. AJ explains how he went from working at Barclays Bank, to in 2011 winning the the Kiss 100 'Chosen One' competition. And what was originally a 3 month contract has turned into quite the journey. He breaks down his experience of presenting at Kiss, including the breakfast show and the challenges of taking the spot of an established DJ he looked up to. AJ also talks about the importance lesson of observing that the most successful DJ’s at Kiss were usually the nicest and most humble.We talk about the importance of being authentic and not being afraid to be yourself. AJ describes the time he taught Prince Charles and Camilla how to scratch to ‘Single Ladies’, which resulted in him becoming an ambassador for the Princes Trust. How he balances being a DJ, presenter, working with charities and being a Dad. And how being a Dad has made AJ more driven, disciplined and commercially savvy.AJ also explains his philosophy/motto of ‘you are your money’ and the idea of banking on yourself. He describes the tell tale signs of when he knows that his mental health is suffering. Why boxing is such a release for AJ and has protected his mental health and we share our love for boxing training.Why everything is about timing and the importance of what type of practice you do. And why AJ believes that everyone knows what they want to do, it's just that their belief system or circumstances prevent them from following through on it. He breaks down how he entered his latest creative journey into accidentally becoming an actor and loads more!Rating and reviewing the podcast has never been easier, just click on this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/balanceHappy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to YouTube star Josh Pieters (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpE5VksCvp6lk35MJYlRs5Q).Josh runs his YouTube channel with Archie Manners, together they have created elaborate stunts, social experiments and pranked the likes of Katie Hopkins and Tiger Kings Carole Baskin. Their channel has amassed over 141 million views and 1.43 million subscribers.We kick things off talking about his former life as a semi professional cricket player and how falling ill to glandular fever, forced Josh to pivot and become a Youtuber. Josh describes what he calls his YouTube boyband years, making videos with best friend Caspar Lee, before moving onto the videos that he's known for today. Josh explains that for him, it's impossible to achieve creativity if you're just doing it on your own and how important it is to have someone to collaborate and disagree with. Josh breaks down his working dynamic with Archie, a magician by trade, and how he taught Josh the importance of making people think one thing, when something else is happening. And how their working relationship evolved into a partnership. And he describes it as a symbiotic relationship where they couldn't do what they do, without the other. Josh describes their brainstorming sessions for coming up with new ideas. How they begin with asking the question whether something is possible and running with that, such as 'is it possible to sell microwave meals on deliveroo' to 'can we play on Katie Hopkins ego to fly her over to Prague for a fake award'.Josh explains the safety and legal side of things and also how brands sponsor the videos to cover the cost of the production. He describes the range of emotions he felt during the Katie Hopkins prank and the pressure of funding such an expensive production/video. He talks about the importance of punching up and to have a reason for what you're doing. Josh also describes the Ed Sheeran prank, the Carole Baskin and the Tom Holland interview. We chat about how Josh wishes he wasn't so affected by what views he gets on a video, his love for exercise, how important it is for mental health and loads more!Rating and reviewing the podcast has never been easier, just click on this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/balanceHappy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to Jack Howard, writer/director and actor (https://www.youtube.com/JackHoward).Jack has created numerous comedy sketches and short films for his YouTube channels, which have accumulated over 80 million views. He has also created two series for BBC iPlayer; and created, written, directed and starred in two seasons of sitcom 'Jack & Dean of All Trades’ co-starring the very talented Jessica Hynes. As an actor Jack has starred in 'Bulletproof' for Sky and appeared in a guest role in 'Drunk History’ for Comedy Central. In 2018, Jack was selected to be part of the Sundance New Voices Lab and is now also a regular guest on Mark Kermode’s podcast ‘Kermode on Film’.We kick things off with Jack describing his positive lockdown experience and how he feels he now knows himself better. He explains how the constraints of lockdown and have allowed him to be creative and get back to basics, in terms of making Youtube videos again.We talk about how therapy have helped Jack get through periods of depression. We also discuss the struggle with feeling guilty for switching off and relaxing during the day in lockdown.Jack describes the challenges of getting motivated to get out of bed, when you're suffering from depression and are a freelancer. And how he's now found routines that work for him. We also talk how questioning how he is perceived in his career, has helped Jack inform his decisions, such as leaving presenting his show on BBC radio one, in order to pursue his goal as a director.We discuss the transition from writing/directing short form to long form content and why creating online content is such a great training ground. The idea of not waiting for permission to become a writer or director and just to go out and create something. Jack also talks about his relationship with his cinematographer Ciaran O'Brien and breaks down his dynamic and working relationship with comedy partner Dean.He explains why he prefers collaborating with other people and enjoys directing more than writing the writing process.Jack also describes the experience of directing experienced actors such as Jessica Hynes on Jack and Dean of All Trades. And how Jack dealt with questions over the script from Jess and what a great learning curve it was. He explains that having his ideas challenged, elevated the dialogue and script.We talk about the conflict of wanting to relax and butting heads with being proactive. Jack calls himself a lazy person who forces himself to do stuff. Jacks also describes the fear of not progressing in his career and trying to come to terms with the snakes and ladders aspect of the entertainment industry. We cover the responsibility of having an online audience and how its affected Jack's mental health. We also discuss our shared love for solo cinema trips, running without listening to music, Jack's love for ASMR and loads more!Rating and reviewing the podcast has never been easier, just click on this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/balanceHappy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this conversation I chat to Cally Beaton, a stand-up comedian, writer, public speaker and executive coach (http://callybeaton.com).Cally worked as a TV executive at MTV, UKTV and Viacom as a Senior Vice President, where she was responsible for shows including South Park. Cally is also a Master Practitioner in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP*), and a fully qualified coach with a successful private coaching practice, Road Trip Media. She is a BAFTA voting member and holds a seat on the Development Board of MTV’s Staying Alive Foundation.While working at Comedy Central in 2015 she began performing as a stand-up comedian. She has since has appeared on BBC2’s QI and as a guest on Radio 4’s Museum Of Curiosity, as well as BBC Radio 6 Music and as a regular contributor on BBC London. For her solo show at the 2017 Edinburgh Fringe, Super Cally Fragile Lipstick, Cally received further 4 star reviews and won the Piccadilly Comedy Club "New Comedian Of The Year" 2017/8. Cally explains why she left her job as Vice President of Viacom, to pursue her career in public speaking and stand up comedy. She says that when reinventing yourself you can upsize rather than downsize, no matter what age you are. Cally explains why everyone who wants to perform should do their stint as a barista, or equivalent, in terms of a developing a work ethic. How marketing TV shows has given her instinct on how to market herself as a comedian and why perception is everything.Cally also breaksdown what NLP is and how her curiosity of people and the world led her to study it and the impact it’s had on her. Why she writes projects at the last minute and why it’s so important to turn up everyday, even when you’re not feeling creatively inspired. She tells the story of how a group of working builders inspired Seinfeld to stick with his stand up career, at the point he was thinking of giving up. We talk about our addictions to our phone's and Cally describes her experiences of the Hoffman process, a retreat where she was cut off from all technology for a week.Cally describes the experience of juggling being a single mother of two, with working full time and then becoming a stand up comedian. She breakdown the Eisenhower matrix and how she applies it to her time management and why time spent on the wrong thing, blocks you from allowing the right things or opportunities into your life. She talks about her debut Edinburgh Fringe Fesrival experience and the transition from being a TV exec, that everyone wanted at their party, to being a comedian that’s not getting to the same level of attention. We also discuss the struggle of dealing with Edinburgh Fringe, both emotionally and mentally. Cally also breaksdown the experience of being on panel shows such as QI and loads more!Rating and reviewing the podcast has never been easier, just click on this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/balanceHappy listening :)Steve - @offkeysteve See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.