Big Juicy Creative

Dogs are zen-masters and intrinsically know how to unconditionally love and live big, juicy and creative. So, having just got a puppy, I've invited a coach who uses dogs to help people grow personally, professionally and spiritually - especially men. Dogs and Men founder Michael Overlie is author of 'Let your dog lead -musings on how to create an exceptional life' and also describes himself as an energy healer. He thinks dogs are the perfect way to help men express themselves better, open up to their feelings and – wince -show some vulnerability. He talks very openly about how dogs have helped him personally through some really tough moments in life such as his brother dying. I love Michael's mission and the sooner we can get more emotionally intelligent men in touch with their empathy and caring side, the better. After all, if world leaders could be coached by dogs, I'm sure the world would be all the better for it.  For more on Michael and his work see: https://linktr.ee/SpiritDog This includes links to blogs, his own podcast Dogs and Men, his book and coaching information. Email michael@dogsandmen.com https://dogs-and-men-podcast.captivate.fm/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/michael.overlie.52 To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

I've wanted to have a big juicy chat with someone who has transitioned gender for a while now. My two sons talk very openly about gender, and about people they know that don't feel right in their skin.... whereas this was never talked about when I was young. I wanted to talk to someone who would talk honestly about what this experience is like - and Jo Sutherland absolutely doesn't disappoint on this front. Jo first had surgery to transition from male to female in her early 20s – the story she tells of growing up as a boy is so insightful, so touching, so honest and, at times, heartbreaking. She takes pains to point out that self-acceptance doesn't magically happen when you transition, even if it's absolutely the right thing to do for you. And even if it isn't totally botched up, as hers sadly was. As she says, we are all works in progress. In fact I soon realised that – while I wanted to learn about gender – talking to Jo ended up being so relevant to my own situation because it's about being human… about seeking and finding and evolving your identity. It's just a bit more challenging if that identity doesn't feel right in the skin you're born in. It helps that Jo is also an endlessly fascinating character who has constantly reinvented herself, from hairdresser to prison worker to engineer to lawyer to actor and back to hairdresser! She even wrote a script about her life in lockdown. If anyone can talk authoritatively about finding your voice and the roles we play, it's her. For more about Jo: Twitter Jo Sutherland @JoSutherland13 https://www.instagram.com › jo_sut...Jo Sutherland - Instagram Organisations she supports: Mermaids, assisting gender divers children and families https://mermaidsuk.org.uk/   Awkward branch Productions: http://Www.awkwardbproductions.com City Lit (she thoroughly recommends their range of creative courses): Ad·https://www.citylit.ac.uk/browse/coursesCity Lit Courses - Weekday & Weekend Courses Royal Central School of Speech and Drama https://www.cssd.ac.uk/ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Verity Price beat 30,000 other aspiring speakers to become Africa's first Toastmasters world champion, and the 6th woman in 80 years to win the prestigious accolade. In this funny, honest, sometimes toe-curling episode, Verity tells us her ‘scarytale' of going from a ragged life, to a rich one. She explains how NOT ticking all the boxes society expected of her by 40 (husband, kids, career, own house, etc) was actually – eventually – the making of her… once she'd figured out how to build her resilience and find her voice. Oh, and ditch the dream of being a Hollywood actress/ popstar. A tricky, but wholly worthwhile road. (A detour that, incidentally, also led to Prince Charming, too...). If you've ever not done something expected of you and felt bad about it, or felt you're not living an instagrammable #winninglife, this episode will help. It will also help you reframe painful experiences as opportunities to grow and be less outcome-based and more moment-based. And genuinely enjoy the moment, rather than kid yourself that you are. Verity – whose name fittingly means ‘truth' – will inspire you to tell yours. You can see her brilliant award winning talk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k24vGzEjePo You can find her on Instagram here: @iamverity LinkedIn: Verity Price, WCPS www.iamverity.com To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

GPs have such a unique insight into what makes us healthy, and the state of a nation. And what I find so unique and fascinating about today's guest - Dr Zain Kapasi - is he couples this insight with huge self-awareness and desire to learn from his own experiences. I was feeling a bit bleurgh when I sat down to edit this episode and, afterwards, Zain totally cheered me up and inspired me to get back to chipping away at the habits I know help me. He also reminded me that happiness and contentment are, often, choices. And how we structure our lives, so it contains joy, is a choice, as well as a creative act in itself. Even if we're busy people with high pressure jobs, families and other responsibilities. He talks about the habits and routines he has practiced which have made such a difference to his contentment levels – one of the game changing routines being a creative one, where he gets up early to draw. Zain explains how he sees the difference between pleasure and contentment. And the fact he believes we're all on a bit of a rollercoaster everyday, with our mood fluctuating. But again we've got choices about how we ride this rollercoaster. He's got so many great ideas of things to fit in your day, your week to feel better, be more creative and enhance relationships - I'm definitely going to nick them! Zain has a zest and curiosity for life that you can't help find infectious.  For more on Zain: You can read his blog here: https://thegeneralprocrastinator.com/ And watch the social space, as Zain is planning to run retreats aimed at medics, and also has a children's book in the making - both of which we'll shout about on Big Juicy Creative's social channels, which you can find here: To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

I was totally awestruck when I first heard Jackee Holder speak. You could hear a pin drop in the massive room, so compelling was the way she told her story. This generous, kind, beautiful soul refuses to let childhood trauma define her or damage her, but she constantly turns to creativity instinctively to heal. She helps others do this, and find their voices in general as she believes - as I do - that everyone has a story, their story, to tell, and has a right to do this. Jackee's words are like a warm, comforting cup of tea and - while the word 'authentic' is totally overused - it's completely fitting for her. Whether you consider yourself a writer or not, writing is such a fantastic way to process our emotions and make sense of our lives. As she says 'the rough stuff equals the write stuff'. We can, as she does, grow from our hard experiences. If you would like a wee nudge to get writing, or get started, this is the episode for you. Or you are processing trauma/difficulty, this will inspire you. You can find Jackee here: Instagram: @jackeeholderinspires www.jackeeholder.com You can follow me on: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook: @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford or drop me a line on suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

You know that way when women are described as a 'hot mess' and it's meant to convey that, while chaotic, there is still something a bit sexy about them? Yeah? OK. Well, that is NOT me in this episode. I am just fully a mess, with sadly not the hot bit. I describe this mental state I was in recently - which led to my falling off a creative cliff - in its full brutality and ugliness, with no glamourising. Why??! I'm hoping that you will feel better about your own particular flavour of messiness - because all humans have some. All humans have ups and downs, too. It's just we choose not (usually) to reveal them to the world, even to our friends, and especially not on social media. I think that's toxic for all our mental health.  So that's why I'm coming clean: because the shame that so many people feel when they have down periods, makes them much worse. And, as Brene Brown says, the way to stop the shame is to shine a light on it. Which is what I am trying to do here; channel my inner lighthouse. I also don't believe in the tortured, anxious artist archetype who is massively productive when their mind is having a mental health moment. I think our minds are most productive and creative when we look after them and they can access some stillness- and I describe the ways I do this in this episode. Most importantly is a sense of connection and community; I describe here the role of wild swimming with Cairngorms Wild Swimmers, martial arts at HMAC and Crossfit Cairngorms, in my recovery. So, remember folks, while this podcast is optimistically called Big Juicy Creative - there is actually no such thing as a big, juicy, creative life 24/7. And, in REAL life, the low times lead us to the high times - often higher BECAUSE of the low times. As you'll hear from this episode, I've learnt alot from this latest blip - and there are exciting big juicy creative adventures on the horizon because of it. Thanks for listening and for all the messages listeners sent me in my absence. Namaste

As well as a chartered psychologist, Sarah Rozenthuler is also a leadership coach and a motivational speaker and author –this episode is centred around her book 'How to Have Meaningful Conversations'. If you've ever struggled to express yourself in a tricky situation, especially where emotions run high, then this is a must-listen. As you'll hear, she truly sees conversation as a creative process – or rather a co-creative process.  She talks touchingly about why this subject is so close to her heart, particularly in relation to the conversations she had with her ex-husband, which she says she wouldn't have written the book had she not gone through that process. She also opens up about her spiritual side, and the role she thinks telling our story plays in our happiness as humans. For more on Sarah: See https://sarahrozenthuler.com/ To buy her book 'How to Have Meaningful Conversations' click here To get in touch with Suzy, host of Big Juicy Creative, see www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk or email suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk 

Culture loves a good cat fight. Think Megan vs Kate. Angelina vs Aniston. It loves to make it seem like women are constantly hating on each other. Besides from being bulls**t, it's really damaging to peddle these narratives (but culture, as always, has a reason for doing it which is also toxic). I talk to comms expert Beth Collier about why and we plan our forthcoming Zoom brainstorm to creatively tackle this problem! (Join us - DM me/ suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk).  Namely, the nasty narrative distracts from getting female voices heard - and, with all the problems with world is currently facing, we need more feminine qualities coming to the fore to solve them. Like empathy, collaboration, nurturing, listening, creativity..... Of course men can have these too but we're not exactly seeing them in spades from our male leaders right now, are we? Please note, no bras were harmed or burned in the making of this episode. Why on earth would we do that? Bras are bloomin' expensive. To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk For more on Beth: Website: www.beth-collier.com Curious Minds newsletter: https://bethcollier.substack.com/

Beth Collier believes that when you improve your communications skills, you'll improve everything. Your performance. Your relationships. Your life. And she helps people do that. She even has her own special acronym to help people get their messages out more effectively – PACE. She's a curious creative soul whose curiosity has led her on many different paths and to many different countries from working in TV in Hollywood to, now, campaigning for more creativity in the financial services industry. She's also a massive advocate of supporting other women. In fact, to that end, Beth and I are hosting a Zoom call 2nd December bringing women together to brainstorm creative ideas of how we can support each other more, and get more female stories being told and heard. Given how much female voices are drowned out by males, especially where it matters (did you see the sea of suits at COP26?!) this is something we both feel very passionate about. DM me, or email suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk, for details! The more the merrier! For more on Beth: Website: www.beth-collier.com Her newsletter, Curious Minds: https://bethcollier.substack.com/ Beth has a program called Creativity for Business for corporate clients to show them that creativity is not a skill reserved for artists. She's about to launch a new workshop tailored for Internal Communicators (called Creativity for IC). To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

Since I've come out of lockdown I've felt like life has ramped up so quickly. I'm exhausted. I know if I keep going as fast, burn out is around the corner. I know I'm not alone. There's so much talk at the moment about people burning out. It's obvious that our go-go-go more-more-more do-do-do lifestyles of crash and burn is killing us. Not to mention killing the planet. Today's podcast guest Anna Murray of creative company Patternity, uses nature to influence the way she lives, and the way she creates, in a much more seasonal, rhythmical way. Anna believes this is a much better, more joyful, sustainable, fulfilling healthy way to live. And she explains why on today's episode. She also believes creativity is hugely undervalued in our culture but is actually the key to changing our lives for the better, and making them sustainable. If you feel any craving in you to live a bit slower and more sustainably (I do!) then tune in. More than anyone I've talked to before, Anna inspired me to stop spouting about how I'm going to slow down and actually DO IT. This was a really joyful, hopeful, uplifting conversation even though we cover some heavy topics – like the end of the planet!! For more about Anna Murray & Patternity: Her company website: https://www.patternity.org/about/ (Check out the Patternity gratitude journal and prints - they're lush :) ) Instagram: @anna_patternity and @patternity Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PATTERNITY To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk  

I'm usually the one doing the interviewing, but in this episode I get interviewed on my own podcast - and I realise how easy it is to blurt out stuff you've never admitted before on air, when you're enjoying the banter.... I'm interviewed by the lovely Lizzie Benton who I met on LinkedIn (don't judge us, it's more fun than it sounds), who then came on my podcast and who then knitted me a fabulous rainbow crown to remind me of my worth. We cover some hardcore topics, as well as lots of amusing ones… like the hardest things we've ever had to say…. Disappointing people, especially family members…. Why hairdressers are cringe... Depression…. Female bullies… Why it can be hard for women to voice uncomfortable truths…. Why companies talk crap about embracing creativity…. Having the balls to live the life you want to, rather than the one you're told you should… Basically, it's a brilliant convo between two women who have been through some emotional adversity and so, now, are determined to live big juicy and creative. For more on Lizzie Benton see: Her podcast: Make It Thrive; the company culture podcast Her website: www.libertymind.co.uk Instagram: @lizzie_benton_ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn:@suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

Fashion designer and gender fluidity campaigner RobRoy SW admits that he is stubborn. He is chaos. He is weird. And he's learnt that, rather than fight all these different parts of himself, he's much better off embracing them and finding a way to express them all. Life got better when he fully embraced his feminine side, which he now expresses through his drag queen alter ego Sigh Wren. I loved his perspective on expressing our feminine and masculine sides to be ‘genderfabulous' (this is a good episode if you want more clarity around terminology here, as I did, especially if your kids are talking about gender to you - as mine are). It's taken him 53 years, and it's been a long and, at times, very painful journey but I feel very privileged that he shared it with me with such honesty. For more about RobRoy SW: Website Instagram LinkedIn To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

The biggest thing that stops us from creating for creativity's sake - like no one's watching, as I always advocate in this podcast's jingle - is often money. We measure 'value' and 'payback' so much in exclusively financial terms in our culture. And I get it - I forget that creativity has a value way beyond financial sometimes. Doing this podcast reminded me of the huge payback this podcast has given me over the last year - some of these benefits are ones that money can't buy. And some of them really surprised me. For my top learnings after a year of Big Juicy Creative podcasting, listen in! And please share with anyone who might benefit from this reminder, too. To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Exhaustion and stress in personal relationships are two things that probably have the biggest detrimental effect on my creative mojo - and both of these things have been a feature in my life recently. As no stranger to depressive illness, I know how important it is to manage emotions (rather than repress them) and creativity is the best way I've found to process difficult feelings. I share a few ways creativity helps me move my feelings on, so they don't spiral. I hope you find it helpful and if you think it could help someone else, please share! To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Artist Claire Macdonald (last week's episode - 82)'s work has really inspired me. She talks about how art is a gateway, for all of us, for understanding, empathy, connection, joy, play, meaning- so many benefits! I want to experience these benefits so, inspired by Claire, I decide in this episode to create an art installation (even though I don't really have a scoobie how to do this) in the woods. She advises me on how to go about doing this, believing that art installations, and art in general, are definitely not just for people that call themselves artists. She also advises: drop the perfectionism and just do it, don't obsess about the outcome because the experience of creating IS the art, and where you reap all these benefits. I thought after a year talking so much about creativity and pushing yourself out your creative comfort zone, I should put my money where my mouth is. This is the start of it. An art installation will be created soon to mark a year of the Big Juicy Creative podcast! Over to you - what are you going to create, so you too can reap all these big juicy benefits of being creative? To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

Claire has spent hours and hours researching the effect of art, and particularly creating art in collaboration with others, on wellbeing. But you just have to listen to this one hour to reap all the benefits of her wisdom! Clue: creativity is really good for our health. Especially if we do it in our communities.  In this episode she pulls out her key takeaways so we can all benefit, and create spaces around us where we thrive. She explains how, and why, art can be a gateway to understanding, empathy, connection, joy, play and meaning. For more on Claire Macdonald artist: Her website: https://clairemacdonaldartist.com Facebook Instagram To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

We all judge people. It's human.    And it's increasingly encouraged in our digital world.   But being judgmental is not good for us, for others or for our creativity.   We can learn how to be more open & less judgy. Here's what I'm doing to address my judgy-ness - especially when it comes to a certain group of women that I judge particularly harshly (and makes me a bit of a hypocrite). To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk    

Within a few minutes interviewing dancer James Montgomery we are talking about sexual fluidity, bullying and vulnerability - and how creativity can help you build your confidence and be who you really are. That gives the measure of this no holds barre-d episode! James is someone with the confidence to be who he really is, which he credits to dance. From a little boy who had a penchant for shaking his booty and wearing heels, to a teenager who identified as bisexual (before it was trendy) to a grown man running a B&B with his partner in the Scottish Highlands, he's someone who joys in following his instinct and living big and juicy. He shares how, and why, he does this, in the hope it will inspire you, too, to do this. He's already inspired me, as he's the reason I'm constantly embarrassing my 2 sons with my hip hop moves around the house and sometimes (ouch!) even in public. #sorrynotsorry A joyous, juicy episode. For more on James: His website: http://www.jamesmontgomery.org/ Find him on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/jamesmontgomerydi/ For Cairngorm School of Dance: https://www.instagram.com/cairngormschoolofdance https://www.facebook.com/cairngormschoolofdance  For more on his Highland B&B: https://www.instagram.com/firhall/ Or his B&B on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firhall/ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

Procrastination is not only the thief of your time, it also robs your creative dreams and is associated with low self worth. I am a massive procrastinator. That's why for this episode - another 'on location' broadcast - I quiz my mate Claire Merrick on how she overcame procrastination and achieved her lifelong dream to write a play. Loads of great advice here if you are struggling to just do it, whatever 'it' is. This is also a poignant episode because it traces Claire's journey and shows what can happen if you put your mind to it. Claire appeared in Episode 26 when she talked about her burning desire to write a play, but hadn't overcome her procrastination issues yet. For more on the lovely Claire Merrick, see here She's also on Big Juicy Creative episode 26 here. And look out for her play - Table - coming to the stage soon! To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

This is different from any other I've done because 1) it's Prosecco-fuelled and I've never hosted a podcast while tipsy 2) it's with one of my best mates, Eva Long, so there are no holds barred. In editing I was tempted to cut out the bits where I sound a bit ranty and, well, a bit of a dick. But I've kept it all in because my intentions are good: I'm trying to be as honest as I can about the complexity of (female) friendships and what sometimes gets in the way of supporting each other put ourselves out there. Eva is rocking putting herself out there lately (with the inspiration of this podcast, I'm happy to add!). She wrote a song to save the hedgehogs, which she set to music and ended up performing it on the main stage of a music festival. She's also just about to launch an innovative property business with TV presenter Charles Hanson (Antiques Road Show, Bargain Hunt). Eva is a naturally creative person in how she lives her life, which I learn from this conversation is something she has inherited from her parents, despite their best efforts to push her into more 'sensible' pursuits. But, as she says, creativity is innate and she's much happier when expressing hers, whether that's in Tango dancing or gardening or cooking or renovating houses. In this podcast she talks about the power of creativity to help her both find, and lose, herself in a busy family life. NB: Eva wants to clarify that her Greek family helped the Cretan resistance For more about Eva and saving hedgehogs: Instagram: @eva.r.long Eva will soon be launching a historic buildings property business with TV presenter Charles Hanson (www.charleshanson.com) called Hanson Rose. Why not help spread the word and raise awareness of the worrying plight of hedgehogs? Download the attached PDF so you, too, can learn Eva's Hedgehog song and perform it yourself! She is currently adapting the story of Lemmy the Hedgehog into a play for primary schools to use free in return for a donation to hedgehogstreet.org.  To donate to save the hedgehogs: https://donate.ptes.org/hedgehog/HHINdexCC.aspx  To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  Contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Stefanie is a fascinating, formidable woman who has so much wisdom to share on feeding your creative soul, while also feeding many other mouths that depend on her - not only the many Croft animals, but also her 3 kids, one of which is a 4.5 month old lockdown baby! If anyone has the excuse of 'no time for creativity' it's Stefanie. But she weaves creativity, and connection to the land, into her busy day to day life in ingenious ways. Why? Because she deeply understands the need, value and catharsis of doing so. She lives an alternative life, immersed in nature and largely away from screens (though you can find her poetic posts on Instagram). Many of us have realised the benefits of nature in the pandemic and Stefanie offers a no-wifi space where we can visit and explore this connection more deeply, with her encouragement. And that's what you get a taste of in this podcast.  This is a special on-location, outside broadcast recorded while I was on holiday, staying in a wood cabin on Stefanie's Airbnb on her Highland Croft. You will feel like you are on the Croft with us, among the sheep, cows, chicks, pigs and pug! For more about Stefanie: On Instagram: @highland_croft On Facebook: @highlandcroft01 To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Sheena Renea was sentenced to life imprisonment at 17 for murdering her ex-husband. She talks openly and honestly about what led up to the crime, her darkest times and how she transformed her self-worth, sense of identity, confidence and purpose in prison; how creativity was a key part in this process and finding her voice. This is a hugely uplifting conversation, particularly for anyone who feels they are currently in a hopeless situation. If you know someone who feels they are, why not share this episode with them? Trigger warning: we talk about sexual abuse, suicidal ideation, addiction and rape For more info on Sheena Renea: Her non-profit Prison Did Not Break Me Her Prison Did Not Break Me Facebook Group Prison Did Not Break Me on Instagram To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

For the first time, Big Juicy Creative goes on location to bring you creative inspiration, broadcasting directly from the beach, so you can feel for yourself what it would be like to go on a creative retreat. Following on from last week's episode with photographer and creative mentor Kim Grant, Suzy meets up with Kim on a beach in Moray Speyside, in the north of Scotland. Kim will guide you on this creative 'Random Act of Living' (RAL), involving mindfulness, writing and taking pictures, which you can try anywhere (beach optional!). Do get in touch to let me know what you think, or with any of your inspired creations via suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk or via social media @bigjuicycreativeliving (Instagram & Facebook handle). For more about Kim Grant, whose company is called Visualising Scotland: Instagram Facebook  Youtube The nature writing course we originally met at was run by Rebecca on the Wing For more on the Moray Coast see here  To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Have you ever felt like you don't fit in? You don't belong? Or like an outsider in your life? Landscape photographer Kim Grant knows these feelings well and, in this podcast, explains how creativity and nature - which she believes go hand in hand - helped give her a sense of true belonging, happiness and gratitude (not the forced type!).  She shares her story generously and honestly, with lots of tips to follow her lead.  She's also a creative mentor, helping others find their creative voice so has lots to say on this - especially what to do with others' judgement. I defy you not to listen to this podcast and not want to run out and explore Scotland, especially its northern beaches.  For more about Kim Grant: Instagram Facebook  Youtube The nature writing course we met was run by Rebecca on the Wing For more on the Moray Coast see here  To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

I've heard a lot of people complaining that social media is draining them, especially if they're using it for work as well as personal stuff, and particularly as the world gets busier again. I've felt these feelings too recently. Fact is though, social media ain't going away. So let's focus on how we can work it to our advantage, work it for our wellbeing, use it as a force for good in ourselves, in others and in the world generally. And it CAN BE. I tell you my thoughts on this in this podcast in 7 ideas for you to try – and this isn't a ‘switch off your device' or ‘delete your apps' tirade. This is a way for us to integrate social media in a healthy way, so it supports the building of healthy creative souls in ourselves and in others. Please listen & share and why not forward to a friend who is struggling with social media right now, or tag them in the comments below….. To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Today's a really special episode because it's with a friend I went to school with – Ruth - who is training to be a Church of Scotland minister. Because of our familiarity, we go deep quickly into potentially taboo topics; like the fact I don't believe in God, and she's dedicated her life to him. We also cover her expertise on dealing with loss, whether that's through death, divorce or the fizzling out of a friendship. We also cover her uber creative creative tools which she uses in everyday life to see new perspectives and squeeze the juice out of life.  Ruth was always my most Tigger-like friend at school and I'm glad to say she hasn't lost any of her energy or calmed down. Her zest for life is infectious. For more about Church of Scotland https://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchofscotland Twitter: https://twitter.com/churchscotland Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churchofscotland/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/churchscotland To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast  

In this episode, I ask a stranger the meaning of life and have an epiphany on the back of it, about the 4 main things I've learnt from doing a podcast series on getting our mojo back. The '4 pillars' I identify will get you thriving through this pesky pandemic and far beyond. Tune in to find out what they are, and how they can help you lead a bigger, juicier, more creatively contented life. To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Solo episodes are back! After 25 interviews over 2 months for the Spring Series on getting our mojo restored, I'm back talking to myself. This episode is about the power of reflection. Did you know regular reflection of 15 minutes daily can actually change the structure of your brain?  There are SO many reasons why self-reflection is a good idea. For health. For happiness. For productivity. For being a better human generally. But how to fit it in, especially as life gets busier again? Never fear, Suzy is here with some ideas that you can build seamlessly, and with a laugh, into your life. (Err, that's me, don't know why I suddenly slipped into the 3rd person... I blame a love of rhyme). Also on this episode is the world premiere of 'Coviderata'; my take on the famous brilliant 'Desiderata' incorporating a Covid update. Tune in to see if I have butchered this artwork, or not. Enjoy! To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Today is the grand finale of the Spring Series! I wanted to save Edwina Dunn OBE until the last slot because she has been there, done that, and has the t-shirt (and wisdom) to show for it. She, along with her husband, is the brains behind the hugely successful, game changing Tesco Club Card - starting the revolution to use 'big data' to understand people better. This entrepreneurial genius move, plus the brains obviously, made her a very, very rich lady as a result. But in this podcast, what fascinates me most is that she talks openly about money and power and questions how much fulfilment these things actually bring. In fact, she is SO passionate about women in particular finding their fulfilment that she has created a data-based survey (link at end) so you can determine which fulfilment 'type' you are; this self-awareness will help you find your fulfilment more effectively in future. She believes if more women do, then the world will be a better place - and she's determined to make the world a better place. Hence setting up the awesome The Female Lead. Edwina is the personification of a woman that supports women, passionate about putting the spotlight on, and celebrating, them in all their varying glory. One of the main things this series has taught me is the importance of connecting to yourself, of enjoying your one precious life and feeling fulfilled. And that conversations - and who you have them with, about what - are all fundamental to a happy, meaningful life. Edwina covers all these things, so there couldn't be a more apt end to my Spring Back series! For more about Edwina: https://www.thefemalelead.com/ LinkedIn You can take Edwina's survey to find out which 'fulfilment type' you are on this website, here: https://survey.thefemalelead.com/#/landing You can also find The Female Lead, and its brilliant, funny, inspiring posts on: Instagram  Facebook Twitter To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

This podcast I’m doing something I’ve never done: interviewing three guests at once. So who is this special trio? Well, being Scottish and living in Scotland (not that you’d know it from my Somerset tones) I’m a big advocate of celebrating Scottish creativity – and I wanted to make sure we had some Scottish creative female voices on this Spring series. Asking around the Scottish creative industry scene, these 3 lovely lasses were recommended to me: Jane Strachan – who is the owner of creative agency PUNK Jessica Mullen – who is the cofounder of design and innovation company CreateFuture Fiona Proudler, board director at agency Tayburn I've brought them on to brainstorm this topic of how we can get our collective mojo back, and feel a bit more inspired, after a tough year. In typical Scots no-BS fashion, they had lots of practical, no-nonsense ideas, including why you should never buy someone a bottle of wine for their birthday and why threesomes are good (OK - yes, that last one is clickbait.... but if you REALLY want more on this latter saucy subject check out the podcast with Genevieve Le Jeune just before this one - episode 67!) For more on our Scottish trio: Jane Strachan https://www.linkedin.com/in/strachanjane/ Fiona Proudler https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-proudler-009361/ Jessica Mullen https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamarymullen/ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Genevieve Le Jeune thinks we'd all live bigger, juicier lives if we (but especially women) talked about sex more, were honest about what we want and asked for it. As the founder of female sexual empowerment network Skirt Club, she's learnt alot about sex. In this wide-ranging conversation, we talk about the link between sexual and creative energy (and how you can tap it); why we should masturbate more, especially at 4pm in the work day (again, especially women); and why empowering women sexually, & ditching the shame around sex, is a key part of the feminism jigsaw.   Basically, if you're not fully exploring your sexuality, you're not fully living - and if you want to find more about how to do this, listen to this podcast! The idea for Skirt Club arose after Genevieve had attended 'play' parties with her then longterm boyfriend and soon realised she was doing things for his pleasure, not her own – and so she created this community for empowerment and self discovery. She talks openly and without any shame about her high sex drive, her own sexual experiences, which are many and varied, and her penchant for a 4pm masturbation break, which she claims boosts her productivity, creativity and general happiness with life. More about Genevieve: Instagram: @skirtclub @genevievelejeune https://skirtclub.co.uk/home To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Jane Evans has always been radical. If something gets on her goat, she turns her creativity to it and tackles it head-on, making people think differently. And she makes me think differently about the pandemic and its stresses. Jane in this podcast feels like the big sister I never had, giving me that reassuring wisdom that I need to hear right now.  She made me really chill out and see my life in a longer perspective (fingers crossed). As she says, we're often driven by short termism and fear. She tells the touching story of how she went from a successful career to finding herself at the foodbank. Many of us fear the foodbank and think that shows a 'failed' story. But it's just a chapter in a story. Hers has now moved on and she's about to make more money than she ever has.... and she's got more energy than ever to, as she says, 'smash the God damn patriarchy'.  Have a listen and share with anyone else that might be needing to hear an experienced perspective on the inevitable ups and downs of a life. Her book - Invisible to valuable - is out on May 27th (which, all going well, should be the day this podcast releases!) Where you can find Jane: LinkedIn Instagram (@Uninvisibility) Facebook www.uninvisibility.com Her book is available here To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Rebecca Rowntree is a creative director & hosts a podcast telling the stories of women in the creative industries, and the challenges they've met on their way up the career ladder. She talks about how everyone is, obviously, individual but the common thread between many stories is a lack of confidence in finding a voice - something she has personally experienced, too. But, in her opinion, this difficult, but ultimately extremely worthwhile, journey to express yourself truly gives more meaning and connection to your life. However, as she says, there are no shortcuts to doing 'the work' to get there (sorry!). Rebecca really believes that self-discovery and knowledge are key to living a fulfilling, meaningful life and that nurturing your creativity is central to that process. She has many creative strings to her bow from writing stories and drawing in her spare time, to podcasting. Her podcast is called This Way Up and is all about sharing women’s stories of scaling the career ladder in the creative industries. For more on Rebecca: This Way Up podcast: https://www.thiswayup.io/home Rebecca mentions the episode with Sophie Williams in this podcast. You can catch it on Apple here LinkedIn Instagram  Twitter: @thiswayuppodcast Facebook To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Susie Davis is one of the co-founders of The Family Space, which is a parenting coaching company on a mission to help families connect and thrive. And boy! Did I need her at some points in lockdown.... Susie is a psychologist, with counselling and systemic family therapy expertise. Bereaved as a child, divorced, remarried, a stepmother and a mother to her own 4 children - one of which she had in lockdown – she knows the reality and challenge of modern parenting. I did a 6 week coaching course with the Family Space which included much appreciated one to ones with Susie. Especially at those, err 'challenging' or 'spirited' moments that we had.... There were quite a few..... The Family Space has really challenged me to think differently about parenting. To realise that I needed to question some of my beliefs about parenting and think more creatively about what actually works for my unique, individual one-of-a-kind boys. Tune in to find out how. For more about The Family Space: https://www.thefamilyspace.co.uk/ Instagram: @thefamilyspace Facebook: @TheFamilySpaceUK To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Ale Lariu was named in Fast Company’s “League of Extraordinary Women” along with the likes of Hillary Clinton and Oprah Winfrey, and was also included in the publication's "Most Creative People in Business" list. So, she's the perfect person to ask how to get our creative mojo back and feel more inspired again. Having lived in the Amazon jungle when a toddler, she has a fearless streak, which she encourages in others - especially women - in order to create a better world. Her expertise is making businesses stronger and more creative and to take positive action - and she's full of practical advice about what we, as individuals can do, to take creative action for better lives (and, indeed, as she says, a better world). She's passionate about helping women find their voices; a mission she has dedicated much of her working life to in setting up the global creative network SheSays. Why? Because she reckons the world would be a better place if more women, in particular, found their voices. She's convinced, for example, there would be less wars and less stupid advertising! For more on Ale: https://weareshesays.com/ LinkedIn Instagram Twitter: @shesayslondon Facebook To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Andre Radmall is a psychotherapist and life coach, who has worked at the Priory, and on Harley Street.  He specialises in helping clients rewrite their life story, so they feel good about their lives, and so they can then create a new, better future. He draws on his experience as a therapist and actor to help people break out of stuck patterns.  A lot of us have got into a few ruts this pandemic.... He has lots of practical ideas to get me (and you) out. He is also ‘THE’ go-to guy on pivoting – which must be in the running for word of the pandemic…. He not only has a podcast on this subject – Pivot Points – but he’s also about to publish a book on this topic too, called How to Pivot Your Life Story. So he is the perfect person to speak to about narrate our life stories, especially the last pandemic chapter, so we can create the best chapters of our lives in future..... For more on Andre: https://www.andreradmall.com/ instagram @andreradmall twitter: @RadmallAndre LinkedIn Pivot Points podcast  To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast  

Sarah Morris is an HR trailblazer with a 'no mission is impossible' mindset... That's why I thought I'd get her on the podcast and ask her what we can do, coming out of the global pandemic, to be in the best position to thrive at work in future. What I love about this conversation is how she's determined to take the positives from the pandemic. And that requires, first of all, that you are self-aware and you reflect on your experiences. She takes full responsibility for her experiences - as an employee, colleague, leader, wife, mother -and implores us to do the same. She's Group Chief People Officer at Compass Group, she’s a committee member of the 30% club, which aims to get more women on FTSE 100 boards, and she’s part of the Women’s Network Forum whose goal is advancing gender balance and equality. Fair to say, she's going to have her work cut out on the gender equality front, now, due to Covid. For more on Sarah: @30percentclub LinkedIn twitter @sarahmorris2015

Authors & researchers Jane Cunningham and Philippa Roberts are difficult women and proud of it.  They're especially proud of their new book 'Brandsplaining', written during the pandemic, which lifts the lid on how culture purposely makes us feel crap sometimes, so that we buy stuff. Especially women. And how it does this very sneakily. This podcast made me realise how damaging this idea that females need to be 'good girls' has been in my life, and how to deal with it. If you've ever not felt good enough (and I know from many messages and conversations that this feeling is all-pervasive) this episode is for you. While we focus on girls in this interview, boys are also increasingly getting the same treatment that we've had for years, which they touch on in their book (we didn't have time for this today - but we will definitely be covering it in future!). For more on Jane & Philippa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-cunningham-35615315/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippa-roberts-39abb625/ Instagram: @plhresearch Buy their book Brandsplaining here To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast  

Jennifer Blaine is a writer, performer, comedian and life coach, known for her one-woman shows which have the knack of delving into serious and socially relevant issues with humour. She's the only guest so far I've invited back to the podcast. Why? Because after speaking to her at launch she really sparked my creativity with her rallying cries. She's back to do the same this Spring and, again, has reminded me of WHY I need to make more time and space for my creativity. Also, this time, we discuss the relationship between creativity and money and how to make that work for you, too. For her, and I think many of us, having a creative outlet makes her a better parent and helps her live through a global pandemic with more resilience.  She’s also written a book on creativity – called The Power of Creativity – and she really walks her talk. I interviewed her in episode 4 of this podcast and she inspired me so much, I thought I’d invite her back to help me – and you – get your mojo back. For more on Jennifer: https://jenniferblaine.wordpress.com/ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Amy Charlotte Kean, in this podcast, explains to me how she WAS the girl giving all the fucks but how writing her book - The Little Girl Who Gave Zero Fucks - helped her heal, be proud of herself again and find her voice. Writing this book followed the most traumatic time in her life (think awful bullying bosses and anti-anxiety meds addiction) and she now channels her creativity to ensure she NEVER feels like this again. Amy is the epitome of a creative polymath. As well as working in innovation in the advertising industry and being an author, she’s published a poetry book, too, she’s about to launch an audio sitcom’s & she’s also currently writing a musical. Think she’s done with that? No! Well let’s chuck lecturer on art and culture in there, too, as well as one of LinkedIn’s top voices of 2020. Oh, and she also campaigns for diversity and inclusion at conference and events….. And, she says, she's STILL not proud enough of herself and there's more to come.  Amy definitely made me question myself (in the style of M People): What have you done lately, Suzy, to make you feel proud? For more about Amy: Instagram LinkedIn Twitter: @keano81 The Little Girl Who Gave Zero Fucks House of Weeds To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Anna co-founded a company called Shine. And, like it says on the tin, it helps people - women in particular - shine, and she has plenty of tips here to help us do that. She makes a compelling case for why now, coming out of the pandemic, is the perfect time to step into the light. The name 'Shine' reminds me of the brilliant Marianne Williamson quote that: "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be?" Anna has made it her mission to support, embolden and ask other women 'who are you not to shine?'. I was lucky enough to attend one of Shine's courses in her beautiful home in Lyme Regis and it was such a great experience; when you bring women together in a non-judgmental, encouraging, creative environment, it's magic, not to mention loads of fun. Shine helped me plant many of the ideas for what I’m doing with this podcast now, which just goes to show how important it is we take the time to invest in ourselves and think about what really matters to us. Anna has loads of great advice on how to start this process in this pod - take a listen and, more importantly, take some action! Where you can find Anna: Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Shine On (the free group she mentions in the podcast) can be found here: https://members.shineon.app/feed To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast  

Jeremy Davies is head of communications at the Fatherhood Institute, which promotes the importance of hands-on dads. So far in this series I've explored a lot about how mums are feeling about the pandemic and what we can do about the fact Covid has led to a weird 1950s timewarp for many. But - what about the dads? How are dads feeling? I've seen very little coverage of this. Jeremy gives me a fascinating, research-backed insight into this topic. Some of what he said was surprising, and he really made me see the pandemic from another point of view - in fact, he's helped me see parenting and inequality from a completely new perspective! He's also full of practical tips, which I'm definitely going to be trying. As a former journalist, too, he has some great advice about interrogating the narratives we're often fed by media and whether they're always accurate / helpful. For more on Jeremy/the Fatherhood Institute: http://www.fatherhoodinstitute.org/ LinkedIn Twitter: @fatherhoodinst https://www.instagram.com/dontforgetdads https://www.facebook.com/fatherhoodinstitute/ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Nicola Kemp wants to live in a world where everyone's creative voice is equal and we all have the right to tell our stories and be listened to. That's what she spends a lot of her professional life, as a writer and speaker, campaigning for, and she has lots of ideas about how we call all contribute to making this better world. She's particularly passionate about the voices of women and minority groups being heard. So much so, in fact, that her 7 year old son Joseph tells people her job is 'feminist', which she's quite happy with.  She's a great storyteller and manages to get hard-hitting truths across with such grace, humility and humour (even when trying to do this while also trying to remember the difference between an adverb and verb for her son.....) For more on Nicola: uk.linkedin.com/in/nickykc https://www.instagram.com/maternityreprieve/ twitter: @nickykc https://www.creativebrief.com/bite/authors/nicola-kemp To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Has the pandemic pushed you to love or loathe your body more? With many of us hitting the biscuit tin to comfort ourselves (surely not just me?!), many of us have fallen out of love with our bodies. But don't worry! Former GMTV fitness presenter & body confidence coach Astrid is on hand with LOADS of practical advice.  Having struggled with body confidence and eating disorders from a young age, Astrid knows what it takes to overcome the all-too-common feeling of being unhappy with how we look. She is living proof that you can go from this, to 'romancing your body' everyday (the title of her book). Even though we didn't meet in person (more's the pity), I could feel her happy vibes and love-life glow over the Zoom waves. For more on Astrid: https://www.astridlonghurst.com/ https://www.instagram.com/romancingyourbody Facebook: @Bodyconfidencecoaching1 To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast  

Are you confident speaking up? In a meeting? Doing a presentation? In a difficult conversation with family? Lynsay-Anne Gould helps people find the confidence to speak out and get their voice out into the world. As a podcast coach, she's helped loads of people (including me) do it and so knows a load about what holds people back. And what holds us back is - *generally* - different depending on gender. Surprise, surprise women are more held back - *generally* - by mindset and by playing small. Lynsay's passionate about overcoming this, not least because she has 2 daughters, so she's got loads of nuggets of wisdom as well as a very rousing speech about it at the end! For more about Lynsay-Anne: https://www.lynsayanne.com/ Lynsay runs the 'Podcasting for Business' community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1812987755694279/https://www.instagram.com/lynsayannegould/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynsay-gould-72610415/ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast  

Mildred Talabi is a coach who specialises in helping people be more visible, particularly on LinkedIn and particularly women.  If you've ever felt that LinkedIn isn't for you.... that it's a bit boring, or full of self-promoting ego-fuelled types after purely transactional relationships, then this episode will make you think differently. Mildred is successfully building her tribe on LinkedIn, doing things differently, and she's urging you to join in, too, and embrace your wild and your rebel on there, too. She's got some tips about how you get started - so, see you there :) More on Mildred: http://mildredtalabi.com/ https://www.facebook.com/MildredTalabiOfficial https://twitter.com/mildredtalabi https://www.instagram.com/mildredtalabi/ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Janey Lee Grace is best known for her job presenting BBC Radio 2 alongside Steve Wright in the afternoons. But she's also a best selling author, an eco campaigner, a visibility coach, and a podcaster, hosting the Alcohol Free Life. She draws very honestly on her experiences revealing that, despite the successful facade, underneath it she was struggling hugely with self-worth. She says this lack of self-worth, which leads to a lack of self-care, is at the core of so many problems, including a reliance on alcohol to feel better - and she has lots of practical advice about how to overcome this all-too-common feeling. I have to admit, after a hard day juggling homeschool and work I was fantasizing about a large G&T.... This episode totally made me rethink that strategy because, while I thought it would make me feel better, Janey explained why it doesn't, and why she's not a fan of the Mums Wine Club culture in particular. Where you can find Janey: https://janeyleegrace.com/ https://www.instagram.com/janeyleegrace https://www.facebook.com/janeyleegraceloves/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeyleegrace/ Buy her book Happy Healthy Sober To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

The deliciously rebellious Lizzie Benton is the founder of Liberty Mind, a consultancy specialising in creating good, inclusive company cultures where everyone feels they can be themselves. Sound good huh?  To make work better for all of us, she reckons we all need to be causing more 'good trouble' at work and having more thought-provoking, culture-changing conversations at the watercooler... (ah, the watercooler, remember that?!) This episode is full of tonnes of ideas to help us all thrive by empowering us to change company culture for the better. It's the audio equivalent (for me anyway!) of watching Braveheart as Lizzie's words are such a rallying cry to fight for change and jump into action - like Mel Gibson brandishing the Saltire and screaming 'freeeeeeeddddddooooommmmmm'. You will feel - as she encourages - like starting a mutiny afterwards. I hope. To find Lizzie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizzie-benton/ https://libertymind.co.uk/ https://libertymind.co.uk/company-culture-podcast/ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk Big Juicy Creative podcast is available on all major platforms, such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or directly from my website: https://www.bigjuicycreative.co.uk/podcast

Allison Arden quickly scaled the ranks in publishing, finding herself with the top job, alongside raising young kids.  She says she was living a "very full life and juggling many balls, but often feeling like I was running too fast and going through the motions without any meaningful end. And that didn’t feel like living – at all’. To feel like she was living again, she went on a mission to reconnect with her creativity and playfulness, ending up writing a book about this. That book changed her life and outlook, and inspired her to set up a new company more in line with her belief in creativity and its relation to emotions. This is a must-listen if you want to get back in your creative flow. For more about Allison: http://www.allisonarden.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonarden/ https://elementsofus.com/ Podcast: https://elementsofus.com/podcasts Book: The Book of Doing To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk

Nicki Bass is an executive coach who helps people build their resilience, and their leadership skills, through outdoor adventure. She’s also a fellow podcaster, hosting The Everyday Adventure podcast. Before coaching and workshops, she spent 17 years as an officer in the British Army, working in high stress situations, where she learnt, in her words’ ‘that it’s by facing situations outside of our comfort zone, that we grow our internal resources and improve our ability to face uncertainty and challenge'. Nicki is full of great advice for how we can spring back amid so much uncertainty and in a world that feels far from normal or comfortable. For more about Nicki:  Instagram: @resilienceatwork Facebook: Resilience at Work Linkedin: @nickibass Podcast: https://www.resiliencework.co.uk/the-everyday-adventure-podcast  Founder of Resilience at Work ltd To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk  

Lea Jovy-Ford is one of the cofounders and COO of online learning programme Beyond School. She’s an ex management consultant, qualified NLP Practitioner, former personal trainer and holistic health coach and pioneer of the digital nomad movement. She has a blended, multi-racial family with 4 children – 2 sons and 2 daughters – and her wife Becky. All four are home educated. I invited her on because I'm worried I may have scarred my kids for life attempting to home school them and wanted some advice to recapture the love of family learning. But I got so much more than just this!  We cover a lot of ground: the importance of interests, why we need to be more flexible about learning, 'yes' days, how sex (everyday for her!) can help boost creativity, how you get your kids to help in the house, money..... This is definitely a woman leading a rich life in many regards who actively manages her mojo. For more on Lea: https://beyondschool.co/ https://www.facebook.com/beyondschool.co/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/leajovy/ https://twitter.com/BeyondSchool_Co https://www.instagram.com/beyondschool.co/ To follow Big Juicy Creative for loads of inspiration on living creatively, see: Instagram: @bigjuicycreativeliving Facebook @bigjuicycreativeliving LinkedIn: @suzybashford Twitter: @suzybashford  contact Suzy: suzy@bigjuicycreative.co.uk