Gareth Davies is the CEO of The Presenter Studio, the UK's leading presenter coaching business, offering presentation skills training and more. Gareth has spent three decades behind the scenes of some of the UK’s biggest television shows - and now, he’s on a mission to give back. As co-founder of The Presenter Studio, Gareth coaches emerging on-screen talent, blending his love of storytelling with a deep passion for creativity, learning, and personal growth.

In this episode of ChatterBeans, Gareth opens up about his journey from child actor to producer and mentor. We talk about how the TV industry has changed, what it really takes to stand out, and why rejection can sometimes be your biggest teacher.

We also dive into the realities of freelance life, the rituals that keep him grounded (including a serious love of coffee), and what he’s learned about success, authenticity, and finding joy beyond the job title.

Expect honest reflections, great advice for creatives, and a few unexpected gems — including a dream coffee date with Bette Midler.

Chapters

00:00 - The Journey of Gareth Davies in TV Production

02:53 - The Evolution of Television and New Talent

05:37 - The Presenter Studio: Nurturing New Talent

08:52 - Business Training and Presentation Skills

11:32 - From Child Actor to TV Producer

14:43 - Creative Background and Personal Growth

17:32 - Life Beyond TV: Hobbies and Interests

20:29 - Meeting New People as a Freelancer

23:26 - Future Aspirations for The Presenter Studio

26:16 - Coffee Rituals and Dream Coffee Dates

29:18 - Life Lessons and Advice from Experience

32:13 - Quick Fire Round: Insights and Fun Facts

Connect with Gareth at The Presenter Studio on Instagram, LinkedIn or visit their website.

In this episode of ChatterBeans, Zoe Park joins me to share her deeply personal journey into motherhood, identity transformation, and finding her voice as a twin parent and content creator.

Zoe opens up about the emotional shifts that come with parenting, why building a supportive community matters, and how she's learning to trust herself again - all while navigating the chaos of daily life with twins.

From authenticity and self-worth to content creation and change, this episode is a warm reminder that it’s okay to evolve, let go of perfection, and rewrite your story on your own terms.

Whether you’re a parent, creative, or just figuring life out – Zoe’s story is full of honesty, wisdom, and heart.

Topics we chat about:

• Embracing identity shifts through motherhood
• Content creation as a path to self-expression
• Building support systems as a twin parent
• Navigating authenticity in a world of expectations
• Finding joy in everyday life
• Letting go of who you ‘should’ be to become who you are

Chapters

00:00 - The Journey of Motherhood and Identity Transformation

09:01 - Embracing Change and Reinvention

17:54 - Building Community and Supporting Twin Parents

25:52 - Navigating Life as a Content Creator

34:24 - Finding Joy in Everyday Moments

42:37 - Lessons on Authenticity and Self-Worth

Connect with Zoe and all things 'It's a Twin Thing' on Instagram

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of ChatterBeans, we sit down with designer Carolyn Chan to explore how living in Hong Kong, Japan, and Canada has influenced her creative journey. 

Carolyn shares insights on transitioning to freelancing, battling imposter syndrome, and embracing the evolving intersection of design and technology. Discover how cultural experiences can redefine personal and professional identity.

Key Topics:

• Cultural influences on creativity
• Navigating the freelance landscape
• Overcoming imposter syndrome
• The future of design and technology
• Personal growth and redefining success

Chapters

00:00 - Exploring Identity and Creativity

06:32 - The Journey to Freelancing

12:13 - Cultural Influences and Personal Identity

18:22 - The Future of Design and Technology

25:37 - Life Lessons and Personal Growth

Connect with Carolyn on Instagram and visit her website https://www.designedbycarolyn.co/

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on ChatterBeans, I sit down with the vibrant and totally unapologetic Talia Knoble-Gershon to talk all things neurodivergence, identity, queer joy, and social housing.

We chat about growing up with ADHD, mixing friendship groups like it’s a social experiment, dating (or not dating), and why Bridget Jones feels like a personal icon. Talia shares her passion for public service, how she brings her full self to work, and why living truthfully - chaos and all - is the only way forward.

Expect big laughs, honest reflections, and a reminder that being your authentic self is more than enough.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Talia Knoble-Gershon

02:19 - Understanding ADHD and Personal Challenges

09:05 - Living Authentically and Social Connections

13:10 - Passion for Social Housing

17:09 - Navigating University Life and Identity

22:20 - The Dating Landscape and Personal Experiences

26:54 - Creative Outlets and Future Aspirations

31:17 - Coffee Culture and Daily Routines

34:06 - Life Lessons and Unlearning

36:52 - Embracing Authenticity and Humour

38:52 - Writing as a Form of Expression

43:36 - Quick-fire round and Final Thoughts

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, I’m joined by HYROX athlete, coach, and all-round inspiring human Dean Jackson, for an honest and heartfelt conversation about life, fitness, and what happens when you stop pretending everything’s okay.

We chat about Dean’s journey into the HYROX world - what started as a personal challenge became a community and a new sense of purpose. Dean opens up about the struggles he’s faced, how coaching others has helped him grow, and why he believes we need to talk more - especially men.

We also cover:

• Finding confidence and clarity through coaching
• Men’s mental health and breaking the stigma
• What makes HYROX different from other fitness events
• Parenting, purpose and learning from your past
• Why social media can be both inspiring and exhausting
• Growing through tough times – and helping others do the same

Dean shares powerful reflections on childhood, parenting, and why being vulnerable is actually a strength.

Whether you're into fitness, mental health, parenting, or just love a good story about personal growth - this one’s for you.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Dean Jackson and His Journey

01:07 - The Impact of the HYROX Community

05:11 - Coaching and Personal Growth

07:42 - Mental Health and Masculinity

11:43 - Breaking the Stigma of Men's Mental Health

12:32 - The Role of Social Media in Mental Health

15:10 - Fatherhood as Motivation

16:34 - The Future of HYROX and Youth Involvement

21:07 - Growing Up in an Army Family

24:24 - Sports and Personal Development

25:25 - Overcoming Early Life Challenges

28:13 - Parenting Perspectives and Challenges

30:28 - Future Goals and Aspirations

32:13 - Life Lessons and Mental Health Awareness

34:57 - The Importance of Community and Support

36:57 - Coffee Conversations and Inspirations

39:13 - Finding Joy in Helping Others

40:13 - Quick-fire Round: Fun Insights

Connect with Dean Jackson on Instagram

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Isaac chats with Mimi Thompson about her journey from growing up in Thailand to forging a new life in London. Mimi opens up about navigating cultural differences, adjusting to a new social scene, and the emotional ups and downs of post-college life. Together, they dive into deep and meaningful topics - feminism, emotional vulnerability, women’s health, and the power of creative expression through writing and poetry.

Expect insights on patriarchy, girl’s education, Taylor Swift, unlearning old beliefs, and the underrated importance of having fun. Whether you're into cultural conversations, creative musings, or thoughtful reflections on relationships and growth—this one’s for you.

We talk about:

• Growing up in Thailand and adjusting to London

• Feminism, patriarchy, and women’s health

• Writing, creativity, and finding your voice

• Friendship, relationships, and emotional growth

• The power of unlearning and pursuing joy

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Mimi Thompson

03:02 - Cultural Contrasts: Thailand vs. London

06:02 - Creative Beginnings: Growing Up in Bangkok

08:55 - The Influence of Thai Buddhism

12:01 - Transitioning to American Life

15:13 - Navigating Friendships in London

18:02 - Creative Aspirations and Writing Journey

20:55 - Exploring Women's Health and Feminism

28:07 - Exploring Feminism Through Bell Hooks

31:54 - The Impact of Patriarchy on Gender Dynamics

34:14 - Volunteering and Advocacy for Education

38:02 - Cultural Reflections on Identity and Preferences

39:10 - The Joy of Writing and Creative Expression

42:27 - Unlearning and Letting Go

47:02 - Pursuing Fun Over Happiness

49:16 - Quick-fire Round: Personal Insights

Connect with Mimi on Instagram to see her writing and poetry.

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on ChatterBeans, we meet Charlie - coach, performer, future husband, and walking ball of chaotic joy. From the front row of a musical to the front of a gym class, Charlie shares how fitness transformed his life and why coaching feels a lot like group therapy.

We talk about:

• Leaving the stage for the studio
• ADHD, social anxiety & mental health in fitness
• Planning a winter wedding with intention (and humour)
• Creating safer, more inclusive spaces in a testosterone-heavy world
• Why matcha beats coffee, and what it means to stop saying yes to everything

This is one of those raw, honest, laugh-out-loud episodes that reminds us joy is resistance - and showing up as you are is enough.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Charlie Wallace

01:32 - Navigating Wedding Planning and Personal Life

16:19 - Career Transition to Fitness Coaching

22:17 - The Fitness Industry and Coaching Philosophy

30:04 - Exploring ADHD and Personal Insights

32:36 - Navigating ADHD Diagnosis

40:47 - Embracing Change and Self-Awareness

52:16 - Life Lessons and Unlearning

55:40 - Quic-fire Reflections and Future Aspirations

Connect with Charlie on Instagram

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this brilliant episode of ChatterBeans, we sit down with performer and world traveller Lavinia Mai to explore what it means to truly grow through movement - both physically and emotionally.

Lav shares her vibrant journey as a dancer and singer on cruise ships, detailing her six-month adventure around the Bahamas and her upcoming second contract. She opens up about the joy and discipline of performing, life on board, and the unique lifestyle that blurs the lines between work and play.

The conversation dives deep into Lav’s recent teaching experience in Thailand, where she reconnected with her roots and faced the realities of travelling solo, navigating visas, and learning a new language. Together, we explore themes of cultural immersion, self-acceptance, unlearning insecurities, and the freedom that comes from embracing individuality.

Expect laughter, honesty, and thoughtful reflections - from coffee preferences to life lessons learned in unexpected places.

Whether you’re an artist, traveller, or someone chasing joy in your own way - this episode will speak to you.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Lav's Journey

03:08 - Life on a Cruise Ship

05:53 - The Transition to Performing Arts

08:57 - Exploring Thailand and Cultural Connections

11:58 - The Challenges of Performing and Traveling

15:04 - Teaching in Thailand and Language Learning

19:32 - Language Learning and Cultural Immersion

21:53 - Life Reflections and Future Aspirations

24:29 - Unlearning and Personal Growth

26:10 - Embracing Individuality and Self-Acceptance

30:45 - Quick-fire Round: Fun Insights and Favourites

33:38 - Joyful Experiences and Lasting Memories

Connect with Lav on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful and uplifting episode, we meet MJ, a vibrant SoulCycle instructor whose journey from the classroom to the cycling studio is as moving as it is motivational. MJ opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, surviving rejection during SoulCycle’s intense audition process, and ultimately finding joy, belonging, and self-worth through fitness and community.

We talk Taylor Swift rides, London life, and how themed classes became a safe haven for connection. MJ shares personal stories about overcoming bullying, leaving alcohol behind, and embracing his LGBTQ+ identity with confidence and clarity. Through therapy and self-love, MJ has transformed his life—and now helps others do the same, one ride at a time.

Expect laughter, inspiration, and a raw, heartfelt conversation about growth, identity, and what it truly means to show up for yourself.

We cover:

• Leaving education for a career in fitness
• SoulCycle auditions, rejection, and rising again
• Building belonging through Taylor Swift rides
• LGBTQ+ identity, bullying, and embracing self-worth
• Imposter syndrome, therapy, and mental health
• Quitting alcohol, finding love, and rediscovering joy
• 
  

Key Quotes:

• “I am an amazing instructor.”
• “Maybe alcohol isn’t for me.”
• “You’re amazing the way you are.”

Chapters

00:00 - From Classroom to Spin Studio: A Bold Transition

02:28 - The Audition Experience: Facing Rejection

04:49 - Finding Joy in Cycling: A New Beginning

07:12 - The Performative Aspect of Fitness Instruction

09:19 - Authenticity in Teaching: Being Real with Riders

11:41 - The Taylor Swift Connection: Building Community

15:02 - Exploring Future Aspirations: Beyond SoulCycle

16:51 - The Journey of a Teacher: From Passion to Burnout

30:06 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: A Personal Journey

35:12 - Life in London: Balancing Work and Social Life

38:42 - A Night Out Gone Wrong

42:57 - Reflections on Alcohol and Belonging

46:42 - Learning to Love Myself

52:44 - Finding Love Again

1:04:23 - Celebrating Joy in Relationships

Connect with MJ on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this first cup of Season 2, we sit down with Michaela Morgan in the US - a sixth-grade social studies teacher, grad student, comedy writer, and all-around gem. From managing a classroom in the aftermath of COVID-19 to navigating life with ADHD, Michaela opens up about the real challenges (and quiet joys) of modern teaching.

We talk about identity - what it means to show up as your full self at work, especially as an LGBTQ+ educator - and why finding community matters more than ever. Michaela shares honest reflections on being the youngest of five, her love of coffee culture, and why it’s okay to just have hobbies without turning them into side hustles.

This episode is full of heart, laughter, and life lessons from someone who’s teaching the next generation while figuring it out herself. Grab a warm brew and lean in - it’s good stuff.

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome to ChatterBeans Season 2

01:51 - Teaching in a Post-COVID World

07:03 - Navigating Identity and Community

12:35 - Life as a Middle School Teacher

19:52 - Balancing Personal and Professional Life

25:33 - The Journey with ADHD

31:02 - Life Lessons and Advice

35:58 - Coffee Culture and Personal Preferences

40:05 - Reflections on History and Future Aspirations

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.