The story you keep telling yourself might be the only thing holding you back.

Transformational therapist Tracey Hill reveals why the most powerful change often begins with a single pause - and how that pause can uncover the hidden beliefs, patterns, and subconscious blocks running your life.

After 20+ years in corporate tech and consulting, Tracey walked away from a six-figure salary within 24 hours after realizing success on the outside was costing her everything on the inside. In this conversation, Tigz Rice explores the moment a career built on proving herself, shame, and survival stopped working - and how Tracey rebuilt her life, her work, and her identity from the inside out.

TOPICS COVERED

- Why “pause” is the first instruction in Tracey’s own user manual

- How regression therapy gets to the root cause instead of endlessly managing symptoms

- Why so many high performers, entrepreneurs, and creatives build success from pain

- The surprising way childhood programming can shape adult anxiety, burnout, and self-worth

- Why some people are scared of healing because life without their old story feels unfamiliar

- How Tracey uses her method to help clients release fear, anger, shame, and self-sabotage

- What really changes when you stop chasing validation and start living from self-love

Tracey also opens up about the deeply personal moments that changed everything, including becoming a mother after being told she couldn’t have children, and realizing she didn’t want to become the absent, exhausted version of herself she was seeing in the mirror. From that point on, she set out to help others break free from the patterns that keep them stuck.

We also get into the emotional truth behind money, success, and freedom. Tracey shares why losing £200,000 made her feel freer than ever, why money is not the same as peace, and why true transformation often looks less like “fixing yourself” and more like finally meeting the version of you that was always there.

FIND TRACEY

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamtraceyhill

ABOUT TIGZ RICE

Tigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from her own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation. Her podcast Finding My User Manual explores the challenges of navigating life when no one gave you the instructions, amplifying nuanced, diverse experiences with honesty and depth.

Website: https://www.tigzrice.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice

Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice

Tigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available Worldwide

PODCAST DISCLAIMER

Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

In this episode of Finding My User Manual, I sit down with illustrator, animator, art director, podcaster and Adobe mentor David Oku for an honest conversation about authenticity, mixed-race identity, belonging, representation and building a creative career with purpose.

CONTENT WARNING

This episode contains conversation around difficult topics that some viewers/listeners may find distressing. Specific subjects discussed include: Strong Language, Racism & Colourism, Childhood Experiences, Migration & Displacement. If you're affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, you can find support via the following links...

UK: https://www.helplines.org/helplines/

Worldwide: https://www.helpguide.org/find-help

Growing up across Nigeria, Germany, Italy and the UK, David developed a unique relationship with culture, identity and what it means to truly belong. Together, we explore how moving between different worlds shaped his creativity, why trusting yourself matters when other people don’t understand your path, and the power of embracing every part of who you are rather than trying to fit neatly into one identity.

We also talk about representation in the creative industries, colourism, community, mentorship and the people who open doors simply because they believe in your potential. David shares his journey from working in retail and creating art on the side to collaborating with global brands including Adobe, Nike and Pepsi - and why impressive clients have never been the ultimate measure of success.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

• Mixed-race identity, culture and belonging

• Representation of Black creatives in the design industry

• Colourism, beauty standards and embracing your identity

• Why seeing people who look like you matters

• Mentorship and the people who open doors for others• Working with global brands including Adobe, Nike and Pepsi

• Protecting your energy while still supporting others

• Building a creative career with purpose

SHOW NOTES

• Adobe Mentorship and Creative Aprrenticeships: https://www.behance.net/resources

• Stormzy Scholarship for Black UK Students at Cambridge University: https://www.undergraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/fees-funding/scholarships-bursaries/stormzy-scholarship

FIND DAVID OKU

Instagram: www.instagram.com/d.okuart

Website: www.davidoku.com

Podcast: www.youtube.com/@hidden_layers_podcast

ABOUT TIGZ RICE

Tigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from her own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation.

Website: https://www.tigzrice.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tigzrice

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice

Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice

PODCAST DISCLAIMER

Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

In this episode of Finding My User Manual, I sit down with Sali, aka Ms Moo Make Up, for an honest conversation about self-confidence, authenticity, beauty, entrepreneurship, boundaries and learning to trust your own decisions.

CONTENT WARNING

This episode contains conversation around difficult topics that some viewers/listeners may find distressing. Specific subjects discussed include: Adult themes, Swearing, Receiving Unsolicited Phone Calls/Texts, Health (Diabetes). If you're affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, you can find support via the following links...

UK: https://www.helplines.org/helplines/

Worldwide: https://www.helpguide.org/find-help

Sali shares her journey through the beauty industry, from leaving corporate life and building her own business to creating a client experience rooted in care, honesty and making people feel genuinely good about themselves. Together, we explore the difference between looking confident and actually feeling it, why authenticity matters more than perfection, and how backing yourself can change the way you approach work, relationships and major life decisions.

We also talk about natural makeup, beauty standards, marketing tactics, emotional safety in service-based businesses, setting healthier boundaries, and the personal growth that comes from embracing change instead of fighting it.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

• How to back yourself and trust your own decisions

• Building genuine self-confidence

• Authenticity in the beauty industry

• Leaving corporate life and becoming self-employed

• Beauty standards, marketing and industry pressure

• Building strong client relationships with integrity

• Boundaries and emotional safety in service-based businesses

• Women’s health, stress and self-care

SHOW NOTES

• Use TIGZ20 to get £20 off they Make Up Edit service, until 31.10.26 - www.msmoomakeup.com/make-up-edit

• Sali's Lookfantastic Affiliate Code: LFTFSALIMOO

FIND MS MOO

Website: www.msmoomakeup.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/msmoo_makeup

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@msmoomakeup

Facebook: www.facebook.com/msmoomakeupABOUT TIGZ RICETigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from her own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation. Her podcast Finding My User Manual explores the challenges of navigating life when no one gave you the instructions, amplifying nuanced, diverse experiences with honesty and depth.

Website: www.tigzrice.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tigzrice

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice

Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice

Tigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits

PODCAST DISCLAIMER

Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

In this episode, Tigz Rice and Connor Wells revisit their personal 'user manuals,' sharing updates on their lives as photographers and videographers, the challenges, and growth over the past six months. They explore themes of courage, energy management, and evolving goals, offering insights into how they navigate their creative and personal journeys.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Finding My User Manual

02:25 Connor's Modball Experience

05:22 The Photography Show and Public Speaking

09:52 User Manual Updates: Courage and People Pleasing

14:40 Leadership and Collaboration in Creative Work

19:42 Exploring New Opportunities in Social Media Management

21:11 The Rise of TikTok and Social Media Engagement

24:46 Capturing Moments: The Art of Photography

26:20 Content Creation: Repurposing and Efficiency

28:43 Reflecting on Achievements and Future Goals

32:33 Travel Aspirations and Creative Opportunities

36:29 Upcoming Projects and Collaborations

If you enjoy honest conversations about personal development, creativity, neurodiversity, photography, self-discovery, confidence, and learning how to be human, don't forget to subscribe to Finding My User Manual for new episodes every week.

WHERE TO FIND CONNOR

Website: https://www.connorwells.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cjw_hq

YouTube:  @ConnorWells 

ABOUT TIGZ RICE

Tigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from he own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation. Her podcast Finding My User Manual explores the challenges of navigating life when no one gave you the instructions, amplifying nuanced, diverse experiences with honesty and depth. Her TEDx Talk challenges outdated narratives of worth and visibility through unobtainable and ever-changing beauty standards, while her award-winning book STRIP/TEASE is celebrates exploration of identity, and unapologetic self-expression through burlesque.

Website: https://www.tigzrice.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice

Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice

Tigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available Worldwide

PODCAST DISCLAIMER

Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

In this episode of Finding My User Manual, I sit down with multidisciplinary artist, designer and creative leader Riya Naskar for a thoughtful conversation about anxiety, overthinking, self-awareness, trust, creativity and what it means to build a life that feels peaceful and authentically aligned.

Together, we explore how creativity can become a tool for reflection, self-compassion and emotional processing, especially when your mind has a habit of running ahead of you. Riya shares how her artistic practice helps her make sense of anxiety, navigate uncertainty, reconnect with herself and create space for curiosity, peace and personal growth.

We also talk about trust, letting go, advocating for yourself in creative spaces, the relationship between science and art, and Riya’s unexpected journey from zoology into an international creative career. Along the way, we unpack what deep human connection really feels like, why lifelong learning matters, and how recognising the physical and emotional signs of peace can help us understand ourselves a little better.

Whether you’re a creative, an overthinker, navigating anxiety, changing direction in your career, or simply trying to live more authentically, this conversation is a gentle exploration of what happens when we stop forcing ourselves into someone else’s version of a life well lived.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

• Anxiety, overthinking and learning to recognise your own patterns

• Creativity as a tool for self-reflection and self-compassion

• Trust, detachment and knowing when to let go

• Building deeper, more meaningful human connections

• Self-awareness and understanding what peace feels like in your body

• Advocating for yourself in creative and professional spaces

• Science, creativity and curiosity

• Multidisciplinary art and developing an authentic creative practice

• Lifelong learning, languages and following your curiosity

• Creating space for rest, reflection and personal growth

• Living authentically

FIND RIYA NASKAR

Instagram: www.instagram.com/riyanaskarstudio/

Website: www.riyanaskar.studio

Artist Residency: www.twotwentytwo.space

ABOUT TIGZ RICE

Tigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from her own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation. Her podcast Finding My User Manual explores the challenges of navigating life when no one gave you the instructions, amplifying nuanced, diverse experiences with honesty and depth.

Website: https://www.tigzrice.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice

Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice

PODCAST DISCLAIMER

Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

The Power of Being Authentically You | Richard Liverman on Neurodiversity & Business

In this episode of Finding My User Manual, I sit down with Richard Liverman for a thoughtful conversation about neurodiversity, authenticity, creativity, and how to build a life and business that reflects who you are.

Together, we explore the strengths that often come with neurodivergent thinking, the importance of genuine human connection, and why embracing your authentic self can become your greatest advantage - both personally and professionally. We also dive into the fascinating ways music, colour, photography and creativity shape our memories, influence our emotions, and help us better understand ourselves.

Whether you're neurodivergent, a creative entrepreneur, or simply trying to navigate life in a way that feels more aligned, this conversation is full of honest reflections on identity, personal growth, confidence, and learning to trust your own way of thinking.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

• Embracing neurodiversity and recognising your unique strengths

• Authenticity in business, creativity and everyday life

• Building deeper, more meaningful human connections

• How colour psychology influences emotion and perception

• The connection between music, memory and identity

• Photography as a way of preserving stories and emotion

• Why curiosity is one of our greatest creative superpowers

• Personal growth, confidence and self-awareness

If you enjoy honest conversations about neurodiversity, creativity, entrepreneurship, personal growth, identity, human connection and learning how to be human, don't forget to subscribe to Finding My User Manual for new episodes every week.

SHOW NOTES

VIA Institute - Character Strengths: https://www.viacharacter.org

Club A Steak House, New York: https://clubasteakhouse.com/

CONNECT WITH RICHARD LIVERMAN

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richer_solutions_global

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-livermanYouTube:  @richersolutions3785  // https://www.youtube.com/@richersolutions3785

ABOUT TIGZ RICE

Tigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from he own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation. Her podcast Finding My User Manual explores the challenges of navigating life when no one gave you the instructions, amplifying nuanced, diverse experiences with honesty and depth.

Website: https://www.tigzrice.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice

Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice

Tigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available Worldwide

PODCAST DISCLAIMER

Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

What if confidence isn't something you perform... but something you feel?I sit down with internationally acclaimed burlesque artist Didi Derrière for a heartfelt conversation about body confidence, authenticity, performance, and learning to reconnect with yourself through movement.

Together, we explore what it really means to feel at home in your body, why authenticity is far more powerful than perfection, and how burlesque became a tool for self-expression and healing. Didi shares her thoughts on overcoming performance nerves, connecting emotionally with music, embracing improvisation, and why the most captivating performances come from tapping into your feelings.

Whether you're a performer or someone simply learning to love yourself a little more, this conversation is a beautiful reminder that confidence isn't created by becoming someone else, but by coming home to who you already are.

CONTENT WARNING

This episode contains conversation around difficult topics that some viewers/listeners may find distressing.

Specific subjects discussed include: Pregnancy, Body Image. If you're affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, you can find support via the following links...

UK: https://www.helplines.org/helplines/

Worldwide: https://www.helpguide.org/find-help

TOPICS DISCUSSED:

• Building genuine body confidence from the inside out

• Authenticity on stage and in everyday life

• Burlesque as a tool for healing and self-expression

• Managing performance anxiety and trusting yourself

• Connecting emotionally through movement and music

• Choreography versus freestyle performance

• Motherhood, identity and creativity

• Redefining beauty standards through burlesque

• Finding confidence by feeling instead of performing

• The power of community and belonging

WHERE TO FIND DIDI DERRIERE

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dididerriere

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dididerriere

ABOUT TIGZ RICE

Tigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from he own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation. Her podcast Finding My User Manual explores the challenges of navigating life when no one gave you the instructions, amplifying nuanced, diverse experiences with honesty and depth. Her TEDx Talk challenges outdated narratives of worth and visibility through unobtainable and ever-changing beauty standards.

Website: https://www.tigzrice.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice

Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice

Tigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available Worldwide

PODCAST DISCLAIMER

Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

What if success is the goal... but also the thing that's burning you out?In this episode of Finding My User Manual, I sit down with Lydia Coulter - founder of luxury bondage accessories brand Kilter, marketing strategist, entrepreneur and mother - for an honest conversation about burnout, boundaries, self-awareness, and redefining success.After years working in corporate marketing, Lydia found herself running on empty. Rather than continuing down a path that no longer felt aligned, she made the difficult decision to leave corporate life behind and build a business that worked around her values, creativity and family. Together, we explore the realities of burnout recovery, motherhood, entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and learning to stop over-functioning for everyone around you.We also dive into the story behind Kilter - Lydia's beautifully designed luxury leather bondage brand - and how she's helping redefine perceptions of intimacy, craftsmanship and design through high-end statement pieces worthy of display.Whether you're navigating burnout, considering self-employment, juggling motherhood with a career, or simply trying to build a life that feels more intentional, this conversation is full of thoughtful reflections on identity, ambition, boundaries and creating success on your own terms.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Lydia Coulter05:48 The Role of Family Support in Business08:36 The Birth of Kilter: A Unique Bondage Brand14:38 Navigating Burnout and Mental Health17:32 Recognising and Addressing Over-Functioning20:41 Strategies for Reclaiming Time and Energy23:19 The Impact of Motherhood on Business and Life26:15 The Transition to Self-Employment30:52 Navigating Burnout and Its Impact34:25 Establishing Work-Life Boundaries38:25 Shift in Priorities Post-Motherhood45:15 The Journey of Self-Discovery50:15 Understanding Burnout and OvercommitmentFIND LYDIA COULTERWebsite: https://bykilter.com?ref=tigz_rice(Affiliate Link - use code tigz_rice for 10% off)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lydiacoulter_TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lydiacoulter__ABOUT TIGZ RICETigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from he own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation. Her podcast Finding My User Manual explores the challenges of navigating life when no one gave you the instructions, amplifying nuanced, diverse experiences with honesty and depth. Her TEDx Talk challenges outdated narratives of worth and visibility through unobtainable and ever-changing beauty standards.Website: https://www.tigzrice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzriceTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzriceFacebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRicePODCAST DISCLAIMERFinding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

What if the hardest part of being disabled isn't your disability... but the world around you?

In this episode of Finding My User Manual, Tigz Rice sits down with Alycia, founder of Emiah Couture, designer, artist, speaker and disability advocate, for an honest conversation about identity, accessibility, entrepreneurship, mental health, and what it means to build a life on your own terms.

As a South Asian disabled entrepreneur, Alycia shares the realities that often go unseen: navigating ableism, learning to ask for help, balancing independence with support, and finding confidence in a world that isn't always designed with disabled people in mind.

Together, we explore how creativity became both an outlet and a lifeline, why representation matters, the importance of accessible businesses, and how sharing our stories can create spaces where people finally feel understood.Whether you're disabled, neurodivergent, navigating your own identity, or simply want to understand another person's lived experience with more empathy, this is a conversation about resilience, authenticity, and learning how to write your own user manual.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Empowerment and Creativity

03:02 Self-Discovery and Personal Growth

06:01 Navigating Disability and Identity

08:58 The Journey into Corsetry and Fashion

12:10 Building a Business in the Fashion Industry

14:58 The Importance of Bespoke Fashion

18:04 Art as an Outlet for Expression

20:55 Understanding Ableism and Self-Perception

32:57 Navigating Independence and Asking for Help

35:32 Representation and Finding Community

38:28 Access to Work: Challenges and Solutions

40:12 The Need for Support: Finding an Assistant

43:06 Balancing Multiple Roles and Responsibilities

46:57 Empowerment Through Public Speaking and Activism

49:22 Making Businesses More Accessible

54:10 The Importance of Sharing Experiences

57:06 Pride in Personal Growth and Achievements

FIND ALYCIA

Website: https://www.emiah.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/emiahcouturePersonal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alycia.emiah

ABOUT TIGZ RICE

Tigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from he own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation. Her podcast Finding My User Manual explores the challenges of navigating life when no one gave you the instructions, amplifying nuanced, diverse experiences with honesty and depth.

Website: https://www.tigzrice.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice

Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice

PODCAST DISCLAIMER

Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

What if true hospitality has nothing to do with cocktails, and everything to do with making people feel seen?

In this episode of Finding My User Manual, I sit down with Ruby Martin - founder of the iconic East London cocktail bar Fontaine's - for an honest conversation about hospitality, creativity, performance, entrepreneurship, and the bittersweet reality of walking away from something you've spent over a decade building.

Before creating one of London's most beloved cocktail bars, Ruby spent fifteen years performing on stage as an actress and cabaret artist. Together, we explore how performance never really ended - it simply evolved into the art of creating unforgettable experiences, building genuine human connection, and making strangers feel like they belong.

We talk about what hospitality can teach us about empathy, why creativity is so deeply intertwined with human connection, the emotional labour behind making people feel special, and how to recognise when it's time to let go of one chapter in order to begin another.

This conversation is a beautiful reminder that the greatest legacy we leave behind is often how we make people feel.

CONTENT WARNING

This episode contains conversation around difficult topics that some viewers/listeners may find distressing. Specific subjects discussed include: Alcohol, Mental Health. If you're affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, you can find support via the following links...

UK: https://www.helplines.org/helplines/

Worldwide: https://www.helpguide.org/find-help

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Journey to Performance

11:14 The Evolution of Burlesque and Cabaret

20:32 From Stage to Bar: The Transition

30:02 The Art of Bar Management

34:07 The Importance of Human Connection in Hospitality

42:12 Observations on Human Behaviour and Interaction

47:20 Memorable Moments in the Bar

51:37 Transitioning from Fontaine's: Reflections and Future Plans

FIND RUBY MARTIN

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fontainesldn

ABOUT TIGZ RICE

Tigz Rice is an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. With an extensive background in burlesque and boudoir photography, she draws from he own lifetime of experience in defying beauty standards, along with more over 15 years of professional creative practise, to help others reconnect with their bodies, take up more space, curate their legacies and feel empowered, confident & seen. Beyond the studio, Tigz’s voice continues to shape the conversation around representation. Her podcast Finding My User Manual explores the challenges of navigating life when no one gave you the instructions, amplifying nuanced, diverse experiences with honesty and depth. Her TEDx Talk challenges outdated narratives of worth and visibility through unobtainable and ever-changing beauty standards.

Website: https://www.tigzrice.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice

Youtube: www.youtube.com/tigzrice

PODCAST DISCLAIMER

Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.