GEM'S JOURNALS

GEM'S JOURNALS

By Gemma GordonEducationSelf-Improvement
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GEM'S JOURNALS episodes

  • Angie Peters: Actor, Mentor & Founder of BABE Acting

    Across two decades, Angie has built an enviable portfolio: credits on Netflix, Amazon, Sky, Apple TV, national and international commercial campaigns, stage work, and award-winning features — all while raising two children and navigating the challenges of the industry.


    She’s not only acted, but also shaped the UK creative landscape: co-founding the Actors Tweetup, launching the BIFA-qualifying TweetFest Film Festival, creating the World Acting Summit, and writing for publications like Backstage, Casting Networks, and Spotlight. Today, she mentors actors globally, helping them unlock clarity, consistency, and confidence in the business of acting.


    Together we discuss:


    • How to stay consistent and productive as a creative.

    • Practical tips for navigating mental health in an unpredictable industry.

    • Why mentoring can change the game for actors at every stage.



    If you’ve ever wondered how to thrive — not just survive — in this industry, this conversation is packed with inspiration and real strategies.


     Learn more about Angie at actingbabe.com

    25 min
  • The Sixth Level Series: Dr. Marshall Goldsmith & Jennifer J. Fondrevay: The Sixth Level Engagement Model

    In this episode of The 6th Level series, I’m joined by two extraordinary leaders — Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, a top-rated executive coach and one of the world’s most influential business thinkers (recognized by Thinkers50 since 2011), and author of the New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestsellers Triggers and What Got You Here Won’t Get You There. Alongside him is Jennifer J. Fondrevay, founder of Day1 Ready, a consultancy that helps business leaders navigate the people side of mergers and acquisitions. Jennifer’s insights, shaped by her firsthand experience of three major acquisitions, have been featured in Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and on stages at top industry events.

    Together, we explore how their incredible work reflects The Sixth Level Engagement Model — elevating leadership beyond metrics into purpose, connection, and sustainable results. From navigating change to inspiring people through transitions, this conversation offers invaluable strategies for leaders at every stage.


     Listen now for a masterclass in leadership, transformation, and human connection.

    35 min
  • The Sixth Level Series: Kathy Overbeke, Rachel Wallis Andreasson & Stacy Feiner: Women in Leadership

    In this episode of The 6th Level series, I sit down with three powerhouse women — Kathy Overbeke, DM/DBA (High-Performance Psychologist, Entrepreneur, Investor, Author, and Family Business Consultant), Rachel Wallis Andreasson, MBA (Executive, Writer, Collaborator), and Stacy Feiner, MS/PsyD (High-Performance Psychologist, Entrepreneur, Investor, and Author).

    We dive into what it’s really like to be a woman in leadership — from navigating boardrooms to breaking barriers, balancing personal and professional demands, and the mindset shifts required to thrive at the top. Between them, Kathy, Rachel, and Stacy bring decades of experience across business, psychology, entrepreneurship, and leadership, sharing candid reflections, hard-earned lessons, and strategies for building a career that’s both successful and sustainable.

     Listen now for an honest, inspiring conversation about women leading with impact, resilience, and purpose.

    43 min
  • The Sixth Level Series: Jack Harris: The Sixth Level of Leadership

    For the very first episode of The Sixth Level series, I’m joined by Jack Harris, MA/Ph.D. — Professor of Sociology at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, NY, and Owner of Harris Consulting Associates, LLC. Jack is also the author of The Sixth Level, a groundbreaking leadership framework that takes leaders and teams beyond performance metrics into purpose, connection, and sustainable results.

    In this conversation, we dive into leadership transformation, high-performance teams, and the human dynamics that drive thriving workplace culture. Jack shares his insights on how culture, collaboration, and evidence-based strategies can help anyone step into their full potential — not just at work, but in how they relate, lead, and live.

     Listen now and discover what it really takes to operate at the sixth level.


    48 min
  • Gareth Davies - The Presenter Studio

    Hello guys <3
    I was joined by Gareth Davies — CEO of The Presenter Studio, the UK’s leading presenter coaching company. With years of experience working with top TV talent and corporate clients, Gareth shares insights on building true resilience as a presenter and how confidence is often found in the most unexpected places.

    Whether you're a budding host or a seasoned speaker, you'll leave with practical takeaways and a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling and self-belief.

    Guest Bio:
    Gareth Davies is the CEO of The Presenter Studio — the UK’s leading presenter coaching business. They specialise in bespoke presentation skills training, public speaking courses, and media training for individuals and organisations, helping clients communicate with confidence, clarity, and charisma.


    https://www.presenterstudio.com/


    Gemma xxx

    33 min
  • FOOD FOR THOUGHT - Documentary Film Making and Veganism

    ​ ⁨@FoodForThoughtDoc⁩  In this episode of GEMS Journal, we sit down to talk about 'Food for Thought', a documentary that takes a refreshingly honest look at veganism—without a preachy vibe. Filmmakers Giles Alderson and Dan Richardson wanted to create something real, something that speaks to people without making them feel judged.With editor Robbie McCain bringing humor and spontaneity into the mix, the film evolved from something serious into something truly engaging. It’s packed with personal stories, unexpected moments, and a candid approach that makes you think about your food choices in a whole new way.At its heart, Food for Thought is about connection—the 15-year friendship behind the film, the passion driving the message, and the conversations it sparks. Tune in as we dive into the creative process, the challenges, and why this documentary just hits different.

    58 min
  • Mat Fraser - Disability in the Arts

    In this episode, I am joined by an incredible guest—an actor, writer, drummer, and a passionate advocate for disability representation in the arts. We explore Mat's journey as a disabled performer, from navigating the entertainment industry to landing iconic roles in American Horror Story and Loudermilk. Along the way, we talk about the power of authentic representation, the struggles of breaking in, and the humor that keeps him going.

    49 min
  • JEMMA MOORE - Neuro-diversity, Individualism and Self Acceptance

    Jemma with a J <3


    In this engaging conversation, Jemma Moore shares her journey as an actor and creative, discussing her experiences with neurodiversity, the impact of her diagnosis, and the societal pressures she faces. She emphasizes the importance of individualism and self-acceptance while navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry. Jemma also delves into her work in the horror genre, her upcoming projects, and the significance of therapy and self-discovery in her life.


    Sound Bites

    00:00Introduction and Personal Background

    03:05Understanding Neurodiversity

    05:51The Impact of Diagnosis

    09:02Navigating Societal Norms and Pressures

    12:13Acting and the Horror Genre

    14:45The Journey of Self-Discovery

    17:59Upcoming Projects and Future Aspirations

    Gem xxx

    42 min
  • Corin Silva - Dark Comedy and Creative Journeys with Corin Silva

    Hey guys <3

    Join me in this episode as we dive into the world of dark comedy with actor Corin Silva, who shares insights about his latest project, STAGS, a hilarious and chaotic stag do adventure gone wrong.

    We discuss his experiences on set, the importance of mental health, and navigating the entertainment industry. Corin also sheds light on his diverse roles, from serious characters in SAS to the challenges of creating his own projects, all while maintaining a positive outlook.

    Featured Guest: Corin Silva - Actor


     Character Insights:

    • Corin reflects on his character Ryan, an Essex lad, and how personal experiences influenced his performance.
    • The challenge of performing accents and the fun of
    • character development throughout filming.

       Transition to Serious Roles:

      • Discussion of Corin serious character, Jim Almonds,
      • in SAS and his experience working with the SAS community.
        • The unique training regime for intense action scenes and the camaraderie among the cast.
        •  Maintaining Groundedness in the Industry:

          • Tips on staying positive amidst career
          • challenges and the importance of having supportive family and friends.
            • The need for honesty in feedback and how
            • constructive criticism helps growth as an actor.

              Writing and Creative Outlet:

              • Corin shares details about his writing
              • project, The Swelling – a psychological and body horror film centred on identity and mental health.
                • The significance of breaking down stigmas surrounding mental health, particularly for men.
                •  Career Development and Resilience:

                  • Advice for aspiring actors on handling rejection
                  • and maintaining a creative outlet despite challenges.
                    • Strategies for networking within the industry
                    • and understanding the role of perseverance in a creative career.

                       Humorous Moments on Set:

                      • Light-hearted anecdotes about working with a talented cast on Stags and the fun dynamics that ensued during filming.
                      • Links Mentioned:

                        Watch Stags on:
                        Paramount+: Paramount+ Website  
                        Instagram: @corinsilva

                        Quotes:

                        • Setbacks are just steps towards success.
                          • Never change yourself to be the version you
                          • think is a successful actor.
                            • Mental health is still a stigma, and as creatives, we should be trying to break that.
                            • So much love to you xx

                              28 min
                            • HOLLYSHORTS - Alex Seltzer: Passion for Evocative Films and Learning to Edit

                              Hey hey,

                              I loved interviewing filmmaker Alexander Seltzer about his recent short film, The Door, which premiered at the Holly Shorts Festival. We discuss the positive feedback from the audience, the chilling and thought-provoking nature of the film, and the motivation behind its creation. Alex shares his journey as a filmmaker and the importance of having a supportive team. We touched on the difficulty of switching off from filmmaking and share recommendations for documentary series to watch.

                              Takeaways

                              • The Door, a short film by Alexander Seltzer, received positive feedback from the audience at the Holly Shorts Festival.
                              • The film explores themes of grief, love, and the moral dilemmas of parenthood.
                              • Seltzer's motivation for creating the film came from his fear of loving something so much that it requires sacrificing one's identity.
                              • Building a supportive team is crucial in the filmmaking process, and having people who understand your vision and push you to create is invaluable.
                              • Switching off from filmmaking can be challenging for passionate creatives, but finding moments of escape through activities like watching reality TV or documentaries can provide a much-needed break.
                                • Exploring Grief and Love in The Door
                                • The Fear of Loving Something Too Much
                                  • "I tend to make genre films about things that scare me and keep me up at night."
                                  • "The Door follows a grieving couple, a mother who, a year after their child's disappearance, is struggling to move on."
                                  • "Does parenthood transcend morality?"
                                  • Sound Bites

                                    00:00Introduction and Holly Shorts Festival

                                    02:23The Door: Exploring Grief and Love

                                    05:22The Fear of Loving Something Too Much

                                    09:23The Importance of a Supportive Filmmaking Team

                                    17:41The Challenge of Switching Off from Filmmaking

                                    Gem xx

                                    32 min

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                                  Real Talk, Real Journeys