In this Eat My Brunch interview, Michelle speaks to Billericay-born voice actor Marilena Gant, whose work has been heard by millions around the world. From everyday announcements to television, games, and animation, her voice has featured in projects many people encounter daily without even realising.

In the conversation, we explore what voice acting actually involves, how a global career can begin locally, and why regional voices and accents deserve to be celebrated.

Voice actors work across a wide range of media, including television, animation, video games, advertising, and public announcements. Their voices are often part of everyday life, even when the person behind them is unknown.

Growing up in Essex, Marilena’s journey into voice acting began locally before developing into an international career. Her story highlights how regional voices can reach global audiences.

Marilena shares that listeners might be surprised to hear her voice in everyday places such as Etsy TV commercials and in-store announcements for ASDA.

Press play below to hear the full interview where Marilena discusses her career journey and what it’s like working across different media.

Visit Marilena’s official website to hear demos and see her full portfolio. Marilena Gant – British Female Voice Actor and Voiceover

In the Phoenix FM studio during the festive season

The interview was recorded in the Phoenix FM studio as part of the Eat My Brunch show.

The post Voice Acting from Essex to Global Brands – Interview with Marilena Gant appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Joining Michelle in the studio was Tracey Johnson from Vita Health Group / NHS Talking Therapies, continuing our regular monthly conversation around mental health and wellbeing.

Also joining the discussion from the local community was Robin Malliard from Diabetes UK Brentwood, who also runs Brentwood Men’s Shed. Together, we explored the reality of receiving a new diagnosis, the emotional impact this can have, and the importance of accessible, community-based support.

Overview – Diabetes Uk Brentwood – NHS

Talking therapies – NHS

The conversation focused on the help available both through NHS Talking Therapies and local organisations, highlighting how connection, understanding, and shared experience can make a real difference.

Listen to the full interview below.

The post Living with diabetes: understanding new diagnoses and finding local support appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Multi Platinum vocalist and songwriter Abi Flynn joined Michelle Ward on Eat My Brunch for an open, inspiring and beautifully honest conversation that captured the depth of her journey  both as an artist and as a woman navigating the music industry.

With 156.4K monthly listeners on Spotify and a voice that has powered millions of streams worldwide, Abi is no stranger to success. Yet behind the hit records lies a powerful story. In this interview, Abi speaks candidly about how she first got started in music, her life-changing cancer journey, and how those experiences shaped her debut solo album, Get Deep,  a body of work rooted in healing, resilience and truth.

We also explore her impact as a female artist in a still male-dominated industry, the realities of working behind the scenes as a topliner, and what it’s meant to finally step fully into the spotlight. The conversation flows with warmth, insight and clarity, offering a rare glimpse into the woman behind the voice.

The interview also features an exclusive play of Abi’s latest release with Nathan Dawe – Take it Back, giving listeners an early taste of what’s next — and if this is any indication, 2026 is shaping up to be a huge year for Abi Flynn.

As always, Eat My Brunch with Michelle Ward continues its long-standing commitment to championing independent artists, authentic voices and meaningful music — because supporting independent music has been at the heart of the show from day one.

IN CONVERSATION

The post Abi Flynn: The Voice Behind the Hits – From Hidden Topliner to Centre Stage appeared first on Phoenix FM.

A monthly feature with Sylvia Kent called 60 Second History. This month Sylvia talks about the Selo Film Company once based in Brentwood.

60 SECOND HISTORY – SELO FILM COMPANY (In fact, this month its 45 Seconds!)

The post 45 Second History – Selo Film Company appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Sylvia Kent, a prolific Essex author and broadcaster, appears monthly on Book Club—always bringing along a fascinating guest to enrich each show. Today Sylvia talked about Billericay Readers, Brentwood Writers, Society of Woman Writers and Journalists and more.

SYLVIA talks Brentwood Writers, Billericay Readers, The Society of Woman Writers and Journaliast and the Frances Clamp Award Winner

SYLVIA KENT’S READING & WRITING FORUM

The post Book Club with Sylvia Kent – Frances Clamp Award appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Book Club this month with Sylvia Kent, Lisa Horner and Hayley Saunderson include their favourite reads.

Sylvia Kent

BP Walter – The Locked Attic

Hayley Saunderson

Magician’s Nephew – C. S. Lewis (Children’s Book)

Lisa Horner

The Oui Trip DAVID O’NEILL Journey – David O’Neil

The Oui Trip eBook : O’Neill, David: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store

DECEMBER BOOK CLUB RECOMMENDATIONS

The post December Page-Turners: What to Read This Month appeared first on Phoenix FM.

For this Months Book Club I was joined by Writer Lisa Horner & Billericay Library Manager, Hayley Saunderson to talk about the Local Writers’ Showcase taking place Saturday 13th December at Billericay Library between 10am – 4pm

If you love writing, books, or discovering new local talent, Billericay Library is the place to be! Join us for Essex Libraries’ annual Local Writers’ Showcase a completely free, all-day event celebrating creativity across our community.

Meet a wide range of authors from across Essex, chat about their journeys, and get inspired whether you’re an avid reader, a budding writer, or simply looking for something new.

What’s On:
• Meet & Network: Talk to self-published and traditionally published authors — perfect for anyone curious about writing or looking for advice.
• Writers’ Slam – 1:00 PM: Enjoy a lively, creative session as local writers share their work live.
• Discover New Reads: Explore exciting new voices and find your next favourite book.
• Great Gift Ideas: Browse books available to buy — ideal for thoughtful, unique presents.

Come along, get inspired, and support your local creative community!

DETAILS

Local Writers’ Showcase | Events | Essex Library Service

LIST OF AUTHORS AT THE EVENT AND THEIR BOOKS

WE LOVE WHAT WE DO. LISA ND HAYLEY TALK ABOUT THEIR WORK

THE BILLERICAY LIBRARY GHOST

The post Celebrate Local Talent at Billericay Library’s Local Writers’ Showcase appeared first on Phoenix FM.

IN CONVERSATION

Great to catch up with Sophia Marie Hornsey, found of Sophisticated Entertainment to talk about her exciting production of Beauty and the Beast Pantomime at The Brentwood Centre.

Sophisticated Entertainment & The Brentwood Centre Present:
Beauty & The Beast – The Family Pantomime!

Step into a world of wonder this festive season as Brentwood’s first-ever resident pantomime brings the timeless tale of Beauty & The Beast to life like never before! Bursting with magic, music, and festive sparkle, this is the Christmas treat your family will be talking about long after the curtain falls.

Produced by Brentwood’s very own People’s Choice Award winners, Sophisticated Entertainment, this traditional pantomime promises big laughs, dazzling choreography, unforgettable songs, and plenty of audience participation—because what’s a panto without a cheeky wink, a hearty “He’s behind you!” and a whole lot of fun?

Prepare to cheer for Belle, boo the baddies, and fall in love with a tale as old as time—retold with a joyful pantomime twist that will captivate all ages.

Show Dates: 13th December 2025 – 4th January 2026
️ Book Now: Tickets are expected to sell fast—don’t miss your chance to make magical holiday memories at a show the whole family will adore!

Get ready for festive fun, laughter, and enchantment… this is one Christmas tradition you’ll want to be part of!

BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE

Beauty & The Beast Pantomime at The Brentwood Centre event tickets from TicketSource

Sophisticated – Bespoke, Top Quality Entertainment

The post Brentwood Welcomes Beauty and the Beast Pantomime Extravaganza appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Catch my interview with Nick Sillitoe of The Rotary Club of Billericay Mayflower, as he talks about the much-loved Billericay Christmas Market returning to Billericay High Street on 7th December 2025, from 11.00am to 5.00pm. Over 150 stalls, live music throughout, the Christmas Parade, Father Christmas in his Grotto, plus free parking, its going to be one amazing event.

Over the past 13 years, this festive community event has raised more than £500,000 for charity, bringing local people together for a day of fun, food, entertainment, and Christmas spirit.

Click below to listen again and find out what’s planned for this year’s market!

FREE TO SEE FATHER CHRISTMAS AND RECEIVE A FREE GIFT – For all Children.

IN CONVERSATION

Billericay Christmas Market from the Rotary Club of Billericay Mayflower

The post ⭐ Get Ready for the Magic: Billericay Christmas Market – 7th December appeared first on Phoenix FM.

Great to meet children’s author, Dizzy Carr, who came in to talk about his series of Books. Welcome to the World of Griffin and Mythical Friends, where every creature has a story and every story has a heart. Dizzy will be releasing 12 books in 12 months and is already on Book Four.  The interaction from the listeners was amazing and Dizzy sold copies during the interview!

“Twelve magical picture books exploring friendship, courage, and belonging. What began as a small spark — a midlife tattoo that turned into an idea for a children’s story — has now grown into a journey I never expected. I set myself the challenge of creating 12 books in 12 months, each one introducing a new mythical creature with a big heart and a lesson to share. From The Griffin’s Gift to The Guardian’s Promise, and the adventures still to come, every page is a reminder that even the smallest ideas can grow into great adventures “

“Follow the small ideas as they always know where they’re going”. 

IN CONVERSATION

Dizzy Carr | Dizzy Carr Griffin Mythical Friends

The post Discover Dizzy Carr’s Magical World of Stories appeared first on Phoenix FM.