NPLH Studio

Hi team,

The podcast is taking a break until January.

Until then, plenty to keep you occupied with 100 conversations in the back catalogue.

Thank you for the support this year and those previous.

See you on the other side.

JF

Alexis James returns to discuss the process behind Off-Field, a bumper anthology of long form sports storytelling that explores hidden heroes, niche subcultures, and uncharted communities across the world.

Listeners can use NPLH10 at checkout to enjoy a 10% discount on all orders.

Sam Diss is a writer and strategist from East London with a client list that'll make your eyes water – Arsenal, AC Milan and Barcelona blah blah blah.

He explores the balance between personal authenticity and industry demands, reflecting on the importance of collaboration and embracing your unique voice.

This is a candid conversation where Sam reflects on his journey of self-discovery within the creative industry, discussing the highs and lows of his career and how vulnerability and self-awareness can lead to profound insights and meaningful connections in the world of creativity.

And of course, there's Mundial.

Enjoy!

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Judah Negron is a multi-threat creative, ministerial pastor and founder of North Dakotan football brand, Far Out FC.

He shares his journey as a creative, exploring interests in art, sports, and faith, discusses the importance of family in nurturing his individuality and emphasises the transformative power of his faith in Christ, which helped him rediscover joy in creative pursuits leading him to his very own ‘Field of Dreams.’

Judah highlights the unique challenges of building an equally unique brand in a “far out” place, showing us there should be no limits on creativity based on location

It’s a journey of clarity and dedication that took him from Minot, North Dakota to the World stage with Auckland City.

Enjoy!

Takeaways

• Creative identity is multifaceted and can encompass various interests.
• Family support plays a crucial role in nurturing creativity.
• Faith can provide a strong foundation for personal identity and self-worth.
• Struggles with identity can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself.
• Rediscovering joy in creative pursuits is essential for fulfilment.
• The concept of 'far out' can inspire individuals from less recognised places.
• Pursuing mastery in various crafts can lead to personal growth.
• Art and sports can coexist in a person's identity.
• Creating opportunities for oneself is vital in a competitive landscape.
• Authenticity in relationships is key to personal happiness. Judah launched Far Out with his brother Elisha, emphasising brotherhood in their creative journey.
• His passion for Auckland City FC led to a life-changing experience at the FIFA Club World Cup.
• The Far Out Summer Invitational was a grassroots soccer tournament that fostered community.
• Judah's authenticity and love for soccer have opened doors to unique opportunities.
• He faced challenges in organising the tournament but prioritised love for the game over profit.
• The support from Adidas transformed the scale of the Far Out Summer Invitational.
• Judah's journey highlights the importance of being true to oneself in pursuing passions.
• He believes that being in a less conventional location can refine one's creative focus.
• The design of the tournament cup was inspired by rustic elements, making it unique.
• Judah's story encourages others to pursue their passions regardless of external validation. 

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Ben Pagel is the founder and award-winning Creative Director of Brooklyn-based Astral Studio.

He takes on a tour of his inspiring career path, from humble beginnings in a London souvenir shop to leading an international creative studio in the Big Apple.

His journey is a testament to seizing opportunities and embracing the unknown. And with new venture, Kickback Soccer Media, on the horizon, Ben continues to push boundaries with passion and authenticity.

Aiming to reshape the North American soccer narrative, Ben and his teammates are creating a platform built by the American soccer community for the American Soccer community.

All, most importantly, whilst having some fun. Trying to anyway.

Enjoy!

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

Nicolas Polo is a film photographer based in Washington DC.

Together we explore the multifaceted world of photography, discussing personal connections, the impact of film versus digital, and the emotional depth captured through the lens.

Nicolas shares his journey of becoming a photographer, the significance of cultural identity, and the balance between documenting moments and being present in them.

He reflects on his transition from a stable corporate job to pursuing his passion full-time, emphasising the importance of community engagement and teaching.

We also delve into the creative processes involved in photography, including the meditative aspects of darkroom work and the significance of storytelling.

Journalling, self-reflection, personal growth, we touch on all that too.

Enjoy!

Takeaways

• Photography allows for deep personal connections.
• Film photography offers a unique emotional depth.
• Capturing family moments can evoke strong memories.
• The journey into photography often starts unexpectedly.
• Cultural identity plays a significant role in artistic expression.
• The act of photographing can be a form of self-reflection.
• Presence in the moment is crucial for meaningful photography.
• Each photographer has a unique perspective shaped by their experiences.
• The balance between documenting and living in the moment is challenging.
• Artistic expression is about finding one's voice. Nicolas transitioned from a corporate job to full-time photography.
• He emphasizes the importance of community engagement in his work.
• Teaching photography has become a significant part of his career.
• Darkroom photography offers a meditative and flow state experience.
• Storytelling is a powerful tool in photography and other creative fields.
• Journaling helps in self-reflection and personal growth.
• Nicolas draws inspiration from various sources, including music and literature.
• He believes in the importance of intention behind creative work.
• The immigrant work ethic drives his determination and success.
• Nicolas values the connections he makes through his photography.

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James Gamlin is founder and editor of Escapismo, the magazine capturing the beauty and romance of the game.

He discusses the magazine's evolution, from a one-off Father’s Day gift to its most recent form of a love letter to Real Betis and the joy of Spanish football.

James shares the struggles of wearing ‘all the hats’ in a magazine's production journey and his learnings from them, as well as the dedication to self-improvement for the good of the publication.

A new contender for ‘nicest guy in showbiz’, James’ enthusiasm and love for the game will reinforce yours.

Enjoy!

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Laura Gates is a freelance sport and events photographer based in the North West of England. Oh and an Evertonian!

We discuss her ongoing body of work around the club, the opportunities that have come from within it, and how it all started with an iPhone.

Laura talks of the value in women supporting women in a male-dominated space and the greater creative community in the Liverpool area.

We also run through her evolving career as a photographer, the importance of embracing new challenges and the ongoing relationship between her and her beloved Everton.

Enjoy!

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Dave Murray is an English guitarist, best known as a member of the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. 

Wait, that’s not right. 

Dave Murray is an award-winning, Toronto-based illustrator with a client list including, Major League Baseball, The National Hockey League, and FIFA. 

He talks us through from the very beginning in a pulp and paper mill to becoming a renowned illustrator, as well as the intricacies that come with teaching the creatives of the future. 

We also cover his passion for sports, art, and the impact of AI on the creative industry and how he might just be the most inked man in the field.

Enjoy!

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

Pablo Maurer is a writer with a unique and encouraging back story: After failing high school, he became a mechanic before a career transition into writing during his 30’s. 

Some pivot! 

He discusses the therapeutic nature of solitude, the impact of his Spanish heritage on his love for the game, and the emotional complexities of working in sports journalism. 

He also reflects on childhood interests, the value of retaining curiosity and adventure in life, and offers advice for the aspiring writers out there. 

Enjoy!

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