Provocateurs

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Roberta, a passionate advocate for women in the music industry, who has been living in Dubai for two and a half years. Roberta shares her journey from London to Dubai, where she is now the business development director for Beatport in the MENA region and runs her own women in music platform, Little Pink Book. The conversation delves into the importance of empowering women in the music scene, the challenges they face, and the strides being made towards gender equality. Roberta discusses her initiatives, including free DJ lessons for women and networking events, while also reflecting on the cultural diversity and community spirit she has found in Dubai. The episode highlights the evolving landscape of the music industry, the significance of representation, and the personal challenges women encounter in balancing career aspirations with family planning.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Career Transition to Dubai: After spending 11 years in the music industry in London, a gut instinct led to a move to Dubai, where the focus shifted to the event scene and electronic music over the past two and a half years.

2. Empowering Women in Music: The initiative "Little Pink Book" aims to empower women in the music industry by providing networking opportunities, showcasing female role models, and addressing both the challenges and successes of women in the field.

3. Importance of Networking: Building genuine relationships and a strong contact base is crucial for success in the music industry. Authentic connections can lead to opportunities and collaborations that benefit all parties involved.

4. Challenges of Balancing Career and Family: The conversation highlighted the complexities women face in balancing career aspirations in the music industry with the potential desire for motherhood, emphasizing the need for supportive workplace structures and shared responsibilities.

5. Cultural Diversity in Dubai's Music Scene: The vibrant music scene in Dubai is influenced by a mix of cultures, particularly from the Middle East, which enriches the industry and provides a platform for local talent to thrive alongside international acts.

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/

In this episode of the Provocateurs podcast, Sarah sits down with Paul Svenson, a seasoned DJ and co-founder of the innovative club Gate 2 in Dubai. He shares his journey through the music industry. With over 20 years of experience, Paul discusses his early days in France's hip-hop scene, his transition to Dubai, and the unique no-phone policy at Gate 2 that fosters genuine connections among partygoers. He emphasizes the importance of musical authenticity and the emotional connection between DJs and their audiences. Paul also reflects on the evolving nightlife landscape, the impact of social media, and the growing presence of female DJs in the industry. Listeners can expect insights into the challenges and triumphs of creating a distinctive club experience, as well as a glimpse into upcoming events at Gate 2, including a special performance by rising talent Anité.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Passion for Music: A genuine love for music and the experience of sharing it with the crowd is a primary motivation for pursuing a career as a DJ, rather than seeking fame or financial gain.

2. Innovative Club Concept: Gate 2, the club co-founded, implements a unique no-phone policy to encourage patrons to connect with each other and the music, creating a more immersive and communal experience.

3. Evolution of the Music Scene: The music scene in Dubai has shifted significantly over the past decade, with electronic music gaining popularity and a growing number of larger events and festivals attracting diverse crowds.

4. Importance of Authenticity: Building trust and authenticity in the music industry is crucial. Aspiring DJs are encouraged to focus on their craft and let opportunities come naturally rather than aggressively seeking gigs.

5. Future Aspirations: There are plans to expand the Gate 2 brand through events outside of Dubai, while maintaining its unique identity as a music-centric venue, rather than replicating the club in multiple locations.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "The moment you share with the crowd... to make them discover things... is the best thing." - Paul Svenson

2. "The idea was when you come to this club, this doesn't exist anymore. You will connect to the person next to you and connect to the music." - Paul Svenson

3. "If you're honest with your music and your taste, you cannot go wrong." - Paul Svenson

4. "I think it will change because in life it's always a circle." - Paul Svenson

5. "Everything that comes naturally is so much better." - Paul Svenson

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/

In this engaging podcast episode of Provocateurs, Sarah sits down with DJ and producer Jev, also known as the Cheeky DJ, to discuss his remarkable journey from a corporate lawyer in London to a thriving creative entrepreneur in Dubai. Jev shares the story behind his viral moment involving Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, which catapulted him into the spotlight and allowed him to pivot into the music industry. He reflects on the challenges and excitement of transitioning to a creative career, the importance of networking, and the unique lifestyle he has cultivated in Dubai over the past four years. The conversation touches on themes of community, personal growth, and the balance between work and leisure, offering listeners valuable insights into navigating life and career changes in a vibrant city.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Embracing Change and Opportunity: The transition from a stable legal career to the creative industry was driven by a viral moment that opened doors to new opportunities. This highlights the importance of seizing unexpected chances and being open to change.

2. Networking is Crucial: Building a strong network in Dubai has been essential for success. Connections made through previous education and professional experiences have facilitated business growth and collaboration in the new environment.

3. Calculated Risks: Moving to Dubai involved careful planning and assessment of potential income and living conditions. Taking calculated risks, rather than impulsive decisions, can lead to successful outcomes in unfamiliar territories.

4. Community and Wholesomeness: Contrary to the superficial image often associated with Dubai, there is a vibrant community and a focus on wholesome activities, such as fitness events and social gatherings that foster genuine connections.

5. Adapting to Lifestyle Changes: The lifestyle in Dubai, including the concept of the "Dubai stone," emphasizes the need for balance between enjoying the vibrant social scene and maintaining health and fitness. Adapting to local customs and finding a personal balance is key to thriving in a new environment.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I think that's just how I am. My mind is always kind of like thinking of opportunities and ways to elevate and develop new things."

2. "I was working in the city... and then had some good opportunities that enabled me to kind of quit law and step out into the creative world."

3. "I think if you do get a moment, it's all about how you utilize that moment as effectively as you can."

4. "I was like, 'If you need a DJ for your wedding, hit me up.' And he looked at it and put it in his pocket."

5. "I think things just happened for a reason."

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

Jevs Links

Steps I Took Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/6VIpQYtFdw1Fz24amsihsN?si=0683319c02304bb9

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jevanniletford?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/

In this episode of Provocateurs, Sarah speaks with Nick Morgan the CEO of WeGroup. The WeGroup are 3 integrated agencies that work under We Group UK Ltd with offices based in London and Miami. Nick shares his extensive experience in the festival and nightlife industry, which spans over 30 years. He discusses the evolution of the industry, highlighting the increased responsibilities and costs associated with event management, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. Nick reflects on the challenges faced by independent promoters in a landscape increasingly dominated by conglomerates and emphasises the importance of protecting grassroots culture. He also addresses the changing consumer behavior post-pandemic, the need for innovation, and the significance of fostering a supportive workplace culture. Throughout the conversation, Nick offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of adaptability, passion, and resilience in navigating the complexities of the events industry.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Industry Evolution: The nightlife and festival industry has undergone significant changes over the past 30-35 years, particularly in terms of costs, responsibilities, and audience expectations. Increased safety measures and higher artist fees are notable trends that have emerged.

2. Post-COVID Landscape: Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a surge in attendance at events, but this has since shifted due to the cost of living crisis, leading to reduced ticket sales and changing consumer behavior. People are now more selective about the events they attend.

3. Importance of Independent Culture: There is a strong emphasis on protecting independent culture within the events industry. The consolidation of power among large conglomerates poses a threat to grassroots events, and there is a call for more support for independent promoters and shows.

4. Adaptability and Innovation: To thrive in a challenging market, businesses must adapt to changing consumer preferences, particularly among younger generations. Embracing innovation and sustainability in operations and offerings is crucial for long-term success.

5. Team Development and Culture: Building a supportive and engaging company culture is essential. Investing in the growth of team members, particularly those from younger generations, fosters loyalty and enhances the overall success of the business. Regular communication and feedback are key components of this development.

BEST MOMENTS

1. Nick Morgan: "The level of responsibility now that we undertake is huge... the days of just opening the doors and that was your egress done are gone."

2. Nick Morgan: "I think safety is paramount... but there are obviously inherent problems, and most of them are financial."

3. Sarah: "What do you think needs to be done in the UK to support the industry?"

4. Nick Morgan: "You have to adapt to the next generation... they want to go and see influencers, not just traditional talent."

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/

In this episode of Provocateurs, Sarah chats with Christian "Bounce" Alozie from Flawless. Chris reflects on his remarkable 25-year journey in the entertainment industry, sharing insights into his early passion for sports and music, which ultimately led him to dance. He discusses the pivotal role of his music teacher, Miss Whalen, in shaping his career and the formation of Flawless alongside Marlon. The conversation delves into their experiences on shows like Britain's Got Talent, the challenges of maintaining authenticity in the face of media scrutiny, and the importance of representation in the arts. Chris emphasises the emotional demands of performing, the necessity of resilience in the industry, and the significance of teaching the next generation about financial literacy and entrepreneurship. The episode highlights the power of connection, community, and the impact of art on society, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique journeys and pursue their passions fearlessly.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Journey from Sports to Dance: The speaker initially pursued sports, particularly football and athletics, but transitioned to dance due to a lack of confidence and financial support. A pivotal moment came from a music teacher who encouraged creativity and collaboration, leading to the formation of Flawless.

2. Importance of Representation: The speaker highlights the significance of representation in the dance industry, noting that seeing peers succeed on television inspired them to pursue their own careers. They emphasize the need for likability and marketability in the entertainment industry, which can sometimes overshadow pure talent.

3. Emotional Investment in Performance: Performing requires a deep emotional connection with the audience. The speaker explains that dancers must give their all, often leaving them drained after a performance. They stress the importance of making the audience feel something, whether it's joy, inspiration, or sadness.

4. Navigating Industry Challenges: The speaker discusses the ups and downs of the entertainment industry, emphasizing the need for resilience and mental strength. They encourage aspiring performers to love their craft enough to endure the hardships and judgments that come with it.

5. Focus on Education and Empowerment: Transitioning from performer to educator, the speaker aims to equip the next generation with not only dance skills but also business acumen. They advocate for teaching young performers about financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and creating their own opportunities in the industry.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I think back then we were like 19. Yeah. So at this time, we kind of like, you know, getting ourselves into the industry, working with certain artists and booking jobs." - Chris Flawless

2. "Your job is to make someone feel something. Because a lot of us in society, we go to watch shows... to forget what's going on in our lives." - Chris Flawless

3. "We wanted to portray the distinguished English gentleman look to it as well and add a twist to it and not necessarily come out in something generic." - Chris Flawless

4. "It's easier to market them. They also had the kids as well. The cute factor, they had the talent, they had an array of diverse dancers in their group." - Interviewer

5. "You have to be okay with being judged. And that's judged on your looks, judged on your talent, judged on everything you can think of." - Chris Flawless

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Katie Knight a passionate dance music presenter and podcaster who shares her journey from aspiring presenter to a prominent figure in the industry. She recounts her early influences, including her idol Kat Deely, and how a chance opportunity in Ibiza led to a decade of immersive experiences in the dance music scene. The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of working in a fast-paced, often chaotic environment, highlighting the importance of networking and building relationships within the industry. They also discuss the evolving landscape for female DJs and the support systems that are emerging, as well as the darker sides of the nightlife industry that often go unspoken. With anecdotes about memorable interviews and the camaraderie found among industry peers, this episode offers a candid look at the realities of life in dance music.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Career Beginnings in Dance Music: The journey into the dance music industry started with a work experience opportunity at Amnesia Ibiza, leading to a career focused on interviewing DJs and industry professionals.

2. Networking Importance: Building relationships and networking are crucial in the dance music industry, as many opportunities arise from connections made with artists and other industry professionals.

3. Challenges of the Lifestyle: The lifestyle of working in dance music can be demanding, with late nights, early mornings, and the potential for burnout due to the lack of routine and rest.

4. Support for Women in the Industry: There is a growing conversation around the challenges faced by women in the dance music industry, including the need for support during pregnancy and the importance of addressing inappropriate behavior from male counterparts.

5. Cultural Experiences: Traveling to different countries for work, such as Saudi Arabia, can provide unique insights into emerging music scenes and the importance of being open to new experiences to foster growth in the industry.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I just wanted to be Kat Deely when I was younger... I always used to do practice interviews on people and pretend that I had a show." - Katie Knight

2. "It does become a little bit of a bubble and it gets a little bit samey." - Katie Knight

3. "Sometimes I feel like when I interview people, it kind of becomes a little bit of a therapy session." - Katie Knight

4. "I think it's being very strong mentally and trying to find a routine within the chaos." - Katie Knight

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/

In this episode of Provocateurs, Sarah sits down with personal trainer Matt Hodges, who shares his extensive 18-year journey in the fitness industry, including the evolution of personal training and the impact of social media on body image. Matt discusses the shift from functional fitness to aesthetic-driven goals, the challenges faced by both male and female trainers, and the dark side of the industry, including the rise of cosmetic surgery and the pressures of unrealistic beauty standards. He emphasises the importance of technical knowledge in training and the need for genuine, one-on-one personal connections in fitness. The conversation also touches on mental health, resilience, and the realities of running a personal training business, culminating in insights from Matt's self-published book, "Behind Gym Doors," which combines humor with poignant stories from his career.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Evolution of Personal Training: The personal training industry has shifted significantly over the years, with a growing focus on aesthetics driven by social media, often at the expense of functional fitness and overall health.

2. Challenges of Online Training: The rise of online personal training has led to a decline in the quality of one-on-one training experiences, as many trainers lack the necessary hands-on experience and personal interaction that is crucial for effective training.

3. Mental Health and Resilience: There is a concerning trend of labeling mental health issues, which may contribute to a less resilient culture among younger generations. This labeling can serve as a crutch, preventing individuals from facing challenges and developing coping mechanisms.

4. Impact of Social Media: Social media has a profound effect on body image and self-perception, particularly among women, leading to extreme measures for weight loss and unrealistic beauty standards. This has created a culture where individuals often seek quick fixes rather than sustainable health practices.

5. Reality of the Fitness Industry: The fitness industry is not as glamorous as it may seem, with many personal trainers facing financial instability and high turnover rates. Success often requires years of hard work, dedication, and the ability to navigate the ups and downs of the business.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I've seen the attitude change for the aesthetic... It's become now of like, I wanna look like this person, I wanna have these abs." - Matt Hodges

2. "The industry's moved more into this kind of like new wave of personal training, which is online programs, monthly subscriptions... But it ain't, it's not personal training." - Matt Hodges

3. "If you've got to go and have liposuction to show your abs, what are you doing?" - Matt Hodges

4. "I think there's a lot to unpack there... It's not just a label that gives people the excuse. It's their upbringing." - Interviewer

5. "I just think if we could address what the real issue is, then we wouldn't need to go down this route of looking a certain way." - Matt Hodges

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/

In this episode of Provocateurs, Sarah engages in a candid conversation with Leya, the CEO and founder of Pineapple Support, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing mental health care and emotional support to individuals in the online adult industry. Leya shares her personal journey into the adult space, highlighting the challenges faced by performers, including stigma, isolation, and mental health struggles. The discussion delves into the alarming statistics surrounding suicide rates in the industry, the impact of platforms like OnlyFans, and the importance of education for newcomers. Leya emphasises the need for community support and open conversations about mental health, relationships, and the evolving landscape of adult entertainment. The episode also touches on the significance of ethical porn and the industry's role in educating consumers about consent and enjoyment.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Pineapple Support's Mission: The organization provides mental health care and emotional support specifically for individuals in the online adult industry, addressing the unique challenges they face.

2. High Rates of Suicidal Ideation: A recent mental health survey revealed that 60% of respondents in the adult industry had considered suicide, highlighting the urgent need for mental health resources and support.

3. Stigma and Isolation: Working in the adult industry often leads to feelings of isolation due to societal stigma, which can negatively impact personal relationships and mental health.

4. Impact of Fan Platforms: The rise of platforms like OnlyFans has empowered creators by giving them control over their content and income, but it has also led to an influx of new entrants who may not fully understand the long-term implications of their choices.

5. Need for Education: There is a significant need for better education and resources for individuals considering entering the adult industry, to help them understand the potential consequences on their personal and professional lives.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I have to do something about it. No one else is doing anything about it." - Leya

2. "60 percent said they had considered taking their lives by suicide. Now that is astonishingly high." - Leya

3. "Society stigmatizes people who work in the porn industry. Society makes judgments." - Leya

4. "If you can't enjoy sex without porn, then that's an addiction." - Sarah

5. "The fan platforms in general have given the power to the creators." - Leya

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/

In this Debut episode of the Provocateurs podcast, Sarah engages in a heartfelt conversation with Michelle (MIMI), a trans woman who shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery and transformation. Michelle discusses her childhood experiences, the challenges she faced during her transition, and the supportive role her family played in her life. She opens up about her various identities, including her business persona and her alter ego, Amber, through which she aims to provide support to others in the trans community. The episode delves into Michelle's experiences in the sex industry, her motivations for undergoing multiple surgeries, and her evolving relationship with her body and self-image. With candid reflections on mental health, societal pressures, and the importance of community, Michelle's story serves as a powerful testament to resilience and the quest for authenticity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Identity Journey: The individual has undergone a significant journey of self-discovery, transitioning from being called Mitch to Michelle, and now also embracing the name Mimi for personal interactions. This reflects a deep exploration of identity and the importance of names in personal and professional contexts.

2. Support for the Trans Community: There is a strong desire to provide support and guidance to others in the trans community, particularly those who are early in their transition. The creation of a separate persona, Amber, is aimed at offering advice and a safe space for discussions about transitioning and related challenges.

3. Childhood Experiences: The individual recalls a mix of joyful and challenging experiences during childhood, particularly around the time of coming out as transgender. While there were supportive figures, such as their mother and grandmother, there were also dark moments related to acceptance from family members.

4. Mental Health Challenges: The journey has included significant mental health struggles, including suicidal thoughts and body dysmorphia. These experiences highlight the emotional toll of transitioning and the societal pressures faced by trans individuals, emphasizing the need for mental health support.

5. Body Image and Surgery: The individual has undergone multiple surgeries, including gender-affirming procedures and cosmetic enhancements, driven by both personal desire and societal standards of beauty. This reflects a complex relationship with body image, where both affirmation of identity and vanity play roles in the decision-making process regarding physical appearance.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I think it's a blessing that I can help other people, which is nice." - Michelle

2. "I wouldn't wish being trans on anybody. It's awful. But it's also now... it has been awful, but now it's like a superpower for me." - Michelle

3. "I think the fact that they're seeing that the country they live in is not accepting them... it makes you very angry." - Michelle

4. "I had my first boob job when I was 17... if I don't have boobs or something, like, I don't want to be here, basically." - Michelle

5. "I think you just have to accept that just because we're trans, we have different stories." - Mimi

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/

In this episode, Sarah talks to Danny Gould as he shares his remarkable journey from the chaotic nightlife of the 90s to a more grounded life today. As a co-founder of the global party brand Clockwork Orange, Danny reflects on the evolution of the club scene, the impact of drug culture, and his personal struggles with addiction. He candidly discusses his experiences in Ibiza, the transformation of the nightlife industry, and the challenges of running large-scale events in a post-COVID world. With a mix of nostalgia and insight, Danny highlights the importance of community, the changes in party culture, and his path to sobriety, ultimately revealing how these experiences have shaped his current perspective on life and work.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Origins of Clockwork Orange: Clockwork Orange was founded in 1993 by Danny Gould and Andy Manston, emerging from the vibrant club scene that followed the rave culture of the late 80s. The brand quickly grew in popularity, becoming a significant player in the nightlife industry.

2. Evolution of the Club Scene: The club scene has transformed significantly since the 90s, with changes in how events are promoted and attended. Initially reliant on word-of-mouth and physical flyers, the rise of social media has altered the landscape, making it easier to reach audiences but also fragmenting the experience.

3. Personal Journey and Sobriety: Danny's journey through addiction and eventual sobriety in 2003 highlights the challenges faced in nightlife culture. His experiences with drug use and the chaotic lifestyle that accompanied it shaped his perspective on life and work, leading to a more grounded and respectful approach to both.

4. Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic brought significant changes to the nightlife and festival industry, affecting attendance patterns and the overall atmosphere. Post-lockdown, audiences have become more cautious and less eager to commit to events, leading to a shift in how events are marketed and organized.

5. Current and Future Directions: Clockwork Orange continues to expand globally, with events planned in various countries. Danny emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing trends in nightlife and the need for a balance between maintaining the brand's legacy and embracing new opportunities.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I just woke up one morning and I just went like that after a mad session... and that was it. Addiction was gone." - Danny Gould

2. "The crazier you were, the more you got recognized... Put a drink in me or a drug in me, and it was 10 times more." - Danny Gould

3. "In the 90s, it was like, you're escaping somewhere... you can almost get away with like anything." - Danny Gould

4. "I wouldn't have been able to start it again if it weren't for social media. I wouldn't have done it." - Danny Gould

5. "You go from one pill to two pills to four pills to six to eight to ten." - Danny Gould

SOCIAL LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg

ABOUT THE HOST

Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades.

With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way.

https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/