In today’s episode, we sit down with the incredible John Locke, star of Vindication Swim. John grew up in Brighton with his loving parents, but as an only child, he often felt lonely. School was a challenge—he faced relentless bullying and struggled academically due to undiagnosed dyslexia. However, he found solace in deep friendships, especially with his lifelong best friend, David Kolakowski.

From a young age, John had a remarkable gift for accents, memorization, and using his voice. His parents recognized his talent and enrolled him in acting classes. This sparked a passion that carried him through the National Youth Theatre and into a career in acting. But despite years of dedication, financial struggles persisted.

John shares an intimate and life-changing moment—watching his heavily pregnant wife walk toward him and realizing he could no longer pursue acting as his sole career. He had responsibilities to uphold, leading him to step away from the industry.

This first part of John’s journey is filled with formative experiences and heartfelt memories from the early years of his career. Join us next week as we explore his transition into local government and, ultimately, his inspiring return to acting.

Vindication Swim

John Locke Films

John Locke IMDB

John Locke on Instagram

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xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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In honour of International Women’s Day, I’m excited to re-release a very special episode. I also want to take a moment to thank all the incredible women who have given their time to come on the show and share their life stories. Your experiences, wisdom, and honesty continue to inspire me and so many others.

Today, we dive into an inspiring career journey with Clare Fuller. Starting as a hospice nurse and advancing through the healthcare system, she earned her master’s degree at 50, launched her own business, and created a podcast about advanced care planning that provided space for a fellow nurse who was dying.

Despite my initial nervousness, this conversation left me feeling surprisingly calm and enlightened. Please take care while listening.

This episode also marks a special moment for me—Clare was the first woman I had on the podcast. We spoke about the immense successes of her career, but what stood out to me was how she balanced it all around her children. Upon first editing the conversation, I didn’t fully acknowledge the sacrifices she spoke about, but upon reflecting on my past conversations with both men and women, it became so clear to me: women are more likely to consider their families and children when making career decisions. This is such an important part of the conversation, and I’m grateful to Clare for sharing her story with me.

This is a rerelease of one of my favourite episodes in honour of International Women’s Day.

Speak for Me: End of Life Care Expert, patient rights campaigner, educator, and Lasting Power of Attorney Consultant.

Conversations About Advanced Care Planning Podcast (Listen on Spotify)

Conversations About Advanced Care Planning Podcast (Listen on Apple Podcasts)

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xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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In this solo episode, I take you through my winding career journey—the dreams I had as a child, the expectations placed on me, and the moments of crisis that forced me to rethink everything. I share how I once believed teaching was my calling, only to realize in university that it was the last thing I wanted to do—yet I stuck with it for three more years. I reflect on the bold declarations of my early 20s, swearing I’d never move back home, never be a teacher, never follow a predictable path… only to find myself doing exactly that.

From teaching to waiting tables in England, searching for creativity in job listings, and ultimately starting this podcast, I’ve learned that uncertainty and self-discovery are part of the process. And now? I’m happy—teaching, creating, and embracing the fact that change is always an option. If you’ve ever questioned your path, this episode is for you.

If you love real talk and inspiring stories, hit the follow and notification button and be part of this journey with me! Your support truly means the world. 💛

This Will Change What You Know About Success: Natascha Cadle on Building a Career in Media (Listen on Spotify)

This Will Change What You Know About Success: Natascha Cadle on Building a Career in Media (Listen on Apple Podcasts)

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(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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Struggling with starting a podcast or staying consistent in your podcast journey? In this solo episode of the Seasoned Professional, Hannah Octavia gets real about the podcast struggles, and passion project struggles that come with building something from the ground up.

From overcoming self-doubt and creative burnout to navigating podcast challenges and learning that success takes time, this episode is all about honesty in podcasting and sharing the podcasting reality behind the scenes. If you're chasing dreams, battling imposter syndrome, or need motivation for creators, this self-improvement podcast is for you.

Join me as I reflect on building a brand, the overnight success myth, and the growth mindset it takes to keep going. Whether you're into entrepreneurship podcasts, staying motivated, or just need a reminder that staying patient is key, this episode is packed with podcasting lessons, career motivation, and real talk about the creative journey.

If you love real talk and inspiring stories, hit the follow and notification button and be part of this journey with me! Your support truly means the world. 💛

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xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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Welcome back to Seasoned Professional! Today, we’re joined by the inspiring Dr. Franz D'Souza. Born in India and raised in Iran during a revolution, he recalls a childhood filled with friendship despite the turmoil around him. After moving to the UK and receiving an epilepsy diagnosis, he was forced to confront the vulnerability he felt in his own body.

Determined to pursue medicine, Franz didn’t find his true passion until he began working directly with patients, seeing the impact he could make. From surgeon to ED doctor to GP, his journey has been one of self-doubt, reinvention, and resilience.

In this conversation, Franz shares his struggles, breakthroughs, and the path to becoming his true self. And for anyone who needs the reminder—we believe in YOU.

If you love real talk and inspiring stories, hit the follow and notification button and be part of this journey with me! Your support truly means the world. 💛

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xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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Welcome back to Seasoned Professional! Today, I’m honoured to introduce the inspiring Natascha Cadle, co-founder and creative director of ENVY Post Production. As ENVY celebrates its seventh Best Post Production House of the Year win, Natascha reflects on her journey—from her humble beginnings in the Netherlands to building an award-winning company. She shares insights on resilience, leadership, and her refreshing take on success: make connections, embrace opportunities, and trust the process. Plus, we explore how ENVY Academy is shaping the next generation of media talent.

ENVY Post Production

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(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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Welcome back to Seasoned Professional! Today, I’m honoured to introduce a truly one-of-a-kind guest: Christine Wiedemann! This was not our typical interview because Christine was my teacher mentor during university, and we've stayed in touch ever since. Knowing Christine outside of this podcast world made it nerve-wracking to transition our usual relationship into one where I was questioning her life decisions and seeking advice on how to become successful.

Christine's family immigrated to Canada from Germany, a heritage she deeply identifies with. As the third of four children, she had a happy childhood, and teachers often remarked on her cheerful demeanour. Encouraged by her parents, she attended the University of Toronto and initially pursued a career in PR. However, she found it unfulfilling and often questioned her purpose. Inspired by the positive and dynamic relationship between teachers and students, she decided to return to school to become a teacher.

Just three days into her first classroom, 9/11 occurred—a stark reminder of a teacher’s role in creating a safe and supportive environment. Over the decades, she has built a successful career and has had the privilege of reconnecting with former students who share the impact she had on their lives. With retirement on the horizon, Christine has transitioned into the role of an ESL teacher, where she finds joy in helping children adapt and thrive in their new environment.

In this conversation, we reminisce about our time together and share dreams for the future. It’s a heartfelt discussion that will leave you feeling like you just had a chat with close friends.

If you love real talk and inspiring stories, hit the follow and notification button and be part of this journey with me! Your support truly means the world. 💛

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xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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Welcome back to Seasoned Professional! Today, I’m honoured to introduce the incredibly talented Andrew Lockington—a Canadian film score composer whose journey proves that the most unexpected paths often lead to the most fulfilling destinations. His recent work includes collaborations with Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan on Landman, Lioness, and Mayor of Kingstown.

Growing up just outside Toronto, Andrew was known as "the music guy," constantly reimagining classics and putting his own creative spin on them. By the age of 15, his passion and talent landed him a spot in a professional band. Fuelled by dreams of becoming a rockstar, he spent his high school years performing every weekend, determined to make a name for himself.

But Andrew’s story is one of evolution. While the spotlight of a rockstar life wasn’t in the cards, his deep connection to music found a new home. He pivoted into the world of film, where his gift for composition has allowed him to tell stories in ways he never imagined.

It’s a privilege to share Andrew’s incredible journey—one filled with creativity, resilience, and a love for music that’s shaped every step along the way.

If you love real talk and inspiring stories, hit the follow and notification button and be part of this journey with me! Your support truly means the world. 💛

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xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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Welcome back to Seasoned Professional! We’re kicking off season 2 with the incredible Judah Armani—a designer, storyteller, and advocate for those living on the fringes of society. Growing up in West London, Judah often grappled with not being seen as fully British, a challenge that shaped his early years and the tactics he used to try and blend in.

Despite these feelings of being an outsider, Judah’s experiences ignited a deep connection to others who live on the margins. Through his visionary three-decade plan, he has championed innovative work with the homeless and in prisons. Most recently, he founded InHouse, a groundbreaking music production company that operates both inside and outside the prison system, creating opportunities and amplifying voices that often go unheard.

It’s an honour to share Judah’s remarkable journey and the inspiring impact of his work.

Find Judah!

Society Driven Design

InHouse Records

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xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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Welcome back to Seasoned Professional! I’m your host, Hannah Octavia.

As we step into a new year, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the past few weeks—sharing highlights from my holiday season and personal growth along the way. But more importantly, today’s episode is all about wrapping up Season 1 with the three biggest lessons I’ve learned.

If you’re feeling stuck in your career and looking for guidance, this episode is for you. Thank you for an incredible 2024—I can’t wait to bring you Season 2!

Mentioned on today's episode:

Rakhi

Marc

Bud

Other great listens!

Clare

Chloe

Rupert

Nick

Lucy

Tahira

If you love real talk and inspiring stories, hit the follow and notification button and be part of this journey with me! Your support truly means the world. 💛

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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