Seasoned Professional

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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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

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

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

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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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

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

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

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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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

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

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

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

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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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

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

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

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

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")

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

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. 💛

❤️ Subscribe to my channel for more

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📲 Find Seasoned Professional on social media!

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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?

Click to apply!

See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

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

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

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

Today, I’m honored to share the story of an inspiring woman. Born and raised in Montreal, Canada, she pursued her dream of becoming a makeup artist. Her dedication and passion for beauty have shaped an extraordinary journey, allowing her to work with renowned celebrities such as Kylie Minogue, Jeremy Irons, Sandra Oh, and Jodie Whittaker.

Her work on The Borgias earned her an Emmy nomination, though she humbly believes it wasn’t solely her accomplishment. Reflecting on her life in her late 20s and early 30s, she shares how she often allowed herself to "fall forward" into new situations, fueled by a mix of confidence and pure terror.

Over the past 30 years as a makeup artist, she has cultivated skills that transcend the typical perception of her profession. She emphasizes the importance of team management, creating schedules, effective communication, and leading teams—skills that go far beyond the stereotype of makeup artists as people who can merely draw a straight eyeliner.

Throughout our conversation, she shared invaluable lessons from her time in this high-stakes industry. She spoke candidly about working with A-list celebrities, stressing the importance of not putting them on a pedestal—a mindset she believes undermines your own skills and worth.

She also opened up about the insecurities she experienced after having her son, and the difficult decision to step away from the industry after COVID-19 to focus on her family and a new passion: empowering women entering middle age.

Her energy and wisdom were an absolute joy to experience. Please welcome Tahira Herold. 

Find 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")

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

Today, I’m honored to share the story of an inspiring woman. Growing up in a small hamlet, she spent her childhood immersed in movement—dancing, gymnastics, and exploring the forest behind her home, where her parents still live today.

As a teenager, she faced the pressures of the 90s “heroin chic” aesthetic, and a desire for control during a period of family challenges added to the pressure of needing to look a certain way. Her mother battled depression but found a spark of hope reignited after attending a Zumba class—a transformative moment that inspired my guest to follow her own journey of fitness and creativity.

Merging her passions for fitness and graphic design, she carved a path that led to roles at fitness magazines, Boots, and eventually the prestigious position of Creative Director. Yet, despite her hard work, whispers of “she must have slept with the boss” echoed, a reflection of the biases successful women often endure. Determined to help others, she launched The Box, an award-winning gym. She overcame the pandemic’s challenges, became sole owner, and expanded the studio with a personal training program.

A true example of resilience and determination, it is my absolute pleasure to introduce the remarkable Lucy Pinto.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of body image and mental health disorders please take care while listening.

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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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

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

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

Today I’m excited to share the very first episode I ever recorded. Launching this podcast has been an incredible journey, and it’s truly special to revisit the conversation that started it all. Beginning Seasoned Professional with this remarkable guest was an absolute privilege, and I look forward to having him back in the future to delve even deeper into his inspiring story.

Born and raised just outside Brighton, he grew up surrounded by nature and animals. From a young age, he was drawn to the world of law, fascinated by the courtroom’s theatrics and the deep, lasting relationships forged with clients.

With a singular focus on his goals, he embarked on a career that has been nothing short of extraordinary. This steadfast dedication has led him to spend his entire professional journey at a single law firm, a rare achievement in today’s fast-paced world. He steadily rose through the ranks to become an equity partner while maintaining his values and demonstrating the quiet power of patience, persistence, and dedication.

His story is a refreshing reminder of the rewards that come from committing to a path and seeing it through, especially in a society so often focused on constant change. It was a joy to speak with him, and I know you’ll find his perspective as inspiring as I did. Please welcome my guest, Nicholas Taylor.

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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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

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

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

Today, I’m honored to share the story of a truly inspiring woman. Born in Kenya, she grew up surrounded by nature and a loving family, with a rigorous education that instilled both discipline and comparison. At 16, she moved to England for boarding school, finding connection with fellow newcomers and eventually pursuing a career in law. Her journey took her from Cambridge to the high-stakes world of elite London firms.  

After the loss of her mother, she sought a new path, exploring floristry, volunteering with Macmillan Cancer Support, and spending 15 transformative months at an ashram in India. Her story beautifully illustrates the intertwining of career and life, reminding us to seek happiness in the present and embrace life’s unpredictability.  

It was a pleasure speaking with her, and I know her story will bring light to your day. Please welcome my guest, Rakhi Talwar.  

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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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

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

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