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I had the honour of sitting down with the amazing Aoife Dunne, a force of creative energy and someone I greatly respect. Aoife has an inspiring story of initially encountering barriers, experiencing profound loss, and ultimately embracing her artistic rebirth.

Growing up in beautiful Galway (where we both agree the wild Atlantic way shapes not just the landscape but also the people), Aoife dreamt of acting since childhood. In what was a beautifully candid conversation, we unpack the journey her life has taken, how at one time she gave up on her dreams and how grief became her greatest teacher. "Death has taught me so much about laughter and about the necessity of sadness," she reflects. This wisdom is evident in her one-woman show "Good Grief," where audiences have found themselves both laughing and crying. It is truly not to be missed.

What makes Aoife's story particularly powerful is her advocacy for creatives from disadvantaged socioeconomic groups, and the powerful stories born from diverse experiences that risk being lost as the creative industries become increasingly accessible only to the privileged. The message to fellow underdogs is clear: If you don't belong in existing rooms, we're building new ones and you're all invited - I couldn't love this more.

Join us for this profound exploration of creativity, resilience, and finding your authentic voice against all odds. x

Follow Aoife on Instagram at: @aoife_is_never_dunne and catch her show as it tours Ireland, including the Ambassador Theatre in Dublin this September.

All Aoife's links can be found at the linktree right here x

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I was so delighted to speak with an artist I greatly respect and admire in this episode. Street art legend My Dog Sighs kindly joined me to share the story of his creative evolution, from primary school teacher to internationally celebrated artist.

We chat about the birth of Free Art Friday, which evolved into it's own cultural movement with artists leaving free pieces for passersby to discover. This emerged from My Dog Sigh's desire to participate in street art without risking his teaching career. What began as canvases left on streets evolved into painted found objects, such as his iconic painted tin cans that have now traveled across continents with their new owners and inspired other artists to do the same.

At the heart of this episode is a discussion exploring My Dog Sigh's recently released documentary "Inside: We Shelter Here Sometimes," chronicling a two-year project that saw him transforming an abandoned 1920s ballroom into an immersive installation during the pandemic. The vulnerability he displays in sharing the creative process is super refreshing. All too often we see the highlights and successes but in this raw and vulnerable film we see  the struggles, doubts, and moments of pure inspiration and flow. This is a rare insight into the emotional journey of artistic creation and it is so beautifully shot with a gorgeous soundscape. From developing a unique language for his creatures little voices, to navigating health and safety concerns in a decaying building, the documentary captures a once-in-a-lifetime creative endeavour that nearly broke him.

I loved this film, it's truly a story of creative persistence and determination. As My Dog Sighs says, "If you've got this idea, just invest in it. Just invest in yourself and your time and your skill base, and get out there and get it done, because it's worth it. In the end it really is, and you're all the better person for doing it."

You MUST watch this documentary, it is truly it's own work of art. Find it at: 
My Dog Sighs website: https://mydogsighs.co.uk/
Link to the documentary: https://vimeo.com/1058981776
My Dog Sighs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mydogsighs/
My Dog Sighs TED Talk (Lost and Found): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaTNwJL0BiA

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Bonus Episode! 

Introducing Quint. This bonus episode captures a profound conversation with a street artist whose journey defies conventional artistic narratives and reminds us of the transformative power of creativity.

Quint transforms ordinary, often gritty and neglected urban spaces into places of beauty. His artistic journey began at age twelve with stencil art, though he wouldn't realise that until years later. After being expelled from art school for graffiti (there's some irony in this for sure) Quint embraced street art fully, adapting his approach when financial constraints limited his access to supplies.

The heart of this episode reveals a moment of divine right place/right timing that changed everything. During what Quint believed was his final artistic act before surrendering to conventional life, he spent his last money painting the streets of Jakarta from midnight until dawn. Though city workers erased his creation hours later, leaving him devastated, somebody had witnessed his work that night. Days later, this "angel" (as Quint calls him) reached out with an invitation to the Jakarta Biennial, launching Quint's career in ways he never imagined possible.

What resonates most in Quint's story is his remarkably pure artistic philosophy: "I'm doing art for my happiness. If people are happy too, it makes me even more happy." In a world that often complicates creative pursuits with concerns about marketability and reception, Quint's perspective serves as a powerful reminder of art's fundamental purpose. His plans for the future? Simply "doing better and doing more... just live your life and do art."

What a message. You can find Quint on instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/quint.art/

Follow Disruption podcast on all major platforms and @thisisdisruptionpod on social media to discover more stories of fearless creatives who challenge the status quo.

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How does one become a Paralympian? Vanessa Wallace's answer might surprise you: "Red lipstick, a tweet, and a year of saying yes."

I was lucky to speak with the incredible Vanessa Warner, a former Paralympian, who shares the journey that took her from facing serious health challenges to representing Great Britain at the Paralympic Games. This was a deeply moving conversation, I had goosebumps during the interview and got very teary whilst editing it in a coffee shop. Growing up in North London, Vanessa was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and dystonia – conditions that changed her life trajectory. However, through what she describes as a series of fortunate encounters and a commitment to saying "yes" to new opportunities, she discovered a path to elite sports that nobody (including herself) could have predicted.

Vanessa's story is especially interesting as she's never considering herself naturally competitive. She instead developed a strategy focused on tiny, manageable goals rather than overwhelming four-year Paralympic cycles. "Can I get through today? Can I figure out what I need to do today to do tomorrow?" This perspective not only carried her through eight years as an elite athlete but continues to influence her work as a professional development coach and storytelling facilitator today.

The conversation explores the vital importance of community support, representation in Paralympic sports, and the power of embracing your unique differences. Vanessa's "Turn Up Your Volume" storytelling workshops now help others discover their authentic voices and share their stories effectively. As she powerfully states, "Your differences are your superpower" which I know is a message that will resonate whether you're an athlete, creative, or corporate professional.

Vanessa is such a special women and she truly lights up every room she's in. Follow Vanessa @freshness_uk on social platforms and discover how your story, authentically told, is exactly what the world needs to hear.

Vanessa's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshnessuk/

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Have you ever heard of an Urban Artist's Academy? I was delighted to have a chat with the lovely ATILA - A talented artist, educator and inspiring workshop facilitator who has turned his passion for art and graffiti into a powerful tool for developing self expression and transformation in others.

In this chat you'll hear about about ATILA's work with young offenders and students with special needs and discuss his transition from teaching English to leading art workshops across the UK that has paved the way for meaningful change in the lives of many. ATILA tells us about his early days captivated by the vibrant graffiti and street art in London and Europe through to co-founding the Urban Artist Academy, and shares how art can be a therapeutic outlet and a conduit for self-expression.

ATILA's story really spotlights the pivotal role of mentorship and the power of art to instil a sense of ownership and pride. Through art, he champions the idea of fostering community and helping others. 

We also chat about the societal perceptions of graffiti versus street art, discussing the complexities and contradictions that street artists navigate daily. This episode is one for anybody who wants to embrace their creative side, and is a reminder that failure is not a setback but a lesson and ultimately a stepping stone to success. 

This is a really special chat. Whether you're an aspiring artist or someone seeking inspiration, this episode promises to get you inspired to create and encourages you to leave your mark on the world. 

You can find ATILA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atila_8t4
Urban Artist's Academy: https://www.instagram.com/urbanartistacademy

And the website for Urban Artist's Academy: https://www.instagram.com/urbanartistacademy

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What happens when an Irish artist decides to swap a career in teaching and commercial illustration work for sharing her work on the vibrant streets of Barcelona? Meet an absolute legend: Tiny Hands Big Heart, whose artistic journey took her from back home in the hills of Donegal to the bustling art scene of Spain. Tiny shares her unexpected leap into street art during the solitude of the COVID-19 quarantine, where she found her character Ita and her love for the act of adorning public spaces with her creations.

In this chat, we explore the Irish concept of having "notions"— those brave, unconventional ideas that often challenge societal norms, which I am alllll about. From the therapeutic creation of Ita to the fun but chaotic experience of preparing for and hosting her solo art show, Tiny's narrative is all about the courage it takes to pursue creative ambitions whilst also balancing life's demands.

We delve into the rebellious world of street art, from dodging undercover police to embracing the unpredictability of freelance life. This is a story about the unyielding drive to keep the creative spirit alive and flourishing, and I can't wait to share it with you.

Find Tiny on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinyhandsbigheart/
Tiny Hands Big Heart online shop
Tiny collab with Callum Design Studio

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Today's episode features the talented Irish DJ and producer, Get the Jackets, as he shares his journey from his roots in Mayfield, Cork, to the bustling city  of Toronto. Despite having no formal training, he turned his brother's musical influence and a knack for drawing into a passion for music production, starting with FL Studio and quirky prank call remixes. Tune in to hear how he overcame initial hurdles, fuelled by self learning and the support of figures like Berlin-based DJ duo Aka Aka, to establish himself as a creative force in the industry.

Get the jackets offers valuable insights into balancing creativity with promotion, emphasising the power of generating ideas quickly and refining them later—a technique inspired by Mike Monday's Automatic Music Machine. We discuss his ambitions to reach wider audiences through platforms like Spotify, you'll hear about his recent track, "In Theory," a driving melodic techno piece. This episode is a testament to the dedication and passion that fuels Get the Jackets’ artistic endeavours and promises inspiration for aspiring producers and music lovers alike.

You can find Get the jackets on instagram, and on Spotify.
His playlist High Tech is linked here
You can find the Teeny Bops playlist mentioned here 

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What happens when a serendipitous discovery in a charity shop turns into a flown blown artistic journey? I was so delighted to have not one, but two opportunities to chat with the fabulous Haus of Lucy, a multimedia artist who playfully turns classic ceramic figurines into modern art pieces.

Lucy shares her steps from a chance encounter in a London charity shop to her evolution as a full-time creative professional. Two of the things I love most about Lucy is her humour and authenticity, and in this conversation she uses both to share the ups and downs of her artistic path, from teaching herself how to craft mini food items from clay to dreaming of collaborations with Poundland, inspired by the likes of Virgil Abloh and IKEA.

Lucy’s transition from a magazine industry professional to a fulltime artist is one full of great stories, including a pivotal partnership with Adidas that set her on her current path. She recounts her experience at an Adidas store launch featuring Run DMC, and how that fuelled her desire to fully embrace the art world. We also explore the world of brand collaborations, from a cheeky wee note to a Primark exec leading to unique projects with Greggs, to the challenges of gaining recognition without the usual social media perks.

Navigating the digital landscape as an artist today presents its own set of hurdles, and Lucy opens up about the risks and rewards of relying on digital  platforms. She candidly discusses the toll of losing a platform, the complexities surrounding copyright in art, and the necessity of resilience in the face of these challenges.

Lucy also reflects on the importance of structure in her creative routine, the unexpected lessons from forced downtime, and her plans to diversify her skills with pottery and sewing.

We also mention Wayne.. you'll have to go and check lucy's page to see him. It's worth it, I promise.

Thanks again to Lucy for sharing these stories around creativity, personal growth, and for sharing lessons that I know will resonate with artists and art enthusiasts alike.

You can find Lucy at:

Instagram: @houseoflucyart
www.hausoflucy.com
https://entergallery.com/collections/lucy-bryant

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Meet Jenny Draper, the brilliant mind behind "Mavericks: Life Stories and Lessons of History's Most Extraordinary Misfits."

In this episode, Jenny shares her unique journey from her days as a Viking reenactor in the North of England to the bustling streets of London, trading theatre costume dressing for a vibrant career in history tour guiding and earning a prestigious Blue Badge. Jenny has a knack for making the past feel like juicy gossip with your pals down the pub, and introduces us to historical mavericks from the past.

Engaging us with tales of majestic swans (very much not extinct btw) and eccentric paleontologists, Jenny explores the delicate balance and the art of separating myth from fact in historical narratives. Jenny's passion for history is infectious, as she highlights the challenges of presenting figures like Paul Robeson, whose legacies are as complex as they are impactful.

Jenny shares her innovative use of YouTube and using TikTok during the pandemic, where she captivated audiences with lesser-known historical tidbits. As we explore stories of disruptors like Radcliffe Hall, Jenny offers a fresh perspective on how censorship can unintentionally amplify a narrative. With humour and insight, she encourages us to challenge norms and embrace our creative passions. This episode will leave you feeling excited to explore the mavericks of history with a renewed sense of curiosity.

Mavericks by Jenny Draper will be released on 11th February 2025 but is available to pre-order right now from your preferred bookseller. You can order at the link here.

Find Jenny on TikTok and on Instagram, and on Youtube, or book your own London History tour. 

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How exactly does one go from being a passionate self proclaimed "vandal", keen to do as much damage as possible, to becoming a holistic healer helping others? 

This episode tells the transformative journey of today's guest, Tich,  who did just that. Tich takes us on a journey from the urban streets of North West London to the serene landscapes of the Peak District. A former graffiti writer, Tich shares how the excitement and chaos of tagging and painting trains shaped his early years, leading to fearless adventures and brushes with the law. 

Tich's life took an unexpected and profound turn with an awakening that led to being a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery, rooted in the healing power of nature and traditional Amazonian plant medicines. He shares his journey of overcoming a tumultuous past filled with risky endeavours and existential questioning eventually leading to a spiritual transformation, guiding him toward a path of self-awareness and healing. We discuss the holistic therapies and practices that he embraced, including Reiki and energy therapy and how these approaches foster vulnerability and empowerment now helping him and others to reclaim their personal narratives, and we discuss the path to his current endeavours with Moksha Holistic Therapies. 

Tich encourages us all to connect with our inner selves and embrace life's unpredictability. His story is a testament to the power looking within and using authenticity as tools for growth, encouraging us to find joy and healing in what we do in our day to day. Whether you're drawn to the rebellious spirit of graffiti or the serenity of holistic healing, this episode promises insights and inspiration for everyone on a journey of self-discovery. 

You can find Tich/Moksha Holistic Therapies at the following links: 
Website: https://www.mokshaholistictherapies.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moksha_holistic_therapies/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tichy.sunak/

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