In this inspiring episode of Creative Conversations, Sophia Gray sits down with Hava, a visionary painter whose work is deeply influenced by the patterns and science of the natural world. From biology and evolutionary psychology to the vibrant use of colour, Hava shares how her journey from black-and-white photography to bold, joyful paintings has shaped her voice as an artist.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:

• Finding your medium – Hava’s transition from photography to painting and the struggle to find a creative “home.”
• Art and science – How evolutionary biology, scientific illustration, and nature inform her artistic choices.
• The power of colour – The story of a transformative summer where colour became central to her artistic identity.
• Patterns in nature – How biomorphic shapes, repetition, and scientific motifs inspire Hava’s unique style.
• Fabric and fine art – The connection between textile design, painting, and how her art could translate into print.
• Overcoming creative doubt – The importance of self-expression, ignoring art world stereotypes, and trusting the process.
• Staying original – How Hava keeps her work authentic in a world saturated with images.
• The healing power of art – Using creativity as a form of meditation, therapy, and self-discovery.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Let your personal history and passions infuse your art—it’s the best way to stay authentic.
• There’s no shame in painting beauty or joy—sometimes that’s exactly what the world needs.
• Originality comes from your perspective, even when exploring classic subjects like florals or nature.
• Creativity is a pressure-release valve: it’s about expression, healing, and connection.

🎙️ About Our Guest:
Hava is a painter and artist known for her vibrant, nature-inspired works that blend scientific motifs with joyful colour. Her art has been featured in British Vogue, House & Garden, and other prestigious publications.

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Are you an artist, designer, or creative with a story to share? DM us on Instagram at @creative_conversations_pod or email podcast@granary.digital to be featured.

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🎧 Creative Conversations is recorded at Granary Studios and produced by Granary Digital.

In this special bonus episode of Creative Conversations, host Mia Moore answers your most-asked listener questions in our first ever mailbag Q&A! Go behind the scenes at Granary Studios as Mia reveals what really goes into creating the podcast, how guests are selected, her own hosting rituals, and the honest highs and lows of life as a podcast presenter.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:

✅ The Granary Studios Experience – A peek into the Chichester countryside barn where the magic happens, and what makes the Creative Conversations studio space unique.
✅ Guest Selection & Approach – What Mia looks for in a guest: a mix of chatty energy, depth, and genuine passion for their craft.
✅ The Guest Journey – From first contact and creative questionnaires to the logistics, research, and on-the-day experience—Mia explains how every episode comes together.
✅ Lessons from Guests – Tips and insights Mia’s picked up from previous guests, including the importance of pacing your thoughts and being a better listener—both on and off the mic.
✅ Podcasting Nerves & Growth – The parts of podcasting that still make Mia nervous, her thoughts on going live, and the difference between being in front of a guest and an audience.
✅ Personal Preparation Rituals – How Mia gets ready for each record, from binging inspiring podcasts to guest research and ensuring she puts the spotlight on her interviewees.
✅ Curveballs & Favourite Guests – Mia reflects on the questions that catch her off guard, moments when guests “flip the script,” and why guests like poet Katie Gowers and creativity mentor Mel Price left such a mark.
✅ Podcasting Tips – What makes the podcast sound professional? Mia shares her practical tips for smooth intros, clear credits, and the power of genuine eye contact and listening.
✅ Dream Guests & Future Hopes – If Mia could pick anyone, who would she love to interview? Hint: it might just be the brains behind those wild pop music videos.
✅ Open Invitation – How listeners can get involved, ask more questions, or even pitch themselves as future guests.

💡 Key Takeaways:

⭐ Podcasting is a team effort – From the logistics to research and guest care, every episode is a true collaboration.
👂 Listening is everything – Genuine engagement, good pacing, and real curiosity are at the heart of a great conversation.
💬 Professionalism & Personality – Scripts can help, but authenticity and connection make the difference.
🎥 Behind the scenes is just as interesting – Listeners will soon be able to see what goes into a recording day, with video tours and more coming up.
🌟 Dream big, stay open – Creative Conversations is for everyone—whether you’re just starting out or leading a chart-topping music video.

🎙️ About Our Host:
Mia Moore is the friendly voice behind Creative Conversations, bringing warmth, curiosity, and a touch of humour to every episode. With a background in modelling and a passion for creative storytelling, Mia is always ready to welcome new guests and ideas to the studio.

🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
Got a question or want to be featured? DM us on Instagram at @creative_conversations_pod or email podcast@granary.digital. Comment on YouTube or send your queries—your voice shapes our show!

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🎧 Creative Conversations is recorded at Granary Studios and produced by Granary Digital.

In this episode of Creative Conversations, Mia Moore sits down with Sally Morris, Editor-in-Chief of Swanky Mag and founder of the Swanky Media Group. Sally’s journey takes us from her roots in hair and make-up, through building a magazine empire, to mentoring the next generation of creatives. Together, they explore the value of collaboration, the challenges of running large creative projects, and the importance of supporting diversity and wellbeing in the industry.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:

✅ The Power of Networking – Sally shares how building strong industry connections helped her transition from hair and make-up to leading major creative projects and launching her own media group.
✅ Resilience and Reinvention – Overcoming personal setbacks, including a serious back injury, and how they led her to explore new skills and ultimately create Swanky Mag.
✅ Creative Ruts and Inspiration – The real experience of creative block, where to find inspiration, and the role of research, trend forecasting, and nature in sparking new ideas.
✅ Making Big Ideas Happen – The inside story on organising huge collaborative shoots (including a Viking epic and a striking blue Mohawk), and why teamwork and leadership are essential.
✅ Building Swanky Media Group – How a single magazine grew into an international media group, publishing across genres from fashion to wildlife, and supporting photographers and writers worldwide.
✅ Mentoring and Diversity – The responsibility of mentoring students and emerging creatives, and Sally’s passion for creating an inclusive community where everyone’s creativity is celebrated.
✅ Learning by Doing – Why practical experience is so important for students and young professionals, and Sally’s advice for getting your foot in the door—even if you have to start as a runner.
✅ Trend Forecasting & Accessibility – Bringing high fashion and trends to the masses, working with both luxury and high street brands, and making creativity accessible to all.
✅ Wellbeing in the Creative Industry – How Swanky Media Group champions mental health and resilience for creatives, encouraging balance, confidence, and kindness.

💡 Key Takeaways:
✨ Don’t be too hard on yourself – Creative success takes time, and everyone’s journey is unique.
🤝 Networking and mentoring are crucial – Build relationships and help others rise with you.
🌱 Experience matters – Volunteer, assist, and learn hands-on; every opportunity helps you grow.
🖌️ Diversity and inclusion fuel creativity – There’s space for every voice and every background.
💡 Stay curious and embrace change – The creative world moves fast; keep learning and adapting.

🎙️ About Our Guest:
Sally Morris is the Editor-in-Chief of Swanky Mag and founder of the Swanky Media Group, an international publishing company dedicated to celebrating creativity in all its forms. With a background in hair, make-up, and creative direction, Sally brings decades of industry experience to her mentoring and leadership. She is passionate about fostering community, guiding the next generation, and promoting diversity and mental wellbeing in the creative industries.

Connect with Sally & Swanky Media Group:

• Website: swankymediagroup.com
• Instagram: @swankymag
• TikTok: @swankymag

🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
Are you a creative with a story to share? Want to be featured? DM us on Instagram at @creative_conversations_pod or email podcast@granary.digital to be part of the show.

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⭐ Love this episode? Please rate & review us on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

🎧 Creative Conversations is recorded at Granary Studios and produced by Granary Digital.

This week, host Sophia Gray sits down with Meg, a model and photographer whose journey takes us from behind the lens to centre stage. Meg shares her experiences breaking the mould in boudoir photography, tackling self-confidence as a model, and how she channels personal struggles into compelling, authentic imagery.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:

✅ Male Boudoir & Breaking Stereotypes – Meg’s fascination with male boudoir photography, and how she’s working to empower men and those exploring their identity through softer, more expressive images.
✅ The Power of Self-Portraiture – How Meg turned the camera on herself to process emotion, explore self-love, and express vulnerability.
✅ Overcoming Shame & Finding Confidence – Meg’s candid account of facing stigma at university for her boudoir work, and how she stood firm in her creative choices.
✅ Art Nude & Storytelling – The artistry of art nude photography, why it’s about more than just the body, and how Meg uses movement, classical art references, and emotion to create meaningful images.
✅ Collaboration & Creative Partnerships – The magic that happens when model and photographer trust each other, and why the best work comes from shared vision and creative freedom.
✅ Challenging the Industry – Open conversation about body image, eating disorders, and the pressures of the modelling industry, including Meg’s battle with measurement obsession and learning to embrace her unique shape.
✅ Evolving as an Artist – Why Meg refuses to be put in a box, her passion for trying new genres, and the thrill of creative shoots like her now-iconic “paper dress” photos.
✅ Authenticity & Vulnerability – How true creative expression is rooted in vulnerability, and why faking emotion simply doesn’t connect with viewers.

💡 Key Takeaways:
✨ Creative journeys are never linear – Embrace experimentation, vulnerability, and change.
📷 Modelling is storytelling – The best images come from genuine emotion and lived experience.
🌱 Growth through discomfort – Facing fears and pushing beyond your comfort zone is where art flourishes.
💪 Reject the box – Labels and niches are limiting; true artistry thrives on diversity and risk-taking.
🤝 Collaboration is vital – The best shoots happen when both photographer and model bring ideas, trust, and respect to the table.

🎙️ About Our Guest:
Meg is a model and former boudoir photographer known for her evocative, expressive imagery and her refusal to be confined by genre or expectation. Drawing on her own journey of self-discovery, Meg channels emotion, movement, and vulnerability into each shoot—whether it’s art nude, fashion, or creative portraiture. Her work advocates for body positivity, empowerment, and finding beauty in authenticity.

🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
Are you a model, photographer, or creative with a unique story to tell? Let’s collaborate! DM us on Instagram at @creative_conversations_pod or email podcast@granary.digital to be featured on Creative Conversations.

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⭐ Love this episode? Please rate & review us on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

🎧 Creative Conversations is recorded at Granary Studios and produced by Granary Digital.

In this uplifting episode of Creative Conversations, Sophia Gray chats with floral artist Siobhan McEvoy, whose journey from a career in finance to thriving as a self-taught painter is as surprising as it is inspiring. Siobhan shares her story of discovering her creative spark during lockdown, how her very first painting sold instantly, and how she’s since built a flourishing career—literally and figuratively—by following her passion for flowers.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:

• A Pandemic Pivot – Siobhan’s remarkable leap from tax and finance into the art world, starting with a spontaneous painting night with her husband.
• The First Sale – How her very first artwork—a cherry blossom tree—sold on LinkedIn, launching her creative journey.
• Fingerprints & Freedom – Why Siobhan prefers using fingers, sponges, and household objects over brushes, and how mark making allows her to paint in a flow state.
• Flowers as Therapy – The calming power of painting florals, embracing imperfection, and why wildflowers resonate so deeply in her art.
• The Realities of Artistic Life – Juggling marketing, social media, and admin as a modern artist, and the double-edged sword of being visible online.
• Community & Connection – The importance of building an online (and offline!) network of artists, and the power of women supporting each other.
• Heritage & Inspiration – How her Irish upbringing, time in wild meadows, and love of nature infuse her work with joy and nostalgia.
• Fear, Ambition & Motivation – Why the fear of failure can be a powerful motivator, and how Siobhan turns pressure into perseverance.
• No Such Thing as Bad Art – An honest conversation about subjectivity, self-critique, and knowing when a painting is “finished.”
• Building a Career from Scratch – From self-taught web design to being represented in galleries and licensing deals with big brands.

💡 Key Takeaways:
🌼 Creativity can start at any age – Siobhan’s story proves you’re never too late to start or succeed.
🌸 Let go of perfection – Embrace the beauty in imperfection and let intuition guide your art.
👩‍🎨 Art is connection – Through flowers, Siobhan finds peace, and hopes her collectors feel that same joy and calm.
🤝 Community matters – Genuine support and collaboration make all the difference, both online and in person.
🖐 Art should be fun – Paint with your fingers, try new tools, and don’t be afraid to get messy!

🎙️ About Our Guest:
Siobhan McEvoy is a self-taught artist based in the Norfolk Broads, best known for her vibrant, expressive floral paintings. From her first cherry blossom painting to major licensing deals and gallery representation, Siobhan’s work is rooted in childhood memories, a love of wild meadows, and a passion for helping others find happiness through art.

🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
Are you an artist or creative with a story to share? Let’s connect! DM us on Instagram at @granary_digital or email podcast@granary.digital to be featured on Creative Conversations.

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🎧 Creative Conversations is recorded at Granary Studios and produced by Granary Digital.

In this lively episode of Creative Conversations, Sophia Gray catches up with actor Charlie Bentley for a candid discussion about the realities of a creative career on and off the stage. From the high-energy world of immersive acting at Goodwood Revival to juggling roles as a jazz club owner, sleazy TV host, and more, Charlie brings wit, warmth, and honesty about his journey through the ups and downs of professional acting.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The Art of Reinvention – Charlie reflects on his many on-stage personas, from camp TV hosts to jazz club owners, and how he channels energy into every character.
• Immersive Acting at Goodwood – A peek behind the scenes of the iconic Goodwood events, memorable roles, and what it’s like working alongside legends like Dolly and Gracie.
• The Mustachioed Dilemma – The challenges of maintaining the “Mortimer” moustache for roles, and the heartbreak of having to shave it off for a job.
• Behind the Glamour – Unfiltered truths about the less glamorous realities of acting, including bouts of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and coping during quiet spells.
• Mental Health & Creativity – Charlie and Sophia share openly about dealing with depression, isolation, and the importance of not placing your entire self-worth in your work.
• The Joy (and Chaos) of Dyspraxia – Both hosts open up about navigating the acting world with dyspraxia, from dance rehearsals to line memorisation mishaps, and how creative minds adapt.
• Writing Your Own Story – Charlie discusses his forays into writing film sequels, working with his father on dual narratives, and why creatives shouldn’t wait for opportunities to come to them.
• Life as a Jobbing Actor – From the world of extras work to horror films and the unpredictability of social media “success”, Charlie reveals the grind behind the glamour.
• Finding Pride in the Small Wins – Why it’s vital to celebrate achievements, however small, and reflect on how far you’ve come.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Creativity means persistence – Sometimes it’s about walking into walls until you find the right door, but the important thing is to keep going.
• Imposter syndrome is real (and universal) – You don’t need formal training to be a “real” creative; experience and heart matter most.
• Community and support – Having the right friends, honest conversations, and remembering to be kind to yourself is crucial in the creative industry.
• Embrace the chaos – Whether you’re an actor, model, or artist, embracing your quirks (and even your mistakes) leads to growth and great stories.
• Never stop creating – If the jobs aren’t coming, make your own opportunities and keep your creative muscles flexing.

🎙️ About Our Guest:
Charlie Bentley is an actor with a decade of immersive performance experience, known for his versatile character work at Goodwood Revival and beyond. Whether on stage or screen, Charlie infuses every role with humour and humanity, drawing from his own journey with dyspraxia and a determination to keep smashing through creative “brick walls”.

🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
Are you an actor, performer, or creative with a story to share? Let’s collaborate! DM us on Instagram at @creative_conversations_pod or email podcast@granary.digital to be featured on Creative Conversations.

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🎧 Creative Conversations is recorded at Granary Studios and produced by Granary Digital.

Sophia Gray sits down with Ray Leonardus, a violinist, musician, and holistic coach, to explore his multifaceted career and how he combines music, teaching, and mindfulness in his creative journey. Ray shares insights into his musical background, his experiences with burnout, and his approach to maintaining a healthy balance as a creative professional.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:
✅ The Musician’s Journey – From violin to viola, Ray shares how his career in music has evolved and how he’s learned to adapt to different instruments and styles.
✅ The Power of Music and Wellness – How Ray’s expertise in reiki and holistic coaching plays a crucial role in his music teaching and overall wellbeing.
✅ Finding Balance in Creativity – The importance of slowing down, practising mindfulness, and avoiding burnout in a world that often glorifies hustle culture.
✅ Teaching with Empathy – Ray reflects on how he helps his students develop not only technical skills but also a strong mindset to support their creativity.
✅ Reiki and Music – The connection between reiki healing and musical performance, and how Ray integrates both in his work with musicians and clients.
✅ Life Lessons from a Landlady – Ray recalls valuable lessons from his landlady, a fashion consultant, that shaped his career and approach to creativity.
✅ Overcoming Self-Doubt – How Ray encourages his students and peers to embrace their individuality and take up space in the creative world, despite the challenges.

💡 Key Takeaways:
🎻 Creativity and Mindfulness – Embracing mindfulness practices like reiki can help creatives manage stress, enhance performance, and maintain balance in their careers.
🎼 Continuous Learning – Whether it’s mastering an instrument or honing a mindset, the journey of a creative is ongoing and requires dedication.
🌱 Avoiding Burnout – It’s essential for creatives to take time for themselves, prioritise mental health, and avoid the trap of overworking.
💪 Confidence in Your Craft – Embrace your uniqueness and don’t be afraid to push past the “struggling artist” stereotype to claim your worth and space in the industry.
🧘 Holistic Creativity – Creativity thrives when you take care of your physical and mental health.

🎙️ About Our Guest:
Ray Leonardus is a talented violinist, viola player, and holistic coach with a passion for helping others balance creativity with well-being. With years of experience in music performance and teaching, Ray is also a trained reiki practitioner, using his knowledge of energy healing to support musicians and creatives in maintaining a healthy, sustainable approach to their craft.

🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
We want to hear from YOU! 🎙️ Are you a musician, artist, or creative with a story to share? Let’s collaborate! DM us on Instagram at @creative_conversations_pod or email podcast@granary.digital to be featured on Creative Conversations.

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🎧 Creative Conversations is recorded at Granary Studios and produced by Granary Digital.

Mia Moore sits down with the incredible Jen Channer, the founder of Liberty Photography, to discuss how her creative journey has been shaped by the desire to empower women through portraiture. Jen opens up about her personal transformation, the impact of creativity on her own life, and how she now helps women see themselves in their most beautiful light.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:
✅ From a Hiatus to Photography – Jen reflects on her 10-year creative break and how rediscovering her passion for art led her back to the camera.
✅ The Power of Play – How Jen advocates for making art without the pressure of outcomes, and why creativity should be about joy and self-expression.
✅ The Impact of Criticism – Jen’s story of how harsh feedback in her youth stifled her creativity and how she eventually learned to embrace the process without fear of judgment.
✅ The Art of Capturing Women – Liberty Photography’s focus on empowering women through beautifully candid portraits that celebrate their individuality and confidence.
✅ The Heart of Creativity – Jen talks about her belief that creativity comes from listening to your heart and how important it is to feel unconditionally loved to fully step into your creative power.
✅ Overcoming Fear – How Jen shifted from a place of “need” in her business to creating from desire and joy, leading to greater success and fulfilment.
✅ Creating a Legacy – Jen’s goal to expand Liberty Photography globally, licensing the brand to help other photographers empower women through creative portraiture.
✅ Self-Worth and Creativity – How low self-esteem can block creativity and the importance of shedding limiting beliefs to unlock your creative potential.

💡 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Creativity is about self-expression – It’s not about the final product, but about releasing your emotions and having fun in the process.
📸 Empowerment through photography – Jen’s work is a testament to the power of seeing yourself in a positive light and using photography as a tool for self-empowerment.
🌱 Let go of perfectionism – Don’t let the fear of failure stop you from creating. Embrace the process, and the results will follow.
💖 Listen to your heart – True creativity comes from your inner self; when you listen to your heart, everything else falls into place.
💡 Self-love fuels creativity – When you embrace your own worth, you open the door to endless creative possibilities.

🎙️ About Our Guest:
Jen Channer is the founder of Liberty Photography, a photography business dedicated to empowering women through creative and emotionally charged portraiture. With a deep passion for helping women see their true beauty, Jen’s work is about more than just taking pictures—it’s about capturing the essence of each individual and helping them rediscover their confidence. Jen is also passionate about personal growth, coaching, and inspiring others to create from a place of desire rather than need.
https://thelibertylady.co.uk/
https://www.libertyphotography.co.uk/

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🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
We want to hear from YOU! 🎙️ Are you a photographer, artist, or creative with a story to share? Let’s collaborate! DM us on Instagram at @creative_conversations_pod or email podcast@granary.digital to be featured on Creative Conversations.

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⭐ Love this episode? Rate & review us on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

🎧 Creative Conversations is recorded at Granary Studios and produced by Granary Digital.