Mia Moore is joined by the brilliant Zoe DeBoer—fashion model, mother, and creative inspiration. Zoe shares her story from starting out at 17 to a thriving modelling career in her fifties, offering wisdom on reinvention, self-belief, and the importance of embracing change at every age.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:

The evolving journey of a model – From London agencies to art colleges and back to modelling in later life.

Creativity and resilience – How motherhood, caring responsibilities, and personal challenges have shaped Zoe’s work.

The power of change – Embracing new looks, concepts, and opportunities at every stage of life.

Creative collaboration – The importance of being open, adaptable, and a team player on set.

Fitness and self-care – How physical wellbeing fuels Zoe’s creativity and confidence.

Integrity in the industry – Why setting boundaries and knowing yourself matters in modelling and beyond.

Staying original – The importance of finding inspiration but holding onto your unique perspective.

💡 Key Takeaways:

Age is no barrier—creativity evolves with life experience and only gets richer.

Confidence, kindness, and honesty are more valuable than any trend.

Teamwork and adaptability are essential in creative work—be open and collaborative.

Prioritise your own wellbeing—your creativity will thank you.

🎙️ About Our Guest:
Zoe DeBoer is a professional model with decades of experience across fashion, editorial, and conceptual shoots. She’s also an advocate for self-care, diversity in fashion, and creative living.
Find Zoe online:

Instagram: @zdeboer

PurplePort: Zoe DeBoer

🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
Share your creative story or ask a question—DM us at @creative_conversations_pod or email podcast@granary.digital.

🔗 Follow & Subscribe:
Enjoyed this episode? Rate & review us on your favourite podcast platform!

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

In this episode, Sophia Gray sits down with Al Stuart, an art director-turned-photographer whose career spans the worlds of advertising, music, and street photography. Al shares candid stories from his early days in creative agencies, working on big campaigns and collaborating with legendary musicians, to his more personal photographic projects and the inspirations behind them.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:

✅ The Art of Art Direction – Al explains the often-misunderstood role of an art director, how he stumbled into advertising, and why coming up with ideas (and letting others do the heavy lifting) is an underrated skill!
✅ Advertising in the Pre-Digital Age – Behind-the-scenes of working for top agencies, creating memorable campaigns for NatWest, and why a piece of tracing paper could make or break a photoshoot.
✅ Transition to Photography – How industry shifts and the rise of stock photography pushed Al to find his creative freedom as a photographer.
✅ Shooting Musicians and Album Covers – Al’s adventures photographing legendary musicians, from impromptu portraits of seventies icons to collaborations with rising stars and classic rockers.
✅ The “Angel Wings” Project – Inspiration and stories from his striking Angel Wings photo series, and why it’s always the same model.
✅ Creative Influences – The lasting impact of art school, Annie Leibovitz, and why street photography and hand-painted dresses are close to Al’s heart.
✅ The Realities of Gig Photography – Tales from the pit at Shepherd’s Bush and Hammersmith, camera bags worth a fortune, and finding the perfect shot under pressure.
✅ On Inspiration and Style – Al discusses how his background in art direction shapes his approach to composition and creativity, and why a good pair of Levi’s never goes out of style.

💡 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Creativity is about reinvention – Whether in advertising or photography, adapting to industry change keeps your creative spark alive.
📸 Don’t be afraid of your niche – Embracing your strengths, whether that’s composition, portraiture, or a signature project, sets you apart.
🌆 Be prolific and stay inspired – Al’s advice? If you’re not shooting, be thinking about your next shot, and surround yourself with creative influences (and books).
👟 Express your personality – From quirky style choices to your photographic approach, let your individuality show.
🦸‍♂️ Persistence pays off – Keep creating, keep experimenting, and don’t let rejection (or camera club judges!) knock your confidence.

🎙️ About Our Guest:

Al Stuart is a former art director and now full-time photographer, known for his evocative portraits of musicians, creative street photography, and the visually arresting Angel Wings series. He’s worked with classic rock legends, new talent, and music magazines alike, always bringing his keen eye for composition and a dash of creative flair.
Instagram: @redcapphoto

🚀 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.

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

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

Sophia Gray meets Johnny Montero—a model, dancer, translator, and creative chameleon who’s travelled through 17 countries on a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. From his roots in the Canary Islands and Venezuela to life in London, Johnny shares what it means to build your identity through movement, language, and bold creative risks.

🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:

• Reinvention through travel – How Johnny’s global experiences shaped his creative expression.
• The creative power of movement – Dancing, rollerskating, and the physical side of inspiration.
• From outsider to influencer – Navigating new cultures and finding belonging through the arts.
• Creating your own story – Johnny’s journey to authorship, music production, and DJing.
• The importance of boldness – Advice on risk-taking and pushing past self-doubt in creative work.
• Identity and language – How translation, acting, and modelling helped Johnny blend cultures and voices.
• The joy of the unexpected – Why the “in-between” moments can be the most creative.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Creativity thrives on change and movement—embrace life’s disruptions.
• Take bold risks, especially if you don’t have responsibilities beyond yourself.
• Your personal history, language, and quirks are your greatest creative assets.
• The arts are about finding your community as much as expressing yourself.

🎙️ About Our Guest:
Johnny Montero is a model, dancer, actor, translator, and all-round creative. His Instagram captures his unique style and global adventures.
Find Johnny online:

• Instagram: @thesunskater

🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
Got a story to share? DM us on Instagram at @creative_conversations_pod or email podcast@granary.digital.

🔗 Follow & Subscribe:
Love the show? Rate & review us!

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

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.

🚀 Join the Creative Movement!
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.

🔗 Follow & Subscribe:
Love this episode? Please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

🎧 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!

🔗 Follow & Subscribe
⭐ 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 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.

🔗 Follow & Subscribe
⭐ 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.

🔗 Follow & Subscribe
⭐ 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.

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

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