For this special bonus episode, we’re flipping the script. Stacey Dooley steps into the host’s chair, while How To Be An Actor And Not Lose Your Sh*t host Shvorne Marks becomes the guest.

In this open, honest and often funny conversation, Stacey digs into the story behind the podcast, from when Shvorne first fell in love with acting, to the highs and lows of her career so far, and the moments that nearly made her walk away altogether. Shvorne opens up about rejection, resilience, self-belief, and why creating this podcast felt not only necessary, but personal.

It’s vulnerable, candid and full of warmth, offering listeners a deeper look at the person behind the mic and the reasons this podcast exists in the first place.

This episode may contain strong language.

Producers - Caitlin Thornton & Shvorne Marks

Music - Joe Sigee

Artwork - Caitlin Thornton

In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and fellow ArtsEd alum, Daisy Doris May. We’ve known each other for years, so it was a real joy to finally sit down and talk about her creative journey, from drama school to becoming one of the most iconic comedic drag kings on the scene today.

Daisy opens up about how she discovered drag, how she built her unique style of comedy, and what it takes to carve out your own space in an industry that doesn’t always know where to put you. We talk about her process, her inspirations, the challenges she’s faced, and the power of fully embracing who you are as an artist.

It’s funny, heartfelt, honest, and full of the infectious energy Daisy brings to everything she does.

Please note - this epsiode may include strong language.

Host - Shvorne Marks

Producer - Caitlin Thornton & Shvorne Marks

Music - Joe Sigee

Artwork - Caitlin Thornton

In this episode, I sit down with award-winning actor Hammed Animashaun - whose love for performing began at just 11 years old. Born and raised in London, Hammed discovered his love for acting early, joining youth theatre before eventually pouring everything into stage, screen and everything in between.

We dive into his story: growing up in London, the internal and external battles he faced when choosing to follow his calling, and the pressures of pursuing a creative life. From early struggles to breakthrough moments, Hammed shares his highs, his lows, and the hard-won lessons along the way.

You’ll hear about his remarkable career, from theatre triumphs to television success, including some of the accolades and roles that prove just how far he’s come. Expect honesty, vulnerability, and nuggets of advice for anyone chasing a dream.

Please note: This episode may contain strong language.

Host - Shvorne Marks

Producer - Caitlin Thornton & Shvorne Marks

Music - Joe Sigee,

Artwork - Caitlin Thornton

From gracing our screens since the age of eleven, Nell Tiger Free has grown up in front of the camera - and in this episode, she sits down with me for a completely open and honest conversation about what that’s really been like.

We talk about the highs, the lows, the pressure of starting young, and the moments that shaped her both as an actor and as a person. Nell shares the realities behind the roles, how she navigates uncertainty in the industry, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

It’s heartfelt, candid, and full of insight.

Check out Nell's new EP here: https://open.spotify.com/album/4myMaNKLX6qFamJ5jbGUvX?si=JpwpHVjeTQ6yRaQkkd3hqw

Please note: This episode may contain strong language.

Host - Shvorne Marks

Producers - Caitlin Thornton & Shvorne Marks

Music - Joe Sigee

Artwork - Caitlin Thornton

Kevin Clifton has been performing since he was a child. Many of you will know him from Strictly Come Dancing, but I know him from working alongside him on stage.

In this episode, Kevin opens up about his lifelong love for musical theatre and acting, passions that were put on hold while his dance career took the lead. It wasn’t until his mid-twenties that he found his way back to the world of theatre, discovering a renewed sense of joy and purpose.

Join me as we dive into Kevin’s journey: the highs and lows of both dancing and acting, the pressure and the pivot points, and how he’s built a career that truly lights him up.

Please note: This episode may contain strong language.

Host - Shvorne Marks

Producers - Caitlin Thornton & Shvorne Marks

Music - Joe Sigee

Artwork - Caitlin Thornton

Welcome to How to Be an Actor and Not Lose Your Sh*t.
In this first episode, host Shvorne Marks sits down with her long-time friend and fellow actor Pearl Mackie. The two first met back in 2012, performing together in a tiny garage theatre in Peckham, and now, over a decade later, they reflect on just how far they’ve come.

Expect honest chat, laughter, and a few raw moments as they share the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way. It’s an episode about growth, grit, and giving each other their well-deserved flowers.

Please note: This episode contains strong language.

Host - Shvorne Marks

Producers - Caitlin Thornton & Shvorne Marks

Music - Joe Sigee

Artwork - Caitlin Thornton