Shows
The Creative SwitchThe Hidden Cost of Not Starting Over: 3 Hard Truths from a Surgeon-Turned-CreativeThe Hidden Cost of Not Starting Over: 3 Hard Truths from a Surgeon-Turned-CreativeWhat happens when a paediatric trauma surgeon dares to leave it all behind in search of a more authentic, creative life? In this episode boldness takes centre stage as Louise Morris shares the harsh realities of embracing radical change. The conversation explores the emotional toll of staying in a hard earned but unsustainable role, the paralysing perfectionism, and the sacrifices required to step away from external validation.Through Louise's candid reflections, you are invited to consider the risks and rewards of forging a...
2026-02-1649 minThe Creative SwitchHow Xenia Davis Created Space for Creativity And Why You Can TooHow Xenia Davis Created Space for Creativity And Why You Can TooWhat if the real secret to creative transformation lies not in doing more, but in allowing yourself the space to say yes? In this episode, Xenia Davis shares how stepping back from rigid plans and inviting spaciousness into her life led her from self-doubt to a thriving career as a community song leader. Through her story, you’ll discover how making room for possibility—emotionally and practically—can open the doors to confidence, community, and joy, even in the face of uncertainty.Guest Bio:
2026-02-0251 minThe Creative SwitchHow Rebecca Lacey Turns Collaboration Into Creative CourageHow Rebecca Lacey Turns Collaboration Into Creative Courage Collaboration can provide the support you need to transform fear into bravery. In this episode actor, coach, artist, and poet Rebecca Lacey shares how trusted networks and friendships, creative partnerships, and her work as a life coach have sustained her across her acting, fine art, and poetry. From secretly beginning her professional acting career at fifteen to navigating motherhood, coaching, and exhibitions, Rebecca reveals how leaning into support and offering it to others creates resilience and joy. Her journey shows that courage grows when creativity is encouraged, nurtured and...
2026-01-191h 00The Creative SwitchFinding Balance: Juggling Creativity and Work with Nina LentonThe Myth of Creative Balance with Nina LentonWhat if chasing creative balance is actually what’s throwing you off course? In this episode of The Creative Switch, creativity coach and former marketing project manager Nina Lenton unpacks the myth of balance, and shares how embracing life's different phases, custom systems, and imperfect rhythms can unlock deeper creative flow. From her Friday morning ritual to her journey through regulated industries and motherhood, Nina offers practical insights for creatives navigating idea overload, neurodiverse planning challenges, and the tension between paid work and passion projects. Whether you’re s...
2026-01-0547 minThe Creative SwitchComedy Agent to Novelist: Hannah Begbie with 3 Hard Truths About Switching SidesComedy Agent to Novelist: Hannah Begbie with 3 Hard Truths About Switching SidesWhat happens when the person behind the scenes decides to step into the spotlight? In this episode, Hannah Begbie—former comedy agent turned award-winning novelist—shares the emotional and professional recalibrations required to move from representing creatives to becoming one. Through three hard-won truths, she reveals the identity shifts, mindset traps, and unexpected freedoms that come with switching sides. From near-missed opportunities to the myth of innate talent, Hannah’s journey offers a candid, resonant roadmap for anyone considering a creative pivot later in life.H...
2025-12-0851 minThe Creative SwitchWriter's Block to Breakthrough: Insights from Best Seller Emma StonexFrom Writer's Block to Breakthrough: Insights from Emma Stonex Episode Summary: If you’ve ever felt creatively adrift after a big win, this episode will speak straight to your soul. Emma Stonex—Sunday Times bestselling author of The Lamplighters—joins me for a candid, deeply resonant conversation about the emotional terrain of writing, the grief of letting go of a beloved project, and the quiet magic of finding your way back to joy. From pen names and bonkbusters to lighthouse keepers and revenge thrillers, Emma’s journey is a masterclass in trusting your instincts, honouring the muse...
2025-11-2453 minThe Creative SwitchA Creative Encounter with Juliette Crosbie: From Orange Boots to Bold Truths A Creative Encounter with Juliette Crosbie: From Orange Boots to Bold TruthsEpisode Summary: I met Juliette Crosbie because I wore my orange boots—and thank goodness I did. Our conversation dives deep into what it means to live creatively, how discomfort can be a sign you're on the right path, and why letting your humanity show in your art is never a weakness. Juliette’s honesty, warmth and fierce insight make this one of the most memorable episodes I’ve recorded.If you’ve ever felt torn between discipline and play, or wondered...
2025-11-101h 04The Creative SwitchLisa Maltby on Balancing Passion and Profit in Creative FreelancingLisa Maltby on Balancing Passion and Profit in Creative FreelancingEpisode Summary:Today, we dive deep into the world of creativity and freelancing with the talented digital illustrator and designer, Lisa Maltby. After a decade in creative agencies, Lisa made the leap to freelance, and she shares the realities of balancing a stable income with the need for creative expression. We explore practical tips for anyone considering a similar transition, as well as the importance of understanding your audience and the unique challenges faced by freelancers in today’s market. Lisa's journey is not just ab...
2025-10-2756 minThe Creative SwitchScores, Sketches, & Stories: Self-Redesign with Hannah AsheScores Sketches, & Stories: Self-Redesign with Hannah AsheEpisode Summary: After a highly successful career as a music teacher Hannah Ashe teacher made a pivot to interior design before discovering an additional and entirely different form of creative expression through her Substack publication, Chez Hanny. Her creativity knows no limits and I am excited for you to hear how it fuels everything she does.The episode highlights the importance of embracing creative reinvention and nurturing creativity in various forms, including in education and through personal expression.Hannah Ashe Bio:Hannah’s...
2025-10-1356 minThe Creative SwitchFrom Setback to Sparkle: How Serious Illness Led Ruth Mary Chipperfield to Jewellery Design Episode Summary: I talk with Ruth Mary Chipperfield, a bespoke jewellery designer who turned to creativity after illness changed her plans at university. In the Edge news, I cover recent UK jewellery news, including Harriet Kelsall’s studio being nominated for Bespoke Jewellery Retailer of the Year. In Creative Adventures, I also share tips from my own creative journey and highlight advice from Andrew Szczeck about connecting with your audience and understanding the distinction between what we make and how we sell. Plus, I cover recent UK jewellery news, including Harriet Kelsall’s studio being nominated for Bespok...
2025-09-2952 minThe Creative SwitchFrom Consulting to Songwriting: Tricia Duffy's Creative Evolution From Consulting to Songwriting: Tricia Duffy's Creative EvolutionEpisode Summary: In this climate of creative recalibration and music industry reform Tricia Duffy, a strategy consultant, podcaster, and self-described ‘creativity fairy godmother’, who took up songwriting later in life, talks about her own creative evolution, her philosophy and tips for living a creative life. Her story is a powerful reminder that creative balance isn’t just possible, it’s transformative. And mostly it hinges on one thing, your mindset.Guest Bio: Tricia Duffy is a polymath. A media consultant, podcaster, public speaker, songwrit...
2025-09-1555 minThe Creative SwitchThe Creative Switch Returns: Embrace Your Creative SelfThe Creative Switch Returns: Embrace Your Creative Self Welcome to The Creative Switch—the podcast inspiring the sensibly successful to switch on their unexpressed creativity for a more fulfilled life.I’m your host, Nikki Vallance. I know what it’s like to have a career that looks great on paper but still feel like something’s missing. That’s why I made my own creative switch and now help others do the same.After producing 24 episodes in my first year, I took a step back. Life played its part, but mostly I wanted to re...
2025-08-2301 minThe Creative SwitchRuth Hogan on Writing, Creativity, and Her Latest Novel, The Phoenix BallroomRuth Hogan on Writing, Creativity, and Her Latest Novel, The Phoenix BallroomIn this final episode of the Summer Authors Special, host Nikki Vallance sits down with Sunday Times bestselling author Ruth Hogan. Known for her evocative and heartwarming novels with eccentric characters, Ruth shares her journey from a career in local government to becoming a Bestselling author. They discuss the importance of creativity in everyday life, the inspiration behind Ruth's latest book, "The Phoenix Ballroom," and the significance of embracing second chances at any age. Ruth also delves into her writing process, the impact of life...
2024-06-271h 04The Creative SwitchRichard Tyler on Embracing Creativity and Overcoming AdversityRichard Tyler on Embracing Creativity and Overcoming AdversityThis is the second of three bonus episodes in the Summer Authors Special where Nikki Vallance talks to 3 talented and insightful writers as they dig into their inspirational stories and discuss the new books they have written. In this episode of "The Creative Switch," host Nikki Vallance delves into the transformative power of creativity with guest Richard Tyler. Richard, a former West End star turned psychotherapist and author, shares his journey from the heights of musical theatre to the depths of battling stage four lymphoma. He discusses t...
2024-06-211h 10The Creative SwitchMelanie Cantor's Creative Switch: Celebrity Agent to NovelistMelanie Cantor's Creative Switch: Celebrity Agent to NovelistIn this first of three special summer bonus episode of The Creative Switch, Nikki Vallance chats with Melanie Cantor, a former celebrity agent who has successfully transitioned into a celebrated author. Melanie shares her journey from the world of TV publicity to becoming a novelist, offering invaluable insights into the creative process, the importance of tenacity, and the reality of facing rejection. Melanie Bio Melanie started her career working in theatre PR on shows including CATS, ANNIE and MY FAIR LADY. T...
2024-06-1442 min
Humans of Purpose328 Jasper Vallance: Finding Purpose
Jasper Vallance
This week on the podcast, I’m thrilled to bring you my conversation with Jasper Vallance. Jasper is the Founder of StepUp. StepUp is about supporting individual’s, start-up’s and social enterprises on their journey of impact and growth.
Beyond StepUp, Jasper is big in the sober party scene having run Xstatic Sunsets, EPIC themed dance parties and festivals igniting collective joy, connection and natural play.
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Neon Treehouse is our major sponsor and partner in production. They are the go to full service digital marketing agency in Austr...
2024-03-1851 minThe Creative SwitchBehind the Flash: Tigz Rice and the Art of Empowerment PhotographyBehind the Flash: Tigz Rice and the Art of Empowerment Photography**TRIGGER WARNING - Contains discussion around burlesque, boudoir and body dysmorphia.Empowerment photographer, Tigz Rice, is one of the UK's most inspirational and dynamic female entrepreneurs. She has an impressive biography full of accomplishments and accolades, but it is her generosity of spirit and her unapologetic determination to celebrate everyone as unique and special, which shines through everything she does.Tigz BioTigz helps fearless humans re-connect with their bodies & feel empowered, confident & unapologetically present in both their personal and...
2024-03-1251 minThe Creative SwitchA Kitchen Makeover, a Blank Canvas and No Regrets: Mike Hall’s Transition from Marketing to Bespoke ArtistryA Kitchen Makeover, a Blank Canvas, and No Regrets: Mike Hall’s Transition from Marketing to Bespoke ArtistryDive into the creative world of Mike Hall, founder of MJH ArtStudio Limited, who has mastered the art of merging aesthetics with function. From his journey transitioning from a technical illustrator to a marketing director, and finally to an artist, Mike shares invaluable insights into building a brand and staying true to your craft. Tune in to learn about his creative journey, his philosophy of ‘no regrets’, and how his business all started with a kitchen refurbishment.Mike B...
2024-03-0544 minThe Creative SwitchThe Art of Rebellion: Martyn Spendlove’s Transition to ActingThe Art of Rebellion: Martyn Spendlove’s Transition to ActingCorporate trainer turned actor Martyn Spendlove believes in being “Rebellious” and pushing back against anything preventing us from achieving our potential. Find out what happened when he asked himself “Are you really doing what you want to be doing? And how his Martial arts training set him up for success.Martyn BioMartyn is an up-and-coming British actor who you will see starring in feature films “The Mystery of Mr E” written by bestselling author, Sophie Hannah and “The Demonic Fae” by Simon Wells and new wr...
2024-02-2453 minThe Creative SwitchDancing Through Life: The Unfolding of Claire Waite Brown’s CreativityDancing Through Life: The Unfolding of Claire Waite Brown’s CreativityNikki chats to fellow podcaster and host of Creativity found, Claire Waite Brown. Her on entrepreneurial spirit has brought her from a degree in dance to a career as a nonfiction editor to podcasting. But what are the origins of her love for performance? And how did she end up becoming an accidental champion of creativity after a tough period in her life?Claire BioClaire Waite Brown is host of the Creativity Found podcast and founder of creativityfound.co.uk, and sh...
2024-02-1943 minThe Creative SwitchCrafting Brilliance: Harriet Kelsall's Bespoke Jewellery JourneyCrafting Brilliance: Harriet Kelsall's Bespoke Jewellery JourneyIn today’s episode, explore the remarkable path of a multi-award-winning designer who ignited a revolution in bespoke jewellery from her kitchen table. Uncover how Harriet’s vision transformed the jewellery industry, making bespoke design accessible to all while championing ethical practices.Harriet BioHarriet Kelsall is one of the most respected bespoke designers and business trailblazers working in the UK jewellery industry today. She founded her multi-award-winning business from her kitchen table in 1998, with the ambition to inspire and celebrate individuality through creativity. It is with t...
2024-02-1033 minThe Creative Switch'Switching Stories' : From PR to Audiobiography with Caroline PearceSwitching Stories: From PR to Audiobiography with Caroline PearceIn today’s episode we delve into the story of how Biographer Caroline Pearce transitioned from working in PR, through a career in ghost writing to running the Audiobiographers. Caroline BioAfter living a fairly conventional suburban north London childhood, Caroline left for New York City at the age of nineteen without a work permit, a return ticket, or a plan. For the next twenty years Caroline moved between New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and London, raising two children and acquiring dual citizenship al...
2024-02-0546 minThe Creative SwitchFrom Bytes to Brushstrokes: Andrew Szczech's Transformation into Visual ArtistryS2Ep5 Andrew Szczech. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of Andrew Szczech, a creative switcher who has transitioned from the world of IT to the realm of fine art. Andrew BioFrom 1987 to 2017, Andrew worked in IT, both in-house and for solution providers. At the outset he was the link between the user community and the developers, ensuring that their requirements were met by new systems. He moved into more of a sales role as his career progressed. Towards th...
2024-01-1750 minThe Creative SwitchHow to Succeed as YOU with Helena HolrickCreativity is a valuable skill that can help you in many aspects of life, but it can also be challenging to cultivate and maintain. You may feel stuck or uninspired, and you can't seem to generate any new or original ideas. Today’s guest, Helena Holrick has some great tips to help you get unstuck, reframe your fear of making mistakes and keep your creative passion burning. Helena BioHelena Holrick is the Chief Cheerleader at Helping You Shine, where she gets entrepreneurial creative souls into alignment or back on track. She helps you ‘Succeed As You’...
2024-01-1048 minThe Creative SwitchWhy The A in STEAM matters with STEAM Co. Founder Nick CorstonIf you have school age children or are passionate about the importance of education, you'll probably be aware of the general push towards the STEM subjects. That's science, technology, engineering and maths. Of course, the world needs these and studying towards careers in these disciplines is sensible, right? Today's guest Nick Corston has an alternative view. In the last ten years, Nick has been described as a man on a mission by Wired magazine and the Guardian. Dad and co founder of community interest company STEAM Co. joins me to talk about that mission and why the A in S...
2023-12-2145 minThe Creative SwitchStephen Fry, the BBC and a Bear: Lorna Gibson shares her journey of creating Mr Bear's ChristmasWhy stick with your planned episodes when you can add in another one? Lorna Gibson, joins me for a bonus seasonal episode. Formerly a ski instructor and latterly a personal trainer, she combined her loves of all things wintry, drawing and woodland animals to create the world of Mr. Bear. Hear how both her stories, and her own journey to becoming a stop motion animator are full of magical moments, not least of which is the Stephen Fry connection. Lorna BioLorna Gibson is the founder of Toots Design. A self taught author an...
2023-12-1438 minThe Creative SwitchS2Ep1 The Creative Nudge: Simple Steps to Unleash your Creativity with Kevin ChestersMeet the wonderful Kevin Chesters, author of Amazon bestseller the Creative Nudge as shares his knowledge from years of experience leading strategy for both creative agencies such as Saatchi and Saatchi and his clients. He gives us some unmissable tips on brand building, and how to overcome the evolutionary and societal forces challenging our creativity and how to live a happier, healthier, wealthier life.Kevin BioKevin Chesters has 25+ years’ experience leading strategy for both agencies and clients – including W+K London, Saatchi & Saatchi and most recently as CSO at Ogilvy. He has also been the...
2023-12-1254 minThe Creative SwitchEp 10: How Play can help You Switch on your Creativity with Holly MatthewsWe are round rounding off the season with a double Doubting Doris story and a cracking conversation with founder of the Happy Me Project, Holly Matthews. As an actor, author, entrepreneur and mum, she discusses creativity with Nikki and how it plays an important part in everything she does, from helping her clients, to bringing joy and fun into her daily routines. Holly BioFormer TV actress (Waterloo Road, Casualty & Byker grove) and singer (Sony Music) a widowed Mum of 2, Self-Development Coach & founder of The Happy Me Project. The Happy Me project is an online...
2023-07-2650 minThe Creative SwitchEp 9: Nadine Benjamin MBE From the City to the Royal Opera HouseDid you dream of being a star when you were small but have kept your talent hidden? Are you worried it's too late? Listen to my conversation with soprano Nadine Benjamin to hear how she switched direction at the age of 35 and has since realized her childhood dream.Nadine Nadine Benjamin MBE - Soprano and Empowerment Coach/MentorCertified High Performance Coach Accredited NLP Mind CoachFounder of Everybody Can! Opera and Mentorship ProgrammeFormer English National Opera Harewood Artist Member of the Institute of Min...
2023-07-1935 minThe Creative SwitchEp 8: Is Being Highly Creative a Blessing or not, with Tessa Richter.What does it mean to be highly creative? Listen to my conversation with artist, musician and coach Tessa Richter, to find out and hear her views on creativity, health and accessing your full potential.Bio Tessa Richter Musician, Artist, Business Owner, Coach and author. Having been diagnosed as a Highly Creative Person, she has become an expert on the topic, as well as on how living our potential is connected to our wellbeing. Fascinated by what humans can accomplish, her journey has taken her to explore practices from ancient cultures...
2023-07-1336 minThe Creative SwitchEp 7: Singing, Creativity and Wellbeing with Emma BaylinWhat happens when you smush your creative passion with your career in mental health and well being? Listen to my conversation with guest Emma Bailin, founder of Shared Harmonies, to find out how she did it.Guest Emma BaylinEmma has approaching 30 years’ experience of supporting transformation for people, communities and organisations. She is a highly recognised facilitator, working on the development and delivery of a number of national programmes for clients including NHS England as well as bespoke programmes for individual organisations. In 2013 Emma founded Shared Harmonies CIC, a not for profit or...
2023-07-0735 minThe Creative SwitchEp 6: Switching full time to being an Author with Sarah Nisha Adams, The When, the How and the WhyHow do you build creative freedom into your working day? You'll find out in this episode, one possible way from my guest Sara Nisha Adams, along with the story of how her dream of becoming an author at 16 eventually came true.Guest BioSara Nisha Adams is a writer and now freelance editor. She lives in London and was born in Hertfordshire to Indian and English parents. Her debut novel The Reading List was a finalist in the Goodreads Choice Awards for Fiction 2021. Her second novel, The Twilight Garden, is just out, published in June 2023...
2023-07-0439 minThe Creative SwitchEp 5: Tapping into your creative brain with Neuroleadership expert Rachel BamberAre you in need of tips to stop creative procrastination, or fear of being judged ‘not good enough?’ Lean in to this episode where Coach, Rachel Bamber share brain-friendly techniques to overcome these challenges and the neuroscience behind them.Guest BioRachel Bamber is an expert in using powerful, brain-friendly strategies to deliver peak performance. She helps people to work with their brain to get what they want - faster and with zero stress. Among the pioneering adventurers who have hired her include people in the public eye, elite sport, corporate leaders and supe...
2023-07-0239 minThe Creative SwitchEp 4: Creativity as a Side Hustle with Wearable Art Designer Paulomi DebnathPaulomi Debnath, artist and founder of Handmade by Tinni shares her tips on running this award-winning creative side-hustle along side her successful hospitality career and why her creative switch differs from others.Guest bioPaulomi was born and brought up in India and has lived in London for the past 16 years.She has always been passionate about handcrafted unique jewellery and being an Indian, Paulomi has been spoiled for choice and inspiration. Her art is heavily influenced by the bright colours of nature, the exotic places Paulomi has travelled and the rich Indian...
2023-06-3043 minThe Creative SwitchEp 3: Pernille Hughes on Motherhood and Writing 'Funny Kissing Books'Would you like to be a writer or an author? What style of writing would you like to do? Pernille Hughes shares her creative journey and explains how keeping an open mind about writing styles can allow your creativity to evolve and grow with you. Guest bio Pernille Hughes “I write funny kissing books, with modern, capable women who have lost their way or can’t catch a break. I believe love and laughter go hand in hand, so that’s what I write.” P...
2023-06-3036 minThe Creative SwitchEp 2: Talking Creativity Books and Wellbeing with BiblioTherapist Bijal ShahFar from being a new therapeutic tool, bibliotherapy has its roots in Ancient Greece. In this episode Bijal Shah introduces us to the techniques of bibliotherapy, and the often surprising ways that reading can help emotions, well-being, and creativity interconnect. Guest BioBijal Shah is a bibliotherapist, counsellor and author. She is the founder of Book Therapy, which offers individual, couple’s and group bibliotherapy, literary curation and personalised reading services as well as bibliotherapy training. Bijal’s book recommendations have featured in the Guardian, Marie Claire, NBC News, Asian Voice and various other...
2023-06-3040 minThe Creative SwitchEp 1: Theo Michaels on turning his food passion into a careerWhat is it that finally drives people to take the leap and switch to a more creative life? Is it a push away from a lifestyle or job where you don’t feel fulfilled? Or is it a pull towards the excitement and passion of a creative way of living? Chef Theo Michaels talks to Nikki Vallance about the push / pull of his own creative switch.Guest bioTheo Michaels Executive Chef, award winning author and co-founder of FiveDinners.com After appearing on Masterchef 2014, Theo resigned from his IT business of 15 years to foll...
2023-06-3035 minThe Creative SwitchWhat is The Creative Switch?Welcome to The Creative Switch, the podcast inspiring the sensibly successful to switch on their unexpressed creativity for a more fulfilled life. In this Season One trailer you'll discover some of the guests joining me over the next ten episodes as we share the how, what, why and who of creativity in relaxed conversations full of inspiration for you to switch on your own creativity.You'll also hear details of an event at 3pm on 30th June when the podcast will be launched!hj7VoXDAibfKq0rORc17
2023-06-2202 min
The Hidden Herstory PodcastS1 Episode 7: Nikki Vallance on George Eliot, Daphne Du Maurier & Mary WesleyIn the first of our "Inspiring Women" series of interviews, Chrissy chats to author and writing coach, Nikki Vallance about her debut Novel "Pivotal" and finds out how she went from a 20 year career in recruitment, to being a coach, speaker and published author in her 40's. Chrissy & NIKKI then discuss the lives and work of the three great literary women who have inspired Nikki the most - George Eliot, Daphne Du Maurier and Mary Wesley who all encapsulate the ethos behind Nikki's favourite quote - "It's never too late to be who you ought to be"....
2021-11-261h 03