Initial Step

By: James Taylor
  • Summary

  • Welcome to Initial Step!


    On this channel, we bring you short, engaging conversational interviews where we talk with talented individuals from the creative sector, focusing especially on those who have risen from low socioeconomic or working-class backgrounds.


    Our aim? To shine a light on the barriers that often exist when trying to break into creative roles. But more importantly, to showcase inspiring stories of how these challenges can be overcome. Join us as we explore the journeys of remarkable people, learn about their struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. Because no matter where you start, breaking into the creative sector is possible, and we’re here to prove it.


    Make sure to subscribe to avoid missing any episode!


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    James Taylor
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Episodes
  • From Small-Town Roots to Big Brand Success: Riks Journey
    Sep 25 2024

    In today’s episode, we sit down with an inspiring guest who grew up in a working-class family and turned their love for creativity into a successful career in advertising. They talk about how early inspiration from family and a passion for movies fuelled their journey into the media world, overcoming obstacles like imposter syndrome while staying true to their roots. Now based in the USA, they share how they've balanced their small-town upbringing with a thriving career working with top brands.


    From juggling jobs during university to discovering a passion for advertising, their story is one of hard work, resilience, and staying grounded. Tune in as we dive into their unique path to success and explore how they've made a name for themselves in the creative industry!


    Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoyed the episode!


    #initialstep #workingclass #creativeindustry #CreativeJourney #AdvertisingSuccess #ImposterSyndrome #HardWork #SmallTownToBigCity #CareerInspiration


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    53 mins
  • From Broadcast Journalism to Design Strategy: Kellie's Story of Resilience
    Sep 2 2024


    In this powerful episode, we chat with Kellie Hill, a resilient professional who turned a challenging upbringing in Northern England into a thriving career in experience design strategy. From battling toxic work environments in broadcast journalism to navigating the complexities of the working-class identity, Kellie's journey is one of true grit and adaptability.


    Tune in as we explore:

    • The influence of family and personal values in career decisions.
    • The importance of teaching public speaking and persuasive skills to children.
    • Kellie's experience as a neurodivergent individual and her strategies for effective communication.
    • The impact of AI on the creative industry and the opportunities it brings for those from working-class backgrounds.

    This conversation is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and unique insights you won't want to miss!


    Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoyed the episode!


    #Podcast #Inspiration #KellieHill #CareerJourney #BroadcastJournalism #DesignStrategy #Neurodiversity #PublicSpeaking #AIInCreativity #WorkingClass #SuccessStory #NewEpisode #SubscribeNow #neurodiversity


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • From Bolton to Just Eat: Jai's Journey through Class, Ethnicity, and Resilience
    Aug 13 2024

    In this episode, we sit down with Jai, a senior digital designer at Just Eat, who shares his inspiring journey from a working-class upbringing in Bolton to a thriving career in the design industry. Despite the pressure to follow a traditional academic path, Jai followed his passion for design, supported by his family and a pivotal work experience during university.


    Over the past decade, Jai has worked with top companies like Playstation, Disney, and Just Eat, navigating the complexities of class and ethnicity in the creative world. He discusses how his working-class roots and diverse background give him a unique perspective, especially in environments where class divides are less stark.


    Join us as Jai reflects on:

    • The importance of practical experience over formal education.
    • How his upbringing influenced his approach to design.
    • Why shorter, focused courses might be more effective for aspiring designers.


    This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in design, career development, and the intersection of class and ethnicity in creative fields.


    🔔 Subscribe now and don’t miss out on this inspiring story of resilience and determination!


    #DesignCareer #Podcast #Inspiration #WorkingClass #CreativeIndustries #SuccessStory #JaiMistry #JustEat #MediaIndustry #Resilience #NewEpisode


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    50 mins

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