The Creative Boom Podcast

In this episode, our founding editor Katy Cowan sits down with Adrian Carroll, co-founder and executive creative director of D8, a leading creative agency with studios in Glasgow, Amsterdam, and beyond. With over 26 years in the industry, Adrian reflects on the constant change he's weathered—from the dawn of the internet to economic crises, the rise of social media, and the latest wave of AI disruption. They talk candidly about starting out in the late '90s, why human relationships still sit at the heart of good business, and how trust and intuition have helped D8 grow into one of the most respected independent studios in the UK. Adrian also shares exciting news about D8's latest venture: the launch of a bespoke type foundry, ABCD8, and why ownable, AI-proof assets are becoming essential in today's creative landscape. Expect a thoughtful, grounded conversation about longevity, integrity, and why sometimes... the logo does need to be bigger. This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

In this bonus Spark episode, Emma Barratt returns for a funny, honest, and brilliantly unfiltered chat with Katy Cowan. She takes on some of our favourite quick-fire questions — from the best advice she's ever received to the song she'd like played at her funeral. Emma shares her most controversial creative opinion (spoiler: not everything is "transformative"), the word that gives her the ick, and why she relates most to an octopus. She also opens up about OCD rituals, arguments she has to win, and the rejection that taught her the most — including the first time she applied to Wolff Olins. Packed with warmth, dry wit and big heart, this is the perfect follow-up to Emma's main episode on class, creativity, and carving your own path. This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

In this raw and energising conversation, Katy Cowan is joined by Emma Barratt, global executive creative director at Wolff Olins, to talk about class in the creative industry, imposter syndrome, and the kind of diversity we don't discuss enough. With honesty, grit, and a huge amount of heart, Emma opens up about her working-class roots in Salford, the long road into the design world, and the resilience it took to get to the top. They explore why the industry still has a long way to go when it comes to genuine inclusivity—especially in terms of class and social mobility. Emma talks about how expensive cities like London continue to block access for many talented creatives and how the legacy of connections and privilege often dictates who gets a foot in the door. It's not just about ticking boxes on a diversity form—it's about meaningful, systemic change, and it needs to start at the top. Emma also shares her experience of imposter syndrome and learning to embrace her own voice, even when it didn't fit the mould. From overcoming dyslexia to navigating a male-dominated creative scene, she reflects on what it took to unlearn shame and reclaim pride in her background. We hear how she's now determined to be the mentor she never had—helping others who feel like outsiders realise their worth, whether they're neurodiverse, working class, or just don't see themselves represented. This episode touches on everything from unpaid internships and university barriers to the superpower of growing up without a safety net. Emma doesn't shy away from the difficult truths—but there's also humour, hope, and a rallying cry for change. If you've ever felt like you don't belong, this one's for you. This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

In this bonus episode, Liz Mosley returns for a relaxed, thoughtful catch-up with Katy Cowan. They chat about building confidence, embracing cringe, and the joy of just having a go — plus Liz answers some of our favourite Spark questions. From the best advice she's ever received to a dream she can’t forget, Liz shares her most controversial creative opinion, the word that drives her mad, and the one ordinary day she'd relive if she could. Warm, funny, and full of heart — it's a lovely listen for anyone who's ever wondered if they're doing this creative thing "right". This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

In this laugh-out-loud, heart-on-sleeve conversation, Katy Cowan is joined by branding designer and podcast host Liz Mosley to explore the messy, magical world of podcasting. With over 120 episodes of the Building Your Brand podcast behind her, Liz shares the honest truth: podcasting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up as yourself. Together, Katy and Liz dive into the highs and lows of running a podcast (awkward endings included), why less polished content often resonates more, and how confidence grows through real conversations. They reflect on the unexpected networking opportunities that arise, the importance of making guests feel at ease, and the joy of being unfiltered, unpolished, and unapologetically real. The episode is full of practical advice for aspiring podcasters, including why you don’t need expensive equipment to get started, how to trust the process, and why you should start before you feel ready. Later this week during our bonus episode, The Spark, you'll also hear plenty of quirky anecdotes—from dream analysis and family picnic fails to their mutual loathing of the word niche. Whether you're podcast-curious or already recording in your cupboard, this is an inspiring, entertaining chat that celebrates creativity, confidence and the power of being yourself. This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

In this bonus episode, The Spark, we welcome back Sam Gilbey, the pop culture illustrator whose work brings our favourite films to life, for a lighter, more personal chat. After Monday's nostalgic deep dive into his creative journey, Sam returns to answer some of our signature questions, offering a glimpse of the person behind the prints. From his controversial view on talent (spoiler: he's not sure it exists) to why OK Computer still hits after all these years, Sam talks about creativity with humour, humility, and heart. We talk Comic Cons, the comfort of pop culture, and the Sunday roasts and video games that make life sweet. He also shares the embarrassing moment he met his childhood hero Tony Hart—on national TV—and why his worst nemesis is often… himself. This is a joyful, down-to-earth episode that celebrates fandom, family life, and the magic of just making stuff. This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

This week’s guest, Sam Gilbey, is a celebrated illustrator known for his striking portraits of cult movie characters and pop culture icons. In a lively chat, he shares his journey from web design to becoming a sought-after artist for Blu-ray covers while discussing survival in today’s creative landscape. Sam reflects on nostalgia—from cereal box ads to VHS art—and the impact of fatherhood on his career pivot. He emphasizes the importance of passion, resilience, and spotting opportunities amidst challenges, with humor and honesty that resonates with creatives everywhere.

In this bonus episode, The Spark, we welcome back Gnome Taylor, senior creative at Grey London, for a lighter, more personal chat. After Monday's powerful conversation on resilience, Gnome returns to answer some of our signature questions—giving us a glimpse of the person behind the job title. From why kindness is the best lesson she's learned in her career, to the odd comfort she gets from even numbers, Gnome shares stories with humour and heart. We talk about the ideas she's proud of (even the ones that never made it), her unexpected Joe Pasquale impression, and why her sock drawer is so meticulously organised it includes a single, unwearable pair. Gnome also opens up about sleep struggles, audiobook obsessions, and what she'd like to see from future male role models. Her answer? Less bravado, more empathy. This is a warm, thoughtful episode that celebrates quirks, creativity, and the quiet power of simply being kind. This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

This week, we chat with Gnome Taylor, senior creative at Grey London, about the resilience it takes to make it in the creative industries—especially when life starts out tough. Gnome shares her incredible journey from growing up in foster care to carving out a thriving career in advertising. With honesty and humour, she reflects on the chaos of her early years, the stereotypes she battled, and the pivotal moment that made her decide to change her life. From raising over £26,000 to attend the School of Communication Arts, to landing her dream job, it's a story of sheer determination and grit. The conversation also explores the power of kindness, the emotional rollercoaster of creative work, and the importance of opening up—particularly in an industry where vulnerability is still often seen as a weakness. Gnome talks openly about navigating rejection, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why she’s passionate about supporting underrepresented voices in advertising. If you've ever felt like you didn’t belong, or if you've had to fight harder than most to find your place, this episode will speak to you. It's a candid and uplifting reminder that our differences and our experiences are often our greatest strengths. This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Every Thursday, we share a shorter, snappier episode filled with inspiration—and this season, we've switched things up. Each Spark now features a bonus conversation with our guest from earlier in the week. Today, we're once again joined by the award-winning creative director, Christine Smith, who returned for a little more fun—and a few unexpected surprises. Christine shared some brilliant insights on Monday's episode, where we explored what it means to become the role model you never had. If you missed it, go back and give it a listen. But in this Spark, we dive into the more personal side of Christine's world: her creative rituals, her love of horses and thrift shops, a very convincing baby cry, and what she'd do if she ever needed to escape a bad date. (Spoiler: it involves that baby cry.) We also discuss why intuition is such a powerful creative tool, the importance of listening to your gut, and how nature and nostalgia feed Christine's imagination. And as always, we end with a thought-provoking question for next week's guest. This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.