This special episode of Women WithAI marks a double celebration: International Women's Day 2025 and the one-year anniversary of the Women WithAI podcast. Host Joanna Shilton is joined by two powerhouse female voices from the WithAI FM Podcast Network, Iyabo Oba host of Relationships WithAI and Lena Robinson host of Creatives WithAI, for a deep and candid discussion on this year’s International Women’s Day theme: Accelerate Action.

Together, they share personal stories of moments where they had to take bold, decisive steps to drive change in their careers. From challenging pay inequities to turning around struggling organisations, these conversations highlight the power of action in creating real, lasting impact. They also explore the role of AI in shaping the future, both as a tool for empowerment and as a space where women must claim their seat at the decision-making table.

But action isn’t just about grand gestures. It’s also about advocating for others, making space for women’s voices in meetings, and ensuring AI development reflects diverse perspectives. The conversation wraps up with a lighthearted but important question: What’s one thing AI could automate to give us more time for action? The answers may surprise you.

Join us for a dynamic, inspiring, and thought-provoking discussion on why now, more than ever, is the time to accelerate action for women in AI and beyond.

Joanna Shilton | Host of Women WithAI

Links to people and companies mentioned in the show:

• Joanna Shilton - Host of Women WithAI (LinkedIn)
• Iyabo Oba - Host of Relationships WithAI (LinkedIn)
• Lena Robinson - Host of Creatives WithAI (LinkedIn)

Supporters of the WithAI FM Podcast Network

• Nadio Granata - Host of Education WithAI and IWD2025 article mentioned - https://glomacs.com/ai-as-the-great-leveller-a-call-to-action-for-international-womens-day
• David Brown Founder/Producer/Editor of WithAI FM Podcast Network - https://www.linkedin.com/in/4dmbrown/
• The 'other Dave' aka David Atkinson - Host of Places WithAI https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-atkinson-01445a40/
• Will Charlesworth - Host of The Law WithAI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-charlesworth-54439b11/

Other companies mentioned

• International Women's Day - https://www.internationalwomensday.com/
• WithAI FM Podcast Network – https://www.withai.fm/episodes/1#showEpisodes
• Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) – (Website)
• Instagram - (

In this thought-provoking episode of Creatives WithAI, host Lena Robinson sits down with Product Discovery Expert Michael Cawley to explore the intersection of AI, creativity, and user experience. With a background spanning graphic design, marketing, and UX, Michael brings a unique perspective on how AI is reshaping creative workflows, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse.

The conversation dives into the real impact of AI on creative industries, questioning whether it's actually freeing up time for deeper thinking or simply accelerating a cycle of endless production. Michael shares insights from nearly two decades of working in UX and product discovery, explaining why data alone isn't enough and why asking 'Why? is still the most important question in user research.

Lena and Michael discuss the rise of "bland" AI-generated content, the growing fetishisation of data, and the critical role human intuition plays in crafting meaningful user experiences. They also debate whether AI will ultimately serve as a tool for efficiency or dilute originality in creative work. With fascinating detours into brand identity, the evolution of chatbot UX, and even the unexpected role of AI in corporate decision-making, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of AI-driven creativity.

Find out why Michael believes quality over speed should always win, and why, in an AI-powered world, admitting "I don’t know" might just be the most valuable answer of all.

Here's how to find Michael Cawley online:

• LinkedIn
• Website

Other people mentioned during the podcast:

• Graham Pugh – branding and blandness https://brandvoice.agency/who/
• Julia Cameron – Author of The Artist’s Way https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julia_Cameron
• Susi O’Neill – AI Expert, suggested as a future guest https://www.linkedin.com/in/susioneill/
• Doug Ayres – Chat to Impact https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougayres/

Other companies/brands mentioned during the podcast:

• Intercom - https://www.intercom.com/
• The Drum - article re Unilever’s acquisition of Wild - https://www.thedrum.com/news/2025/02/18/after-the-dollar-shave-club-fiasco-can-unilever-acquire-wild-without-killing-its
• Glastonbury Festival - https://www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk/line-up/
• Claude AI - https://claude.ai/login?returnTo=%2F%3F
• ChatGPT - https://chatgpt.com/

WithAI FM is evolving! When Creatives WithAI first launched, no one could have predicted how quickly the network would grow. Over the past year, WithAI FM shows have reached listeners worldwide, become finalists for two independent podcast awards, and ranked in the Top 10 Technology podcasts globally—even breaking into the Top 50 in the UK. This is a huge achievement for an independent podcast, and it’s all thanks to the listeners.

To make it easier to access every show in one place, all individual podcast feeds are merging into a single feed—WithAI FM. Listeners can now find all past and future episodes from every show in one convenient location.

📌 What’s Changing?

✅ All WithAI FM podcasts are now in one feed – no need to search across multiple shows

✅ All past episodes remain available on the new feed

✅ Each show still has its expert host, covering AI’s impact on creativity, startups, education, marketing, and more

✅ Same great content, now easier to follow

🎧 How to Keep Listening:

Links across social media will be updated gradually, but if an old link doesn’t work, simply search for the episode title in WithAI FM, and it should appear.

🔗 Subscribe to WithAI FM:

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/withai-fm/id1791759084

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2JOz5OxbIjw1RjLJGvOjpo?si=b6ad46d185454234

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHXJER162682cbd6teq4l1ldGHa2DYTWR

📱 Follow WithAI FM on Social Media:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/withai-fm

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/withaifm/

• Twitter (X): https://x.com/withaifm

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/withaifm

WithAI FM is looking forward to another exciting year—featuring new guests, fresh insights, and even more conversations about how AI is shaping the world.

Thank you for your continued support! 🚀

What happens when an experienced creative, designer, photographer and director dives into the world of AI? This week on Creatives with AI, host Lena Robinson chats with Simon Needham, a Yorkshire-born photographer, director, and adventurer now based in LA.

From co-founding ATTIK, a global design agency that changed the game, to crafting AI-powered visuals for conservation projects, Simon works hard to be ahead of the curve.

In this lively conversation, Simon shares how his career evolved from creating communications for Nike and PlayStation to capturing breathtaking wildlife and sports photography, and how AI tools have become a surprising companion in his creative process. Along the way, he talks about lessons learned from dismissing the internet back in the 90s, the difference between traditional photography and AI-generated images, and why staying curious is the best skill a creative can have.

Whether you’re curious about how AI is reshaping creativity or just love a good story about big ideas and bigger adventures, this episode has plenty to inspire.

Takeaways:

• AI’s Creative Revolution: Simon shares how tools like MidJourney and Runway ML are transforming visual storytelling.
• Lessons from the Past: Early mistakes with the internet taught Simon the importance of embracing new technology like AI.
• AI vs. Real Photography: AI can mimic visuals, but can it replicate the emotional depth of real-world photography?
• The Future of Creatives: Roles like art direction and prompt engineering will likely define the next wave of creative careers.
• Balancing Passion and AI: Simon balances adventurous photography with the efficiency of AI innovation.
• Storytelling Still Rules: Despite AI advancements, emotional storytelling remains key to resonating with audiences.

How to find Simon online:

• Website- simonneedham.com
• Instagram - @simonneedhamphotography | @human.kind.photography | @simon.fineart
• LinkedIn

People and Companies mentioned in this episode:

• ATTIK (now part of dentsu)
• dentsu: https://www.dentsu.com
• Nike: https://www.nike.com
• PlayStation: https://www.playstation.com
• Toyota: https://www.toyota.com
• MidJourney: https://www.midjourney.com
• Runway ML: https://runwayml.com
• OpenAI: https://openai.com
• Sam Altman CEO of OpenAI -

In this engaging episode of Creatives WithAI, host Lena Robinson reconnects with the podcast's former host, David Brown, for a candid conversation reflecting on 2024. Together, they dive into the standout moments of the year, share their perspectives on the evolving intersection of AI and creativity, and explore the themes shaping the future of creative industries.

David reminisces about his serendipitous interview with Daniel Bedingfield, highlighting the artist's experimental use of AI to fuse musical genres. Lena recalls her memorable studio session with Tom Morley, a multidisciplinary creative embracing AI across art, music, and film. Their conversation touches on themes of curiosity, adaptability, and the fine line between fear and innovation.

As they look ahead to 2025, Lena and David discuss the importance of fostering dialogue with advocates and skeptics of AI. They also hint at exciting plans for live shows and more diverse voices in the creative industries in 2025. Their closing message? Stay curious and embrace the unknown.

• AI is a tool for experimentation, not a replacement for creativity.
• Serendipity plays a key role in creating meaningful connections.
• Staying ready and proactive can open doors to unexpected opportunities.
• Artists like Tom Morley and Daniel Bedingfield showcase AI’s versatility in art, music, and film.
• The creative community remains divided on AI, particularly in music and film.
• Legal frameworks for compensating artists in AI-generated works are evolving.
• Fear often drives resistance to AI adoption in the creative industries.
• Curiosity is a common thread amongst successful creatives.
• AI can complement human creativity by expanding possibilities.
• Younger generations are rethinking traditional career paths due to AI's impact.
• Apprenticeships and hands-on learning are gaining popularity over formal degrees.
• Live events and interactive formats can enhance community engagement.
• Future AI tools will continue to disrupt and redefine creative workflows.
• Cross-industry collaboration is essential.
• Hosting skeptics on AI could lead to meaningful debates and deeper understanding.
• Tools like HeyGen and 11Labs demonstrate AI's potential in content localisation.
• Human creativity thrives on unpredictability and breaking conventional boundaries.
• Podcasts can challenge societal fears and misconceptions about technology.
• Sharing experiences and experiments with AI fosters community learning.
• Staying curious and experimenting with new tools is crucial for growth.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Daniel Bedingfield - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Bedingfield and https://creatives-with-ai.captivate.fm/episode/e57-redefining-creativity-ais-impact-on-music-marketing-and-human-connection-with-daniel-bedingfield-and-fernando-garibay
• Tom Morley - https://tommorley.com/ and https://creatives-with-ai.captivate.fm/episode/tom-morley
• Andrew Grill - https://actionablefuturist.com/
• Minter Dial - https://www.minterdial.com/
• Oscar Mitchell-Heggs -

In this unconventional episode Lena Robinson, host and guest, dives into a self-reflective and candid conversation about creativity, technology, and the intersection of the two. Faced with a scheduling hiccup, Lena takes the opportunity to interview herself, offering listeners a rare glimpse into her multifaceted life as a creative, Kiwi entrepreneur, creative thinker, and champion of emerging tech.

From her early exposure to creativity through her parents' artistic pursuits to her current ventures with The FTSQ Gallery, Lena explores how creativity has shaped her career and personal growth. She shares insights on her journey as an early tech adopter, discussing how tools like AI are not only streamlining her work but also sparking curiosity and enhancing her creative output. Lena candidly reflects on her experiences using AI for idea generation, research, and overcoming mental blocks on challenging days.

The episode also touches on Lena's vision for the future of AI, emphasising collaboration over competition between humans and machines. With her characteristic warmth and humour, Lena invites listeners to embrace curiosity and take on a creative challenge using AI, making this episode a thought-provoking exploration of the evolving creative landscape.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Lena's Plant/Flower Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flora.lishus/
• The FTSQ Gallery - https://ftsqgallery.co.uk/
• FTSQ Consultancy - https://ftsq.co.uk/
• Oscar Mitchell-Heggs - https://www.instagram.com/omhlondon/
• The Snug - One Hundred Shoreditch - https://www.onehundredshoreditch.com/social-spaces/
• ChatGPT - https://chatgpt.com/
• Tom Morley - https://www.instagram.com/_tommorley_/
• Midjourney - https://www.midjourney.com/home
• Canva - https://www.canva.com/
• Vista Print - https://www.vistaprint.co.uk/
• Popology Networks - https://www.popologynetworks.com/
• Stephen Fry - https://www.instagram.com/stephenfryactually/
• Stephen Fry - Quote mentioned - https://www.openculture.com/2024/07/stephen-fry-explains-why-artificial-intelligence-has-a-70-risk-of-killing-us-all.html

Where to find Lena Robinson on Social Media:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinsonlena/
• Twitter - https://x.com/LenaRobinson
• Instagram -

In this riveting episode host Lena Robinson welcomes Benjamin Southworth, a polymath who seamlessly blends art, music, entrepreneurship, and technology. Known for helping found groundbreaking tech community events such as Silicon Drinkabout, Chew the Fat and Don’t Pitch Me Bro, Benjamin shares insights from his journey co-founding 3Beards and playing a pivotal role in London’s Tech City (now rolled out nationwide as Tech Nation), to where he is today. Whether helping to orchestrate art hackathons in the Tate Modern or designing digital tools for emerging economies, Ben's career is a testament to the creative potential of technology.

The conversation dives deep into the intersection of AI and creativity, exploring how tools like generative AI can serve as collaborators rather than competitors for artists. Ben eloquently discusses the joy and challenges of maintaining a childlike sense of wonder, both in art and in life, and how his upbringing among artistic parents shaped his philosophy. The episode also tackles pressing questions: Can AI truly be a “bicycle for the mind,” amplifying human creativity, or does its rapid adoption risk mechanising our artistic souls?

From musings on empathy as the cornerstone of meaningful tech to real-world anecdotes of using AI for problem-solving, this episode is an enlightening exploration of technology’s role in art, society, and the future. Tune in to hear Ben’s predictions, hopes, and concerns about AI's impact on creative expression and human connection.

Links mentioned in this episode

• Benjamin Southworth's website - https://peaceandlovehq.super.site/
• Tech City UK - https://www.techcityuk.com/about-us/
• Book - Act of Creation by Arthur Koestler - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Act_of_Creation
• React - https://react.dev
• Python - https://www.python.org
• JavaScript - https://www.javascript.com
• Dennis SEVERS’ House - https://dennissevershouse.co.uk
• Shopify - https://www.shopify.com/
• Angus Steakhouse - Influencers misled - https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/ai-angus-steakhouse-reddit-london-b2638158.html
• Tony Blair Institute for Global Change - https://institute.global
• Eric Drass - Fine Artist - http://ericdrass.com

How to find Benjamin Southworth on Social Media

• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/benjaminsouthworth
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthecompanyofus/
• Twitter -

In this vibrant episode our host Lena Robinson sits down with Tom Morley, a founding member and drummer of 80's pop band Scritti Politti, who’s now reshaping his creative journey with AI. At 70, Tom's experiences are as dynamic as ever; he shares his reflections on using AI in everything from drumming and visuals to song production. With a background in fine arts and a well-earned reputation as an engaging performer, Tom brings a unique perspective on the intersection of human creativity and AI.

Tom discusses how AI tools like Midjourney and Suno have transformed his creative process, allowing him to experiment with visual art and music in unprecedented ways. Despite initial skepticism, Tom dove into AI, embracing the technology to enhance his work’s reach and resonance. His story touches on fascinating examples, like the AI-generated visuals that captivate audiences at his drumming gigs and his foray into AI-assisted songwriting.

The conversation also explores the essence of creativity in the digital age. Tom emphasises the importance of human touch—the art of “knowing when to stop”—and the role of years of artistic experience in making the most of AI's potential. Together, Lena and Tom unpack the delicate balance between embracing new technology and maintaining artistic integrity, leaving listeners inspired to reflect on how AI might serve their own creative goals.

Things mentioned in this episode

• Tom Morley - https://tommorley.com
• Scritti Politti (On Spotify) - https://open.spotify.com/artist/59luKpdal8UwxcuLJNoKwS?si=D6gzScPtQKKZ4b7ybVGbxA
• The FTSQ Gallery - https://ftsqgallery.co.uk/shop-prints-sketches-merch/tom-morley
• Fox & Badge - https://www.foxandbadge.com/
• Midjourney - https://www.midjourney.com/home
• Runway - https://runwayml.com
• Suno - https://suno.com
• ChatGPT - https://chatgpt.com
• Vogue - https://www.vogue.co.uk
• Jamie Wheal (Books - ‘Stealing Fire’ and ‘Recapture the rapture’ - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-Jamie-Wheal/s?rh=n%3A266239%2Cp_27%3AJamie+Wheal
• Brian Eno - https://www.brian-eno.net
• Clive Langer - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clive_Langer
• Grace Jones, Demolition Man - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlHiX8-33Jw
• Antonio Gramsci - https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Antonio_Gramsci
• Afro Celt Sound System - https://www.facebook.com/officialafroceltsoundsystem/
• Simon Sinek (Book - The Infinite Game) -