In this raw and riveting episode of The Captivate Podcast, we sit down with Tom Fenwick-Smith, a digital creative and innovator with a surprising side passion for Muay Thai. We kick things off with Tom’s tale of how a charity boxing match led him down an unexpected path, teaching him the true meaning of grit, determination, and the beauty of getting back up after a hard fall.

Key Takeaways:

1. Muay Thai Journey:

- Discover how a pre-COVID charity boxing match pushed Tom to face his fears.

- Hear about his training with a world champion K1 Thai fighter and the lessons learned from taking punches every week.

- Understand the parallels between the discipline of Muay Thai and life’s challenges.

2. Creative Career Path:

- Follow Tom’s unconventional journey from the film industry to advertising, driven by his love for storytelling.

- Learn how Tom’s dyslexia became a superpower in his creative process.

- Explore the transformative impact of the School of Communication Arts 2.0 on his career.

3. Personal Reflections:

- Hear Tom’s take on empathy and how small, genuine moments can make a big difference.

- Dive into his belief in the power of pain and discomfort as catalysts for growth.

- Appreciate the value of meaningful connections and small victories in life and work.

4. Advice for Aspiring Creatives:

- Tom emphasizes the necessity of curiosity in the creative field.

- Provides a heartfelt recommendation for young talents looking to break into the industry.

Quote Highlights:

- “If boxing is chess, Muay Thai is 3D chess.”

- “Losing builds self-esteem through incremental change.”

- “We live in a world of grey, and it's those small moments of empathy that colour it.”

Slip behind the scenes with Michelle Sarpong, the vibrant heartbeat at the core of the7stars. In today’s episode, Michelle opens the curtains on her almost six-year dance through the dynamic corridors of the agency, tracing the arcs and sparks that keep her chasing the horizon. From the rigid frameworks of law school to the fluid realms of media, hers is a story woven with threads of passion, resilience, and relentless evolution.

With Michelle’s voice as your guide, explore how she has sculpted her space within the7stars, turning her diverse past into a formidable bridge between the hungry demands of commerce and the nuanced needs of clients. She speaks of the human core of this industry—how the support of colleagues and the pulse of a dynamic work setting have been the bedrock of her growth.

She’s not one to sidestep the heavy hitters—Michelle tackles the big questions about AI’s splash in the media pool, dispelling fears with a poet’s grace. She argues for a harmony where technology clears the underbrush, setting the stage for human creativity and strategic finesse to play their parts.

Then there’s the shifting sands of workplace dynamics—hybrid models, talent retention, and what fun looks like when the world is watching through a post-pandemic lens. Michelle sketches a landscape transformed, advocating for a blend of flexibility and the irreplaceable spark of in-person collaboration.

And yes, while the stakes are high, Michelle lets her vibrant spirit shine through, from tales of her love for Arsenal to serendipitous late-night moments that steered her toward a career in media. Her energy captivates, her insights cut deep, and her passion for the pulse of media is unmistakable.

Whether you’re deep in the game, just peeking through the door, or thinking of switching lanes, this episode promises a deep dive into the evolving world of media, packed with raw insights, seasoned advice, and the infectious zeal of a woman who lives and breathes this industry.

Join us for the debut episode of "Beyond the Brand," where we explore the profound personal and professional life of Andrew, a veteran in the marketing world whose career trajectory has taken him from early days in fast food to the cutting-edge of digital advertising technology. This episode dives into Andrew's multi-faceted life story, discussing his rise through the ranks, the pressures of maintaining a professional facade, and his personal battles with mental health.

What You'll Learn:

- How Andrew's early career in fast food shaped his work ethic and professional outlook.

- The challenges of separating personal identity from professional roles in the advertising industry.

- Insights from Andrew's experience in leading a successful media podcast and navigating the world of digital marketing.

- Andrew's candid discussions about his mental health, including severe depression and OCD, and how therapy has played a crucial role in his life.

- The importance of community and empathy in personal growth and professional success.

Featured Quotes:

- "Who am I? That's not just about my job. I'm also a dad, a husband, a brother — and these roles define me more than my professional title."

- "There's a person I put across to keep me safe. Safe from vulnerability, safe from harm."

- "It's not about the number of people you manage, but how you manage to make an impact on people."

Episode Timestamps:

- [00:01:30] Introduction to Andrew's early career

- [00:12:45] Discussing the transition from fast food to advertising

- [00:25:00] The inception and impact of the MediaCom podcast

- [00:37:15] Mental health revelations and the therapeutic journey

- [00:52:10] The role of community and empathy in professional life

Recommended Resources:

- Link to Andrew's MediaCom podcast - https://soundcloud.com/connected-podcast/ronan-harris-vice-president-md-of-google-uk-ireland

- List of mental health resources discussed in the episode:

Mind

Website: www.mind.org.uk

Provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem and campaigns to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

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Join us next time on "Beyond the Brand" where we continue to uncover the human stories behind professional facades.