Creatively Eccentric

Heather Ebanks

Bold voices. Messy journeys. Zero apologies. A Podcast about Empowering Creatives, Embracing Uniqueness & Redefining Success Creatively Eccentric is a podcast about radically redefining what it means to be a creative in a world that still prefers conformity — where unapologetically bold, unconventional, and underrepresented creators get real about breaking rules, navigating rejection, and carving out success on their own terms. Too many creatives feel pressure to fit into narrow industry boxes that don’t reflect who they are. The creative industry still upholds gatekeeping, homogeneity, and burnout culture. There’s a lack of platforms that celebrate messy, multi-passionate, neurodivergent, and culturally diverse creators who are doing things differently. Join Graphic Designer and host Heather Ebanks, who will be offering honest solo reflection episodes, alongside conversations with talented creatives, and practical tools for thriving outside the traditional path. Creatively Eccentric doesn’t ask you to “find your niche” or play to the algorithm — it encourages you to build a career by being more of yourself.

  1. The Renegade Designer: Kayleigh Hall on Design, Social Mobility & Confidence

    4 DAYS AGO

    The Renegade Designer: Kayleigh Hall on Design, Social Mobility & Confidence

    Kayleigh Hall’s creative journey doesn’t follow the usual rules — and that’s exactly the point. In this episode, Kayleigh shares how her upbringing, early work experiences, and fascination with human behaviour shaped her approach to branding as something far deeper than aesthetics.  From leaving formal education to falling in love with typography and design psychology, her path is a reminder that creativity often grows in unexpected places. We talk about social mobility, class, and the quiet inner conflict that can come with visibility when you didn’t start from the same place. She also reflects on confidence, clarity, and why understanding yourself — and your audience — can change how you show up in your work and your career. This conversation is for creatives embracing non-linear paths, trusting their intuition, and building work that actually feels like them. Takeaways Embrace your unique journey and the lessons learned along the way.Understand the psychology behind design to create meaningful connections.Align your creative endeavours with business goals for impactful outcomes.Never underestimate the value of practical experience in shaping your career.Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kayleigh Hall 02:28 The Journey of a Renegade Designer 04:39 Education: A Blend of Tradition and Rebellion 09:20 The Psychology Behind Design Decisions 12:19 Art and Science: Building a Sustainable Creative Career 15:54 Supporting Creatives: The Drop-In Clinic 20:41 Social Mobility and Creativity 27:57 Finding Comfort in Self-Employment 32:31 Advice for Aspiring Creatives 36:01 Studio Draw: Behind the Scenes of Creativity 45:43 Outro Guest Hall Creative Instagram LinkedIn Mentions: Mother London Creatively Eccentric ™

    46 min
  2. Hyper-Visible but Unheard: Reclaiming Your Voice as a Creative with Dominique Van Werkhoven

    5 MAR

    Hyper-Visible but Unheard: Reclaiming Your Voice as a Creative with Dominique Van Werkhoven

    Dominique reflects on finding her voice while navigating new cultures, languages, and identities — often starting from scratch. She shares how learning to speak in unfamiliar spaces became less about communication and more about claiming who she is. We also explore the tension of being hyper-visible yet unheard as a creative of colour, the pressure of representation, and why your voice deserves space without carrying everyone else’s weight. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dominique Van Werkhoven  04:35 Embracing Bold Voices and Messy Journeys 07:12 Finding Your Voice in New Cultures 09:40 Navigating Hyper-Visibility and Invisibility 12:24 The Importance of Community and Safe Spaces 14:19 Owning Your Voice and Trusting Your Instincts 17:08 Supporting Underrepresented Voices in Business 23:47 Empowering Small Businesses Through Marketing 26:01 Leadership Lessons from Creative Collaboration 33:01 Balancing Support and Goals in Creative Work 35:35 Embracing Mistakes as Opportunities for Growth 38:55 The Journey of Being Seen and Finding Voice 43:57 Outro Takeaways Navigating hyper-visibility and invisibility is a common challenge for people of colour in creative spaces.Community support is crucial for individuals facing challenges related to visibility and identity.Leadership in creative spaces involves supporting others and fostering their ideas.Small businesses and nonprofits can create significant impact through visibility and effective marketing. Guest The Werks Linkedin - Dominique Linkedin - Gideon Instagram Creatively Eccentric ™

    44 min
  3. Fashion as Activism: How Daisy Riley Challenges the Status Quo

    19 FEB

    Fashion as Activism: How Daisy Riley Challenges the Status Quo

    What if fashion wasn’t just about aesthetics—but about power, politics, and who gets heard? In this episode of Creatively Eccentric, I chat with Daisy Riley, founder of the political fashion zine The Grey, to explore how creativity can be a form of activism. Daisy is redefining what fashion media can be by pushing past glossy trends and celebrity culture to spotlight substance, storytelling, and social impact. We dive into the creation of The Grey and why Daisy felt compelled to challenge the limitations of mainstream fashion publications. She shares how fashion operates as a universal language—one that reflects culture, identity, and inequality—and why it deserves deeper, more critical conversations. She also opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, particularly as a woman carving out space in a traditionally gatekept industry. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting your voice, embracing authenticity, and building confidence through meaningful work. If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest The Grey Zine Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegreyzine/ Mentions London College of Fashion Alterist | Alexander McQueen | Vivienne Westwood Key Takeaways Imposter syndrome is a common challenge, especially for women in leadership and creative rolesFashion lovers value detail and meaning, while fashion followers often chase trendsTokenism in fashion can lead to feeling visible but undervalued Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Daisy and The Grey 00:17 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 00:54 Host Introduction - Daisy Riley 02:14 Educational Background and Early Career 05:01 Fashion Lovers vs. Fashion Followers 07:03 The Value of Physical Print 08:55 Challenging the Frivolous Narrative of Fashion 10:46 Tips for Aspiring Creators 13:05 Experiences with Tokenism 14:27 Fashion's Historical Exclusivity 17:02 Using Fashion as a Tool for Self-Expression 18:43 Inspirational Figures in Fashion 21:11 Behind the Scenes: Studio Draw Segment 24:49 Fashion as Free Speech 25:25 Conclusion and Contact Information 26:05 Outro Creatively Eccentric™️

    26 min
  4. 5 FEB

    Why Hiding Your Work is Hurting Your Reach

    In this solo quarter-year reflection, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes reality of starting Creatively Eccentric. Four months into the podcast, I reflect on how fear, perfectionism, and waiting to feel “ready” kept me hiding my work—and how that was hurting my reach. I talk about why visibility isn’t the problem—fear is, and how letting go of rigid expectations, embracing imperfection, and introducing solo episodes helped me move forward. Some of the episodes I’ve doubted most have resonated deeply with listeners, reminding me that work doesn’t need to be perfect to be valuable. This episode is a reminder that hiding your work doesn’t protect you—it limits your reach. Visibility requires showing up imperfectly, accepting fear and vulnerability as part of being human, and learning as you go. If you’re a creative with a bold voice, a messy journey, and zero apologies, I’d love to hear from you—Creatively Eccentric is always looking for guests who align with the podcast’s values and mission. Details in the description Takeaways: Visibility isn’t the problem—fear is. Waiting to feel ready or perfect often delays progress more than it protects your work.Hiding your work limits your reach. If people can’t see what you’re creating, they can’t connect with it or support it.Starting imperfectly creates momentum. Progress comes from showing up, learning in public, and allowing the work to evolve.Your work doesn’t need to be perfect to resonate. What you doubt as a creator may be exactly what someone else needs. Timestamps 00:00 The Journey Begins: Launching the Podcast 04:26 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Imperfection 06:13 Visibility and Opportunities: Breaking Free from Fear 07:12 Listener Questions 08:39 Guest Call-Out Invitation 08:53 Outro Mentions: Emerging Voices https://www.instagram.com/emergingvoicesstudio/ The thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own. If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Subscribe & Listen: Creatively Eccentric Send a voice-note idea Apply to be a guest Instagram: Creatively Eccentric YouTube Playlist LinkedIn: Heather Ebanks Support the show: Buy a Ko-Fi

    9 min
  5. Unmasking Visibility: Louisa Shaeri on the Power of Being Seen

    22 JAN

    Unmasking Visibility: Louisa Shaeri on the Power of Being Seen

    In this conversation, I had the pleasure of speaking with Louisa Shaeri about her powerful work as a coach for neurodivergent creatives and culture shapers. As we talked, I found myself deeply resonating with her reflections on value, identity, and the systems we move through—systems that so often feel ill-fitting for people who think and create differently. Mentions Website: https://www.valorize.systems/ Podcast: The Unmasking Unschool Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisashaeri/ Thinking Systems - Donella Meadows https://theautisticadvocate.com/ https://theneurodivergentbrain.org/audhd/ Takeaways Fitting into an ill-fitting system limits potential and growth.Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges in traditional coaching environments.Self-doubt can prevent individuals from fully embracing their value.Unmasking is a continuous journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Louisa Shaeri and Her Work 04:45 The Journey of Finding One's Voice 08:53 Understanding Systems and Their Impact 12:30 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Value 16:32 The Role of Education in Creative Industries 20:29 Cognitive Justice and Unmasking 24:51 The Importance of Visibility and Self-Discovery 25:25 Understanding AUDHD and Neurodivergence 30:03 The Creative Process and Identity 30:51 Studio Draw: The Messy Side of Creativity 35:26 Advice on Finding Your Value in Creativity 37:37 Outro The thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own. If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Subscribe & Listen: Creatively Eccentric Send a voice-note idea Apply to be a guest Instagram: Creatively Eccentric YouTube Playlist LinkedIn: Heather Ebanks Support the show: Buy a Ko-Fi

    38 min
  6. 8 JAN

    Honesty Over Hype: Stories That Resonate

    In this episode, I delve into the essence of authentic storytelling, questioning the idea that storytelling should merely be a strategy. I highlight the significance of honesty, creativity, and the genuine connections that stories can foster. Reflecting on my own journey as a creative, I discuss the tension between market-driven narratives and the raw, unfiltered truths that truly resonate with audiences. Through this episode, I encourage fellow creatives to embrace their uniqueness and to redefine success on their own terms. Takeaways Storytelling is about honesty, not just structure.Creatives often hide behind their work.Authenticity resonates more than scripted narratives.The journey of a creator is filled with both struggles and triumphs.Listeners connect with genuine stories, not sales pitches.Creativity is a shared human experience.The importance of stepping out from behind your art.People are drawn to stories they can relate to.Marketing should not overshadow the truth in storytelling.Every story has the potential to inspire and connect. Mentions/Quote jdomito_ https://www.instagram.com/p/DR0M1V9lSed/?img_index=1 Chapters 00:00 The Essence of Storytelling 02:13 Authenticity in Creative Narratives 04:26 Connecting Through Genuine Stories 06:55 Outro The thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own. If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Subscribe & Listen: Creatively Eccentric Send a voice-note idea Apply to be a guest Instagram: Creatively Eccentric YouTube Playlist LinkedIn: Heather Ebanks Support the show: Buy a Ko-Fi

    7 min
  7. 25/12/2025

    When to Nurture & When to Abandon Ideas

    In this solo episode of Creatively Eccentric, I delve into the creative process, exploring the inner turmoil I often face as a creative when deciding whether to hold onto or let go of ideas.  I discuss the delicate balance between nurturing concepts and recognising when it's time to move on. Through sharing my personal insights, I invite you to reflect on your own creative journey, hoping to inspire and connect through our shared experiences. Takeaways Some ideas require nurturing, while others may need to be released.Deadlines can hinder the natural development of creative concepts.Self-credibility is essential in the creative process.It's important to revisit old ideas with a fresh perspective.Not every idea will come to fruition, and that's okay.Creatives often face pressure to produce work quickly.Finding a balance between structure and freedom can enhance creativity.Reflecting on past projects can lead to new insights.Understanding your creative process is key to growth. Chapters 00:00The Creative Dilemma: Holding On or Letting Go? 08:07 Nurturing Ideas: The Balance of Time and Creativity 08:11 Outro The thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own. If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Subscribe & Listen: Creatively Eccentric Send a voice-note idea Apply to be a guest Instagram: Creatively Eccentric YouTube Playlist LinkedIn: Heather Ebanks Support the show: Buy a Ko-Fi

    8 min
5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Bold voices. Messy journeys. Zero apologies. A Podcast about Empowering Creatives, Embracing Uniqueness & Redefining Success Creatively Eccentric is a podcast about radically redefining what it means to be a creative in a world that still prefers conformity — where unapologetically bold, unconventional, and underrepresented creators get real about breaking rules, navigating rejection, and carving out success on their own terms. Too many creatives feel pressure to fit into narrow industry boxes that don’t reflect who they are. The creative industry still upholds gatekeeping, homogeneity, and burnout culture. There’s a lack of platforms that celebrate messy, multi-passionate, neurodivergent, and culturally diverse creators who are doing things differently. Join Graphic Designer and host Heather Ebanks, who will be offering honest solo reflection episodes, alongside conversations with talented creatives, and practical tools for thriving outside the traditional path. Creatively Eccentric doesn’t ask you to “find your niche” or play to the algorithm — it encourages you to build a career by being more of yourself.