Creatively Eccentric

Heather Ebanks - Graphic Designer | Empowering Creatives
  • 5.0 (7)
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Bold Voices. Unconventional Creativity. Zero Apologies. A podcast about creative thinking, original work, and building a career without fitting the mould. Creatively Eccentric is a podcast for designers, artists, makers, founders, and creative professionals who do things differently. Each episode explores the unconventional ideas, creative processes, projects, and career decisions that help people build original work and lasting success on their own terms. Rather than focusing on hardship alone, the show dives into how creative difference shows up in the work — from unusual methods and bold experiments to niche businesses, distinctive design philosophies, and careers that refuse to follow the standard path. Join Graphic Designer and host Heather Ebanks, 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. 5 hr ago

    Why Creative Process Matters More Than Perfect Outcomes with Ross Martin

    In this episode of Creatively Eccentric , I sit down with freelance illustrator, designer, and animator Ross Martin to explore what it really means to create authentically. We chat about why curiosity and world-building are at the heart of his work, how he's learned to value the creative process over chasing the perfect outcome, and why leaving room for exploration often leads to the most interesting ideas. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info Instagram: Draw and Deliver Website: Draw and Deliver Host at Creative Mornings Cardiff Creatively Eccentric ™️ Takeaways Embrace authenticity in creativityValue the process over the outcome Self-discovery through creativityBalancing emotional engagement in animation Chapters 00:00 Embracing Authenticity in Creativity 01:07 The Value of World Building and Curiosity 10:09 The Shift from Outcome to Process 14:08 Balancing Perfection and Exploration 18:10 Human Side of Creativity vs. Polished Outcomes 22:11 Struggle with Industry Expectations 25:20 Understanding Self through Creativity 26:17 Client Expectations and Values 27:22 Emotional Expression in Animation 28:06 Nuance and World Building in Animation 30:05 Observing People through Animation 31:13 Balancing Emotional Engagement in Animation 32:14 Artistic Restraint and Viewer Engagement 40:43 Self-Discovery through Creativity 43:01 Advice for Creatives 49:35 Creating a Connected Creative World

    Why Creative Process Matters More Than Perfect Outcomes with Ross Martin

  2. 22 Sept

    Studio Draw(er): Half-Finished Ideas & Honest Thoughts with Shola Ladeji

    In Studio Draw(er) Shola shares insights and experiences related to these themes, providing valuable perspectives on the creative industry and personal creative processes. The conversation covers various themes including career reflections, industry frustrations, design misrepresentation, cultural appropriation, creative chaos, inspiration and influence, and a creative flop. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info Ep26 Learning Upwards Shola Ladeji Instagram: ac.cess mag Takeaways Career reflections and existential moments are crucial for personal growth and professional development.The importance of authenticity, intentionality, and ethical considerations in the creative industry. Chapters 00:00 Career Reflections 34:08 Industry Frustrations 36:08 Design Misrepresentation 37:39 Cultural Appropriation 40:06 Creative Chaos 46:42 Inspiration and Influence 48:16 Creative Flop Creatively Eccentric ™️

    Studio Draw(er): Half-Finished Ideas & Honest Thoughts with Shola Ladeji

  3. 16 Sept

    Learning Upwards: Designer Shola Ladeji on Failure, Rejection & Growth

    Shola Ladeji, a designer, strategist, and mentor, shares his non-traditional journey in the creative industry, emphasising the power of being a generalist, learning through failure, and navigating the challenges of creativity. He provides insights on avoiding noise, chasing meaningful work, and supporting emerging talent. Shola's diverse experiences and perspectives offer valuable lessons for creatives at all stages of their careers. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Info Shola Ladeji Instagram: ac.cess mag Takeaways The power of being a generalist Navigating non-traditional career paths Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shola Ladeji 00:29 The Journey of Shola Ladeji 02:16 Learning and Resilience in the Creative Industry 03:18 Outsider Thinking and Creative Resilience 05:36 The Power of Being a Generalist 06:59 Navigating Non-Traditional Career Paths 09:16 Judging and Mentoring Emerging Talent 11:03 Diversity in Creative Judging 13:00 Opportunities and Breakthroughs 14:33 Advice for Emerging Talent 18:24 Avoiding Noise and Focusing on Meaningful Work 21:21 Dealing with Creativity and Hard Times 26:55 Advice on Job Chasing 28:48 Connecting with Shola Ladeji Creatively Eccentric ™️

    Learning Upwards: Designer Shola Ladeji on Failure, Rejection & Growth

  4. 7 Sept

    Studio Draw(er): Jo Hoopers’ Wake-Up Call for Burnt-Out Creatives

    In this episode of Studio Draw (er), Jo Hooper discusses the challenges in the coaching industry, the impact of trends, the importance of setting boundaries, and the significance of honesty and self-reflection in personal and professional growth. Takeaways Setting boundaries is underrated in the coaching industryBeing honest with oneself and others is important for personal and professional growth Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Ep 24 - The Truth About Success Jo Hooper's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getwildlyfree Jo Hooper's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@joiswildlyfree Guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getwildlyfree YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@joiswildlyfree Chapters 00:05 Target Audience and Coaching Approach 00:06 Navigating Creativity and Industry Frustrations 05:26 Productivity Myths and Misconceptions 09:54 Honesty in Business Practices 14:38 Challenging Assumptions and Stereotypes 16:57 Valuing Time and Expertise Creatively Eccentric™️

    Studio Draw(er): Jo Hoopers’ Wake-Up Call for Burnt-Out Creatives

  5. 2 Sept

    The Truth About Success: What Creatives Are Sacrificing Without Realising with Jo Hooper

    Many traditional business models prioritise profit and growth over the personal well-being of the entrepreneur. This often leads to burnout and dissatisfaction. Jo Hooper believes that the conventional mindset of working tirelessly for success can be detrimental. She highlights that many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of thinking that long hours equate to success, which is not true. Instead of sacrificing their personal lives for work, she encourages entrepreneurs to design their businesses around their lives.   Topics Life-first business model Unconventional choices and authenticity Pricing realities and mindset shifts Social media authenticity and visibility Societal conditioning and work culture Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Jo Hooper's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getwildlyfree Jo Hooper's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@joiswildlyfree Guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/getwildlyfree YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@joiswildlyfree Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jo Hooper's Coaching Philosophy 00:46 Target Audience and Coaching Approach 03:16 Embracing Unconventional Choices 05:19 Leaving Corporate for Mental Health 07:37 Balancing Life and Business 10:38 Redefining Work and Life Priorities 10:55 Recognising Sacrifices for Success 14:51 Challenging the Status Quo in Work 17:40 Uncomfortable Truths for Creatives 20:46 Confronting Criticism with Humour 21:47 The Challenge of Specificity in Communication 23:31 Embracing Authenticity and Personal Growth 24:30 Finding Joy in Content Creation 25:47 Uncovering Your Creative Voice 26:50 The Importance of Authentic Expression 29:07 Overcoming Fear of Visibility 32:51 The Need for Self-Validation 36:13 Backing Yourself for Success 37:54 Navigating Life Changes with Grace 41:19 Valuing Time and Expertise Creatively Eccentric ™️

    The Truth About Success: What Creatives Are Sacrificing Without Realising with Jo Hooper

  6. Season 2 Trailer

    Trailer: Season 2 & Studio Draw (er) | Creatively Eccentric

    What started in Season 1 as a quick end-of-episode question about desk clutter has evolved into its own dedicated companion show. For every main episode, my guests will be opening up their Studio draw (ers) to share raw sketches, unfinished experiments, bizarre creative habits, and half-baked ideas that usually stay hidden away. ⭐️New Season 2 Episodes Starts 3rd of September 2026⭐️ Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Creatively Eccentric™️ Takeaways Dedicated bonus episode Studio Draw (er)Blending real-world creative experiences with systems and mindsets

    Trailer: Season 2 & Studio Draw (er) | Creatively Eccentric

  7. 6 Aug

    The Power of Eccentricity, Visibility & Unmasking Season 1 Finale

    I reflect on our journey, sharing behind-the-scenes breakthroughs and how the show has evolved since launching in 2025. We revisit key moments on visibility, fearlessness, unmasking. Catch up on past episodes during the break, and get ready—Season 2 launches September 2026! Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Creatively Eccentric™️ Episode mentions Steve Chapman Nathalie Edwards Louisa Shaeri Kayleigh Hall Shamsul Rosunally Angela Lyons Dominique Van Werkhoven Johanna Paverdy Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome & Season 1 Overview 00:45 - Key Themes: Visibility, Fearlessness & Eccentricity 01:43 - Steve Chapman: Unbecoming & The Sandwich Metaphor 03:06 - Nathalie Edwards: Breaking Generational Expectations 03:59 - Louisa Shaeri: Situational Mutism & Unmasking 05:23 - Kayleigh Hall: Identity, Culture & Community 06:35 - Shamsul Rosunally: AI & Independent Storytelling 07:27 - Angela Lyons: Diverse Event Representation 08:44 - Dominique Van Werkhoven: Standing Out vs. Tokenism 10:47 - Johanna Paverdy: Barriers for Diverse Founders 12:15 - Behind the Scenes: Building Foundations 14:02 - Strategic Shifts & Guest Waitlists 16:03 - Pitching Boldly & Cold DMs 17:34 - Birmingham Design Festival & Unapologetic Visibility 20:36 - Season 1 Wrap-Up & Season 2 Launch

  8. 22 Jul

    The 4% Perspective: Shari Fairclough on Culture, Memory & Visual Storytelling

    Sunni shares insights on cultural representation, emotional impact, and finding inspiration in unexpected places. The conversation also explores the challenges of transitioning careers, the impact of storytelling in design, and the significance of visibility and representation in the design industry. Connect Pitch Heather: info@creativelyeccentric.com Podlink Subscribe & Listen Apply to be a guest - Waitlist Instagram YouTube Playlist Buy a Ko-Fi Guest Shari Fairclough Bio Instagram Takeaways Design for the soulLearning from failure Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sunni's Work and Background05:22 Learning from Failure and Finding Inspiration10:53 Personal Identity and Cultural Representation in Design16:32 Transitioning Careers and Passion Projects23:04 The Creative Process and Design Inspiration29:20 Weird Sources of Inspiration in Design Creatively Eccentric™

    The 4% Perspective: Shari Fairclough on Culture, Memory & Visual Storytelling
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Trailers

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About

Bold Voices. Unconventional Creativity. Zero Apologies. A podcast about creative thinking, original work, and building a career without fitting the mould. Creatively Eccentric is a podcast for designers, artists, makers, founders, and creative professionals who do things differently. Each episode explores the unconventional ideas, creative processes, projects, and career decisions that help people build original work and lasting success on their own terms. Rather than focusing on hardship alone, the show dives into how creative difference shows up in the work — from unusual methods and bold experiments to niche businesses, distinctive design philosophies, and careers that refuse to follow the standard path. Join Graphic Designer and host Heather Ebanks, 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.

Information

  • Creator
    Heather Ebanks - Graphic Designer | Empowering Creatives
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Heather Ebanks - Graphic Designer | Empowering Creatives
  • Show Website
    Creatively Eccentric