The Voices of Creative Health

Jennifer Leslie

The podcast explores how creativity can support mental health, emotional wellbeing, and a sense of belonging, with a focus on underrepresented communities. It serves as a platform for creative health facilitators, practitioners, participants and individuals from underrepresented communities to share their experiences, approaches, and insights, while also engaging a broader audience of practitioners, educators, funders, and allies who want to learn about diversity, inclusion, and culturally informed creative health practice. In our Resources Corner, we share the latest funding, events, and news from the creative health world—helping you access the opportunities you might not have known existed. The podcast provides a space where people can explore and identify what creative health means to them, helping the field feel accessible rather than alien.

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 19: Season One Finale: Your Creative Health Moment Starts Here - With Jen Leslie

    Summary In this final episode of Season One of The Voices of Creative Health, host Jen reflects on the powerful stories shared by guests throughout the season. She explores the meaning of creative health through responses from friends and family, emphasising self-expression, mental wellbeing, and personal journeys. Jen also shares her own definition of creative health, highlighting the importance of creativity in navigating life's challenges and celebrating personal growth. The episode ends with a poem from previous guest Janice. Keywords creative health, self-expression, mental wellbeing, creativity, personal stories, podcast, season one, reflections, definitions, insights Keywords creative health, self-expression, mental wellbeing, creativity, personal stories, podcast, season one, reflections, definitions, insights Additional Resources Janice Podcast Episode  Zoe Podcast Episode Connect with Jen Email: Thevoicesofcreativehealth@outlook.com Instagram: @thevoicesofcreativehealth LinkedIn: Jennifer Leslie  Podcast Contribution - Special Thanks Thank you to Tshana, Tafari, Amyrah, Nyah, Jezziah, my Mum, Eleanor, Monica and Alice, for sharing what Creative Health means to them. All audio content, recordings, and quotes from this podcast are protected under UK copyright law. No audio or quoted material may be reproduced, distributed, broadcast, or used in any form without the prior written consent from Jennifer Leslie.

    22 min

  2. May 26

    Episode 18: This is Why We Train: Movement, & Community Support With guests Derrick and Delroy

    Summary In this episode with Derek and Delroy, share their fitness journeys, the impact of physical activity on well-being, and the importance of inclusivity in fitness. They discuss how age should not be a barrier to movement and share personal stories of motivation and community engagement. The conversation emphasises the need for modifications in fitness routines to accommodate all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities, and highlights the cyclical nature of motivation in fitness communities. The discussion transitions to the significance of personal time for self-connection, leading to the introduction of Gorilla Gardens, a community-driven outdoor training initiative, created by Derrick and Delroy. Keywords fitness, physical activity, health, community, inclusivity, age, modifications, well-being training, exercise, Gorilla gardens, personal time, outdoor training, bodyweight workout, connection, motivation, training, family, underrepresented communities, mental health Chapters: Introduction, Community Impact & Fitness JourneysDerek & Delroy: Personal Fitness JourneysAge, Physical Activity & The Cycle of MotivationTraining vs Exercise & The Importance of Self-CareThe Birth of Gorilla Gardens & Community Co-Creation Inclusivity in Training & Accessible Movement for AllHealth, Barriers & Practical Fitness in Everyday LifeCreative Health: Youth, Women, Reflections & Wider ImpactConnect with Derrick Instagram: @Papa’s drills 2 Facebook: Papa Kwasi Agyeman TikTok: Papas_drills Connect with Delroy Instagram Connect with Jen: Email:thevoicesofcreativehealth@outlook.com Resources Corner Funding Name of Organisation The Radcliffe Trust Name of Grant: Heritage & Crafts Scheme Amount: £2,500–£7,500 Deadline: 31st July 2026 Link Events Name of Event: Heritage Crafts Organisation: Cultural Fashion and Arts CIC Date: Sunday 31st May 2026 Time@ 12pm- 4pm Location Woodgreen Shopping Mall (North London) Name of event: Great Exhibition Road Festival 2026 Date: 6-7th June Time 12pm -6pm Location: Exhibition Road- South Kensington Amount: Free Link News Creative Health CDP!!! A short course co-developed by London Arts and Health and City St George’s, University of London Link: Additional information Quadrille Dancing London Arts in Health Forum – Developing the role of culture in wellbeing All audio content, recordings, and quotes from this podcast are protected under UK copyright law. No audio or quoted material may be reproduced, distributed, broadcast, or used in any form without the prior written consent from Derrick, Delroy and Jennifer

    1h 42m

  3. May 19

    Episode 17: Making the Invisible Visible: Creativity, Healing and Community With Guest Charlotte

    Content note: This episode includes references to infertility, miscarriage, pregnancy loss, and grief. These themes are not present throughout the entire conversation, but they are discussed at points and may be sensitive for some listeners. Summary Explore the inspiring journey of Charlotte CHW, a multidisciplinary artist and creative health advocate, as she shares her work across various art forms, her approach to community engagement, and her upcoming show at Brighton Fringe. Discover insights into creative health, participatory practices, and the power of experimentation in art. Charlotte shares her journey through creative health, exploring how art and creativity support wellbeing, especially for those experiencing invisible struggles like miscarriage. Keywords Creative health, multidisciplinary art, community engagement, Brighton Fringe, participatory practices, art therapy, movement, opera, improvisation, artistic journey creative health, wellbeing, visibility, miscarriage, artistic process, accessible creativity, mental health, artistic resilience Connect with Charlotte instagram.com/charlottechw_art Chapters 00:00 — Introduction, Identity & The Creative Journey 04:00 — Understanding Creative Health & Art Psychotherapy 11:31 — Facilitating Creativity & Multidisciplinary Practice 30:13 — Theatre, Performance & Creative Expression 40:58 — Community, Workshops & Making Art Visible 45:25 — Personal Stories, Vulnerability & Life Experience 54:43 — Creativity as Wellbeing & Therapeutic Practice 01:10:36 — Accessible Creativity, Community & Defining Creative Health Resources Corner Funding Name of grant: Grants for Good Additional note: They have added some tips on what make an application stand out - Links included in the show notes Link Events The Invitation - An evening of Kingdom Creativity: Art, Spoken Word, Poetry Link UCL Creative Health 200 – MASc Creative Health Student Conference Link On Barren Hill –work in progress Link: On Barren Hill (Work In Progress) - Brighton Fringe News Culture health and Wellbeing Alliance (CHWA) Additional Resources Fertility Network UK Brighton Fringe Change Act All audio content, recordings, and quotes from this podcast are protected under UK copyright law. No audio or quoted material may be reproduced, distributed, broadcast, or used in any form without the prior written consent from Charlotte and Jennifer Leslie

    1h 42m

  4. May 12

    Episode 16: Speaking Through Poetry: Culture, Voice and Creative Freedom – With Guest Janice W

    Summary In this conversation, Janice W shares her journey as a poet and the significance of creativity in her life. She discusses her early influences, the impact of her cultural background, and the rediscovery of her creative voice in 2016. She shares insights on poetry slams, the role of community in fostering creativity, and the therapeutic benefits of writing and sharing poetry. Keywords creative health, poetry, spoken word, creativity, personal journey, cultural influences, rediscovery, community development, artistic expression, poetry slam,wellbeing, collaboration, artistic journey, haiku, Chapters 00:00 – Introduction: Creative Health, Poetry & Finding Your Voice 01:27 – Early Influences, Family Support & Cultural Identity 07:27 – Rediscovering Creativity & Returning to Poetry 19:52 – Poetry as Expression, Healing & Social Connection 28:03 – Workshops, Poetry Slams & Building Community 46:02 – Creativity, Wellbeing & Supporting Others 01:10:35 – Breaking Barriers & Everyday Creativity 01:23:38 – Haiku, Creative Health & A Poetic Reflection Connect with Janice Instagram: @jjsmuse LinkedIn: Janice Whyne YouTube: Janice Whyne Website: janicewhyne.com Resources Corner Funding Fund: The 23 Foundation Grant Programme Link: Open Call: 23 Foundation Grant Program in United Kingdom - fundsforNGOs Events Art in the Docks Link: Creative Health & Wellbeing Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite On Barren Hill –work in progress Link:On Barren Hill (Work In Progress) - Brighton Fringe Additional Resources Friday Free Writes -A Look at Free Writes - J M Whyne - April 2026 Poets Palace Elevated 2 Art:  Roundhouse London The Metaphorest Thank you Janice for providing these additional resources. Connect with Jen: Instagram All audio content, recordings, and quotes from this podcast are protected under UK copyright law. No audio or quoted material may be used in any form without the prior written consent from Janice Whyne and Jennifer Leslie

    1h 44m

  5. May 5

    Episode 15: Creative Health in Action. Confidence and Community Through RTSY With Guest Maria

    Summary Maria shares her inspiring journey from childhood creativity to founding RTSY – The Creative School of Art, a community-focused art school that nurtures well-being and confidence in young people. Discover how art can be a powerful tool for healing, self-expression, and community building. Join us as Maria shares her inspiring journey into her community-focused art classes for adults and children, and her insights on the importance of creative health for mental well-being. Discover practical tips for integrating creativity into daily life and how community and access can transform lives. Keywords art therapy, creativity, community, mental health, art education, young people, well-being, artistic journey, RTSY school, art therapy, creative health, community art classes, mental well-being, art for adults, art for children, artistic journey, art techniques, mental health support, accessible art Connect with Maria Guest Contact Links/Details Website: https://www.rtsythecreativeschoolofart.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rtsy.thecreativeschoolofart/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rtsy.thecreativeschoolofart/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Maria's Creative Journey 05:31 The Impact of Family on Artistic Development 13:02 Resilience and Growth Through Education 20:58 Art as a Tool for Wellbeing 24:42 The Birth of Artsy: A Creative Space for Children 35:55 Creating a Supportive Community for Young Artists 41:46 Building a Creative Space: From Workshops to Art Schools 45:46 The Healing Power of Creativity 49:55 Nurturing Adult Creativity: Rediscovering Passion 58:42 Overcoming Creative Blocks and Finding Inspiration 01:04:58 Art Therapy and Community Engagement 01:11:48 Fostering Creativity in Children 01:18:36 The Importance of Community 01:29:02 Defining Creative Health Funding Organisation: Peabody Name of grant: The Kerslake Award Amount: up to £2,000 Deadline: Friday 5th June 11.59pm Additional support: Q&A Sessions Thursday 7 May from 6pm to 7pm.  Register for the Q&A on Zoom Thursday 14 May from 2pm to 3pm. Register for the Q&A on Zoom Link Kerslake Awards - Peabody Events Name of Event: Paint to Create Date Monday 11th May and every Monday after Time: 9-11 Link Paint to create Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite News Community Spaces – Opportunity - @thecarpetshop.peckham Link: Instagram Connect With Jen Email: thevoicesofcreativehealth@outlook.com Instagram: @thevoicesofcreativehealth Tik Tok: @thevoicesofch LinkedIn: Jennifer Leslie  All audio content, recordings, and quotes from this podcast are protected under UK copyright law. No audio or quoted material may be reproduced, distributed, broadcast, or used in any form without the prior written consent from Maria and Jennifer Leslie

    1h 22m

  6. Apr 28

    Episode 14: The Imprint of Creativity - A Family Conversation- With My sisters Jas, Jacks and Jessy

    Summary This episode explores the transformative power of creativity in various settings, from education to social care, and discusses how to make creative health accessible to underrepresented communities. In this special family conversation, Jennifer is joined by her sisters Jasmin, Jacqueline, and Jessica, as they share personal stories, practical tips, and honest reflections on fostering creativity for well-being and social impact. Keywords Creative Health, Community Engagement, Underrepresented Communities, Creative Outlets, Education, Mental Health, Art Therapy, Community Projects, Creative Workshops  Chapters   00:00 Accessibility of Creativity for All 06:24 Defining Creative Health 08:05 Creativity in Various Establishments 09:43 The Role of Creativity in Personal Growth 11:52 Workshops and Their Impact on Young People 15:03 Monetising Creativity Without Losing Passion 17:09 Facilitating Creative Spaces 17:45 Engaging Underrepresented Communities in Creativity 23:55 Harnessing Community Creativity 45:04 The Impact of AI on Creativity Funding Organisation: Southwark Council Grant: Creative Health: Two Tender Opportunities Date: Expression of interest window - 11 May 2026 to 1 June 2026 Link: Creative Health: 2 tender opportunities | Southwark Council Events: Creativity and Wellbeing Week Launch Event Date: Monday 18th May Time 10:30 – 12:30 Critical Hope - Creativity and Wellbeing Week launch Tickets, Monday, May 18  •  10:30 AM - 12:30 PM | Eventbrite News Listing of Creativity and Wellbeing Activities Creativity and Wellbeing Org Additional Information CAHN – Caribbean & African Health Network CIC Whats On | Dugdale Arts Centre Homepage | Forty Hall Estate UP Projects Enfield of Dreams Black Men Teach APPG Roundtable Connect with Jen Email: Thevoicesofcreativehealth@outlook.com Instagram: @thevoicesofcreativehealth All audio content, recordings, and quotes from this podcast are protected under UK copyright law. No audio or quoted material may be reproduced, distributed, broadcast, or used in any form without the prior written consent from Jennifer Leslie

    54 min

  7. Apr 21

    Episode 13: The Art That Saved Me. Graffiti, Growth and Giving Back: with Guest Claude

    Summary In this conversation, Claude Specta shares his journey from a young graffiti artist to a successful creative professional. He discusses the challenges he faced, the importance of community and mentorship, and how creativity has played a vital role in his mental health and well-being. The dialogue emphasises the healing power of art and the need for underrepresented voices in the creative field. Keywords Graffiti, creativity, art, community, mental health, workshops, graphic design, self-expression, youth engagement, artistic journey Chapters 00:00 The Creative Journey Begins 08:08 Creative Beginnings: From Graffiti to Graphic Design 09:21 Overcoming Challenges, Burnout and Community 11:39 Art, Mental Health and Creative Healing 13:53 Creative Workshops and Community Impact 16:36 Creative Career: Branding, Marketing and Income 29:22 Advice for Aspiring Artists and Staying Creative Connect with Claude: Instagram: tagworkshop_ldn Resources Corner The Ethnic Minority Development Fund (EMDF) – Fund was established Organisation: Council of Ethnic Minority Voluntary Sector Organisations Scotland (CEMVO) Link: Building Funding Capacity - CEMVO Scotland Events Name: London: Shoreditch Street Art & Graffiti Walking Tour Link: London: Shoreditch Street Art & Graffiti Walking Tour Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite News Creative Health 2025 Sector Survey – Findings (First set of results) UK & Ireland State of Sector Survey for Creative Health- 2025 UK Creative Health Sector Survey 2023 Additional Resources Leak Street Arches Connect with Jen Email: Thevoicesofcreativehealth@outlook.com Instagram: @thevoicesofcreativehealth All audio content, recordings, and quotes from this podcast are protected under UK copyright law. No audio or quoted material may be reproduced, distributed, broadcast, or used in any form without the prior written consent from Claude Specta and Jennifer Leslie.

    43 min

  8. Apr 14

    Episode 12: Framing Connection Through Light, Lens and Community: with Guest Ben

    In this conversation, Ben shares his artistic journey, focusing on his passion for photography and community engagement through Pinhole London. Ben emphasises the importance of community spaces, particularly libraries, in fostering creativity and connection among individuals. Keywords photography, community art, pinhole photography, creative health, NHS collaboration, wellbeing, art education, community engagement creativity accessibility, DIY projects, support. Health, wellbeing Connect with Ben Instagram: @PinholeLondon  Facebook: @PinholeLondon  Eventbrite: Pinhole London  Website:  www.pinholelondon.org     Chapters 00:00 Journey into Photography 03:04 Community Engagement through Art 06:03 Creative Health and NHS Collaboration 09:02 Understanding Pinhole Photography 11:55 Art as a Tool for Wellbeing 14:57 Exploring Changes in Photography 17:55 Untold Tales and Community Stories 21:14 Creativity and Healing 24:10 The Role of Libraries in Community Art 26:59 Overcoming Barriers in Creativity 34:43 Fostering Creativity in Everyday Life Resources Corner Funding  - Creativity Pioneers Fund 2026 Events Events Pinhole London Events / Southgate Celebrates https://www.pinholelondon.org/whats-on Arts Council Funding webinar  News Black Health Inequalities Summit 2026 CAHN Additional Resources Fore St For All Justin Quinnell Connect with Jen: Email: Thevoicesofcreativehealth@outlook.com Instagram: @thevoicesofcreativehealth Please note all audio content, recordings, and quotes from this podcast are protected under UK copyright law. No audio or quoted material may be reproduced, distributed, broadcast, or used in any form without the prior written consent from Ben Nathan and Jennifer Leslie

    53 min
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About

The podcast explores how creativity can support mental health, emotional wellbeing, and a sense of belonging, with a focus on underrepresented communities. It serves as a platform for creative health facilitators, practitioners, participants and individuals from underrepresented communities to share their experiences, approaches, and insights, while also engaging a broader audience of practitioners, educators, funders, and allies who want to learn about diversity, inclusion, and culturally informed creative health practice. In our Resources Corner, we share the latest funding, events, and news from the creative health world—helping you access the opportunities you might not have known existed. The podcast provides a space where people can explore and identify what creative health means to them, helping the field feel accessible rather than alien.

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