Initial Step

James Taylor
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Welcome to Initial Step! On this channel, we bring you short, engaging conversational interviews where we talk with talented individuals from the creative sector, focusing especially on those who have risen from low socioeconomic or working-class backgrounds. Our aim? To shine a light on the barriers that often exist when trying to break into creative roles. But more importantly, to showcase inspiring stories of how these challenges can be overcome. Join us as we explore the journeys of remarkable people, learn about their struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. Because no matter where you start, breaking into the creative sector is possible, and we’re here to prove it. Make sure to subscribe to avoid missing any episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Class, Access & Authenticity: The Truth About Breaking Into Acting | Emma, Bthechange Theatre CIC

    12 THG 5

    Class, Access & Authenticity: The Truth About Breaking Into Acting | Emma, Bthechange Theatre CIC

    From homelessness to founding a theatre company. Emma shares the journey that shaped her, and why she believes access, authenticity, and owning your story are the most powerful tools in the industry. In this episode I'm joined by Emma, actor, founder, and theatre programme director of Bthechange Theatre CIC. An organisation dedicated to breaking down barriers to the acting industry by partnering with charities and supporting people from underrepresented and working-class backgrounds. Emma opens up about growing up in a single-parent household, experiencing homelessness, and finding her way into acting later in life. Rather than hiding her background, she's built a career and a company on it. We talk about what it really means to use lived experience as strength, and why staying connected to your roots can be the difference between surviving and thriving. We cover: → Class and access in the acting industry → Regional bias and how it shapes who gets in the room → Why authenticity is a competitive advantage, not a liability → The power of creating your own work → How Bthechange Theatre CIC is changing the landscape If you've ever felt like the industry wasn't built for you — this one's for you. 🔗 Find out more about Bthechange Theatre CIC: https://www.instagram.com/bthechange_theatre_cic/ Photo credit - Jacqui McSweeney — If you found this valuable, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear it. 🔔 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and insights into those from working class and low socioeconomic backgrounds! 👍 Like this video if you enjoyed Emma's journey! 🗣️ Comment below with your thoughts and questions for Emma! Follow Us: - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/initialstep.co.uk/ - Twitter - https://x.com/step_initial - Apple podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/initial-step/id1758128198 - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZizcM5a2HEQKcaAPToysk?si=79fb1e8a830a4ec9 - Linktree - https://linktr.ee/initialstep Follow Emma Turner - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-turner-259525a6 - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mcractressemmaturner - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/18cin68G2S/?mibextid=wwXIfr Thanks for watching! #initialstep #workingclass #lowsocioeconomicbackground #creativeindustry #TVandFilm #Advertising #PRandMarketing #CreativeJourney #CareerInspiration #anyonecanachievesuccess #actor #bthechangetheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 phút
  2. Class, Confidence & Careers: How Susanna Broke Into Marketing From a Working-Class Background

    15 THG 4

    Class, Confidence & Careers: How Susanna Broke Into Marketing From a Working-Class Background

    In this conversation, Susanna shares her journey from a working-class background to becoming the Head of Marketing at a charity focused on social mobility. She reflects on the impact of her upbringing, education, and the encouragement she received from a teacher that changed her trajectory. Susanna discusses the challenges of navigating class perceptions in professional spaces, the importance of self-funding her university education, and her experiences working in historic houses. She also addresses her parenting choices and the perceptions of sending her child to an independent school, highlighting the complexities of class and identity. We explore the nuances of class in the workplace, particularly in marketing and PR. They discuss the perceptions of class, the divide between marketing and PR professionals, and the challenges faced by those from working-class backgrounds. The conversation also touches on the importance of cultural capital, social mobility, and the impact of unpaid internships. Susanna shares her experiences and insights on how confidence plays a crucial role in overcoming class barriers and encourages young people to pursue their ambitions without being limited by their background. Key Takeaways: - Susanna identifies as working class despite her current status. - Education played a crucial role in her journey. - Encouragement from a teacher was pivotal in her life. - Self-funding university was a conscious decision to avoid burdening her parents. - Navigating middle-class spaces can be challenging for those from working-class backgrounds. - Her experiences in historic houses shaped her understanding of class. - Parenting choices reflect her desire to provide better opportunities for her child. - Class perceptions influence how individuals are treated in professional settings. - Marketing became a passion after being encouraged to explore it as a career. - Susanna's story highlights the importance of social mobility and access to opportunities. PR and communications is often seen as a middle-class domain. - Marketing professionals tend to have a more gritty approach compared to PR. - Experiences of humiliation can arise from class differences in professional settings. - Unpaid internships perpetuate class disparities in the workplace. - Social mobility is influenced by cultural capital and access to opportunities. - Confidence is a key differentiator in overcoming class barriers. - Awareness of class structures can help navigate professional environments. - Working-class individuals often face additional challenges in securing internships. - Cultural capital can vary significantly based on geographic location. - Everyone's voice matters in discussions about class and opportunity. 🔔 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and insights into those from working class and low socioeconomic backgrounds! 👍 Like this if you enjoyed Susanna's journey! 🗣️ Comment below with your thoughts and questions for Susanna! Follow Us: - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/initialstep.co.uk/ - Twitter - https://x.com/step_initial - Apple podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/initial-step/id1758128198 - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZizcM5a2HEQKcaAPToysk?si=79fb1e8a830a4ec9 - Linktree - https://linktr.ee/initialstep Follow Susanna - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanna-plummer/ - Working Options - https://workingoptions.org.uk/ Thanks for listening! #initialstep #workingclass #lowsocioeconomicbackground #creativeindustry #TVandFilm #Advertising #PRandMarketing #CreativeJourney #CareerInspiration #anyonecanachievesuccess #capital #socialcapital #economiccapital #culturalcapital #socialmobility Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 giờ 8 phút
  3. Social Mobility, Class & Creating Fair Opportunity | Nina Slingsby, Founder of OAHA

    18 THG 3

    Social Mobility, Class & Creating Fair Opportunity | Nina Slingsby, Founder of OAHA

    What does it really take to level the playing field, and is the system even designed to let that happen? Nina Slingsby, founder of OAHA, shares her personal journey from a grant-funded school to leading meaningful change in workplace inclusion and social mobility. Her story is one of navigating systems not built with everyone in mind and choosing to rewrite the rules from the inside. In this conversation, Nina unpacks: 🔹 Why the definition of "working class" is more personal than political and whether it still applies today 🔹 How diverse educational environments shape the way we see class, opportunity, and ourselves 🔹 The hidden role university plays in steering, or steering you away from the right career path 🔹 How mentorship and the right leadership can be the difference between stagnation and a breakthrough 🔹 The systemic barriers that quietly block career progression and how to spot them 🔹 Why location is one of the most underrated factors in access to opportunity 🔹 How organisations can work together to create change that actually sticks This is a conversation about more than diversity initiatives and HR policy. It's about what fairness genuinely looks like in practice and why collaboration, not just intention, is what drives real systemic change. 💬 Have you experienced barriers in your career that others didn't seem to face? Share your story in the comments. 📌 Learn more about Nina's work at OAHA and the mission to create equitable workplaces for everyone. 🔔 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and insights into those from working class and low socioeconomic backgrounds! 👍 Like this video if you enjoyed Nina's story! 🗣️ Comment below with your thoughts and questions for Nina! Follow Us: - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/initialstep.co.uk/ - Twitter - https://x.com/step_initial - Apple podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/initial-step/id1758128198 - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZizcM5a2HEQKcaAPToysk?si=79fb1e8a830a4ec9 - Linktree - https://linktr.ee/initialstep Follow Nina LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninaslingsby/ Website - www.oaha.uk Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/oahaltd/ Thanks for listening! #initialstep #workingclass #lowsocioeconomicbackground #creativeindustry #TVandFilm #Advertising #PRandMarketing #CreativeJourney #CareerInspiration #anyonecanachievesuccess #OAHA #SocialMobility #WorkingClass #InclusionAtWork #CareerDevelopment #SystemicChange #DiversityAndInclusion #FairOpportunity #PeopleAndCulture Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 phút
  4. A Life Between Systems: Care, Education and Employment - Marisa's Journey

    10 THG 2

    A Life Between Systems: Care, Education and Employment - Marisa's Journey

    In this conversation, Marisa shares her journey growing up in foster care in Essex, shaped by instability, addiction and the justice system. She reflects on how receiving funding to attend a convent boarding school exposed her to a world far removed from her roots, forcing her to adapt, blend in, and develop confidence in formal environments, while quietly carrying the stigma of being in care. Marisa talks candidly about the pressure to attend university, the belief that it was the only route to success, and the reality of dropping out with debt and no degree. She opens up about how these experiences, alongside caring responsibilities for her mother, led her into mental health work before eventually stepping away to protect herself. Her career in recruitment became a turning point. Drawing on empathy shaped by lived experience, Marisa championed people from working-class and disadvantaged backgrounds, sometimes taking risks others wouldn’t. From helping someone sleeping rough into employment, to later working with charities and leading DEI initiatives, she found purpose in creating access and opportunity for others. Marisa reflects on how organisations are beginning to take social mobility more seriously, while still often failing to understand the complexity behind people’s backgrounds. She also shares what it meant to finally hear her experiences reflected in conversations around class and why she wouldn’t change her roots, seeing them as central to who she is and how she supports others today. 🔔 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and insights into those from working class and low socioeconomic backgrounds! 👍 Like if you enjoyed Marisa's journey! 🗣️ Comment below with your thoughts and questions for Marisa! Follow Us: - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/initialstep.co.uk/ - Apple podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/initial-step/id1758128198 - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZizcM5a2HEQKcaAPToysk?si=79fb1e8a830a4ec9 - Linktree - https://linktr.ee/initialstep Follow Marisa: - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisa-lloyd-certrp-46677069/ Thanks for listening! #initialstep #workingclass #lowsocioeconomicbackground #creativeindustry #TVandFilm #Advertising #PRandMarketing #CreativeJourney #CareerInspiration #anyonecanachievesuccess #Trauma Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 giờ 3 phút
  5. Lifting the lid at the BBC on Newsnight - David's story of class within the BBC

    14 THG 1

    Lifting the lid at the BBC on Newsnight - David's story of class within the BBC

    In this episode, veteran graphic designer David Chaudoir draws on over 30 years in the media industry to speak candidly about class, culture, and power inside major institutions like the BBC. David reflects on a controversial moment involving a doctored Newsnight clip linked to the Insurrection on January 6th 2021. An incident that pushed him to publicly question media integrity and editorial bias. From there, the conversation widens into a deeper critique of how a dominant middle-class worldview within media limits diversity of thought and marginalises working-class voices. We explore how ideas of “working class” have shifted over time, the role education plays in class mobility, and why trades, apprenticeships, and alternative pathways deserve equal respect. Above all, David argues for resilience, hard work, and genuine diversity of opinion as essential ingredients for a healthier, more representative media landscape. This is an honest, challenging conversation about class, credibility, and who gets to shape the national conversation. Key Takeaways - David Chaudoir has over 30 years’ experience working in media and graphic design - A doctored Newsnight clip raised serious concerns about editorial integrity - Media organisations are dominated by a narrow middle-class perspective - Working-class voices are often marginalised in mainstream discourse - The BBC has become increasingly disconnected from everyday audiences - Class distinctions are harder to define, but still deeply influential - Education should value trades and apprenticeships alongside academia - Diversity of thought matters as much as diversity of background - Hard work and resilience remain essential to success - Background should never define potential 🔔 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and insights into those from working class and low socioeconomic backgrounds! 👍 Like this if you enjoyed David's story! 🗣️ Comment below with your thoughts and questions for David! Follow Us: - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/initialstep.co.uk/ - Twitter - https://x.com/step_initial - Apple podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/initial-step/id1758128198 - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZizcM5a2HEQKcaAPToysk?si=79fb1e8a830a4ec9 - Linktree - https://linktr.ee/initialstep Follow David - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-chaudoir/ - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/motionoldboy/ Thanks for listening! #initialstep #workingclass #lowsocioeconomicbackground #creativeindustry #TVandFilm #Advertising #PRandMarketing #CreativeJourney #CareerInspiration #anyonecanachievesuccess #bbc #newsnight #whistleblower Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 giờ
  6. Championing Young People from Working-Class Backgrounds - Samuel Conley

    15/12/2025

    Championing Young People from Working-Class Backgrounds - Samuel Conley

    In this episode, I get to speak with with Sam Conley, Youth Empowerment Lead at Poplar HARCA, to unpack what it really means to grow up working class in the UK today. From the stigma and stereotypes young people are up against, to the massive role social media plays in shaping their aspirations, Sam brings frontline experience, honesty, and hope to the conversation. They explore why class still feels like a “taboo” topic, how organisations can bridge opportunity gaps, and what it takes to empower the next generation to thrive. Sam also sheds light on life in Tower Hamlets, one of the most deprived boroughs in the country and why understanding the lived experiences of working-class youth is key to genuine change. 🔔 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and insights into those from working class and low socioeconomic backgrounds! 👍 Like this if you enjoyed! 🗣️ Comment below with your thoughts and questions for Samuel! Follow Us: - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/initialstep.co.uk/ - Twitter - https://x.com/step_initial - Apple podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/initial-step/id1758128198 - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZizcM5a2HEQKcaAPToysk?si=79fb1e8a830a4ec9 - Linktree - https://linktr.ee/initialstep Follow Samuel: - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-conley-0722b0a6/ Thanks for listening! #initialstep #workingclass #lowsocioeconomicbackground #creativeindustry #TVandFilm #Advertising #PRandMarketing #CreativeJourney #CareerInspiration #anyonecanachievesuccess #canarywharf #youthempowerment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 phút
  7. From Full-Time Carer to the Gaming Industry | Ashleigh’s Working-Class Journey

    13/11/2025

    From Full-Time Carer to the Gaming Industry | Ashleigh’s Working-Class Journey

    Ashleigh grew up in Leicester in a working-class, single-parent household, caring full-time for his disabled mother from his teens into his twenties. While his brothers moved on, Ashleigh took on the responsibility of assisted living care. A commitment that shaped his life, his opportunities, and his sense of purpose. Despite limited options and financial struggles, he started volunteering remotely in the gaming industry. A move that opened the door to a professional career in hosting game services, onboarding influencers, and building brand partnerships. His journey from council estate to business development shows the resilience, guilt, and determination behind breaking class barriers. In this episode, Ashleigh reflects on: - Growing up in a tight-knit but changing council estate community - Balancing care responsibilities with career ambitions - Moving on from his working-class roots while staying grounded - The lack of working-class representation in the gaming world - How education and remote work shaped his opportunities 👉 This is more than a career story, it’s about navigating identity, class, and care while building a new future. 🔔 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and insights into those from working class and low socioeconomic backgrounds! 👍 Like this if you enjoyed Ashleigh's journey! 🗣️ Comment below with your thoughts and questions for Ashleigh! Follow Us: - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/initialstep.co.uk/ - Twitter - https://x.com/step_initial - Apple podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/initial-step/id1758128198 - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZizcM5a2HEQKcaAPToysk?si=79fb1e8a830a4ec9 - Linktree - https://linktr.ee/initialstep Follow Ashleigh - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleigh-laywood/ - Twitter / X - @bashtonnn Thanks for listening! #initialstep #workingclass #lowsocioeconomicbackground #creativeindustry #TVandFilm #Advertising #PRandMarketing #CreativeJourney #CareerInspiration #anyonecanachievesuccess #WorkingClassStories #GamingIndustry #SocialMobility #ClassAndCare Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 giờ 5 phút
  8. From Yeovil to London: Ryan’s Journey Through Class and Creativity

    07/10/2025

    From Yeovil to London: Ryan’s Journey Through Class and Creativity

    In this episode, we meet Ryan, who grew up in the small town of Yeovil, Somerset, a traditionally working-class area hit hard by the 2008 crash. After his parents lost their business, they rebuilt their lives through hands-on work. His dad as a plumber and his mum as a cleaner, instilling in Ryan the value of resilience and humility. Although strong academically, Ryan was drawn to creativity, inspired by his dad’s love of music. This passion led him to study the arts at university, a move that opened doors to opportunities far beyond his hometown. Through a university placement, Ryan landed his first teaching role in London, marking a major step away from small-town life and into the creative sector. Despite his success, Ryan remains grounded in his working-class roots. He speaks openly about class divides, the challenges of navigating professional hierarchies, and the need for more support for students from similar backgrounds. Today, he uses his experience to mentor and guide young people, offering the advice he wishes he’d had. 🔹 Topics covered: - Growing up working class in rural England - How the 2008 crash shaped his family’s future - Creativity as a route out of limitation - Navigating seniority and workplace culture - Giving back through mentoring and advice 🔔 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and insights into those from working class and low socioeconomic backgrounds! 👍 Like this if you enjoyed Ryan's journey! 🗣️ Comment below with your thoughts and questions for Ryan! Follow Us: - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/initialstep.co.uk/ - Twitter - https://x.com/step_initial - Apple podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/initial-step/id1758128198 - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZizcM5a2HEQKcaAPToysk?si=79fb1e8a830a4ec9 - Linktree - https://linktr.ee/initialstep Follow Ryan - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryancallard/ - Website - http://ryancallard.co.uk/ Grant Funds: - https://www.ukgamesfund.com/ - https://tranzfuser.com/ Also here is an additional bonus clip in case you wanted to watch some of his grandads famous West Country Yap - https://youtu.be/WjTIFkWJctY?t=243 Thanks for listening! #initialstep #workingclass #lowsocioeconomicbackground #creativeindustry #TVandFilm #Advertising #PRandMarketing #CreativeJourney #CareerInspiration #anyonecanachievesuccess #WorkingClassStories #SocialMobility #Education #CreativeJourney #InspiringStories #FromYeovilToLondon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 giờ 3 phút
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Giới Thiệu

Welcome to Initial Step! On this channel, we bring you short, engaging conversational interviews where we talk with talented individuals from the creative sector, focusing especially on those who have risen from low socioeconomic or working-class backgrounds. Our aim? To shine a light on the barriers that often exist when trying to break into creative roles. But more importantly, to showcase inspiring stories of how these challenges can be overcome. Join us as we explore the journeys of remarkable people, learn about their struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. Because no matter where you start, breaking into the creative sector is possible, and we’re here to prove it. Make sure to subscribe to avoid missing any episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thông Tin

  • Nhà sáng tạo
    James Taylor
  • Năm hoạt động
    2024 - 2026
  • Tập
    22
  • Xếp hạng
    Thô tục
  • Bản quyền
    © James Taylor
  • Trang web chương trình
    Initial Step