Conversations of Inspiration

Why does art make children and society powerful? Why should creativity be a right and not a privilege? In this episode, Holly is joined by the extraordinary Bob and Roberta Smith OBE RA — artist, activist, educator and passionate advocate for the power of the arts. Together, they explore why creativity matters now more than ever, especially for the next generation. From growing up in an artistic household, to painting powerful slogans like All Schools Should Be Art Schools and Art Makes Children Powerful, Bob shares the personal stories, political moments and joyful philosophies that have shaped his life’s work. Holly speaks to Bob about creativity being fundamental for all, how he believes art teachers are in fact, human rights workers and why everyday actions — from cooking to parenting — might actually be more creative than we realise. Bob also explains how his brilliant project, The Superpower of Looking, is a tool for teaching kids and adults to slow down and truly see the world around them. So whether you think of yourself as being creative or not, this conversation might just make you look at life a little differently and realise that art belongs to everyone.

“Love lives in the ugly truths.”  These powerful words come from this week’s inspiring guest, Donna Ashworth—author, the UK’s best-selling poet, and a true artist when it comes to capturing the human heart in words.  In this deeply moving episode, Donna joins Holly for a conversation that’s as honest as it is healing. With her signature vulnerability and insight, Donna opens up about the life experiences that have shaped her poetic voice and heightened her sensitivity to the world, enabling her to offer not just words but solace, strength, and a mirror for the human experience. Together, they explore how embracing midlife can lead to profound transformation and how speaking our truths—even the messy ones—can bring us closer to ourselves and each other. This is a conversation brimming with soulful wisdom, raw honesty, and the kind of truths that make us feel seen. It’s one you won't want to miss. Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions about eating disorders, which may be distressing for some listeners. If you need to, please skip from 9 minutes 20 seconds to 10 minutes 30 seconds.. Take care while listening.

What if a simple drawing could do more than just fill a page? What if it could boost confidence, spark creativity and even provide comfort in uncertain times? In this episode, Holly sits down with the brilliant Rob Biddulph, award winning children’s author, illustrator and creative force behind the lockdown sensation Draw With Rob, a movement that inspired millions of children (and their parents) to pick up a pencil and get drawing. Rob speaks to Holly about the power of creativity, why art is so often undervalued in our education system and how a daily drawing challenge became a lifeline to so many during the pandemic. He also shares how a stroke of luck helped paint the career change he’d craved, but had almost given up on. This is an episode that explores the importance of keeping that creative spark alive into adulthood, the joy of making art without fear of failure and why in the digital world, putting pen to paper might just be more important than ever.

Do you know what it takes to become a 10-year ‘overnight’ success? How do you turn something you love into a $66 million business? And what drives you to keep going in order to make that happen? In this episode, Holly speaks candidly with Vivien Wong to learn more about her story of co-founding the mochi ice cream sensation, Little Moons.  With a bold vision to introduce the UK to a whole new dessert category rooted in the centuries old Japanese tradition of mochi, Vivien embarked upon a rollercoaster of a journey.  After ten years of blood, sweat and tears, a viral TikTok moment propelled Little Moons to massive popularity, making mochi a household name across the UK and beyond. In this powerful conversation, Vivien shares just what it took to create an offering that entirely redefines how people think about dessert. She also opens up about her experiences as an Asian female founder and highlights how hard work — really hard work — will always prevail, but has learnt how equally important it is to press pause, too. From navigating cultural appreciation, to the highs and lows of building a memorable brand, this conversation is filled with unrivalled insight for anyone looking to carve out a new niche, bring an idea to life or inspire future generations by breaking down barriers and achieving the unimaginable.

What does it take to build a legacy that spans over six decades, dressing everyone from royalty to rock stars, while staying true to your unique, uncompromising vision? In this episode, Holly has a heartfelt conversation with the legendary Dame Zandra Rhodes, a beloved figure in the fashion world whose vibrant designs and bold spirit have made her an icon. From the swinging sixties to today, Zandra has gracefully pushed boundaries, embraced change, and navigated life's challenges with remarkable resilience. Her journey—from a creative childhood in Chatham, Kent, to dressing stars like Princess Diana, Freddie Mercury, and countless others—feels almost like a fairy tale. Along the way, Zandra has faced loss and battled cancer, yet she has always stayed true to herself. With her signature pink hair, unforgettable style, and a heart as bright as her designs, Zandra’s story is not only one of creativity but of strength, reinvention, and a deep belief in following her own path. This conversation is packed with Zandra’s wisdom she has learned throughout her extraordinary life. It’s a story that will leave you feeling inspired by a woman whose impact is as enduring as her iconic work and the beautiful legacy she continues to create.