Join Hannah Octavia, a 27-year-old who, like many of us, still grapples with the question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Through candid conversations with Seasoned Professional(s), she delves into the complexities of finding purpose and meaning in work, offering insights, inspiration, and practical advice for anyone feeling uncertain about their career path.
Whether you're a recent graduate, a Seasoned Professional, or simply seeking direction, tune in as Hannah and her guests unpack the journey of self-discovery and help answer that age-old question: "When I grow up..."
Find Seasoned Professional on our platforms!
Interested in being a guest on the podcast?
See you on Tuesday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join Hannah Octavia, a 27-year-old who, like many of us, still grapples with the question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Through candid conversations with Seasoned Professional(s), she delves into the complexities of finding purpose and meaning in work, offering insights, inspiration, and practical advice for anyone feeling uncertain about their career path.
Whether you're a recent graduate, a Seasoned Professional, or simply seeking direction, tune in as Hannah and her guests unpack the journey of self-discovery and help answer that age-old question: "When I grow up..."
Find Seasoned Professional on our platforms!
Interested in being a guest on the podcast?
See you on Tuesday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today's episode, I am joined by the wonderful Pippa Moyle, founder and CEO of the City Girl Network, a mission-led organisation helping women, non-binary people and trans femmes feel more connected, confident and empowered in their local communities.
What began as a small idea has grown into 27 communities across the UK, largely through the organic ripple effect of women experiencing the power of the City Girl Network and bringing it with them wherever they go.
Pippa founded the network at just 22 years old, and as she approaches the 10-year milestone, she shares the real story behind building a purpose-driven business. She opens up about feeling on the outside of friendship circles growing up, the strong work ethic instilled by her parents, her younger dreams of becoming a pop star, and the many challenges she’s navigated along the way.
This conversation was full of insight, honesty and relatable moments including the reminder that some of the best things in life take time.
Enjoy this inspiring deep dive into Pippa’s journey and the community she’s built for so many.
🔗 Links from the episode
City Girl Network on Instagram
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See you next Sunday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, Functioning Adult)
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Brian Capron is back! Our last conversation, The Brian Capron Story: Before and Beyond Coronation Street, explored his full life, from childhood and early acting roles to run-ins with Sting, his rise to fame, and what he’s doing today.
In this episode, we bring Brian back to really break down his rise to fame and how his life changed almost overnight. From a run-of-the-mill actor to becoming a main character in Grange Hill, a series watched by 12 million viewers, and his time as Richard Hillman on Coronation Street he shares the highs, the pressures, and the unexpected ways success transformed his personal and professional life.
This episode is a must-listen for Coronation Street fans, theatre lovers, and anyone curious about what it’s really like to suddenly become a household name.
🔗 Links from the episode
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xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Born and raised with a spirit of curiosity and determination, Lou Hill is the founder and owner of Humankind, a yoga and pilates studio primarily based in Kemptown, Brighton. From humble beginnings in a storage mart locker, Lou has expanded her business to four studios, each delivering the same welcoming and accepting community feel.
In this candid and uplifting conversation, Lou reflects on her journey as an entrepreneur, sharing the laughs and profound moments that come with building a business from the ground up. She opens up about her feelings regarding who we are meant to be versus what we do for work, and the lessons learned from her previous two business endeavours, decisions she initially viewed as personal failures but that ultimately shaped her growth and resilience.
Today, Lou continues to lead Humankind, creating spaces where community, wellness, and self-discovery intersect, while inspiring others to pursue their passions with courage and authenticity.
❤️Find Lou
Humankind (be sure to check out intro offers to new clients!)
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See you on Tuesday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Born in Nigeria to an English father and a Nigerian mother, Joel Chidi Sydenham grew up on a farm surrounded by nature, creativity, and complexity. From a young age, he was a spirited child who questioned everything, driven by a desire to understand why.
In this deeply personal conversation, Joel reflects on his early love of storytelling, from having one of his short stories turned into a school play to the challenges of growing up mixed-race and not feeling fully accepted by either community.
He opens up about the painful parts of his journey, including his father’s incarceration and the loss of his mother before he could share his university dreams, and the lessons she left behind that continue to guide him. Though he studied chemical engineering, Joel’s creative spirit led him to poetry, painting, and eventually a full-time artistic career.
Today, he’s a poet, artist, and teacher, using his work to explore identity, healing, and joy.
❤️Find Joel
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xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On today’s episode of Seasoned Professional, I sit down with the lovely Tessa Holladay!
I first came across Tessa through an article in The Times that shared the story of her young family’s bold decision to uproot their lives and move to Barbados. During our first introduction, I discovered that she’s also the founder of Saint Luke, a men’s clothing brand inspired by the spirit and style of the Caribbean.
In this episode, Tessa opens up about her childhood spent moving frequently, her early career and search for purpose, and the journey of building Saint Luke, from its beginnings creating travel bags to the vibrant, established brand it is today.
We also talk about the uncertainties of entrepreneurship, the feeling of not always fitting in, and the life-changing decision to leave England behind for Barbados.
It’s a warm, honest, and inspiring conversation about creativity, courage, and finding your place in the world.
Find Tessa❤️
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See you on Tuesday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this heartfelt solo episode, Hannah reflects on her first year of podcasting, a year filled with courage, connection, and growth. From interviewing over forty incredible guests to finding her own voice, she opens up about what she’s learned about success, self-reflection, and overcoming fear along the way.
This episode also features a special appearance from Clay, Hannah’s partner and self-proclaimed “production assistant.” Clay shares what it’s like to watch someone chase their dreams from the sidelines, a perspective we rarely hear. It’s a powerful reminder that your journey impacts others, and that you are never alone in the pursuit of your goals.
Hannah shares insights on networking, gratitude, and the importance of carving your own path, no five-year plan required. As she prepares to bring her podcast back home to Canada, she celebrates how far she’s come and looks forward to the adventures ahead.
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xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today on the podcast, I’m joined by Andy Freeman, a creative powerhouse whose career has spanned some of the world’s top ad agencies and iconic brands.
Andy played a key role in the revolutionary Burberry rebrand, hailed by The Economist as one of the best rebrands of the 21st century.
From leading in-house creative teams to now running his own agency, Urbane, Andy has worn just about every hat in the industry: brand strategist, copywriter, creative director, photographer, videographer and occasional voice actor when needed.
In this conversation, we trace Andy’s journey from a mountainside town in Wales to the creative heart of London. Along the way, we explore everything from education and relationships to the power of networking and how to break into the industry as a new graduate. Andy opens up about the fears and growing pains of transitioning from employee to entrepreneur, and what it’s taken to build and evolve his business, culminating in a bold rebrand celebrating 15 years of Urbane.
It’s a candid, insightful, and inspiring look at how creative careers unfold, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.
Find Andy!
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See you on Tuesday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
⚠️ Content warning: In this episode, we talk openly about domestic violence, death, and addiction.
Did you know the loneliest age group is 19–29? Loneliness doesn’t just affect older people, and tackling this hidden crisis is at the heart of the work of Together Co, a Brighton and Hove, based charity that has just celebrated its 25th anniversary.
In this episode, I speak with the inspiring April Baker, CEO of Together Co. With a background in psychology, April transitioned into the charity sector where she discovered her passion for giving back and creating meaningful change, values deeply influenced by her parents.
We speak about psychology, coaching, and the development of leadership skills, as well as the many ways success is defined, how society often measures it, versus the reality of what it feels like behind the scenes. April shares her belief in moving away from rigid hierarchies in leadership and explains how she integrates her knowledge of transactional analysis, and self-determination theory to foster belonging, motivation, and connection. She reflects on her own leadership journey and why empowering others has been central to her work and philosophy.
This conversation is a thoughtful reminder that leadership is not about status, power or ego, but about creating spaces where people feel valued, supported, and part of something greater. April’s insights show how psychology and compassion can shape a new model of leadership, one rooted in collaboration, belonging, and purpose.
Find April❤️
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See you next Sunday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
⚠️ Content warning: In this episode, we talk openly about cancer, illness, and death.
In this episode, I speak with the inspiring Toby Freeman, founder and CEO of The Robin Cancer Trust. Toby set up the charity, alongside his family, in 2012 after losing his brother, Robin, to a rare germ cell cancer at just 24. What began as a tribute has since grown into the UK’s leading germ cell cancer awareness charity, reaching millions with life-saving education and support.
We speak about happy memories of his brother, the final year of Rob’s life, and how Toby coped with the devastating loss of his older brother. We also discuss the grief that sparked Toby’s mission, his bold, attention-grabbing campaigns, including runs in a ballbag costume, and how he uses humour to break stigma around young people’s cancers.
Toby shares candidly about the challenges of building a charity from scratch, the lessons he’s learned about resilience and community, and the responsibility of turning personal loss into a platform that saves lives.
This conversation is a moving reminder of how love, loss, and laughter can fuel change, and how one person’s determination can transform tragedy into hope for countless others. As Toby reflects, “other people are here because my brother no longer is,” a truth made real every time he hears from someone who found cancer early, received treatment, and is now living a healthy, happy life.
Find Toby
TobyTalksBollocks on Instagram
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xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
⚠️ Content warning: In this episode, we talk openly about cancer, illness, and death.
In this episode, I speak with the extraordinary Dr. Liz O’Riordan, a former oncoplastic breast surgeon turned author, speaker, and cancer advocate. After 20 years building her career, Liz’s life changed overnight when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at 40.
We talk about the drive that pushed her to the top of her field, the pressures of balancing life and career, and the coping mechanisms that got her through. Liz shares what it was like to face cancer with a surgeon’s knowledge of the disease, the heartbreak of losing her fertility, and the impact of two recurrences that ultimately ended her surgical career.
This conversation explores what it means to rebuild identity when everything is stripped away, and the unexpected strength and perspective breast cancer gave her.
🔗 Links from the episode
Under the Knife: Life Lessons from the Operating Theatre
The Complete Guide to Breast Cancer: How to Feel Empowered and Take Control
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xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Sinnott, an award-winning dog and cat behaviourist who has been featured on BBC Breakfast, The Sun, and the Financial Times. After completing her training in clinical animal behaviour at the University of Edinburgh, Lisa has built a reputation as “animal mad but qualified,” bringing both passion and expertise to her work.
Lisa shares stories from her childhood, growing up in a loving family while navigating the challenges of an absent father, and the resilience she drew from her gran's influence. She opens up about the winding journey of figuring out her path in life, the inspiration that led her to start her own business, and the support network that helped her along the way. One of the themes that resonated most is the power of community. Lisa is proof that success doesn’t have to be a solo pursuit, by seeking guidance and leaning on others, goals can be reached faster and with greater strength.
This conversation offers practical advice for anyone considering pet ownership, insight into what it takes to build a career you love, and a refreshing reminder that resilience, support, and passion can carry you further than you might imagine.
🔗 Links from the episode
Lisa Sinnott on LinkedIn (where dog & cat advice session links will be posted)
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xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, I sit down with Josh Allen, UX/UI video game designer and founder of Default Design, a creative studio where he brings immersive experiences to life through design and storytelling. Alongside running his business, Josh is also a proud partner and father of two, navigating the balance between family life and creative pursuit.
Josh opens up about the challenges of growing up with dyslexia, the feeling of being an outsider, and the moments of resilience that shaped his path. We talk about the highs and lows of his youth, the lessons that came from pushing through setbacks, and the joy of finding both love and purpose. And yes, we even dive into the SEO struggle of being named Josh Allen, with some lighthearted alternative suggestions.
Our conversation also explores what it means to pursue a passion project, the vulnerability of sharing your story, and the courage it takes to carve out your own place in the world.
This is an inspiring listen for anyone chasing creativity, navigating self-doubt, or simply looking for a reminder that fulfillment can be built step by step.
🔗 Links from the episode
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See you next Sunday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, I sit down with Amelia Hewitt, cyber security expert, author, and founder of CybAid, a foundation that connects pro-bono cyber professionals with charities and small businesses. With an impressive career that has landed her as the Director of Cyber Consulting at Principle Defence, Amelia is also someone who has navigated complex personal challenges on her path to success.
Amelia opens up about her childhood dreams of becoming a paediatrician because it was the "right" thing to do, the unique bond with her twin sister, and how their journeys toward independence unfolded in different ways. We discuss the realities of being a woman in a male-dominated industry, the struggles with self-esteem, and how self-worth can so easily become tied to external validation. Amelia speaks honestly about the conflicting emotions of enjoying male attention while also recognizing it as the wrong kind of affirmation.
Our conversation also explores the role of therapy, the pressures of comparison, and the deeper journey of learning to value yourself beyond surface-level measures.
This is a powerful listen for anyone navigating self-discovery, working in high-pressure spaces, or redefining their sense of worth in a world full of external noise.
🔗 Links from the episode
Securely Yours: An Agony Aunts' Guide To Surviving Cyber
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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?
See you next Sunday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we sit down with Steve – creative mind, multi-passionate dream-chaser, and someone who only discovered he had ADHD at the age of 29.
Steve shares candidly about his journey through various career paths, from chasing ambitious dreams to navigating unexpected turns. We dive into what it was like growing up with undiagnosed ADHD, the challenges it brought, and the clarity that came with his late diagnosis. But it’s not just about the struggles – Steve also reflects on the unique gifts ADHD has given him: boundless curiosity, creative thinking, and the ability to reinvent himself time and again.
A powerful listen for anyone living with ADHD, or any neurodivergence, or tendency to overthink. This story is meant to inspire and share the beauty of embracing who you are.
🔗 Links from the episode
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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?
See you next Sunday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we sit down with the legendary Brian Capron – actor, storyteller, and the man behind one of British television’s most infamous characters, Richard Hillman from Coronation Street.
Brian opens up about his early career, the journey to landing iconic roles, and what it was like portraying a soap opera villain the nation loved to hate. We also explore his work beyond the cobbles, including his acclaimed stage performances and personal reflections on a life in showbiz.
A must-listen for fans of British TV, theatre lovers, and anyone curious about the man behind the headlines.
🔗 Links from the episode
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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?
See you next Sunday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today’s guest is the lovely Bex Walker. Bex started her professional life in the world of science, pursuing a PhD in biology. But midway through that journey, she realized the academic track wasn’t the right fit. She pivoted to teaching—a field where, as a natural introvert, she was challenged to develop a strong public presence, learning how to communicate with impact and step confidently into the spotlight.
During this time, what began as a casual interest in pottery—shared with her husband, Stan—quietly grew. Over eight years, that creative hobby evolved into a business: Throw to Fire. It started as something they did after work, but as teaching became increasingly demanding, pottery offered Bex a sense of balance and calm.
Two years ago, she made the leap—leaving the classroom behind to pursue pottery full time. Since then, she’s built a life centered around creativity, craftsmanship, and intentional living.
From academia to entrepreneurship, Bex’s story is one of thoughtful transitions and quiet resilience. It’s a pleasure to have her with us today.
🔗 Links from the episode
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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?
See you next Sunday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In today’s episode, I sit down with Elliott Hasler—the son of Simon Hasler, who joined us a few weeks ago, and the writer-director behind Vindication Swim, which starred Jon Locke (another previous guest).
At just 24 years old, Elliott is already an accomplished filmmaker and cinematographer, having written, directed, and edited all of his films to date. And before you start comparing your own journey to his—something I’ll admit I did—it’s important to know that Elliott’s passion for filmmaking has been a decade in the making. What began as a school project turned into a spark that ignited his creative path, culminating in his first feature film at age 17—a project he and his family worked on for three years.
Elliott’s story is a testament to what’s possible when talent meets consistency, and when passion is pursued with heart and grit. It’s a reminder that age is just a number—and that dedication, creativity, and hard work are what truly matter.
🔗 Links from the episode
WWII: The Long Road Home (Charlie’s Letters)
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xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In today’s episode, I speak with Jay Bradshaw—a barber, creative entrepreneur, and community builder whose path to success has been anything but ordinary. Born in South Korea to a Korean mother and Irish father, Jay’s early life took him across Japan, Dubai, and Stockholm. While music, religion, and family shaped his upbringing, he struggled with traditional education, finding refuge in English, history, and creative expression. At his mother’s urging, Jay became the first in his family to attend university, studying music production. It was there that his passion for business took root.
Jay eventually found himself at a crossroads—longing for more freedom and authenticity in his work. A spontaneous decision to walk into a barbershop and ask for a job changed everything. Today, Jay has cultivated a loyal following and recently opened his own barbershop, TRMD—a space built on honesty, creativity, and community. His team describes it as more than just a workplace; it’s a place where people show up fully as themselves.
This is a conversation about trusting your instincts, redefining success, and building a life and career on your own terms.
Book a haircut, find a community
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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?
See you next Sunday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In today’s episode, I speak with Simon Hasler, a seasoned professional who spent over 20 years building a career in insurance before retraining as a Chartered Financial Advisor. Eventually, he opened his own firm, prioritizing flexibility and deep client relationships.
But Simon’s story doesn’t stop there. When his son, Elliott Hasler, began showing a passion for filmmaking at a young age, Simon saw an opportunity to support something truly special. What started as a proud parent cheering from the sidelines quickly turned into something more. Simon became a key producer on Vindication Swim—a powerful film about the first English woman to swim the Channel—offering not just financial advice, but organizational support and steady guidance on set.
It’s a conversation about the unexpected ways our careers can evolve, the beauty of family collaboration, and the joy that comes from helping others bring their vision to life.
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Interested in being a guest on the podcast?
See you next Sunday!
xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of drug use, abuse, and death, which some listeners may find distressing. Please take care while listening.
In today’s episode, I share part two of my conversation with John Locke. We pick up where we left off—with John reflecting on his return to education and how profoundly different it was from his difficult childhood experiences. He then shares stories from his 30-year career in local government, working with councils to ensure safe housing for those in need.
John talks about the importance of “getting your boots dirty”—physically showing up in communities, sometimes to fix a broken tap, only to discover the real reason for the call was something deeper.
What’s remarkable is that this chapter of his life began unexpectedly, after losing his job at a theatre. Yet in that work, he found both joy and purpose. Twelve years ago, John returned to acting, launching a one-man show that reignited his career. Since then, he’s gone from local productions to sharing the screen with Emma Stone—something he never could have imagined.
Despite all his success, John reflects on what truly matters: family, love, and connection. Acting has been a blessing, but it doesn’t define him. Hollywood isn’t the dream—at least not yet. But I say: never say never, John.
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xx Hannah Octavia
(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.