The So Lovely Talk Show

Why does nothing ever feel like enough? In this episode, Siobhán and Ollie explore why creatives find it so difficult to feel content. From comparison and imaginary timelines to external validation, social media, and constantly moving the goalposts, they ask whether we can appreciate where we are while still wanting more.

Jamie Richards joins us for a conversation about finding your place in an industry that often wants to put you in a box. We talk about comparison, career milestones, grief, nearly walking away from hairdressing and how social media unexpectedly gave him his confidence and creativity back. From chasing the dream to realising the dream can change, this is about trusting what excites you, creating yo...

When someone asks how you are, how often do you actually tell them? In this episode, Siobhan and Ollie talk about what happens when we become so good at coping that we stop noticing how we really feel. From the automatic “I’m fine” to high-functioning stress, constantly keeping going and only realising afterwards how much we were carrying, we explore the difference between functioning and actually...

Success is often seen as the goal, but what happens when it arrives sooner than you expected? Recorded live at HairCon, Siobhán Jones and Oliver Blackaby sit down with award-winning stylist and educator Elle Foreman to explore what it really takes to build a successful career. Together they discuss the pressure to stand out, the reality of rapid success, why achieving your goals too early can brin...

Recorded live at HairCon in front of a live audience, we sit down with award-winning hairdresser and creative  Craig Chapman to explore the emotional side of success. Craig shares the realities that sit behind a successful career. From leading teams and building a career outside London to navigating pressure and responsibility, we discuss what success can cost, why having the right support network...

Creativity is something many of us build our careers and lives around, yet somewhere between deadlines, responsibilities and the constant noise of everyday life, it can become harder to access, often without us even realising. In this episode, we explore the subtle signs you might be creatively stuck, why inspiration can feel harder to find, and how constant consumption can leave little room for o...

In this episode, we sit down with Ateh Jewel, a beauty journalist, broadcaster and founder, for an honest conversation about identity, reinvention, and what it really means to choose yourself. We talk about the shift from external validation to self-direction, being the only one in the room, and the reality behind confidence, ambition, and motherhood.

In this episode, we talk about something we don’t often discuss in creative careers, physical health. When you're building a career, it's easy to focus on growth, opportunity and being busy. But over time, the physical side of the job can start to catch up. We talk honestly about pushing through, ignoring early signs, and why many of us only start thinking about our bodies later on. Siobha...

In this episode, we talk with Asleigh Hodges about experiences that many people quietly hold within the creative industries. Feeling out of place in rooms you’ve worked hard to be in. Wondering whether to speak up or stay quiet. Pushing yourself to reach goals, only to feel completely drained once you get there. Ashleigh shares honest reflections on navigating intimidating environments, finding he...

As creatives, we often find ourselves constantly looking ahead, thinking about the next idea, the next project, or the next stage of our careers.  In this episode, we discuss ageing, perspective, and the subtle pressure to feel further along than we actually are. In creative careers, time can start to feel like a race, and it’s easy to overlook what is working for us right now while fixating on wh...

In this episode, Lydia Wolfe joins us for an open and inspiring conversation about the realities of running a business, tackling significant challenges, and what truly unfolds when work and friendship intertwine. Lydia shares openly about two deeply triggering moments in her career, including a situation that emotionally challenged her, tested her leadership, and taught her what it means to should...

James Earnshaw returns to the show for an honest and inspiring conversation all about identity, self-belief, and carving out a brand you’re genuinely proud of. We talk about his journey from feeling misunderstood as a self-employed stylist to building a career that now includes global education, major brand partnerships, and a signature creative voice recognised across the industry. James opens up...

It’s Siobhan’s turn to interview Ollie. In this episode, Ollie talks about the moments in life when he found it hard to be fully himself, and how that shaped his confidence in what he thought was possible. He shares how, over time, his confidence has grown, and how finding his people his true tribe has been a turning point in both his self-belief and what he can achieve. Along the way, he reflects...

This week, Ollie turns the tables and interviews Siobhan. What begins as a conversation about life, work, and creativity soon becomes much more emotional. Siobhan talks about how her idea of success has shifted over time, and why living a life that doesn’t sit right with your values will eventually leave you miserable. She opens up about the juggle of motherhood, career, and identity and how choos...

What does success really look like  and what happens when you finally hit the goals you’ve been chasing? In this episode, we sit down with colourist, educator and Moroccan oil Global Ambassador Gareth Williams (@garethwilliams_hair). With a huge online following and a career in demand by both clients and brands, Gareth has ticked many of the industry boxes but his take on what truly matters might...

This episode is for anyone who’s ever hit burnout, felt stretched too thin, or found themselves questioning the path they’re on. We sat down with life coach, creative mentor and salon owner Jo Irving to talk about stress, overwhelm and the moments that force you to stop and pivot. From nervous breakdown to business breakthroughs, Jo shares what it really looks like to find your balance, protect yo...

In this episode of The So Lovely Talk Show, Siobhan and Ollie chat with journalist and author Grace Timothy about the hidden mental load so many of us carry — and how ADHD can make it even heavier. We explore motherhood, identity, and strategies for finding balance when life feels overwhelming. A must-listen for anyone who’s ever felt like their brain is running a mile a minute.

Congratulating and celebrating the success of others can often be easier than acknowledging your own achievements. Ollie and Siobhan discuss how celebrating small wins is just as important as recognizing big accomplishments. They also explore the differences between sharing your success and gloating. This uplifting episode will leave you feeling positive and proud of what you have accomplished.

Ollie and Siobhan discuss the importance of embracing failure. We live in a society that celebrates success and achievement, but this can create significant pressure to make everything perfect. Striving for perfection can hinder our creative expression. The constant fear of not being good enough makes us less likely to take risks. They suggest ways to feel comfortable with imperfection and discuss...

Collaborating with friends can be a fun idea, but it also has the potential to blur boundaries and add extra pressure to the friendship. Ollie and Siobhan discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of working with friends. They share tips on how to manage the situation when things don't go as planned, all while enjoying plenty of laughs and reflecting on their past experiences—both the successf...

In the creative industry, social media stands out as both a powerful tool and a double-edged sword. Join hosts Ollie and Siobhan as they reflect on their complex relationship with this digital platform. For many independents, social media is a vital avenue for gaining exposure and showcasing talent, but it often comes with hidden costs. As they candidly discuss the highs and lows of their social m...

In this episode, we have our first guest, Nicky Pope, a woman who isn't afraid to break the mold and bring new ideas to the table. She is an innovator in creating events and awards and specialises in journalism, publishing and shaking up the hair industry. In this episode, we delve into Nicky's expertise as she shares incredible advice for anyone looking to accelerate their career. She also provid...

Hello 2025 The start of a new year often presents a wonderful opportunity for reflection and renewal. However, it can also bring about feelings of self-doubt or inadequacy. In this discussion, Ollie and Siobhan gently explore the topic of New Year's resolutions—considering both the positives and the challenges they can bring. They share thoughtful advice on how to set goals in a way that prioritiz...

Join Siobhan and Ollie for a feel-good episode to wrap up the year. The lead-up to Christmas and New Year can be filled with festive cheer, fun, and excitement, but it can also be overwhelming. How can you prevent it from leading to burnout? Listen in as they discuss strategies to ensure that the end of the year leaves you with positive energy. The episode will be filled with present-giving, bubbl...

Awards and competitions play a distinctive role in the creative industry. They provide an excellent opportunity to celebrate each other's skills and recognise achievements. However, there can only be one winner. In this months discussion, Ollie and Siobhan explore whether winning truly reflects an individual's success; join them as they discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks awards may offer...