Creatively Eccentric – Details, episodes & analysis

Hello I’m your host Heather Ebanks a graphic designer — and I’m here to help you as a underrepresented creative to stop shrinking, start creating, and own your voice like never before.

Alongside solo reflection episodes and sharing practical tools for thriving outside the traditional path; I talk with talented creatives, artists, designers, and entrepreneurs who live a little differently, think a little bigger, and who want to shake up the industry on their own terms.

Just a reminder that the thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own.

Please take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast platform you use to listen to this episode. Your feedback would me a lot.

Social Media Links:

Want Heather Ebanks on your Podcast? Please send your pitch by email to: info@creativelyeccentric.com

• Message or topic Idea: Voice Note Message
• Guest Appearance: Apply Here
• Website: Links + Bio + Contact
• Instagram: Creatively Eccentric - Instagram
• YouTube: Creatively Eccentric Youtube Playlist
• Linkedin: Heather Ebanks - Linkedin
• Tip/Support: Buy a Ko-Fi

Original Theme Music Licence - Copyrighted/Trademark/Rights Owned By Creatively Eccentric & Heather Ebanks

In this episode, I chat with Jeba, founder of Beast Mode Media and BTS Brunch Club, about the realities of building a creative career. We dive into the importance of community, cultural identity, and resilience while unpacking the challenges of balancing authenticity, self-care, and ambition. 

Jeba shares her journey, insights on empowering underrepresented creatives, and the beauty in embracing the messy, behind-the-scenes side of creativity.

How do you stay in your creative “beast mode” while keeping it real and avoiding burnout?

Share your thoughts or biggest takeaway from this episode on social media @creativelyeccentric — tag us and join the community of creatives owning their messy journeys and chasing what they love.

   Takeaways

• The creative journey is often messy and requires adaptability.
• The 'beast mode' mindset is crucial for success in content creation.
• Cultural identity plays a significant role in creative expression.
• Self-care is crucial; taking time for oneself helps avoid burnout.
• Authenticity is key in social media; you can't please everyone.
• You should only work with brands that align with your values.
• Inspiration can come from unexpected places; be open to new ideas.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jeba and Her Ventures

03:00 Navigating the Messy Journey of Creativity

05:59 The Beast Mode Mindset

08:59 The Importance of Networking

12:00 Building a Supportive Creative Community

14:54 Empowering New Creatives

18:01 Cultural Identity and Its Impact on Creativity

18:30 Cultural Perspectives on Career Choices

21:25 The Journey to Embracing Creativity

24:27 Self-Care and Avoiding Burnout

27:39 Authenticity in the Age of Social Media

32:16 Behind the Scenes: Creative Chaos

38:22 Inspiration and Empowerment

Mentions:

Jeba Nessa: BTS Brunch Club

UGC & Influencer Management: Beast Mode Media

Just a reminder that the thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own.

Please take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast platform you use to listen to this episode. Your feedback would me a lot.

Social Media Links:

Want Heather Ebanks on your Podcast? Please send your pitch by email to: info@creativelyeccentric.com

• Message or topic Idea: Voice Note Message
• Guest Appearance: Apply Here
• Website: Links + Bio + Contact
• Instagram: Creatively Eccentric - Instagram
• YouTube: Creatively Eccentric Youtube Playlist
• Linkedin: Heather Ebanks - Linkedin
• Tip/Support: Buy a Ko-Fi

Original Theme Music Licence - Copyrighted/Trademark/Rights Owned By Creatively Eccentric & Heather Ebanks

In this first episode of Creatively Eccentric, my friend Roziah and I dive into the realities of creative careers — from our university days and job market challenges to navigating burnout and toxic workplaces. We talk about the power of community, collaboration, and personal branding, and I share my own journey of healing and rediscovery after leaving a demanding job. Creativity has been my guide in rebuilding and finding purpose again.

How has creativity helped you heal, grow, or redefine your path?
Share your story or takeaway with me on social media @creativelyeccentric — let’s inspire each other to embrace our creative freedom.

Takeaways

• Challenges faced in the creative industry. Including burnout and toxic workplaces.
• The importance of community and collaboration in creative work
• Recognising the need for rest and recovery is crucial for mental health.
• Building a community is essential for personal and professional growth.
• Creating a podcast allows for sharing diverse voices and experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Creatively Eccentric Podcast

03:46 University Days and First Impressions

06:28 Memorable Projects and Collaborations

09:19 Navigating Post-University Challenges

11:50 Early Career Experiences and Job Market Struggles

17:23 Workplace Dynamics and Challenges

22:28 Reflections on Career Growth and Redundancy

23:23 Navigating Career Challenges and Promotions

25:26 The Impact of Redundancy on Career Choices

27:40 Finding Creative Outlets and New Beginnings

32:21 The Journey to Recovery and Self-Discovery

37:21 Cultural Perspectives on Work and Life

42:05 Building Community and Creative Connections

47:45 Transitioning to New Communities

51:45 Networking and Building Relationships

54:58 The Power of Representation in Creativity

59:20 The Evolution of a Podcast

01:02:59 Creativity as a Lifeline

01:06:12 Reflecting on the Creative Journey

01:06:23 NEWCHAPTER

01:06:27 Introduction to Creatively Eccentric Podcast

Mentioned in the episode

UAL College: London College of Fashion

Blog: Digital Fluidity

Blogging/Influencer Community - B Creator

Design Community:

Just a reminder that the thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own.

Please take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast platform you use to listen to this episode. Your feedback would me a lot.

Social Media Links:

Want Heather Ebanks on your Podcast? Please send your pitch by email to: info@creativelyeccentric.com

• Message or topic Idea: Voice Note Message
• Guest Appearance: Apply Here
• Website: Links + Bio + Contact
• Instagram: Creatively Eccentric - Instagram
• YouTube: Creatively Eccentric Youtube Playlist
• Linkedin: Heather Ebanks - Linkedin
• Tip/Support: Buy a Ko-Fi

Original Theme Music Licence - Copyrighted/Trademark/Rights Owned By Creatively Eccentric & Heather Ebanks

In this conversation, Shamsul Rosunally shares his journey from the corporate world to embracing his passion for storytelling and creativity. 

He discusses the challenges of self-doubt, burnout, and the importance of mentorship in navigating the creative industry. Shamsul emphasises the power of storytelling, the need for representation, and the impact of AI on creativity. 

He reflects on the significance of films like Black Panther and the evolving landscape of creativity, encouraging the next generation to embrace their creative potential and adapt to change.

Takeaways

Storytelling is a powerful tool for connection and expression.

Representation in the creative industry is essential for diverse voices.

AI is changing the landscape of creativity and storytelling.

It's important to prepare the next generation for creative challenges.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Shamsul Rosunally's Creative Journey
02:06
Early Career and Experiences at the BBC
06:12
The Transition to Writing and Filmmaking
10:59
Influence of Storytelling and Family Background
14:23
The Role of TAPS and Mentorship in Writing
17:36
Challenges in Diversity and Representation in Writing
22:18
Reflections on Lenny Henry and Industry Changes
26:07
Becoming a Mentor and Future Aspirations
26:51
Embracing AI in Creative Education
28:14
The Changing Landscape of Diversity in Creativity
30:00
Reflections on Missed Opportunities in the Creative Industry
31:04
AI and the Democratization of Storytelling
34:02
The Impact of 'Sinners' on Creative Expression
37:02
Preparing for the Future of Creativity with AI
39:31
The Creative Process: Comfort and Chaos
41:42
Finding Inspiration in Personal Relationships
43:35
The Chaotic Nature of Creativity
47:08
Advice for Thriving Creatively
51:17
Key Takeaways
52:38
Outro

Resources/Mentions

BBC - https://www.bbc.co.uk/

Royal Holloway - https://intranet.royalholloway.ac.uk/students/home.aspx

Lenny Henry Delivers the 2014 BAFTA Television Lecture 

Ryan Coogler - Director - Sinners: https://www.proximitymedia.com/

Dominic Wheatley - Tomb Raider -

Just a reminder that the thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own.

Please take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast platform you use to listen to this episode. Your feedback would me a lot.

Social Media Links:

Want Heather Ebanks on your Podcast? Please send your pitch by email to: info@creativelyeccentric.com

• Message or topic Idea: Voice Note Message
• Guest Appearance: Apply Here
• Website: Links + Bio + Contact
• Instagram: Creatively Eccentric - Instagram
• YouTube: Creatively Eccentric Youtube Playlist
• Linkedin: Heather Ebanks - Linkedin
• Tip/Support: Buy a Ko-Fi

Original Theme Music Licence - Copyrighted/Trademark/Rights Owned By Creatively Eccentric & Heather Ebanks

In this bonus episode of Creatively Eccentric, I want to talk about why your story matters.

Not just the shiny, polished parts — but the messy, uncertain, beautifully real moments too.

Because storytelling isn’t just about showing what you do, it’s about connection — it’s how we relate, grow, and remind each other that we’re not alone in this creative chaos.

Every creative journey deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated — including yours.

Just a reminder that the thoughts and opinions shared by the host and guests are their own.

Please take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast platform you use to listen to this episode. Your feedback would me a lot.

Social Media Links:

Want Heather Ebanks on your Podcast? Please send your pitch by email to: info@creativelyeccentric.com

• Message or topic Idea: Voice Note Message
• Guest Appearance: Apply Here
• Website: Links + Bio + Contact
• Instagram: Creatively Eccentric - Instagram
• YouTube: Creatively Eccentric Youtube Playlist
• Linkedin: Heather Ebanks - Linkedin
• Tip/Support: Buy a Ko-Fi

Original Theme Music Licence - Copyrighted/Trademark/Rights Owned By Creatively Eccentric & Heather Ebanks