You don’t have to be rich or famous to be successful and we’re here to prove it. ‘ How To Become A… ’ gives insights into everyday success stories. Each episode, Grace Stevens chats to real people about how they actually got to where they are today. From their first steps and “what am I doing?” moments, to big decisions and what’s next. It’s honest, unfiltered, and (hopefully) makes figuring out your own path feel a little less overwhelming. Follow us on Instagram ( @howtobecomea__ ) and TikTok ( @howtobecomea__ ) for more stories 🎙️ Want to be on the show? Email hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com
How To Become A… Founder of a Sexual Wellness & Erotic Pleasure Platform
40 min
*Explicit Content* What does it take to build a successful business in one of the world's most misunderstood industries? In this episode of How To Become A… , Grace speaks with Anna , founder of FrolicMe , an award-winning erotic platform dedicated to female pleasure, healthy sexuality and beautifully produced erotic content. Leaving behind a successful career in branding and marketing, Anna spotted a huge gap in the market: women weren't being catered for in the world of erotic entertainment. So she decided to change it. She explains: Why she founded FrolicMe The difference between pornography and female-focused erotica How she built an independent subscription business from scratch Why creating a trusted brand in the adult industry was her biggest challenge Anna also shares: Her background in marketing and advertising Funding the business herself to maintain complete creative control Growing FrolicMe into a global platform with millions of visitors Licensing content to Playboy while staying true to her original vision Plus, we discuss: Female pleasure and why it's still overlooked Breaking down stigma around sex and intimacy Censorship, payment restrictions and the challenges of running an adult business Why communication and understanding your own pleasure are key to healthy relationships How entrepreneurship can be driven by purpose as much as profit If you're interested in: Entrepreneurship Female founders Sexual wellness Branding and marketing Building an online subscription business Women's health and intimacy Start-up journeys Business innovation This episode is an honest and eye-opening conversation about building a business that challenges outdated ideas, empowers women, and encourages healthier conversations around sex. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
How To Become A... Counter Terrorism Bomb Disposal Expert
41 min
What does it really take to become a Counter Terrorism Bomb Disposal Expert? In this episode of How To Become A… , Grace sits down with Matt , Head of the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Bomb Disposal Unit, to uncover one of the most specialised and high-pressure careers in the UK. From World War II munitions to suspected terrorist devices, Matt explains what his team really does, how they prepare for the unimaginable, and why teamwork, discipline and humility are far more important than Hollywood would have you believe. We discuss: What a Counter Terrorism Bomb Disposal Expert actually does The difference between military and police bomb disposal How London's specialist unit operates 24/7 The training, skills and mindset required for the role Matt also shares: Why he originally wanted to join the Army Nearly avoiding bomb disposal altogether before discovering he loved it The intensive training required to qualify His experiences serving in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan The journey from military bomb disposal officer to leading London's specialist police unit Plus, we explore: Why no to explosive devices are ever the same The importance of remaining calm under pressure How teams prepare for major incidents and public events Supporting mental wellbeing in one of the world's most demanding professions Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness If you're interested in: Counter terrorism Bomb disposal Military careers Police careers Leadership Emergency services Public service High-pressure decision making This episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes insight into a profession most of us never see—but one that quietly helps keep millions of people safe every day. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What is a life design coach and how do you redesign your life from the inside out? In this episode of How To Become A… , Grace speaks to Michelle about combining two completely different worlds: interior design and holistic health coaching. After spending 17 years in the high-pressure world of workplace design, working on huge projects including Spotify’s London headquarters, Michelle experienced severe burnout during COVID, working 100-hour weeks until her body began physically shutting down. That moment changed everything. Michelle shares how she rebuilt her health, retrained as a health coach, and created Interior Self, a unique framework helping women redesign their lives through wellness, nervous system regulation, creativity, and intentional living. She explains: What a life design coach actually does How our environments impact our nervous systems Why burnout often starts with ignoring the body’s warning signs The connection between stress, self-worth, and physical symptoms She also shares: Growing up struggling with cystic acne and self-image Working in high-end workplace design in Australia and London Designing Spotify’s London HQ How she rebuilt her health after losing her hair during burnout Plus, we get into: Creating a “framework for living” The five pillars of Interior Self Embodiment practices, dance, and nervous system healing Why slowing down can completely change your life If you’re interested in: Burnout recovery Health & wellness coaching Personal development Interior design & wellbeing Women’s health Nervous system regulation Career pivots & reinvention This episode is a powerful conversation about self-worth, creativity, healing, and building a life that actually feels good to live. @interior.self 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What happens when the host becomes the guest? In this special bonus episode of How To Become A… , Grace hands over the microphone to her 11-year-old little brother, Jack, for a fun, casual role reversal. Jack asks everything you've probably been wondering... Why did Grace start the podcast? What's her dream for How To Become A… ? Who have been her favourite guests? What's the hardest part of creating a podcast? And… who does she look up to? Along the way, Jack shares his own career dreams, gives some surprisingly wise life advice, and proves he might just have a future as a podcast host himself. A fun, honest behind-the-scenes episode filled with sibling banter, big ambitions and plenty of laughs. 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does it really take to build a career as an artist in today's world? In this episode of How To Become A… , Grace speaks to digital artist Doddz , whose work blends physical art with cutting-edge technology to create immersive experiences that have captivated brands, galleries and audiences around the world. From painting street art anonymously to creating AI-powered installations and augmented reality experiences, Doddz shares how following curiosity, not a traditional career path, led him to one of the most unique creative careers we've featured. He explains: What a digital artist actually does How augmented reality and AI are changing art Why finding your niche is more important than following trends How technology can create deeper human connection He also shares: Growing up inspired by his grandfather's imagination Failing A Levels before discovering graphic design Creating anonymous street art that became a local phenomenon Working alongside Steven Bartlett and Social Chain, and the lessons that shaped his business mindset Plus, we get into: Why artists need to think like brands Building a creative business through social media and LinkedIn The importance of curiosity, experimentation and persistence Designing interactive art that reacts to conversations, emotions and even pollution If you're interested in: Digital art AI & creativity Augmented reality Creative careers Personal branding Entrepreneurship for artists This episode is a fascinating look at how creativity, technology and storytelling can come together to build a truly original career—and why your biggest strength might be creating something that has never existed before. 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does a wine educator actually do and how do you turn a passion for wine into a career? In this episode of How To Become A… , Grace speaks to Abbie about her fascinating journey from archaeology and BBC journalism to becoming a respected wine educator, writer, and Chair of the Association of Wine Educators. From producing the BBC’s 6 O’Clock News and 10 O’Clock News to teaching people how to understand wine beyond “just a Sauvignon Blanc,” Abbie shares how she completely changed careers and found a world built around storytelling, travel, education, and taste. She explains: What a wine educator actually does The difference between casual wine tastings and formal wine qualifications How the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) works Why wine education is becoming more popular than ever She also shares: Her unusual university journey studying archaeology & ancient coinage Working at the BBC during major world events including 9/11 Leaving journalism at the peak of her career How COVID changed people’s relationship with wine Plus, we get into: Why wine is really about storytelling and culture The reality of working in the wine industry Traveling the world to visit wine regions Launching her podcast Vintage Politics, combining politics and wine If you’re interested in: Wine education WSET qualifications Food & drink careers Career changes Journalism & broadcasting Wine tasting and travel This episode is a brilliant reminder that careers don’t have to follow a straight line and that passion, curiosity, and reinvention can lead somewhere completely unexpected. @abvtastings@ vintagepoliticspod https://www.wineeducators.com 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Recorded live at Sony Music, this special episode of How To Become A… features entertainment industry leader Elliott Linger , whose career has taken him from advertising agencies to PlayStation, Universal Pictures, LEGO, and some of the biggest cultural brands in the world. In front of a live audience, Elliott shares how he built a career at the intersection of entertainment, strategy, audience insight, and storytelling—despite having no clear career plan when he was younger. We cover: How he went from an English Literature degree to the entertainment industry Working on brands including PlayStation, Universal Pictures, LEGO, Capcom, Def Jam, and Island Records Launching major entertainment franchises including The Last of Us, Jurassic World, Fast & Furious, and Minions Why understanding audiences is one of the most valuable skills in entertainment The importance of curiosity, adaptability, and resilience in a rapidly changing industry Elliot also shares: Growing up in a low-income household and breaking into a traditionally exclusive industry The realities of networking and building meaningful relationships How entertainment companies decide which projects get made Lessons learned from working with some of the biggest names in film, gaming, music, and culture Plus, we dive into: Audience development and consumer behaviour The future of entertainment and AI Career pivots and transferable skills Balancing leadership, family life, and giving back A huge thank you to Sony Music for hosting this live recording, Creative Mentor Network for partnering on the event, and El Rayo Tequila for sponsoring the evening. If you're interested in: Entertainment careers Film, gaming, music, and media Audience strategy & marketing Creative industries Leadership and career development Breaking into competitive industries This episode is packed with practical advice, fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, and insights from someone who has helped shape some of the world's biggest entertainment brands. 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does it take to build a successful design, build, and facilities management company from scratch? In this episode of How To Become A… , Grace speaks to Matt about creating MWA, a company that designs, builds, and maintains commercial spaces for major global brands including Nike, Converse, Jimmy Choo, Net-a-Porter, and more. Matt shares the reality of building a business over 24 years in one of the toughest industries out there, including surviving recessions, COVID, rising costs, and the constant pressure of winning work. He explains: What a design, build & facilities management company actually does How commercial office and retail fit-outs work Why facilities management became a huge part of the business What it’s really like working with global brands He also shares: Dropping out of university after 6 weeks Finding his career path almost by accident Starting his business through redundancy negotiations How referrals and relationships built the company organically Plus, we get into: Winning huge projects for Net-a-Porter, Nike & Jimmy Choo Why construction is such a high-risk industry Hiring the right people and building strong teams Writing his book Made With Ambition and opening up about personal struggles If you’re interested in: Entrepreneurship Construction and design careers Commercial interiors Starting a business Facilities management Business growth and resilience This episode is an honest look at the highs, lows, risks, and ambition behind building a company that lasts. https://www.mwaprojects.com/ https://www.amazon.co.uk/Made-Ambition-Build-Legacy-Honesty/dp/B0G26N2WVW 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does it really take to become a Nike Coach? In this episode of How To Become A... , I sit down with Harriet Wright, Nike Coach, women's health advocate, marathon runner, founder of the Like A Girl community, and full-time market researcher. Harriet shares her unconventional career journey, from studying Business & Management and building a successful corporate career, to becoming a qualified running coach, personal trainer, and one of the faces helping women feel stronger, more confident, and better supported in sport. We talk about: 🏃 How Harriet became a Nike Coach 💪 Women's health, fitness and the gender research gap 🧠 Living and working with ADHD 👟 Building a running community from scratch 📈 Balancing a full-time job with multiple side projects 🌎 Marathon running, Nike campaigns, and unforgettable running experiences ✨ Why you don't need to have your entire career figured out This episode is packed with practical advice, honest reflections, and inspiration for anyone looking to create a career that combines passion, purpose, and impact. Follow Harriet's journey and discover why sometimes the best opportunities come from simply doing what you love. 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does it really take to become a plastic surgeon and what actually happens behind the scenes? In this episode of How To Become A… , Grace speaks to Shan Shan about building a career in plastic surgery, from trauma reconstruction to cosmetic work, and the years of training, discipline, and resilience it takes to get there. Shan Shan breaks down: What plastic surgery actually involves beyond the TV stereotype The difference between reconstructive and cosmetic work Why so much of her role is about service, precision, and patient care How plastic surgery can improve both function and confidence She also shares: Growing up in a family of doctors and academics How her creativity showed up early through art and doodling Why she chose to explore charity missions in Africa The long and demanding training pathway to becoming a plastic surgeon Plus, we get into: Working across the NHS and private cosmetic care Why some procedures once funded by the NHS now end up in cosmetic practice How she approaches surgery with empathy and careful planning Why honesty, trust, and patient education matter so much If you’re interested in: Medicine and surgical careers Plastic surgery and reconstruction Cosmetic surgery explained Medical training in the UK Female doctors and career journeys This episode is a fascinating look at one of the most demanding and rewarding careers in medicine and the human stories behind it. @drshanshanjing 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does it really take to become a hairdresser and how do you turn a passion for hair into a career? In this episode of How To Become A… , Grace speaks to Jomelyn about building a career in hairdressing, specialising in colour, and creating a private one-to-one hair experience for clients in Hackney Wick. From doodling hairstyles in school books to running her own hair suite, Jonalyn shares the reality of breaking into the industry and carving out her own path. She explains: What a day in the life of a hairdresser really looks like Why trust and client experience matter so much How apprenticeships helped her learn hands-on What it’s like to specialise in Asian hair and colour Why creativity and confidence go hand in hand in hairdressing She also shares: Her early interest in theatrical hair and makeup Why she changed direction from makeup to hair How she learned through trial, error, and YouTube What it was like working in salons, wigs, and with cancer and alopecia patients How she built her own business around calm, personal, and ethical service Plus, we get into: Starting again after COVID Growing a client base through word of mouth and social media Why finding your niche can change everything The importance of creating a space where clients feel seen, relaxed, and cared for If you’re interested in: Hairdressing careers Creative jobs and beauty careers Apprenticeships and specialist training Salon life and entrepreneurship Building a business in the beauty industry This episode is an inspiring look at what it really means to become a hairdresser and how much artistry, patience, and personal connection sits behind the chair. @jomelynferrashair 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does a policy advisor actually do and how do you get into the civil service? In this episode of How To Become A…, Grace speaks to Adam about building a career as a policy advisor in the UK civil service. From working on Brexit to shaping tech regulation, Adam breaks down what policy work really looks like behind the scenes and why it’s one of the most impactful (and misunderstood) career paths out there. He explains: What the civil service is (and how it differs from politicians) What policy advisors actually do day-to-day How policies are researched, designed, and turned into law Why policy can take years to develop and implement He also shares: His journey from a sports degree → economics → civil service The Fast Stream application process (and how competitive it is) What assessment centres are really like How to break into government roles without a traditional path Plus, we get into: Working on Brexit and major national decisions Balancing personal opinions with apolitical work Why curiosity about politics and society really matters How to build a meaningful career that impacts real lives If you’re interested in: Civil service careers Government jobs UK Policy, politics, or economics Grad schemes and Fast Stream Meaningful, purpose-driven work This episode is a fascinating look at how decisions that shape the country actually get made and the people behind them. 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does it take to build a career in football as a woman? In this episode of How To Become A…, Grace speaks to Priyanka about working in football, from her role at Sky Sports to her powerful work tackling sexism in the game. Priyanka shares how she combined a corporate marketing career with her passion for football, and how that passion led her into advocacy, public speaking, and real change within the sport. She talks about: Breaking into Sky Sports through marketing Turning a love of football into real opportunities Building networks and getting your foot in the door Balancing a full-time job with passion projects She also opens up about: Experiencing sexism and racism in football Why representation matters, especially for women of colour The importance of speaking up and creating safer spaces Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome If you’re interested in: Working in sport or football Marketing & media careers Side hustles with purpose Women in male-dominated industries Building confidence and visibility This episode is honest, inspiring, and a reminder that sometimes the best opportunities come from simply putting yourself out there. Resources: @priyankajasraj @villa.bellas @hergametoo 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What is a somatic coach and how do you actually become one? In this episode of How To Become A…, Grace sits down with Hannah to explore the world of somatic coaching, a fast-growing field focused on healing the nervous system and creating real, lasting change. From studying criminology to travelling the world, discovering Pilates, and eventually finding somatic work, Hannah’s journey shows how following curiosity can lead to a completely unexpected career. Hannah shares: How travel and personal healing led her to this work The connection between the body, stress and the nervous system Why traditional methods don’t always create lasting change Training as a somatic coach and what it really involves Building a coaching business from scratch She also opens up about: Doing the deep personal work required to help others The emotional challenges of working in this space Navigating self-employment and social media If you’re interested in: Wellness careers Coaching or therapy Nervous system healing Personal development Starting your own business This episode is for you. Where to find her: @hannahblackburncoach 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
In this episode of How To Become A…, Grace sits down with Nikki, a DJ, producer, music director and founder of Mums That Rave, to unpack what a career in DJing actually looks like behind the scenes. From playing illegal raves as a teenager to touring the world and working with global artists, Nikki shares the reality of building a long-term career in music, and why being a DJ today is more about entrepreneurship than ever before. Nikki shares: Starting DJing at 15 and breaking into clubs early Why DJs need multiple income streams (radio, production, content, events) The reality of money, streaming and the modern music industry How working in advertising helped her build business skills Balancing creativity with motherhood and building Mums That Rave Why nightlife, culture and community matter more than ever She also opens up about: Misogyny in the music industry The pressure of social media and content creation Burnout, resilience and staying relevant over decades If you’re interested in: Becoming a DJ Music industry careers Creative entrepreneurship Nightlife & culture Balancing creativity with real life This episode is for you. Resources: @djnikkibeatnik @mumsthatrave 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does a graphic designer actually do? In this episode of How To Become A… , Grace sits down with Darren, Head of Design at digital brand experience agency Odd Common, to unpack what really goes into building powerful brands in the digital space. From typography and visual storytelling to managing creative teams and pitching to global brands, Darren shares how he turned a childhood love of art into a career designing immersive digital experiences for companies like Nike and BMW. We discuss: • Wanting to be an artist (and why graphic design felt “safer”) • Studying art and design at university • Building a portfolio with no industry connections • Sending cold emails and facing rejection • Landing his first junior design role • Working on global campaigns for major brands • Why design is about problem-solving, not just visuals • The impact of AI on the creative industry • How to stand out as a junior designer • The importance of curiosity and creative hunger Darren also opens up about: • Being dyslexic and finding confidence through creativity • Feeling stuck early in his career • Why recruiters can be powerful allies • Staying outside your comfort zone • Supporting underrepresented talent in the creative industries If you’ve ever wondered how brands create unforgettable digital experiences, or how to turn creativity into a career, this episode is for you. 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
In this episode, Grace sits down with Daisy, a Strategic Partnerships Lead at Treatwell, to explore what it actually means to build powerful brand collaborations. From dreaming of a creative career to navigating sales, marketing, and eventually partnerships, Daisy shares her non-linear path, including working abroad in Madrid and building partnerships with major brands like John Lewis. Together, they break down: What a strategic partnerships role really involves How brands collaborate (and why some partnerships fail) Moving from sales → marketing → partnerships Building relationships that drive real business growth Working abroad and stepping outside your comfort zone The importance of saying yes and figuring it out later They also discuss the launch of Daisy's own podcast 'The Daisy Chain' and why this project is so personal to her, but with a mission to help other in the same 'lost feeling' in their thirties. ✨ “It’s all about finding businesses that help you grow — together.” Whether you're curious about partnerships, marketing, or working in fast-growing tech companies, this episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at a career that’s all about connection and creativity. 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
*Trigger warning for this episode: discussion of infertility and baby loss* What does it really take to start a charity from scratch? In this episode of How To Become A…, Grace sits down with Bex and Laura, founders of 'The Worst Girl Gang Ever Foundation', a charity supporting women and families through miscarriage, baby loss and infertility. What started as two strangers connecting over shared experiences during lockdown quickly grew into a powerful community, a podcast, a book, and eventually a registered charity helping thousands of people feel less alone. Bex and Laura share: How their personal experiences of miscarriage and baby loss led them to start something bigger Meeting through Instagram and instantly connecting over the lack of support Why they started a podcast with zero experience (and a “Podcasting for Dummies” book) How honest, raw storytelling helped break the taboo around baby loss Growing a community organically through Instagram Turning listener demand into courses, support groups and resources Why they initially charged for support, and why it didn’t sit right The process (and challenges) of applying for charitable status Why having the right board of trustees is crucial How fundraising actually works (grants, campaigns and community challenges) Building campaigns like “Run 10K to Raise 10K”, and raising £36K instead Creating safe spaces through both online and in-person communities The reality of running a charity alongside jobs, families and life If you’re interested in: Starting a charity Turning personal experience into purpose Community building Mental health & grief support Social impact work This episode is for you. Take a look at the charity here: https://theworstgirlgangever.co.uk/ @the_worstgirlgang_ever 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
What does it really mean to be an ethical queer brand owner? In this episode of How To Become A…, Grace sits down with Adam, founder of Rainbow & Co, to talk about building an LGBTQIA+ apparel and accessories brand that puts community, representation and integrity first. From studying graphic design and advertising to running a business from his apartment, Adam shares how personal experience, creative instinct and a strong moral compass led him to create queer merch that actually reflects the full community, not just the parts that are most visible. Adam shares: Why he always wanted to do something creative How studying graphic design, media and advertising shaped his path Why university was harder than expected as an autistic person How early side hustles on Etsy gave him his first taste of selling online What he learned from working for a luxury leather jacket brand Why burnout pushed him to leave full-time employment How an autism diagnosis helped him understand his working style Why he started Rainbow & Co after noticing a gap in Pride merch How he taught himself to build a website, design products and run the business Why trans, lesbian and bi-focused products became so important to customers How he turned a pocket guide into one of the brand’s bestsellers Why subtle queer design can matter just as much as bold statements What “rainbow washing” means and why he refuses to do it How Access to Work and support workers helped him build a sustainable business What it means to grow slowly, ethically and on your own terms He also opens up about: Masking, burnout and late diagnosis Working from home while others do 9–5 jobs Why he wants to hire based on values, not just experience Creating a business culture that reflects the ethics of the brand Why queer-owned businesses matter in Pride season and beyond If you’re interested in: Queer-owned businesses Ethical branding Pride merch Small business journeys Autistic entrepreneurs Creative careers LGBTQIA+ representation This episode is for you. Visit his business here: https://rainbowandco.uk/ 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
In this episode, Grace sits down with Paul, founder of BOL Foods, a leading plant-based, nutrition-focused food brand. Paul’s journey is anything but traditional. From dreaming of becoming a professional footballer, to working on a game reserve in South Africa, to breaking bones as a snowboard instructor… his path zig-zagged before leading him into the world of food. After 14 years helping scale Innocent Drinks, Paul took a leap into entrepreneurship, building BOL into a brand focused on making healthy, convenient food accessible to everyone. We talk about: Taking unconventional career paths (and why they matter) What working at Innocent Drinks taught him about business How BOL Foods was born from a real gap in the market The realities of launching and scaling food products Why most ideas don’t work, and why that’s okay Building a strong team and company culture The importance of passion in business ✨ “If you don’t truly care about what you’re building, it’s very hard to get through the tough times.” This episode is perfect for anyone interested in startups, food & drink, or building a purpose-driven brand. 🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨ 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find their own path 📩 Got your own story to share? Contact us at hello.howtobecomea@gmail.com 📱Follow us on socials: @howtobecomea__ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
