Just Get A Real Job

This week, Jamie welcomes Ian Murray, the UK’s Minister for Creative Industries, for an open and honest conversation about the state of the creative sector and what the Department for Culture, Media and Sport is doing to help more young people get into creative careers.Ian shares how his own upbringing shaped his understanding of accessibility in the arts, and why it still feels so difficult for people from working class or under-represented backgrounds to break into creative work.Ian spoke about:🎨 The realities facing freelancers and why so many feel shut out of the industry 🌱 Discover Creative Careers, the government’s campaign to demystify routes into creative jobs 🎬 The importance of freelancers to the creative economy and what the government is doing to support them 🏠 Why class is still such a barrier for many people trying to forge a creative career 📈 The importance of the BBC and why placing it on a sustainable footing matters 🛠️ The wider mission to make the creative industries more accessible, transparent, and sustainableIt was a pleasure to welcome a sitting government minister onto the podcast, hear more about the work DCMS is doing, and have such open and honest discussions about the challenges and opportunities across the sector.🎮 Discover Creative Careers – Campaign InformationThe Discover! Creative Careers Campaign aims to make creative careers more accessible to young people from under-represented backgrounds, highlighting the breadth of opportunities in the creative industries and how today’s skills and hobbies can be turned into meaningful, sustainable careers.📖 No matter your background or education, there are affordable and accessible routes into the sector — from apprenticeships and work experience to on-the-job training.🧑‍💻 To explore creative and non-creative roles across the industry, visit the Discover! Creative Careers Finder Tool: https://discovercreative.careers/explore/ Instagram: @dcmsgovuk X (Twitter): @dcms  Facebook: @dcmsgovuk  Youtube: @dcms#DiscoverCreativeCareers #SkillsForLife🌍 Stay Connected with Just Get A Real Job🔗 Website: linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast💙 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/justgetarealjob📸 Instagram: instagram.com/justgetarealjob🎬 TikTok: tiktok.com/@justgetarealjob🐦 X (Twitter): twitter.com/justgetarealjob🎧 Spotify: Just Get A Real Job on Spotify🍏 Apple Podcasts: Just Get A Real Job on Apple Podcasts

This week, Jamie sits down once again with comedian and writer Kate Hammer for a funny, honest and wide-ranging chat about navigating life as a freelancer in 2025. Since she was last on the podcast, Kate has gone full-time as a stand-up comic and writer and is now literally a government-approved comedian on a global talent visa.Kate spoke about:🎤 Making the jump into stand-up and building a career on your own terms💸 The financial pressures and uncertainties of freelance life🤝 Why community and collaboration matter so much in comedy🧠 Perfectionism, burnout and trying to keep going in a tough industry📑 Her time working on River City, moving into screenwriting, and creating a comedy sketch group✈️ And her unforgettable recent airport sagaA brilliant episode packed with laughs, honesty and a relatability every creative will connect with. Links:Kate Hammer:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/katethehammer/Link to all Kate's upcoming shows https://bio.site/katethehammerGet Your Goat Comedy (Kate’s sketch group):https://www.instagram.com/getyourgoatcomedy/🌍 Stay Connected with Just Get A Real Job🔗 Website: linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast💙 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/justgetarealjob📸 Instagram: instagram.com/justgetarealjob🎬 TikTok: tiktok.com/@justgetarealjob🐦 X (Twitter): twitter.com/justgetarealjob🎧 Spotify: Just Get A Real Job on Spotify🍏 Apple Podcasts: Just Get A Real Job on Apple Podcasts

This week, Jamie sits down with Martyn and Christine Armstrong, two of the three founders (alongside Scott Simpson) behind the record label Blackhall Records. Together they explore the ins and outs of running an indie label in today’s ever-changing music landscape, from supporting artists like Dictator, Midnight Ambulance and Waverley, to navigating the challenges of a constantly shifting industry.They chat about:🎶 The realities of running an independent record label in the age of streaming🌱 The importance of discovering and nurturing new music talent🎵 The current state of the Scottish music industry and the pressures artists face within it🏟️ Why we desperately need more grassroots music venues🫶 How Blackhall Records supports the bands on their label🎨 Why quality production and artwork matter more than ever🤖 The rise of AI in music, its pros, cons, and what it means for artists👩‍🎤 The ongoing need for better representation and mentorship for women in the music industry🤝 The delicate balance between artist freedom and label guidanceA thoughtful and inspiring conversation about music, resilience and the power of collaboration perfect for anyone curious about how the music industry really works behind the scenes, and especially for music lovers.Links:🏆 Vote for the Scottish Alternative Music Awards, including Wavelry for best live track:https://www.officialsama.com/vote🎵 Blackhall Records:https://blackhallrecords.com/📸 Blackhall Records on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/blackhall_records/?hl=en🌍 Stay Connected with Just Get A Real Job🔗 Website: linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast💙 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/justgetarealjob📸 Instagram: instagram.com/justgetarealjob🎬 TikTok: tiktok.com/@justgetarealjob🐦 X (Twitter): twitter.com/justgetarealjob🎧 Spotify: Just Get A Real Job on Spotify🍏 Apple Podcasts: Just Get A Real Job on Apple Podcasts

This week, Jamie reconnects with artist and creator Graham Cullis, who returns to the podcast after four years for an open and inspiring chat about art, meditation, and the life-changing path he’s been on since they last spoke.They chat about:  ✨ Graham’s Splat & Splash Tour, travelling around the UK’s beaches and bringing people together through art and community for mental health. 🎨 Spending the day with artist Sophie Tea and what he learned from her approach to art and business.🖌️ His time in Bali, his move back to the UK, and how painting continues to shape his life. 📱 How he’s used social media to grow as an artist and build a genuine creative community online. 🧘‍♂️ The role of mindfulness and meditation and how it’s changed his life. 🌍 Building supportive spaces like The New York Dippers Club and Youth Art Connect. 💙 And why art can be one of the most powerful tools for healing and human connection. A heartfelt, uplifting episode full of inspiration, honesty and creative energy perfect for anyone working in (or dreaming of working in) the creative industries.🎨 Check out Graham’s work and get involved in his next art event:📞 Join the Splat & Splash Tour or find out more about his art & meditation workshops: WhatsApp Graham +44 7799 850146 🎥 Watch Graham’s Reel: Instagram Reel 🥚 An “eggsample” of his TikTok show vids: TikTok Video 🎧 Book Recommendation: Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself on Audible🌍 Stay Connected with Just Get A Real Job🔗 Website: linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast 💙 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/justgetarealjob 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/justgetarealjob 🎬 TikTok: tiktok.com/@justgetarealjob 🐦 X (Twitter): twitter.com/justgetarealjob 🎧 Spotify: Just Get A Real Job on Spotify 🍏 Apple Podcasts: Just Get A Real Job on Apple Podcasts

This week’s episode is a special one, recorded live in Glasgow back in June in collaboration with _and friends.Jamie was joined by a brilliant panel of filmmakers, including BAFTA Award-winning Michael Lee Richardson, Valerie Andrews, Dylan Blore, and Blade & Bow Films’ Hayley Louise McGuire and Jayme Bartlett.Together they explore how filmmakers are adapting in an increasingly difficult climate from the challenges of funding and freelancing to the importance of storytelling, collaboration, and creative community. The panel also discuss the biggest lessons they’ve learned throughout their careers and take questions from the audience.Huge thanks to everyone who came along on the day and to AndFriends for partnering on such a brilliant event. Unfortunately, this episode wasn’t recorded, so it's an audio-only episode.🔗 Links:🎥 AndFriends – https://www.andfriends.scot/ 🎬 Blade & Bow Films – https://www.bladeandbowfilms.com/ 🎭 Valerie Andrews – https://www.instagram.com/valerie.andrewsb/ ✍️ Michael Lee Richardson – https://michaelleerichardson.wordpress.com/🎞️ Dylan Blore – https://dpamanagement.com/actor/dylan-blore/🌍 Stay Connected🎧 Website: https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast 💙 Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justgetarealjob 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justgetarealjob 🐦 X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/justgetarealjob 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2PRi8RlxPZz1zZx9zUuF8Q 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/just-get-a-real-job/id1541262912

This week, Jamie welcomes back screenwriter Philip Ralph for an honest and thought-provoking conversation about class, creativity, and the ongoing crisis facing the TV industry.💬 We chatted about everything from:📺 How class continues to shape opportunity and representation🎭 What the future of screen might hold for freelancers and working-class creatives🎬 How shows like adolescence highlight both the strengths and flaws of the current system💡 The complexity of working in an industry that’s always predicated on success at all costs ⚠️How the ongoing crisis in TV is pushing talent out of the industry 🧠 Phils ideas for change and potential solutions❌ The worst advice he’s ever received in his career🌍 What needs to change for a more sustainable industry to be bornA powerful chat about sustainability,  working class voices, and finding hope amidst uncertainty in the screen industries. 🔗 Links & Resources🎤 Philip Ralph’s keynoteon class in TV (University of Leeds)📺 Watch:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_66i8f815oA📝 Read:https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/common-people-reclaiming-narrative-class-tv-time-crisis-philip-ralph-efble 🌍 Stay Connected 🎧 Website:https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast 💙 Support us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob 📲 Follow Just Get A RealJob 📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/justgetarealjob 🎬 TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@justgetarealjob 🐦 X (Twitter):https://twitter.com/justgetarealjob 🎧 Listen on: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2PRi8RlxPZz1zZx9zUuF8Q Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/just-get-a-real-job/id1541262912

Hello, how are you?It’s been a wee while since I last put something out, so here’s a short check-in. A quick chat about what’s been happening behind the scenes, the ups and downs of creative work, and some news. New full episodes are back on 15th October! Thanks for sticking with the podcast. Keep your eyes peeled.Links:🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠

Ever wondered what it’s like to work at the heart of British television? BBC Commissioner Nick Lambon lifts the curtain on the realities of commissioning, producing and making some of the UK’s biggest shows.This week, Jamie sits down with Nick Lambon, Commissioning Editor at the BBC, for an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the television industry. From Doctor Who to soap operas, script editing to producing, Nick takes us through his career so far, busting myths about commissioning, sharing the pressures of production and exploring the challenges facing TV in 2025.💬 We chatted about everything from:📺 The real role of a commissioner and the biggest myths about the job 🎬 Nick’s early career on Holby City 🛸 Working on an iconic show like Doctor Who 🎥 The role and responsibilities of a producer 🏛️ The BBC’s unique position in the TV landscape📉 The challenges facing the industry right now 📊 Current trends in commissioning 💡 Nick’s career advice for anyone wanting to work in TV (and more!)If you’ve ever wondered how shows get commissioned or what it’s really like working at the BBC this episode is full of insider tips, honest truths and inspiration for your own creative career.🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠

This week on Just Get A Real Job, Jamie sits down with actor, playwright, comedian and rising Fringe star Sanjay Lago 💫Sanjay is currently performing his solo show Love Me Like a Chai Tea Latte ☕️ at the Edinburgh Fringe 2025, a heartfelt mix of storytelling, poetry and stand-up exploring love, identity and self-acceptance.💬 We chatted about:🎟️ What it’s really like taking a solo show to the Edinburgh Fringe✊ Why POC and neurodiverse representation still needs work in Scottish theatre🧠 Sanjay’s journey with dyslexia and how it shapes his creative process😰 Managing imposter syndrome as an emerging artist☕️ Making your mum proud🔗 Links:🎫 Book tickets for Love Me Like a Chai Tea Latte at the Edinburgh Fringe: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/love-me-like-a-chai-tea-latteSanjay Lago on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sanjaylago?igsh=MWN2MWdvNjZjbDh4🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠

With the UK’s creative industries valued at over £100 billion and growing faster than the national economy, why is it still so hard for young people to break in & have sustainable careers?In this episode, Jamie chats with Sam Hornsby, co-founder of ERIC, the free career exploration app helping young people discover exciting opportunities in the creative industries.With both Sam and her co-founder Mae facing barriers to creative careers, they set out to build the platform they wished they'd had.We talk about:🎨 The story behind ERIC and how it’s shaking up the industry🏫 The disconnect between education and creative opportunities😟 Why so many young people feel anxious about pursuing creative careers🤖 How AI is changing things🎢 The rollercoaster of building a startup and why mental health and community matter🚀 ERIC’s goals and how they’re getting more young people into creative careersWhether you're at the start of your journey or passionate about making the industry more accessible, this episode is full of ideas, insight, and inspiration.Links:Find out more about the ERIC App Here: ERIC | Creative Career App🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠

This week, I’m joined by the brilliant Kate Coulson an actor and writer taking her debut solo show Lioness to the Edinburgh Fringe this August.We spoke about:🧠 Growing up creative and finding confidence in your voice🌀 Living and creating with dyspraxia⚽ Women’s football and the inspiration behind Lioness👥 The importance of support from your community🏟️ Making theatre accessible to wider audiences💪 The grit, community and chaos behind taking a show to the Fringe🔥 Why persistence really mattersOne for anyone making their first steps into performance, writing or the Fringe and a reminder that persistence, community and honest storytelling really do matter. I loved this conversation with Kate. Links:Fringe show:Lioness | Edinburgh Festival FringeKate's company: https://www.instagram.com/madeyoulookprods?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=cWZxazA0bXY3d2Y2🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠

This week, I’m joined by the brilliant Carlo Cavagna Vice President of U.S. Operations at Two Daughters Entertainment and a key force behind the global writing programme PageCraft 🎬🌍Carlo has worked across the creative industries for over two decades from helping launch Lionsgate’s early VOD platform to leading global trade initiatives for the UK Government. These days, he’s focused on helping stories (and storytellers) reach their full potential while navigating the realities of an industry in flux.We chatted about:🌍 The differences between the UK and U.S. creative industries🎬 Why production budgets have gotten out of control 🧠 Helping writers get “unstuck” and crack story structure 🎨 Balancing the worlds of creativity and business📉 Why the creative industries are becoming more unequal and what needs to change🎞️ What the rest of the screen sector can learn from animation💡 Carlo’s biggest lessons from a career spanning storytelling, leadership, and global mediaA wide-ranging chat with someone who knows the industry inside out and a reminder that no matter what changes, the world will always need good stories.Links:✍️ Page Craft: https://www.pagecraftwriting.comTwo Daughters Entertainment: https://twodaughtersentertainment.com🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠

This week, I’m joined once again by the brilliant Cat MacLeod a returning guest and friend of the podcast  for a raw and honest chat about what it takes to be a creative in 2025 ✨Since we last spoke, Cat’s been selected for the inaugural Sean Connery Talent Lab with NFTS Scotland, where she’s directing a short film (with a real budget this time), and she’s launched _and friends  a brilliant new theatre initiative that champions fresh work and supports artists in meaningful, no-gatekeeper ways. She’s also using her platform to advocate for real change in theatre and the wider creative industry.We chatted about:🔥 Burnout and finding the right balance💼 Balancing paying the bills with creative ambition🎬 Directing a short film with a budget🎪 Launching _and friends & running a company🤖 AI and how her 2023 play Spin predicted the future🤝 The power of community and collaboration💬 What she’s learned since our last conversation🎙️ Our upcoming live event and loads more!–––🎟️ Tickets for our live show on June 22nd:https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Glasgow/_and-Friends/Brave-New-Work-making-indie-film-today/41013840/🎧 Guardian podcast we mention about AI:https://www.theguardian.com/news/audio/2025/jun/05/is-ai-about-to-steal-your-job-podcast📸 Follow _and friends on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/andfriends.scot

This week on Just Get A Real Job, Jamie is joined by David Thomas a broadcaster, creative coach and trainer who’s spent the last 20 years helping people in the arts and media build more sustainable freelance careers.David’s worked across the BBC, the UN and beyond, and now trains 100s of creatives every year. In this episode, he shares practical advice and hard-earned wisdom on everything from money to mindset.We discuss:💸 Why so many creatives think they’re bad with money 📊 How to build a healthier relationship with your finances 🧠 Reframing how we think about work 🤝 What we’re not taught about networking and selling our skills 🧰 The tools every freelancer needs 🌀 Why permanent jobs aren’t the norm anymore 📻 David’s long career in radio with the BBC & what it taught him 🚀 How David turned redundancy into a thriving training businessA practical and empowering episode for anyone trying to make a life and a living as a creative.David’s website and resources: davidthomasmedia.com🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠

This week on Just Get A Real Job, I’m joined by Lizzy Skrzypiec. She’s an improviser, director, and the artistic director of Bristol’s long-running improv troupe Degrees of Error. Lizzy is also the creative force behind Murder, She Didn’t Write 🕵️‍♀️ the hit improvised murder mystery show currently touring the UK after seven sold-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and a recent West End debut at London’s Duchess Theatre. A key figure at the Bristol Improv Theatre, the UK’s first venue dedicated entirely to improv, Lizzy regularly mentors emerging troupes and supports the next wave of British comedy talent. Alongside her theatre work, she’s built a successful full-time career in television, producing major game shows like Bridge of Lies and Ant and Dec’s Limitless Win 📺In this episode, we chat about: 🎭 13 years of Murder, She Didn’t Write 🧠 What improv actually is—and why it’s more than just messing about 💸 The financial realities of freelancing in the arts 🎬 Working in factual and entertainment TV 🎤 Her biggest creative influences 🌪 Lessons from life as a performer 🎉 Finding joy and connection in a constantly shifting industryA really fun and honest conversation with someone who’s spent over a decade finding the funny and having fun in an uncertain industry.Lizzy Skrzypiec:Murder, She Didn't Write: https://www.murdershedidntwrite.com/cast/lizzy-skrzypiecDegrees of Error Present: More Stuff She Didn't Write: https://improvtheatre.co.uk/upcoming-show/degrees-of-error-present-more-stuff-she-didnt-write/2024-05-05/🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts

🎙️ Episode 169 of Just Get A Real Job is out now and this week, Jamie is joined by the brilliant Edinburgh-based band Waverley.Known for blending Americana-inspired indie rock with folk-rooted songwriting, Waverley’s sound has drawn comparisons to Bon Iver, Frightened Rabbit, and King Creosote with dynamic shifts, dueling vocals, and a darker, heavier edge.Their new EP ‘Flail’ is out now, following the success of their 2023 debut It Makes An Emptiness Of A Crowded Place.In this episode, we chat all about:🎸 How the band came together 🎧 The making of their new EP Flail 💡 Their songwriting process & creative influences 🎤 What it’s really like making music in 2025 🤯 The highs and lows of being an emerging band 📝 Advice for other independent musicians … and loads more!It’s a thoughtful, funny, and inspiring conversation with one of Scotland’s most exciting new acts.🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple & YouTubewaverly.:waverly. on Bandcamp: https://waverley.bandcamp.com/'Flail' EP on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/07a9S1kyWAu9lz1Tuqczin🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts

🎙️ This week on Just Get A Real Job, Jamie is joined by Martin James — co-founder of the Glasgow Improv Theatre (GIT) and a driving force behind Scotland’s growing improv scene.They chatted all about:​🎭 Starting an improv scene from scratch in Glasgow​🤔 What improv actually is — and why it's becoming more popular​🧠 The day-to-day realities of running a creative business​💬 Looking after your mental health while chasing your passion​🎓 What Martin learned studying in the USA​🏀 Playing basketball for the Scottish national team​🎤 His biggest comedy influences​📺 His thoughts on Saturday Night Live coming to the UKIt’s a loose, thoughtful, and inspiring chat about taking risks, building something from the ground up, and the joy of saying “yes, and…”Martin James:Glasgow Improv Theatre: https://improvglasgow.co.uk/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacRFf1ZJfiLeceY4zDE-eDjryHB9mo3CKYD4s0Nm9SCh3jglC2T70tZ5URKzA_aem_3uDSt87HvPDg19dUWMt-ZwGlasgow Improv Theatre on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/improvglasgow/🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts

Episode 167 is a little different: we’re sharing an excerpt from my chat on the Cinora YouTube channel with filmmaker – and returning pal – Ashley Dick. We dive into the shock cancellation of BBC Scotland’s flagship soap River City and what the decision signals for drama production across Scotland and the wider UK.Since the recording, the fight to save the show has exploded. Famous faces – Richard E. Grant, Ewan McGregor, Miriam Margolyes and Nicola Sturgeon among them – have lent their voices, and a motion to keep River City on air will soon be heard in the Scottish Parliament.In this chat we talk about:How River City was axed and why it matters – timelines, budget pressures and the creative fallout.The concern for the wider TV industry – what the cancellation tells us about an already‑strained sector.Why we need to future‑proof the soap format (or find a new kind of long‑running drama).Why local voices are important – the cultural impact of losing a home‑grown show.What potential solutions we can pursue as an industry – ideas, funding routes and collective action.Hit play, share your thoughts, and help keep Scotland’s storytelling future alive. Check out the full video over on the Cinora Channel. Full video from Cinora 🔽🎦: The cancellation of Soaps and what it means for TV----🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts

This week on Just Get A Real Job, Jamie is joined by David McIntosh Jr. — host of Origin Stories (formerly The Development by David Podcast). 🎧David launched his podcast back in 2020 from his council estate bedroom in Scotland — no contacts, no budget, just a cheap mic and a clear mission: to spotlight inspiring origin stories. Since then, he’s racked up over 1.5 million hits, interviewed huge names like Seth Godin, Rory Sutherland and Jimmy Carr, and built a brand rooted in storytelling, self-development, and social mobility.Now, with Origin Stories, he’s stepping into the next stage of his podcasting journey — continuing his mission and pushing things even further.In this honest conversation, Jamie and David chat about: 🎙️ The next stage of his podcasting journey and launching Origin Stories 😂 What it was really like interviewing Jimmy Carr🌱 Social mobility and why it’s at the heart of David’s mission 😔 The lonely chapter — and how to keep going when it feels like no one cares📈 The future of podcasting and content creation 🧠 What we can all learn from our own origin stories ⚙️ How to actually run a podcast 🔥 Drive, grit, and building something from nothingTune in for inspiring insights, actionable advice, and a powerful reminder that it’s possible to build something incredible from scratch.Links:https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/davidmcintoshjr/https://www.youtube.com/@UC7DyXv_nJZncHdRn1WJdvNQ🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts

This week on Just Get A Real Job, I’m joined by the brilliant Robert Softley Gale – a Scottish theatre-maker,  who’s spent over two decades championing inclusivity and accessibility in the arts.As Artistic Director of Birds of Paradise – Scotland’s leading disability-led theatre company – Robert has reshaped the conversation around representation, storytelling, and what theatre can be. In 2024, he was recognised in The List Hot 100 for his powerful contributions to the industry.We talk about why disability should never be a barrier to working in the arts, and how Robert’s work continues to break down outdated ideas around access, casting, and creativity.In this episode, we chat about:​🎭 30 years of Birds of Paradise​🌟 Robert’s creative journey​🎨 Making the arts more accessible​📖 Telling authentic stories​🎬 Improving disability representation in casting​🤔 Why discomfort keeps you creatively sharp​💡 Advice for navigating theatre in 2025​If you care about theatre, storytelling, or building a more inclusive creative industry – this one’s for you.🎧 Tune in now wherever you get your podcasts – and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share!Robert Softley Gale:Birds of Paradise Theatre Company: https://www.boptheatre.co.uk/------🌍 Visit our website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://linktr.ee/Justgetarealjobpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠💙 Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/justgetarealjob⁠⁠⁠⁠📲 Follow us on:⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X (formerly Twitter)⁠⁠⁠⁠🎧 Listen on:⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts