In this raw and energising conversation, Katy Cowan is joined by Emma Barratt, global executive creative director at Wolff Olins, to talk about class in the creative industry, imposter syndrome, and the kind of diversity we don't discuss enough. With honesty, grit, and a huge amount of heart, Emma opens up about her working-class roots in Salford, the long road into the design world, and the resilience it took to get to the top.

They explore why the industry still has a long way to go when it comes to genuine inclusivity—especially in terms of class and social mobility. Emma talks about how expensive cities like London continue to block access for many talented creatives and how the legacy of connections and privilege often dictates who gets a foot in the door. It's not just about ticking boxes on a diversity form—it's about meaningful, systemic change, and it needs to start at the top.

Emma also shares her experience of imposter syndrome and learning to embrace her own voice, even when it didn't fit the mould. From overcoming dyslexia to navigating a male-dominated creative scene, she reflects on what it took to unlearn shame and reclaim pride in her background. We hear how she's now determined to be the mentor she never had—helping others who feel like outsiders realise their worth, whether they're neurodiverse, working class, or just don't see themselves represented.

This episode touches on everything from unpaid internships and university barriers to the superpower of growing up without a safety net. Emma doesn't shy away from the difficult truths—but there's also humour, hope, and a rallying cry for change. If you've ever felt like you don't belong, this one's for you.

This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

In this bonus episode, Liz Mosley returns for a relaxed, thoughtful catch-up with Katy Cowan. They chat about building confidence, embracing cringe, and the joy of just having a go — plus Liz answers some of our favourite Spark questions.

From the best advice she's ever received to a dream she can’t forget, Liz shares her most controversial creative opinion, the word that drives her mad, and the one ordinary day she'd relive if she could.

Warm, funny, and full of heart — it's a lovely listen for anyone who's ever wondered if they're doing this creative thing "right".

This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.

In this laugh-out-loud, heart-on-sleeve conversation, Katy Cowan is joined by branding designer and podcast host Liz Mosley to explore the messy, magical world of podcasting. With over 120 episodes of the Building Your Brand podcast behind her, Liz shares the honest truth: podcasting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up as yourself.

Together, Katy and Liz dive into the highs and lows of running a podcast (awkward endings included), why less polished content often resonates more, and how confidence grows through real conversations. They reflect on the unexpected networking opportunities that arise, the importance of making guests feel at ease, and the joy of being unfiltered, unpolished, and unapologetically real.

The episode is full of practical advice for aspiring podcasters, including why you don’t need expensive equipment to get started, how to trust the process, and why you should start before you feel ready. Later this week during our bonus episode, The Spark, you'll also hear plenty of quirky anecdotes—from dream analysis and family picnic fails to their mutual loathing of the word niche.

Whether you're podcast-curious or already recording in your cupboard, this is an inspiring, entertaining chat that celebrates creativity, confidence and the power of being yourself.

This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.