Paul Dunne chats with The Monkeys CD Barbara Humphries in latest episode of The Creative Relay
The second series of Smith & Western’s popular industry podcast The Creative Relay has launched with host Paul Dunne talking to Barbara Humphries, one year in from her promotion to creative director at The Monkeys.
A determined and resilient creative problem solver, Humphries is making a name for herself on some of Australia’s leading brands including Berlei, IKEA, MLA and the University of Sydney. But it is the story of her big break and its ongoing influence on her role that truly sets Humphries apart.
Beating over 1000 hopefuls to earn a position at Wieden+Kennedy London, Humphries went from a “bitter and broke barmaid” to a full-time job at one of the industry’s most revered agencies. It’s a transition that defines her approach to creativity and leadership.
Says Humphries in the new podcast: “Failure and mis-steps along the way make you stronger and more determined. And they also help you strategize creative ways of getting what you want.”
Recorded at Smith & Western’s purpose-built podcast studio, the episode explores the source of Barbara’s empathy towards young creatives and the struggles they face breaking into the industry and building their careers.
Says Humphries: “Maybe I’m just remembering what it’s like to be a struggling barmaid – but I love seeing people grow and get better over time.”
Other observations from her time in London including the pursuit of diversity in creative departments are also shared, along with her love of having “a mess of a situation” put down on paper for her to solve.
Dan Higson, the podcast creator and producer, says Humphries’ story is confirmation that the future of the industry is in great hands.
Says Higson: “In the first series, we talked to some amazing creatives with incredible pedigrees. We wanted to kick off this season with an emerging star, a champion for the next generation. And Barb is certainly all that.”
This episode, along with preceding episodes from Series 1, is available now on iTunes or at thecreativerelay.com. The next episode featuring Barbara interviewing the creative of her choice is scheduled for release at the beginning of May.
4 Comments
We’re huge fans of The Creative Relay in our office. Every guest is so inspiring – there is always at least one takeaway from each episode that we can apply to our own creative practice.
This podcast is brilliant.
I’m a big Barb Fan.
Did Bowman drop the baton?