The Stronger Self Podcast

Beyond the Big Moment

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:10:14 GMT

What happens when the thing you've always been known for suddenly changes?

After starting his career in the UK tour and West End production of The Lion King before voicing young Scar in Disney's Mufasa, Theo Somolu reflects on growing up in the entertainment industry. From the opportunities he gained to the experiences he missed, Theo shares an honest perspective on childhood, ambition, identity and navigating the uncertainty of what comes next.

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple or wherever you get your podcasts

👋 Follow The Stronger Self & Team:

Instagram: @samyartscollective

Website: www.samyartscollective.com

Host: Martay M'Kenzy @martaymkenzy

Producers: Samantha Henderson & Amy Leppard-Parker

Edited by: Louis O h'Oisin

Music: LLEETA @lleetamusic

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Behind the Spotlight

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

For every child performer on stage, there's a parent supporting them behind the scenes.

In this episode, Zoe Somolu and Roger Stephens share the realities of raising young performers, from managing auditions and rejections to safeguarding wellbeing and maintaining family life. An honest and heartfelt discussion about support, sacrifice and helping young people thrive in the entertainment industry.

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple or wherever you get your podcasts

👋 Follow The Stronger Self & Team:

Instagram: @samyartscollective

Website: www.samyartscollective.com

Host: Martay M'Kenzy @martaymkenzy

Producers: Samantha Henderson & Amy Leppard-Parker

Filmed by TEA films: Adam Hipkin, Oliver Bury & Louis O h'Oisin

Edited by TEA films: Dan Hipkin, Joey Julliard & Louis O h'Oisin

Music: LLEETA @lleetamusic

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Pivot

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

How do you know when to keep pushing, and when it's time to change direction? Former professional dancer and specialist physiotherapist Liz Bayle shares her journey from performer to practitioner, exploring the realities of injury, identity and career transition. Drawing on her experience working with West End performers and elite athletes, Liz discusses strength, longevity and what it means to build a healthy, sustainable future both on and off the stage.

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple or wherever you get your podcasts

👋 Follow The Stronger Self & Team:

Instagram: @samyartscollective

Website: www.samyartscollective.com

Host: Martay M'Kenzy @martaymkenzy

Producers: Samantha Henderson & Amy Leppard-Parker

Edited by: Louis O h'Oisin

Music: LLEETA @lleetamusic

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the Curtain Call

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Former performer and former Director of Urdang, David Blake shares his journey from the stage into arts leadership, education and mentoring. Reflecting on career transitions, reinvention and the courage it takes to step into a new chapter, David explores how the skills developed through performance can open doors far beyond the stage. An honest conversation about purpose, identity and discovering that life after performing can be just as fulfilling as life in the spotlight.

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple or wherever you get your podcasts

👋 Follow The Stronger Self & Team:

Instagram: @samyartscollective

Website: www.samyartscollective.com

Host: Martay M'Kenzy @martaymkenzy

Producers: Samantha Henderson & Amy Leppard-Parker

Filmed by TEA films: Adam Hipkin, Oliver Bury & Louis O h'Oisin

Edited by TEA films: Dan Hipkin, Joey Julliard & Louis O h'Oisin

Music: LLEETA @lleetamusic

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.