Film journalist Tom Beasley talks to me about a shelf of simple items each with their own subtle complexities. Throughout the conversation we also discuss not worrying about what those around you think of your emotional responses, the forces that get you to press 'send' and being at war with magpies.

You can find more from Tom on Bluesky and Instagram.

Podcast artwork - Lily Fossett

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

Emmy-winning director and puppeteer Noel MacNeal joins me to talk about a shelf with lessons about finding calm and motivation in what's around us, and simply 'being there' in each moment. Along the way we also talk about embracing your surroundings, how life can bring new meaning to music and songs and how Doctor Who can provide one of the toughest workouts.

You can find more from Noel on Instagram and Bluesky.

Quotes:

• "You haven't failed if you've tried"
• "It's only a problem if you make it a problem"
• "A man can think too much"

Podcast artwork - Lily Fossett

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

Film journalist and game writer Gavin Spoors talks to me about a selection of items which have both appeared at formative times and been formative themselves. Alongside this we also talk about finding your community through the things that interest you and the regular points which help to add routine breaks from work.

You can find more from Gavin on Bluesky, Instagram and Twitter, Read Gavin's feature 'How the Zelda Franchise Made Me Feel Like a Hero'.

Podcast artwork - Lily Fossett

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