Today, I’m honored to share the story of a truly inspiring woman. Born in Kenya, she grew up surrounded by nature and a loving family, with a rigorous education that instilled both discipline and comparison. At 16, she moved to England for boarding school, finding connection with fellow newcomers and eventually pursuing a career in law. Her journey took her from Cambridge to the high-stakes world of elite London firms.

After the loss of her mother, she sought a new path, exploring floristry, volunteering with Macmillan Cancer Support, and spending 15 transformative months at an ashram in India. Her story beautifully illustrates the intertwining of career and life, reminding us to seek happiness in the present and embrace life’s unpredictability.

It was a pleasure speaking with her, and I know her story will bring light to your day. Please welcome my guest, Rakhi Talwar.

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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

Welcome back to Seasoned Professional, I'm your host, Hannah Octavia. Today, I’m honored to introduce a truly multifaceted talent—an actor, writer, director, and the visionary behind his own production company. His directorial debut, Dark Justice, a powerful film addressing sexual abuse, earned him Best Human Rights Film and Best International Short at the Atlantic Bridge Festival in Amsterdam.

Before we dive in, I want to provide a trigger warning for our listeners—this episode contains discussions of sexual abuse, and suicide. Please take care while listening.

It was an absolute pleasure speaking with him, and I know you'll be captivated by our conversation. Please welcome Rupert Charmak.

A brief final note is my lovely videographer forgot to turn on our microphones for the first 5 minutes. Please excuse the change in audio and we are so appreciative of your support while we figure out all this podcast stuff. If you’re watching this episode enjoy Elliot crawling into frame to turn on the microphones.

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Find Rupert!

Sucker Punch Productions

StopSO

Dark Justice

Calzy Foundation

Petition to get a 24/7 Mental Health Emergency Line!

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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

Today I have the privilege of speaking with an extraordinary woman whose resilience and determination are truly inspiring. Despite facing two life-altering injuries, 30 years apart, she managed to rebuild trust in her body—not once, but twice. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, as she navigated the challenges of teen pregnancy and single parenthood, all while prioritizing her physical and mental well-being.

In our conversation, I learned valuable lessons about the importance of time, the impact of positive self-talk, the strength required to overcome adversity, and the nuanced differences between therapy and coaching. It’s an episode filled with wisdom and inspiration.

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Find Chloe!

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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

Today, I’m excited to introduce a guest who proudly embraces his role as a disruptor, someone who isn’t afraid to tell it like it is. Growing up in the vibrant city of Brighton, he reflects on the culture that shaped his childhood and how he found his calling in basketball. His journey led him to cross paths with 2019 NBA Championship head coach Nick Nurse, and he shares eye-opening stories about life with professional athletes and the treatment of rookies.

But his impact doesn’t stop there. Our guest is now making waves as a business owner and founder of Men of Melanin and BARCO, creating meaningful change for the Black community. This conversation was enlightening, offering deep insights into the Black experience and the power of unapologetic leadership.

Before we dive in, I want to provide a trigger warning for our listeners—this episode contains discussions of depression and suicide. Take care while listening.

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B.A.R.C.O.

Boxless

Men of Melanin

Bud Johnston's Ted Talk

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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Today, we’re diving into a topic that often brings with it a lot of apprehension—death. I’m speaking with an individual whose career journey is nothing short of inspiring. Starting as a hospice nurse and advancing through the healthcare system, she earned her master’s degree at 50, launched her own business, and even created a podcast about advanced care planning that held space for a fellow nurse who was dying.

Despite my initial nervousness, this conversation left me feeling surprisingly calm and enlightened. Please take care while listening.

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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

Today, we're kicking off with a career that exemplifies the power of stepping outside your comfort zone to achieve success. My guest is a veterinarian, animal rights advocate, author, TV personality, and documentarian. Growing up as a shy child who found solace in nature and the company of animals, he built a remarkable career fueled by curiosity and a deep passion for learning.

He’ll share how his father’s influence, especially his encouragement of creativity and a love of knowledge, helped shape the path he walks today. His tireless work in animal welfare earned him an OBE, and his ongoing mission to expose the cruel practices of puppy and kitten farming has inspired many.

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Find Marc!

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See you next Sunday!

xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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

Seasoned Professional is a brand-new podcast hosted by Hannah Octavia, created for adults who are uncertain about their career path or simply want to explore the life journeys of those who've made it. It’s a space for open and vulnerable conversations, offering insights into how to navigate success in this crazy thing called life.

In our first episode, you’ll hear from five influential guests with vastly different career backgrounds—ranging from a veterinarian turned campaigner to a hospice nurse who became an entrepreneur and podcaster.

If you'd like to enjoy our video podcast find us on YouTube at Seasoned Professional

Follow Seasoned Professional on Instagram @seasonedprofessionalpod and on TikTok at SeasonedProfessional

Interested in being a guest on the podcast?

Click to apply!

See you on Sundays!

Xx Hannah Octavia

(Theme music curtesy of Fran Lusty's song, "Functioning Adult")

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