ABOUT THIS EPISODE
In this episode of Creative Conversations, Mia Moore sits down with Sally Morris, Editor-in-Chief of Swanky Mag and founder of the Swanky Media Group. Sally’s journey takes us from her roots in hair and make-up, through building a magazine empire, to mentoring the next generation of creatives. Together, they explore the value of collaboration, the challenges of running large creative projects, and the importance of supporting diversity and wellbeing in the industry.
🎤 In This Episode, We Discuss:
✅ The Power of Networking – Sally shares how building strong industry connections helped her transition from hair and make-up to leading major creative projects and launching her own media group.
✅ Resilience and Reinvention – Overcoming personal setbacks, including a serious back injury, and how they led her to explore new skills and ultimately create Swanky Mag.
✅ Creative Ruts and Inspiration – The real experience of creative block, where to find inspiration, and the role of research, trend forecasting, and nature in sparking new ideas.
✅ Making Big Ideas Happen – The inside story on organising huge collaborative shoots (including a Viking epic and a striking blue Mohawk), and why teamwork and leadership are essential.
✅ Building Swanky Media Group – How a single magazine grew into an international media group, publishing across genres from fashion to wildlife, and supporting photographers and writers worldwide.
✅ Mentoring and Diversity – The responsibility of mentoring students and emerging creatives, and Sally’s passion for creating an inclusive community where everyone’s creativity is celebrated.
✅ Learning by Doing – Why practical experience is so important for students and young professionals, and Sally’s advice for getting your foot in the door—even if you have to start as a runner.
✅ Trend Forecasting & Accessibility – Bringing high fashion and trends to the masses, working with both luxury and high street brands, and making creativity accessible to all.
✅ Wellbeing in the Creative Industry – How Swanky Media Group champions mental health and resilience for creatives, encouraging balance, confidence, and kindness.
💡 Key Takeaways:
✨ Don’t be too hard on yourself – Creative success takes time, and everyone’s journey is unique.
🤝 Networking and mentoring are crucial – Build relationships and help others rise with you.
🌱 Experience matters – Volunteer, assist, and learn hands-on; every opportunity helps you grow.
🖌️ Diversity and inclusion fuel creativity – There’s space for every voice and every background.
💡 Stay curious and embrace change – The creative world moves fast; keep learning and adapting.
🎙️ About Our Guest:
Sally Morris is the Editor-in-Chief of Swanky Mag and founder of the Swanky Media Group, an international publishing company dedicated to celebrating creativity in all its forms. With a background in hair, make-up, and creative direction, Sally brings decades of industry experience to her mentoring and leadership. She is passionate about fostering community, guiding the next generation, and promoting diversity and mental wellbeing in the creative industries.
Connect with Sally & Swanky Media Group:
- Website: swankymediagroup.com
- Instagram: @swankymag
- TikTok: @swankymag
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🎧 Creative Conversations is recorded at Granary Studios and produced by Granary Digital.
