Now joining me today IN THE CHAI ROOM (should I keep calling it that?)  is my dear friend—dancer, choreographer, model, performer and now writer—Tarek Khwiss.

This was Tarek’s second time on the podcast, and what a special episode it was. A lot of you often ask what it’s like having friends on the podcast, and this episode is truly the epitome of that. We have a deep conversation about dance culture in the UK, friendships within the industry, and kindness toward ourselves and others while navigating the creative world.

Tarek and I also get into politics and activism—using our social platforms to speak out, and the balance (or imbalance) of doing so while managing a creative, freelance life. We discuss how this seeps into our work, the challenges it brings, and how it has shaped our personal viewpoints.

We also talk about being Arab and queer, and dive into Tarek’s new business, Haus of Hurriyah, as well as queer spaces such as Hishek Bishek in London . Of course, we discuss Tarek’s story “Confessions” for An Ode: Reframing the Classics—which, by the way, you can stream in full now on Patreon. You’ll also hear a soundbite in this episode.

Welcoming to The Chai Room- Robert Emms. 

We discussed his new project The Choral, which is out in cinemas right now- make sure to check it out. P.S - the end made me cry and we discuss that.  We also discuss his new project Bad Apples. 

This was such a great insight into the mind of an Actor. We chatted about the concept of idolising and hero worshipping the creatives you might be working with to the truth and subtext of acting. How to create the world of your story and emote it through various techniques.

I cannot wait for you to hear this and get inspired.

Welcome to the Chai Room 👀☕️ Francesca Gamble

I had such a magnetic time with Fran and felt very empowered after our chat. It was such a healing insight into what your mind can look like when you do the work and dare to be brave. How we can lead and stand in the mosh pit of it all, the good, the bad and everything in between. It was also wonderful to have an insight into the business of a fast pace service industry, that often works on KPI's, metrics set by others and orientated to others creative vision. In all of this I truly found an honest voice of Fran's. I cannot wait for you to hear this and get inspired. 

Fran's Bio: 

Francesca is the founder of Global Talent Network Group and 29 London, celebrating a decade in business this year. With a career spanning top agencies including The Engine Group, M&C Saatchi, and Chime Group, Francesca brings deep expertise in brand building, entrepreneurship, and the business of talent. As a solo founder who has grown her companies without external funding, she offers a unique perspective on building Talent-first strategies and why brands must look beyond influencers to drive real influence and cultural impact.