Best Zandra Podcasts (2025)

1
Post-No Kings Protest: Civil Unrest, News Anxiety, Hispanic/Latino Safety, Community Care, and Mental Health 28:14

Play Pause

6d ago28:14

28:14

The discussion on "It's Where I Am" focused on mental health, civil unrest, and the impact of news consumption on anxiety and depression. Host Zandra Polard and guests Wes Knight and Jinx Diaz discussed the recent peaceful protests, including the No Kings Day event with 5 million participants. They highlighted the correlation between negative news …

1
S22 Ep1: Dame Zandra Rhodes: Building a legacy whilst defying convention 1:03:24

19d ago1:03:24

1:03:24

What does it take to build a legacy that spans over six decades, dressing everyone from royalty to rock stars, while staying true to your unique, uncompromising vision? In this episode, Holly has a heartfelt conversation with the legendary Dame Zandra Rhodes, a beloved figure in the fashion world whose vibrant designs and bold spirit have made her …

1
What We're Sold and What We Actually Want: How Trends Are Eroding Our Concept of Home with Annetta Grant 31:24

5d ago31:24

31:24

This week, I’m joined by Professor Annetta Grant, whose research examines why so many of us feel uneasy in our own homes — even after we’ve renovated them. We dive into her concept of dysplacement (yes, spelled with a “y”), and how the rise of HGTV, social media, and resale-minded design has shifted the home from a space of personal expression to a…

1
S22 Ep3: Rob Biddulph, Author & Illustrator: The man who taught a million children to draw 1:08:59

5d ago1:08:59

1:08:59

What if a simple drawing could do more than just fill a page? What if it could boost confidence, spark creativity and even provide comfort in uncertain times? In this episode, Holly sits down with the brilliant Rob Biddulph, award winning children’s author, illustrator and creative force behind the lockdown sensation Draw With Rob, a movement that …

1
Jeanne Beker Makes Fashion Personal In Her New Memoir Heart On My Sleeve 38:11

9d ago38:11

38:11

Hello and welcome to season five of FashionTalks. I am your host, Donna Bishop. I know it has been a minute, so thank you so much for joining me today. I'm so glad you're here. I can think of no better guest than to launch this season than Jeanne Beker. Now, Jeannie's been on the podcast before. I'll link it down below. And we talked then about her…

1
What You Don’t Know About Design Books (And Why I’m Crowdsourcing My Book Tour) 19:27

12d ago19:27

19:27

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to market a design book—especially when you’re doing most of it yourself. This episode is all about doing things with intention, working within limits, and inviting you to help shape this journey with me. Leave Me A Message! I need your feedback on the ideas from this episode. Go…

1
S22 Ep2: Little Moons Co-Founder, Vivien Wong: Grit, grace & graft — what it really takes to go viral 1:12:19

12d ago1:12:19

1:12:19

Do you know what it takes to become a 10-year ‘overnight’ success? How do you turn something you love into a $66 million business? And what drives you to keep going in order to make that happen? In this episode, Holly speaks candidly with Vivien Wong to learn more about her story of co-founding the mochi ice cream sensation, Little Moons. With a bo…

1
"It's Where I Am" Confronts Civil Unrest, Explores Mental Health Impact, and Calls for Activism and Community Healing 29:02

13d ago29:02

29:02

The discussion on "It's Where I Am" focused on the mental health impact of civil unrest, particularly the No Kings Day protests. Zandra Polard, Wes Knight, and Daniel Isaiah Elias, aka AM, discussed the emotional toll on families and the lack of therapeutic support. They compared the current unrest to past events like the Rodney King riots and high…

1
Sabine Marcelis on recycled aluminium and resin. 54:09

18d ago54:09

54:09

Sabine Marcelis is a Rotterdam-based designer and artist who, in her own words, is ‘forever in search of magical moments within materials’. She’s probably best known for her work in glass, resin and stone, which often plays with light and water. However, most recently, she has been part of R100, a project with Hydro, which asks a group of internati…

1
When To Mix and When To Match: Tailored And Soulful Design with Jade Joyner 37:50

19d ago37:50

37:50

In this episode, I sit down with interior designer Jade Joyner, co-founder of the firm Metal + Petal, to talk about how she approaches design with intention, balance, and a strong point of view. Jade is the opposite of a formulaic designer—she’s not interested in trends, matching sets, or playing it safe. Instead, she leans into mixing materials, l…

1
Zandra Polard Explores Autism, Mental Health, and the Power of Early Intervention 28:50

20d ago28:50

28:50

Zandra Polard and an anonymous guest discuss autism, its spectrum, and misconceptions. The guest emphasizes the lack of definitive causes for autism, mentioning theories like paternal age and in-utero factors. He highlights successful cases like Elon Musk and Bill Gates, noting their high-functioning autism. Early diagnosis and intervention are cru…

1
Fashion Talks Is Back For Season 5 1:24

23d ago1:24

1:24

FashionTalks is back for season 5! Join host Donna Bishop as she chats with industry leaders and hot emerging talent about key insights they have learned, how they are got to where they are in life and career, and their love affair with clothesBy FashionTalks

1
Episode 2505: Julie Nurnberger-Haag - integer arithmetic in the middle grades 44:51

24d ago44:51

44:51

Julie Nurnberger-Haag returns to the podcast to discuss the article, "Tools, tricks, and topics teachers use for integer arithmetic," published in the Electronic Journal for Research in Science and Mathematics Education (Vol. 29). Co-author: Scott Courtney Article URL: https://ejrsme.icrsme.com/article/view/23771 Julie's Google Scholar page List of…

1
AHEC's David Venables on US hardwood forests and using what nature provides. 58:04

25d ago58:04

58:04

David Venables is the European director for the American Hardwood Export Council. Over the last 20 years, the organisation has created an array of extraordinary installations, sculptures and products – working with the likes of Alison Brooks, Waugh Thistleton, Heatherwick Studio, Jaime Hayon, Benedetta Tagliabue, and Stefan Diez to name just a few …

1
Organizing For Joy, Not Perfection: Why Editing Beats Decluttering with Whitney English 40:18

26d ago40:18

40:18

In this episode, I talk with Whitney English—author, designer, and (as I like to call her) my organizational better half. Her new book, Organize First, Decorate Second, isn't your typical organizing manual. It’s thoughtful, deeply personal, and grounded in real life—something I immediately connected with. We explore the idea that our homes are not …

1
Altadena Burns, Community Unites: Exposing Negligence and Demanding Justice 29:18

27d ago29:18

29:18

The discussion focused on the Altadena fires, highlighting the community's multi-racial harmony and the devastating impact of the fires. The fires, which affected 161 historically reviewed homes, were attributed to Edison's negligence, with the tower's sensor going off 87 times. The conversation also touched on the lack of government and insurance …

1
Episode 2504: Yusuke Uegatani - semi-formal reasoning and negotiation 13:34

1M ago13:34

13:34

Yusuke Uegatani from Hiroshima University High School (Fukuyama, Japan) discusses the article "Decentralising mathematics: Mutual development of spontaneous and mathematical concepts via informal reasoning," published in Educational Studies in Mathematics (Vol. 118). Co-authors: Hiroki Otani, Taro Fujita. Article URL: https://link.springer.com/arti…

1
Rosa Whiteley on shells and creating a new building material. 55:47

1M ago55:47

55:47

Rosa Whiteley is a designer, writer and researcher, who trained as an architect at Manchester School of Architecture and the Royal College of Art. Subsequently, she has worked within Cooking Sections, the Turner Prize nominated design and art collective, as a project manager and lead researcher and, since 2021, she has been the director of Material…

1
Zandra Polard Explores Stormwater Pollution and Water Quality with Amber Smith 28:36

1M ago28:36

28:36

Zandra Polard discusses water pollution with environmental scientist Amber Smith, focusing on stormwater pollution. Amber explains that acid rain, caused by air pollution, can be harmful to forests and aquatic life. She highlights that untreated stormwater picks up pollutants like heavy metals and pesticides, which directly affect waterways and sea…

1
Episode 2503: Alina Kadluba - assessing Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) 22:00

2M ago22:00

22:00

Alina Kadluba from the Technical University of Munich (Germany) discusses the article, "How much C is in TPACK? A systematic review on the assessment of TPACK in mathematics," published in Educational Studies in Mathematics (Vol. 118). Co-authors: Anselm Strohmaier, Christian Schons, Andreas Obersteiner. Article URL: https://link.springer.com/artic…

1
Claudy Jongstra on working with wool and creating her own biodynamic farm. 56:09

2M ago56:09

56:09

Claudy Jongstra is a Dutch artist and designer who has become globally renowned for her, often monumental, textile installations and tapestries made from wool. After establishing her studio in Friesland in the Dutch countryside during 2001, she started an ecological venture, which involved maintaining a herd of indigenous sheep and creating a biody…

1
Prioritize Self-Care, Break Patterns, and Redefine Success with Natasha McCrea 29:39

2M ago29:39

29:39

Natasha McCrea, an author, director, and empowerment strategist, discusses the importance of self-care and breaking free from the "hamster wheel" of life. She emphasizes creating personalized self-care routines and the significance of accountability. Natasha shares her method of blocking two hours on one's calendar for self-care and the concept of …

1
How The Brits Create Character-ful Homes with Ros Byam Shaw 45:32

2M ago45:32

45:32

When I first discovered Ros Byam Shaw’s writing, I felt like I’d found someone who truly saw homes the way I did — not as stage sets or style statements, but as deeply personal spaces layered with time, memory, and quiet beauty. In this episode, I get to speak with Ros Byam Shaw about her work as a writer and her newest book, “ Perfect English, Sma…

1
Zandra Polard Hosts a Candid Talk on Independence, Friendship, and Future Dreams 20:53

2M ago20:53

20:53

Zandra Polard hosts a radio show featuring her son, Roman Anderson, and his friends, Teyshaun and Kayvon. Roman, moving to Georgia, discusses his nervousness about leaving home for an extended period. Teyshaun shares his challenges of being away from Hawaii, while Kayvon reflects on his socially awkward nature. They discuss their friendships, forme…

1
Nantucket by Design: Where Travel, History, and Home Come Together 23:31

2M ago23:31

23:31

In this episode, I explore how real-world experiences — especially travel — can deeply enrich our homes and design choices. I introduce the fourth skill of my Slow Style framework, "Enrich," and talk with Bill Richards and Marla Mullen, co-chairs of Nantucket by Design 2025. We discuss how honoring a sense of place, like the spirit of Nantucket, ca…

1
Lauren Tallman Explores Erotica, Empowerment, and Historical Sensuality in “Harem of the Dragon” 26:02

2M ago26:02

26:02

Zandra Polard interviews Lauren Tallman, a writer known for her erotica, including her latest book, "Harem of the Dragon." Tallman discusses her journey from writing short stories to founding the Erotic Writers Group of Las Vegas. She describes "Harem of the Dragon," set in 15th-century China, detailing the life of a eunuch named Long in the Empero…

1
How Design Can Transform Your Life: “Spatial Alchemy” with Olga Naiman 36:40

2M ago36:40

36:40

In this episode, I talk with Olga Naiman, author of Spatial Alchemy, about how design can help us move through change, break old patterns, and support who we’re becoming. Olga shares how her own journey—starting with something as simple as reupholstering a chair—led her to a deeper understanding of the connection between our homes and our inner liv…

1
Blueprint for Belonging: Youth voices on social capital 1:21:56

2M ago1:21:56

1:21:56

With the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, the government has pledged to build 1.5 million new homes and deliver a 10-year infrastructure strategy. However, one critical element is missing: the foundational role of community – our shared civic spaces, places, and facilities.This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for young people to help shape i…

1
How To Be Purposeful With Color: Bailey Li’s Evocative Murals and Listener Q&A 25:50

2M ago25:50

25:50

In this episode, I talk with Bailey Li, a self-taught artist and interior designer known for her powerful murals and bold, emotionally driven spaces. We walk through a few of her standout projects, always shaped by what a client wants to experience, emotionally, in a room. Bailey believes design should reflect not just who you are, but who you're b…

1
Episode 2502: Discussing the Science of Math - Sarah Powell and Rachel Lambert 1:31:48

3M ago1:31:48

1:31:48

In this episode, Sam is joined by two separate guests. Sarah Powell (University of Texas) describes the origins and aims of the Science of Math efforts, and Rachel Lambert (University of California, Santa Barbara) shares some critiques and concerns about the Science of Math as it is currently instantiated. Introduction (0:00:00) Origins with Sarah …

1
Break the Stigma: Brionna Hines Explains Bipolar Disorder and the Power of Peer Support 28:12

3M ago28:12

28:12

Zandra Polard hosts a discussion with Brionna Hines, president of the Southern Nevada chapter of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA). Hines explains bipolar disorder, its types (I and II), and symptoms, including manic and depressive episodes. She highlights the importance of medication, therapy, and coping mechanisms. Hines also dis…

1
Fix My Room: Open Plan Living Room Edition 30:59

3M ago30:59

30:59

In this edition of the Fix My Room series, I share a one-on-one coaching call with Charlotte, we discuss how to blend her style with the house's current rustic design. We explored furniture arrangement in her large, open living area and kitchen, and tackled her concerns about a big blank wall, appropriate rug size, and making better use of a wood s…

1
AM Uncovers Family Roots, Champions Mental Health, and Inspires Through Music and Purpose 28:36

3M ago28:36

28:36

Daniel Isaiah Elias, also known as AM, discussed his journey of discovering his father's adoption and his own family roots, which led to a name change in 2022. He emphasized the importance of mental health and wellness, inspired by his mentally ill mother, through his website, Genius Only, which offers music, clothing, books, and health products. D…

1
The Strategic Use of Color: Transforming Builder-Grade Spaces with Gabriela Eisenhart 35:48

3M ago35:48

35:48

My guest today for our “Think Like A Designer” series is Gabriela Eisenhart, founder of Silo Studio Design. We cover a lot of bases in this conversation: finding inspiration for a “wow” moment in a kitchen; how to use color in a mostly neutral living room; mixing heavy and light layers to create a serene bedroom; what to do with that empty area you…

1
Tim Minshall on manufacturing, tariffs, silicon, and green hushing. 1:09:04

3M ago1:09:04

1:09:04

Tim Minshall is an expert in manufacturing and innovation. He is the inaugural Dr John C Taylor professor of innovation at the University of Cambridge, the head of the Engineering Department’s Institute for Manufacturing and a fellow of Churchill College. Importantly too, he has published a new book. Your Life is Manufactured: How we make things, w…

1
What Does Your Entryway Say About You? Barrett Oswald On Personalization And Impact In Design 27:17

3M ago27:17

27:17

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I sit down with designer Barrett Oswald to examine the thought process behind her stunning, layered interiors. We explore the power of color, the role of texture, and how composition can transform a space—whether it’s a grand entryway or a cozy nook. Barrett shares insights from her work on both histo…

1
Menopause and Sexual Health: Navigating Changes with Madison Gulli 25:03

3M ago25:03

25:03

Zandra Polard and Madison Gulli discuss the impact of menopause on sexual health. Gulli explains that perimenopause, which can last 5-10 years, often starts in the 40s and includes symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. She emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues with healthcare providers, noting that traditional…

1
African Design Legacy Goes Global: Nasozi Kakembo's Guide to Authentic Decorating 29:30

3M ago29:30

29:30

In this episode, I interview Nasozi Kakembo, author of 'African Decor Edit,' who shares her experiences traveling across Africa meeting artisans, and creating home accessories. Nasozi's book underscores the importance of understanding the cultural context behind African decor, highlighting 16 significant objects and how they are artfully incorporat…

1
Expanding Mental Health Care: Dr. G on Treating Severe Illnesses and Community Support 25:20

3M ago25:20

25:20

Dr. G, a mental health professional, discusses his work with patients suffering from severe mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, at Great Mind Counseling and Wellness Center in Las Vegas. He highlights the success of their wraparound program, which aims to reduce recidivism and hospital admissions by provi…

1
Enduring Harassment and Seeking Justice: Mark and Kelly’s Fight Against Violence, False Accusations, and Systemic Neglect 27:01

4M ago27:01

27:01

Mark Thomas and his fiancée Kelly have been victims of harassment and assault by their neighbor since 2019. Despite filing multiple police reports and complaints, the city prosecutor and police ignored their pleas. On October 2, 2022, six people assaulted Mark and Kelly. Despite being the victim, Mark was falsely accused by the city prosecutor. Mar…

1
Nikki Giovanni: the late great poet on integrity, self-care and Tupac tattoos 34:51

4M ago34:51

34:51

Nikki Giovanni was one of the greatest poets of her generation and it was an honour to sit with her for a special episode of The Last Bohemians, recorded in Spring 2024 in London, while she was promoting what would become her final anthology, Poems: 1968-2020 (Penguin Classics). When we saw she was in town, we jumped at the chance to speak with her…

1
Midlife Maneuvers: Angie Amico on Reinvention, Mindset, and New Beginnings 25:03

4M ago25:03

25:03

Zandra Polard and Angie Amico discuss the concept of midlife crisis, which Amico rebrands as the "edge of reinvention." Amico, a 45-year-old executive mind coach, emphasizes that midlife is a time for self-questioning and seeking more out of life. She introduces her new YouTube channel, "The Edge of Reinvention," launching March 15, aimed at provid…

1
Sue Tilley: the 1980s club kid and artist on Leigh Bowery and modelling for Lucian Freud 27:11

4M ago27:11

27:11

Rewind to the 1980s and London nightlife was an explosion of creativity – the new romantics were in, dramatic fashion looks were everywhere and at the back of the club, having a gossip, there’d be Sue Tilley, also affectionately known as Big Sue. She was the best friend of the outrageous performance artist and fashion designer Leigh Bowery, who bec…

1
Seetal Solanki on olive tree roots, cooking, and why materials matter. 57:19

4M ago57:19

57:19

Seetal Solanki describes herself as a materials translator and has been in the vanguard of material thinking since she launched her practice, Ma-tt-er, in 2015. Three years later she produced the hugely influential book, Why Materials Matter, and she has gone on to work with a variety of brands, including Nike, Selfridges and Potato Head in Bali, a…

1
6 Design "Rules" for an Anti-Generic Home 30:46

4M ago30:46

30:46

Last week, I interviewed a designer who strongly follows and advocates for design rules, and while that method works for some, I advocate for a different, more personal approach to home design. I discussed various design rules, their origins, and how they can be broken to create a unique, joyful space that reflects individual style. I categorized d…

1
Fast or Slow? Which Decorating Approach is Right For You? with Betsy Helmuth 36:26

4M ago36:26

36:26

In this episode, I sit down with Betsy Helmuth, a professional designer known for her fast-paced, rule-based approach, which contrasts with my slow style method. While I emphasize self-exploration and taking time to layer a home, Betsy's clients prioritize efficiency and clear guidelines to avoid mistakes in their design decisions. Betsy shares how…

1
Callum Robinson on wood and his new book Ingrained. 53:38

5M ago53:38

53:38

Callum Robinson makes all sorts of things out of wood, as well as being the creative director of Method Studio, the company he established with his wife, Marisa Giannasi, 15 years ago. In 2024, he published a fascinating, lyrical memoir. Ingrained: The making of a craftsman, tells the story of his lifelong fascination with his material of choice, h…

1
Maximalism Doesn’t Mean Cluttered: How to Add Layers and Make an Impact with Danielle Balanis 32:30

5M ago32:30

32:30

In this episode, I had a delightful conversation with Danielle Balanis, a Birmingham-based designer known for her bold, layered, and mixed aesthetic. Danielle's designs exude joy, abundance, and energy, adhering to the principles of the Slow Style philosophy. She emphasizes developing an aesthetic rather than adhering to strict style categories, fo…

1
Zandra and Zaneta Polard Reflect on Eaton Canyon Fires, Survival, and Community Resilience 26:24

5M ago26:24

26:24

Zandra Polard interviews her sister Zaneta Polard about the emotional impact of the Eaton Canyon fires. Zaneta recounts the night of the fire, describing the lack of warning and the urgency of evacuation. She highlights the heroic efforts of a neighbor, Jeff, who saved their house from burning. Zaneta discusses the aftermath, including the toxicity…

1
Molly Parkin: the grand dame of British bohemia on Soho's glory days, Louis Armstrong and self love 26:04

5M ago26:04

26:04

The inspiration for this series, Molly Parkin is a painter, erotic novelist and a former fashion editor who was once just as famous for her bedroom liaisons with the movers and shakers of London. She is never without a bejewelled turban on her head or a saucy anecdote at hand. Now 87, she lives on the iconic World’s End estate in Chelsea, in a kale…