151. Resilience, Chaos & Carving Your Own Path in Advertising, with Gnome Taylor
- S9E151
- 46:02
- May 19th 2025
This week, we chat with Gnome Taylor, senior creative at Grey London, about the resilience it takes to make it in the creative industries—especially when life starts out tough.
Gnome shares her incredible journey from growing up in foster care to carving out a thriving career in advertising. With honesty and humour, she reflects on the chaos of her early years, the stereotypes she battled, and the pivotal moment that made her decide to change her life. From raising over £26,000 to attend the School of Communication Arts, to landing her dream job, it's a story of sheer determination and grit.
The conversation also explores the power of kindness, the emotional rollercoaster of creative work, and the importance of opening up—particularly in an industry where vulnerability is still often seen as a weakness. Gnome talks openly about navigating rejection, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why she’s passionate about supporting underrepresented voices in advertising.
If you've ever felt like you didn’t belong, or if you've had to fight harder than most to find your place, this episode will speak to you. It's a candid and uplifting reminder that our differences and our experiences are often our greatest strengths.
This season is proudly sponsored by the School of Communication Arts.
The Creative Boom Podcast
Join host Katy Cowan on The Creative Boom Podcast, where candid chats with fellow creatives offer fresh perspectives, expert advice, and a shared understanding of the challenges we all face. Whether seeking inspiration or practical tips, this show brings warmth, insight, and connection to your creative journey. Come for the stories, stay for the friendly vibes, and leave feeling empowered to shape a fulfilling, sustainable career.
Meet the Host
Katy is the founding editor of Creative Boom, an online magazine, podcast, and community that celebrates and supports creatives worldwide.
With over 25 years of experience in media, PR, and marketing communications, she began her career in broadcast journalism in 2000 before transitioning into public relations. In 2007, she co-founded Boomerang, a digital communications consultancy based in Manchester, working with clients such as the BBC, TATA Group, and Manchester City Football Club.
In 2009, Katy launched Creative Boom to support struggling creatives. It has since grown into a leading platform that reaches over one million creative professionals each month. The platform has partnered with brands like Google, Microsoft, Adobe, Canon, and Wix to deliver impactful campaigns tailored to the creative community.
Today, Katy focuses entirely on Creative Boom, dedicated to empowering and uplifting artists and designers worldwide. Her passion for supporting creatives is at the heart of everything she does.