“People make me creative.”
That’s Zoe Hanson. And she means it.
After years on Heart and Capital Radio, holding the attention of thousands every day, Zoe learned something simple and powerful:
If you want better ideas… get closer to people.
The way they live. The way they speak. The way they move. Not personas. Not demographics. Real people.
Zoe runs. Park Runs. 10Ks. Solo miles, but also with people.
As she runs, something happens. She notices people.
A runner coming the other way. A nod. A smile. A moment.
And then her mind starts to wander.
Who are they? What’s their story? What happens in the rest of their day?
From that tiny spark, ideas begin to form that are relatable and grounded.
They’re rooted in people.
We often try to be creative by looking inward.
At the challenge. The screen. The pressure. At ourselves.
Zoe flips it. She looks outward. She listens, observes, engages and runs to discover the new.
Creativity doesn’t live in isolation. It thrives in connection.
CREATIVE WORKOUT:
The people run (no actual running required)
This one is simple but powerful.
Step 1: Observe
Take a walk. Grab a coffee. Sit somewhere people pass by.
Yes, you’re allowed to step away from your desk.
Working can take many forms.
Choose one person and simply notice them.
Step 2: Wonder
Let your curiosity take over.
Ask yourself:
- What might their day look like?
- What might they be thinking about?
- What might be happening in their world right now?
Don’t worry about being right. This is about paying attention.
Step 3: Imagine
Now write a six-word story about them.
For example:
- Running away from a difficult week.
- Five minutes of peace before school.
- Escaping emails one stride at a time.
The point isn’t accuracy. It’s exercising curiosity and imagination. Go wild. Everyone has a story.
ABOUT ZOE:
Zoe Hanson is The Podcast Lady. With 25 years in radio and broadcasting, she now helps individuals and organisations launch and grow podcasts that truly connect.
Connect with Zoe on LinkedIn
THE CREATIVE COOLDOWN:
Look beyond your bubble
It’s useful to listen to podcasts outside of our own lists. Zoe believes that a good podcast is about making people feel comfortable enough to talk to the host and, in turn, to share the story with the audience through podcasts.
Here are her recommendations:
Thrive Solo with Lucy Meggeson
How to Fail with Elizabeth Day
In Confidence with Rosie Dalling
