Episode 89

full
Published on:

28th May 2026

What if your ‘little idea’ isn’t little at all?

What if the creative spark you’ve been overlooking is the very thing that could change your life?

In this episode, writer, illustrator and performance poet Chris White shares how saying yes to creativity took him from Derby to stages, schools and festivals around the world proving that imagination can open doors you never expected.

From publishing his first book Bitey the Veggie Vampire to performing at renowned festivals including the Edinburgh Fringe and the Doha Book Festival, Chris shares the highs, challenges, and unexpected moments that shaped his creative career so far. We talk about building a creative life, finding your unique voice, and why curiosity, playfulness and persistence matter more than money (although it helps if you get paid!).

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About the Host:

Lucy Colgan is a seasoned creative leader, educator and podcast host with nearly two decades of experience in the arts and education. She holds a PGCE in Drama & Performing Arts and a Professional Diploma in Dance from Trinity Laban, and has worked as a freelance artist, project manager, and director across the creative sector.

She launched The Wilderness of Creativity in 2024 and invites listeners to explore what it really means to 'take the road less travelled', combining vulnerability, practical insight and inspirational storytelling.

Want to learn more about today’s guest? Check out their full bio and links below!

Chris is a writer. illustrator and performance poet from Derby, UK. He has had many poetry and story books published since his first, 'BITEY THE VEGGIE VAMPIRE', in 2000. His books include 'THE A-Z OF COMPLETELY MADE-UP DINOSAURS' and ‘DON’T PUT DAVE IN THE MICROWAVE!’ Chris, or 'The Doodling Poet', as he is also known, has featured at many literary festivals, including The Edinburgh Fringe, The Edinburgh Book Festival, The Doha Book Festival, The Derby Poetry Festival, and The Cheltenham Book Festival. His poetry performances and writing and illustrating workshops have taken him all over the world, visiting schools in places such as China, Russia, Vietnam, Jordan, India, Germany, The Congo, and Qatar.

Chris's Facebook page

@mr_chris_white on Instagram

Chris's Website

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About the Podcast

The Wilderness of Creativity
A platform for creatives to share their stories of survival.
If you are looking for fast hacks or viral growth tips, this is not the place! However, if you’re looking for depth, vulnerability and a sense of belonging while feeling lost or 'in between', then you have finally found your tribe! The Wilderness of Creativity is the platform for creatives, thinkers and dreamers to share their stories of survival. Through meaningful conversations with inspiring guests and gentle solo reflections, we will brave the wilderness of creativity together as a means to gain creative clarity, confidence and connection. Welcome to your next adventure!
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About your host

Profile picture for Lucy Colgan

Lucy Colgan

Lucy's career spanning two decades has seen her excel as a versatile freelance artist, project manager, and director within the dynamic world of the creative industry. Armed with a PGCE in Drama and Performing Arts and a Professional Diploma in Dance from Trinity Laban, she effortlessly imparts her boundless energy and expertise to budding talents. Lucy crafts bespoke training sessions for educators and non-specialists working across various educational sectors and community platforms. Currently holding the position of Head of Dance and Drama at a leading independent school in Derbyshire, Lucy continues to inspire and empower the next generation of artistic trailblazers.