Interview with Sian Prime, NESTA Creative Pioneer Programme

This interview for my research into Perceptions of Coaching in the UK Creative Industries was with Sian Prime, Training and Development Manager for the NESTA Creative Pioneer Programme. Through this programme, the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (NESTA) provides funding, training and mentoring for early stage creative entrepreneurs, helping them turn their ideas into viable businesses.

Sian gave a fascinating account of the challenges facing creative entrepreneurs, particularly those moving from a hands-on creative role into a leadership position. She challenged the stereotypical dichotomy between creativity and commerce by emphasizing the potential of creative skills to translate into business success. She also highlighted the pitfalls trainers and coaches can encounter when introducing ‘management’ concepts to creative entrepreneurs – and gave some memorable examples of how she overcomes these problems and engages delegates on the Creative Pioneer Programme.

Click the ‘AUDIO MP3’ icon below to hear the interview.

Mark McGuinness

Mark McGuinness is a poet, a coach for creative professionals, and the host of The 21st Century Creative Podcast.

Recent Posts

My New Podcast: The 21st Century Creative

Back in 2006 I started blogging here at Wishful Thinking to share my ideas about…

7 years ago

My new book: <em>Productivity for Creative People</em>

The most popular thing I ever published here on the Wishful Thinking blog was an…

8 years ago

Important: If you want to receive future updates from the Wishful Thinking blog

If you subscribe to Wishful Thinking via email... You can relax, there's nothing for you…

11 years ago

Video: Dealing with Rejection and Criticism (My New Book)

Is it possible to succeed as a creative professional without having to deal with rejection…

12 years ago

Two Types of Creative Manager – and the Different Challenges They Face

Later this month I'll be speaking to design leaders at the HOW Design Live conference…

12 years ago