The second series of Smith & Western’s industry podcasts, The Creative Relay, has launched with host Paul Dunne talking to Barbara Humphries, one year in from her promotion to creative director at The Monkeys.

Humphries is making a name for herself on some of Australia’s leading brands. Her Berlei campaign reimagined bra advertising. IKEA’s animated furnishings continue to delight. MLA continues to find exciting new ways to be provocative. And the University of Sydney is setting itself apart in a crowded market. But it is the story of her big break and its ongoing influence on her role that truly sets Humphries apart.

Barbara Humphries

Beating over 1000 hopefuls to earn a position at Wieden+Kennedy London, Humpries went from a “bitter and broke barmaid” to a full-time job at one of the industry’s most revered agencies. It’s a transition that defines her approach to creativity and leadership.

“Failure and mis-steps along the way make you stronger and more determined. And they also help you strategise creative ways of getting what you want,” she explains in the new podcast.

Humphries’ episode was recorded at Smith & Western’s purpose-built podcast studio. It explores the source of Barbara’s empathy towards young creatives and the struggles they face breaking into the industry and building their careers.

“Maybe I’m just remembering what it’s like to be a struggling barmaid – but I love seeing people grow and get better over time,” she notes.

Humphries also recalls the pursuit of diversity in creative departments from her time in London, along with her love of having “a mess of a situation” put down on paper for her to solve.

Dan Higson, Smith & Western’s podcast creator and producer, commented, “In the first series, we talked to some amazing creatives with incredible pedigrees. We wanted to kick off this season with an emerging star, a champion for the next generation. And Barb is certainly all that.”

This episode, along with preceding episodes from Series 1, is available now on iTunes or at thecreativerelay.com.

In the next episode, Barbara will interview the creative of her choice. It is scheduled for release at the beginning of May.