S3, Ep11 – In conversation with Simon Thomas
26 May 2023
As both a dental expert and entrepreneur, Dr Reena is able to see first-hand on a daily basis how the media industry plays an invaluable role in the world of business and one she has been particularly keen on exploring further with an insider insight for our third season of Life & Smile.
By popular demand, Dr Reena was particularly keen to be joined in conversation on this very inspiring and motivating episode by a household name who many of us will of course recognise instantly from his Blue Peter years. He has since gone on to create a hugely successful career across the media industry as a sports broadcaster, speaker, author and notably president of Blood Cancer UK. It is of course Simon Thomas.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Simon joins Dr Reena directly in the Harley Street recording studio, kicking off the conversation by recounting how many podcast listeners will likely have followed him since his renowned years as a Blue Peter ‘crew member’, as Simon humorously self-describes. He spent six years on the iconic children’s show before transitioning to present live Premier League football on Sky Sports as a sports broadcaster.
Dr Reena is intrigued to learn more about how Simon’s career in media began, prompting her to ask what first inspired him to pursue a career in such a competitive industry. Simon admits that, while he had always loved Blue Peter, he never imagined he would one day be presenting it.
Before entering the media world, Simon graduated from Birmingham University with a BA Hons degree in History. It was during his time at university that he first caught the media bug and decided to pursue it professionally. Simon recounts how his journey was initially sporadic, auditioning for Blue Peter on several occasions. It was a famous sacking that ultimately led him to his big break on the show. Simon confirms that he had always felt comfortable in front of the camera, enjoying the act of communication and recalling how, as a child, he admired how the presenters were often taken out of their comfort zones.
Dr Reena shifts the topic to what advice Simon would give his younger self and whether he would have done anything differently. Simon reflects on how the media landscape has dramatically changed. He notes that there are now countless opportunities in the digital era to create your own platform and share content—something unimaginable back in the days of VHS tapes.
When discussing the nature of live broadcasting, Dr Reena is curious about how Simon has managed to stay at the top of his game when live in front of the camera. They discuss memorable live outtakes, particularly from Simon’s Blue Peter years, moments that Simon admits he’ll never quite live down. He fondly mentions his friendship with former co-star Matt Baker, with whom he remains close.
In terms of daily inspiration, Simon shares that the driving force behind his continued success is the simple love and appreciation of life. He observes that many people take things for granted, assuming they will always be there—but, of course, that is rarely the case.
Simon also opens up about his shift to a freelance role, which has brought both joy and uncertainty. He emphasises the importance of taking a step back and appreciating how far you’ve come. In this discussion, both Simon and Dr Reena agree that in today’s world, being constantly busy has become a forced habit, and it’s essential to recognise that being busy isn’t always synonymous with being productive or successful.
When reflecting on his typical day, Simon describes the perfect balance he’s created. His routine includes presenting for Sky Sports, complemented by a freelance schedule that ensures every week is different. He maintains a dedicated family life and travels extensively across the UK to participate in everything from panel talks to corporate opportunities. Both Simon and Dr Reena conclude that the flexibility and the joy of enjoying every step of the journey are key to maintaining balance and fulfilment.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Some people may be at the right place at the right time, but for the vast majority of us, success is often a much longer journey.
Sometimes, it’s the final attempt—the last stretch—that brings success. Don’t give up when you’re so close.
You can always prove people wrong. In today’s media landscape, there are countless opportunities to turn a negative situation into a positive one.
Never underestimate the value of the small, simple things. Appreciate life in its purest form—you never know when it could be taken away.
Don’t feel pressured to always project a busy image. Sometimes, not being busy is the most important thing for your well-being and focus.
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Previous episodes
S1, Ep4 – In conversation with Sophie Carbonari
As one of the most exclusive and talked about facialists on the global beauty and health scene, renowned for her dedicated and signature techniques that ensure a tailor-made approach, we caught up with Sophie Carbonari during her time in London.
S4, Ep4 – In conversation with Asif Syed
In this episode of Life & Smile, Dr Reena wanted to link a little closer to home towards the world of dentistry, an industry of course where business clearly remains at the forefront. In this episode we are joined in conversation with Asif Syed, a dentist turned full-time business consultant based in London.
