Karen Cunningham on Experience, Identity and Directing Life on Her Own Terms
- Athene Parker
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
In the latest episode of The emPOWER Podcast, Athene Parker sits down with award-winning director Karen Cunningham for a thoughtful and vibrant conversation about creativity, identity and the value of experience.
In this episode, Karen reflects on a career that has spanned acting, advertising, production and directing, sharing the moments and decisions that have shaped her path. From her early days growing up in a lively, fast-paced household to forging her independence as a young woman in London, her story is one of curiosity, resilience and quiet determination.
Karen speaks candidly about finding her place in the world and in the industry, recalling the energy of her early career, the chaos and excitement of flat-sharing, and the formative experiences that helped shape her creative voice. Together, she and Athene explore how those early chapters often carry through into the work we create and the people we become.
With honesty and clarity, Karen also reflects on her experiences as a female director, including moments where she has encountered ingrained sexism on set. It’s a powerful and nuanced discussion about change, resistance and the reality of navigating an industry that continues to evolve, sometimes faster for some than others.
At the heart of the conversation is a belief in the value of experience, not just as something that builds expertise, but as something that shapes perspective, empathy and authenticity. Karen’s approach to storytelling is rooted in this, in understanding people, drawing out truth and creating work that feels real and emotionally connected.
Her reflections offer a compelling reminder that there is no single path to success, and that growth often comes from embracing uncertainty, trusting your instincts and allowing your journey to unfold in its own time.
Karen’s perspective will resonate with anyone navigating change, building a creative career or simply trying to find a sense of belonging in a fast-moving world. It’s a conversation that feels grounded, reflective and HUGELY inspiring.
As with every emPOWER Podcast episode, the conversation makes space for honesty, depth and connection, creating a moment to pause, reflect and really reminisce.
The full emPOWER Breakfast Podcast episode with Karen Cunningham is available now. Listen wherever you get your podcasts, subscribe, and join the conversation.
With thanks to our podcast sponsors String & Tins, and to their brilliant female production team for bringing these conversations to life.
