Hey there! Jackie Wahome here—founder of ThinkIllustrate, professional doodler, and, for one nerve-wracking day, an impromptu actress playing the role of a cool, calm, and collected CEO on live TV!
So, how did a lawyer who communicates best through doodles end up in the glaring spotlight of a BBC studio? Well, it all started with an innocent phone call that turned into an “Oh-my-gosh, what did I just agree to?” moment. And just like that, I was scheduled to appear on television to talk about Doodles and Law. Contrasting and ironic.
As I stepped into the BBC studio for the first time, I felt like running away was the next best option. Lights brighter than my future, cameras that looked more complex than tax law, and so many wires I thought I might be tripping into my big debut. My inner monologue was basically, “Act like a CEO, Jackie. CEOs don’t show fear!” At least that’s what I told myself as I practiced my most CEO-like nod in the mirror that morning.
I glanced around, half expecting someone to jump out and yell, “Just kidding! You’re on candid camera!” Spoiler alert: that didn’t happen. Instead, what I got was a kind-hearted interviewer whose smile was reassuring enough to make me forget about the cameras for a moment. As we prepared to go live, he must’ve sensed my inner turmoil (or noticed my knees shaking uncontrollably) because he started making the goofiest faces at me. I’m talking full-on, grade-school antics. Naturally, I joined in, because why not? If you’re going to look silly, own it like a boss!
Once the cameras rolled, something beautiful happened. The lights didn’t feel so hot anymore, and the cameras seemed almost friendly. The conversation flowed from the impact of visual learning in legal contexts to the universal language of doodles.
We laughed, we doodled, and I might have accidentally coined a new term for my new profession— “The doodling Lawyer” (patent pending). Who knew that live TV could be such a blast?
By the end of the interview, I felt like a seasoned pro. I strutted out of there with a swagger that said, “I survived the BBC,” ready to take on more unexpected challenges—like maybe keeping my plants alive and my cats well fed.
Remember that no matter how intimidating the situation, there’s a doodle that can get you through it. Keep it ThinkIllustrate on all our socials to keep up with our journey as we grow, expand and step out of our comfort zones.