Jacob Smith is a journalist and food writer based in Edinburgh who has worked for The Courier and various publications as a freelance writer. He studied sport science and later earned a masters in Conflict, Security and Development before transitioning into journalism and creative writing. He is currently working on a literary fiction novel while employed as a kitchen porter at Dog Star Restaurant, Edinburgh.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and overview of conversation topics

00:53 - How Jacob got into jiu-jitsu through his partner and his athletic background in rugby and boxing

01:56 - Educational journey from sport science to masters in Conflict, Security and Development

03:07 - Why Jacob chose to study international security and development while teaching English in Spain

04:12 - What deterred him from pursuing a career in international development and aid work

05:42 - The challenges of working in large international organizations versus grassroots charities

06:01 - Discussion comparing approaches to humanitarian work, referencing the Oleg Dmitriev episode

08:30 - How Jacob transitioned into journalism and got his start in writing

12:45 - Early freelance writing experiences and learning the business side of journalism

18:20 - Getting hired at The Courier and what that role involved

24:15 - Food writing as a specialty and how that developed

31:40 - The realities of being paid as a freelance writer

38:25 - How AI is impacting journalism and writing professions

45:10 - Concerns about AI-generated content and its effect on the industry

52:30 - The importance of building relationships with editors

58:45 - Deciding to leave The Courier and return to freelance work

1:05:20 - Taking a job as a kitchen porter while pursuing creative projects

1:12:35 - The difference between journalism and creative writing

1:18:50 - Dealing with rejection and the emotional side of creative work

1:25:15 - The practical challenges of making a living as a writer

1:32:40 - Why working in kitchens informs both his novel and food writing

1:38:25 - The writing process and discipline required for long-form fiction

1:44:10 - How to know when a piece of writing is finished

1:50:23 - Current projects: literary fiction novel about toxic masculinity and male friendship in kitchens

1:52:31 - Plans for future food writing pieces and submissions to national publications

1:53:48 - The ups and downs of a creative career path

1:54:12 - Living with uncertainty and having supportive people around you

1:56:56 - Final thoughts on taking creative risks and Jim Carrey's lesson about playing it safe

Relevant Links

• Jacob Smith's Instagram Profile: https://www.instagram.com/jlsmithwriter/
• Dogstar Restaurant, Edinbrugh: https://dogstarleith.com/
• The Courier: https://www.thecourier.co.uk/

Thank you for listening.