A Day in Melbourne With The Doyenne Interviews' Bridget Nathan

By Bridget Nathan

Bridget Nathan is a Australian Architect, currently working for JCB Architects. She is the host and creator of The Doyenne Interviews, an illustrated podcast that speaks to inspiring women from the art, architecture and design world. The podcast is accompanied by art by Grace Yeo, and also Allyra Murray, and features a bespoke classical introduction by Anon.

4:30am: During COVID-19, I adopted two kittens who were somehow abandoned. We still don’t know what happened. They have been the cutest WFH companions! They wake me up extremely early however, through tapping on my French window doors. I get up and feed them, and snuggle back into bed with one of the kittens next to me and also take a look at my phone. I’ve received some messages on Instagram — some new connections have written to me recommending their employees for my podcast. I write back and let them know I’m booked out until January 2021! But that I will consider them for any cancellations I may have.

6:00am: I fit in working on The Doyenne Interviews in so many ways! Mornings are a great time because I’m fully able to focus, before the work day starts and my mind becomes busy. This morning I turn on my computer and launch Garage Band, which is where I do all my editing. I’m currently working on a series called ‘Organic Formations’ which is a bit of a conversation into all things feminine. Grace Yeo has created some stunning portraits of the guests, which all express movement and forms that aren’t rectilinear.

Editing is really fun, especially because I can listen more intently than in the interviews, where I am focusing on both the recording and the segue questions. Today I am focused on editing Elora Hardy’s interview. I have decided to re-record my own voice, because sometimes I ask very long questions. So I am listening to the content, and summarising my questions, and then recording a shorter version.

The Doyenne Interviews cover sketches by Grace Yeo

7:00am: Podcasting involves quite a few things aside from the recording. It’s sort of like running a micro-business. I also like to produce content for the various social media channels I’m on. It’s also still developing, so this year has been a bit about experimentation. After I’ve finished editing Elora’s epiosde, I upload it to SoundCloud and email a trial version for approval. I like to pick one quote from the episode, so I use InDesign to type out one I’ve heard, which is about nature and the Industrial Revolution. All of the episodes in this series are somewhat about nature, and being unique, which is something I had the chance to speak to Julia Gamolina about.

8:00am: I was also fortunate to to start receiving sponsorship and grant funding this year which has boosted my podcast and my enthusiasm. I received some support from the Alastair Swayn Foundation, I think I was the first woman to receive this particular grant! So after I’ve finished editing, I email them to arrange some media and also a contract. Moving from a passion project idea, into a financial entity has entailed a bit more responsibility, so I try to review things carefully before signing. The mini-series they are supporting focuses on Women’s Health and will interview artistic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, so I spend some time preparing questions which I try to email to guests a week before we speak. I’ve so far spoken with Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung and Gamilaroi woman Madison Connors, Kokatha and Nukunu artist Yhonnie Scarce, and Bundjalung woman and artist Bronwyn Bancroft, which were all very different interviews that I'm privileged and excited to share soon.

9:00am: I am currently working as an architect from my home. I don’t work on Doyenne during the day, as I like to have a break between commitments. That being said however the podcast has influenced me a lot in terms of work. Whilst I still have so much to learn as a designer and an architect, I find that I’m much more confident in many professional situations now. Work also prompts a lot of my podcast questions, they sort of work hand in hand! It’s helped me find my own style of communication. I have a background in community projects such as education, so am currently working in that capacity. The firm I’m working for, JCB Architects, have a great team so that’s made the last month really enjoyable.

12:30pm: Over lunch I try to leave the computer, to get away from the online world! I've found it really important to have a break during periods of time online. I grab a coffee from one of my favourite cafes, Loafer, and go for a walk. I'm actually really lucky that where I live is a neighbourhood with amazing architecture. Melbourne is known for its design culture, and there are some amazing examples of architecture near me such as Clare Cousins' 'Light Box' and Mani Architecture's 'One Mani House', both by podcast guests, so it's luckily still been possible to do research during iso!

5:30pm: After another Revit session I finish up work for the day. Due to the early start, I enjoy taking it easy on weeknights!

7:30pm: I’m meeting a friend to do some yoga in the park tonight. In 2018 I completed a yoga teacher training course in Rishikesh. It was one of the most amazing things I’ve ever done. It’s about exercise, but also about being more grounded and connecting with your heart. I really enjoy doing yoga with friends, especially outside. Tonight we’ve found a spot in this area of park called the circle of trees, it’s literally a huge circle of trees. I love being able to see the sunset turn into the moon.

9.00pm: When I get home I do a bit more emailing for the podcast, mainly organising time spots with people. I also publish a quote by my recent guest, Katherine Lu, who writes back that she felt like the podcast episode was like talking to a friend. And I couldn’t agree more! I’ve met so many amazing women this season, I’ve been blown away by their generosity to take part. It’s been a really good mix, and it’s definitely made my lockdown days meaningful!