2 Minutes With ... Phil Blackmore, Co-Founder & Creative Partner at Create Health

Phil Blackmore has worked in agencies of all kinds over the last 20 years, ranging from global players to startups, winning awards along the way for his writing, thinking and leadership. Phil’s energy is infectious, his love of creativity obvious, his passion for Lego and trance music borders on unhealthy. He loves what he does and believes that regardless of brand or sector, you can create brilliant work.

Of late, Phil’s taken this belief to the world of healthcare, where for the past 8 years he’s led a multi-disciplinary team of strategists, creatives and communicators dedicated to pushing the envelope. The ultimate goal? To help everyone live happier, healthier lives.

We spent two minutes with Phil to learn more about his background, his creative inspirations and recent work he’s admired.

Phil, tell us…

Where you grew up, and where you live now.

I was raised in a small hamlet on the edge of Exmoor, in Devon, England (think the Shire from The Hobbit). It’s a stunning part of the U.K., but as a teenager I couldn’t wait to run off to the bright lights of London. However, 20 years on, I’ve ended up back in the South West and now live by the sea near Bristol.

How you first got interested in health.

I always loved science at school, but my talents lay in more artistic pursuits. That said, it was after the birth of my second son that I found myself searching for more purpose from my work. A chance phone call led me to healthcare, where I finally got to combine art and science—I’ve adored it ever since.

One of your favorite projects you’ve ever worked on.

That’s a tough one, but … I loved working on a passion project for my agency called Mindset Matters. It was a series of short films that told the incredible stories of six people who had chosen to thrive, not just survive. It was a real privilege to capture their journeys and share their united belief: there’s power in positive thinking.

A recent project you’re proud of.

BD’s “Find the Impossible” was our launch campaign for their Multi-Omics single-cell analysis solution. It featured a Big Foot as the core character. We worked with a specialist prosthetics company to create a life-like suit; an amazing process and craft to watch. A truly special project from start to finish for me, as it proved that creativity is the cure in healthcare communications.

One thing about how health is evolving that you’re excited about.

Web3. I think the principles of decentralization and ownership behind the technology could be huge for healthcare—and will ensure more of us have a say in how our health data is used to help maintain our wellness.

Someone else’s work, in health or beyond, that you admired lately.

For me, great work has lasting impact. This piece by AMV BBDO for Macmillan Cancer Support is a few years old, but it still gives me goosebumps and makes me cry every time I watch it. It’s so raw, yet beautiful in the same moment. I hope it made others donate as quickly as I did … 

A book, movie, TV show or podcast you recently found inspiring.

Bill Bryson’s The Mother Tongue: English and How It Got That Way is a fascinating and very funny account of how the English came to be. I feel sorry for anyone that must learn this language—it really makes no sense.

A visual artist or band/musician you admire.

Above & Beyond. They are an amazing trio of musicians in their own right, plus the label they founded—Anjunabeats—boosts some of the best talent in trance.

Your favorite fictional character.

Robin Hood, a total legend who challenged the status quo.

Someone worth following in social media.

@midjourneyartwork is a great account to follow as it features A.I. work from multiple artists—a proper visual treat for the eyes if you like the weird and wonderful.

Your main strength as a marketer/creative.

My endless belief that every problem can be solved—you just need to think creatively.

Your biggest weakness.

Rowntree’s Fruit Pastilles, plus being impulsive.

One thing that always makes you happy.

Movie night with my family—particularly when the classics are on like Uncle Buck and Groundhog Day.

One thing that always makes you sad.

Apart from the first 10 minutes of Pixar’s UP—I get really sad about talented kids not reaching their potential because of the circumstances they were born into. More needs to be done in society to ensure equal opportunities.

Something people would find surprising about you.

Despite being hugely into music, I can’t click my fingers—it’s so frustrating.

What you’d be doing if you weren’t in health.

Superstar DJ, or Ice Road Trucker. I’d love my own custom Big Rig one day!