Research and Innovation

Leeds University Business School

Author: Leeds University Business School

Leeds University Business Schools "Research and Innovation" podcast brings you insights from our expert researchers. From the future of work, to disruptive technologies; green behaviours to emerging markets, we cover a wide-range of topical issues and novel ideas. Listen to the podcast to find out more about our research and how its inspiring business managers, informing policymakers and influencing society. If you have any comments regarding any of these episodes, please contact research.lubs@leeds.ac.uk.
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Language: en

Genres: Business, Science, Social Sciences

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Letting go of the script: Brandon Baker on authentic work and self‑discovery
Thursday, 26 March, 2026

In this episode, Dr Sanjay Popat speaks to former child actor Brandon Baker, best known for Johnny Tsunami and other Disney Channel hits. They explore Brandon’s mental health journey in the context of how early career success shapes identity, the psychological impact of career transitions, and what it took for him to find meaningful work. This episode was recorded on 4 March 2026. A transcript of the episode is available. If you would like to get in touch regarding the episode or podcast, email research.lubs@leeds.ac.uk. Visit the podcast webpage for further information.About the speakers:Brandon Baker rose to fame on Disney Channel’s “Johnny Tsunami”, following earlier roles in “The Jungle Book: Mowgli’s Story” and later appearing in “Even Stevens”. Despite his success, he realised acting didn’t feel authentic to him and stepped away to explore other passions, including music and officiating weddings, bringing his energy and creativity to ventures beyond Hollywood. Dr Sanjay Popat is a Chartered Organisational Psychologist and Postdoctoral Research Fellow specialising in occupational stress, well-being and mental health. His work focuses on how these phenomena occur over time and how time might influence whether we adapt to stressors or reach a breaking point.