George Christopher Vance was born in London in 1971 and spent most of his childhood in Bristol, England and in Longford, Ireland. He graduated from Newcastle University.

Chris is a Civil Engineer who has worked extensively in water infrastructure projects across the globe. He is a writer, actor, producer and author. He is founder and co-director of Oratales, a publishing and production company focused on the promotion of language, learning, and empathy across multiple platforms.

Chris is passionate about the preservation of, and universal access to clean water. He is an ardent supporter of language in all forms that expand learning and awareness. He is critical of the insipid growth of the attention economy and believes that better regulation might stem the tide of harm it is inflicting upon developing beings universally.

Chris believes the contribution to world health, peace and happiness made by Arthur Guinness is massively underrated, even to this day.

I’m a clinical pharmacist with a specialist passion for menopause, supporting women as they step (sometimes tumble) into the next chapter of life with confidence, clarity, and a healthy dose of humour. I’m currently writing a book to shine a light on this major life transition that has a habit of arriving unannounced, under explained, and wildly misunderstood.

My three kids have inherited my love of sport. After many happy years on the hockey pitch, I’ve swapped astroturf for barbells and now fully embrace the wonderfully humbling world of CrossFit - proof that reinvention doesn’t have an age limit.

Personally and professionally I’m leaning into a new chapter focused on slowing down, being present, and living with intention - something I believe becomes even more vital later in life.

Growing up we disappeared into the woods, made up games, and let our imaginations run wild. Today, presence and deep attention feel like endangered skills. I believe they are worth protecting. For each of us and for future generations.

Hence Oratales, a narrative studio, devoted to deeper reading and restored attentions through storytelling. Often the most powerful medicine isn’t another pill. It’s space, story, and the courage to pause.