James Skiffins is the creator of Model Officer, a content platform and community that uses scale modelling as a gateway to deeper conversations about creativity, mental health, and recovery.
Through long-form video, live discussions, and large-scale narrative build projects such as RISE and Fire on the Rising Sun, Model Officer explores how making things with our hands can support reflection, resilience, and connection — particularly for men who may struggle to talk openly about their mental health.
Blending historical storytelling, craftsmanship, and lived experience, Model Officer has built a trusted, values-led community across YouTube, Discord, and social platforms, where modelling is treated not just as a hobby, but as a meaningful, restorative practice.
Model Officer’s work sits at the intersection of hobby culture, mental health advocacy, and community building, offering a rare perspective on how creative spaces can become safe spaces — without losing their joy, humour, or technical depth.
Related Episodes
Ma.K built the Wright way! Hiya fellow Benchmates, This episode we're heading into something pretty special — the 48 in 48 global charity build, where modellers from around the world unite for forty-eight hours of creativity, community, and building hope in scale for Models for Heroes. We're joined ...
Hiya Benchmates, In this episode we have taken a bit of a different direction for a one off with regards to the advantage of scale modelling and the benefits for mental health. We are joined by Malcolm Childs & James Skiffins from Models for Heroes (& the Just making conversation podcast) to take a ...
