Chatting with Channing: Asti Wagner on confidence, creativity and building Invyted

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In the latest episode of Chatting with Channing, we are joined by Channing alumna Asti Wagner, founder of Invyted, for an inspiring conversation about confidence, creativity and taking a different path after school.

Asti reflects warmly on her time at Channing, describing it as a place where she “came out of her shell” after joining in Year 7. She remembers the support of her teachers, the close friendships she built and the sense of community that helped her grow in confidence.

After Channing, Asti studied business administration at the University of Bath, choosing a course that offered 2 six-month placements and the chance to explore different areas of business. During this time, her long-standing love of food and digital creativity grew into something much bigger.

What began as a fun Instagram page, @eatwithast, where Asti shared London restaurant recommendations and food content, quickly developed into a growing online community. As her following increased, so did the number of invitations, emails and messages from restaurants, brands and PR agencies. Asti spotted a problem: arranging collaborations between influencers and brands was often slow, repetitive and full of unnecessary admin. Invyted was her answer.

Built from Asti’s own first-hand experience as a content creator, Invyted streamlines influencer marketing and helps make the process easier for both creators and brands.

The episode also explores the reality of entrepreneurship. Asti speaks honestly about learning from mistakes, making bold decisions and the benefits of starting young. Her message to pupils is clear: you do not need to have everything worked out straight away.

Asti also shares her encouragement for current Channing pupils, especially those who may feel shy or unsure of themselves. Looking back, she says school is a huge learning curve and urges pupils to make the most of their time at Channing, the friendships they build and the opportunities around them.

This episode is a wonderful reflection of the Channing spirit: kindness, curiosity, courage and a willingness to take on new challenges. Listen now to hear Asti’s story, from Channing pupil to founder of a growing international business.