The Common Creative: Recent Episodes
Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith
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The Common Creative - But Never Ordinary A podcast series with Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith
The worlds of business, home and play are all starved of creativity. From an early age, we’re taught how to analyse, critique and simplify but the tools for exploring, ideating and creating are assumed to be instinctive. The Common Creative is all about bringing creativity back into everyday life - understanding the essence of creativity and making creativity a common as a loaf of bread and as well understood as a common language.
Hosts Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith are both creative thought-leaders and have been bonded by a common passion for creating and sharing something new and inspiring every day. Paul paints a watercolour of the household object and posts the image on IG “@everythink”, Chris photographs the same beach each and every day and posts the image on IG “@thisisbalmoral”
By day, Paul Fairweather is a Brisbane-based, speaker, author, mentor, architect and artist. Chris Meredith is a Sydney-based, business coach, innovation consultant, and award-winning photo-artist.
Each podcast explores a different aspect of creativity. Recent topics have included: Energy, Time, Constraints and even the Impact of Covid-19 (why not?!)
The podcasts are ideal for anyone looking to get out of a rut and deliver stuff that goes beyond the norm.
Join us for our conversations and surprising guests to unlock your own creativity.
https://thecommoncreative.co/
https://www.paulfairweather.com/
https://chrismeredith.com.au/
In this episode, Chris and Paul are joined by Stacey Hall, founder of MAKE and Promo Sapien, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, creativity, and building businesses that people genuinely connect with.
Stacey shares how an unexpected start at a struggling clothing manufacturer became her first real business education, eventually leading her to launch Vancouver’s first retail embroidery store and grow it into two successful brands. Along the way, she discovered the power of creating memorable customer experiences, collaborating with artists, and turning creativity into a practical business advantage.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, retailer, creative professional, or simply curious about building brands people love, this episode is packed with insights on innovation, customer experience, and the many ways creativity can drive business success.
LINKS:
Stacy Hall - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-hall-445b524/
Websites :
Promosapien Promo Inc. - www.promosapien.ca
Make - www.makevancouver.com
Ole Originals - www.oleoriginals.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Paul and Chris challenge traditional command-and-control leadership and explore how clear direction, intentional boundaries and creative freedom can help teams do their best work.
They unpack the concept of the “three scripts” fully scripted, ad-lib and improv and how leaders can use each approach to balance structure with creativity. They also explore decision-making, the power of constraints, the “seed model” for developing ideas, and the role of leaders in turning chaos into clarity.
Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur or creative professional, this episode offers a fresh perspective on leading with curiosity, confidence and the courage to make decisive choices in an ever-changing world.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does it mean to stay creative for life?
At 93, retired architect Graham Bligh proves that curiosity, creativity, and connection don't have an expiry date. From designing iconic buildings to embracing art and lifelong learning in retirement, Graham reflects on a remarkable career spanning decades. He shares how staying open to new experiences, nurturing community, and continuing to create has kept his passion alive well into his 90s.
Whether you're building a career, exploring a new hobby, or redefining retirement, this conversation is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to learn, create, and make a meaningful impact.
Graham Bligh - Special Guest
Documentation - https://youtu.be/WVtYdncKda4
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Paul and Chris speak with architectural photographer Shantanu Starick about his remarkable Pixel Trade journey, where he travelled the world for over three years without spending money, exchanging photography for food, accommodation, and transport instead.
Shantanu shares how trading creativity for human connection transformed his understanding of value, community, and success. Discover why relying solely on money can limit creative fulfilment, and how relationships, trust, and reciprocity can unlock entirely new ways of living and working.
Shantanu Starick is an architectural photographer and creator of the internationally recognised Pixel Trade project. He works with architecture, design, hospitality, and wellness brands, and is also the creator of Therefore, a book series exploring architecture through photography and conversation.
LINKS:
Shantanu Starick- Special Guest
Website: shantanustarick.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do you stay creative within the structure of a large organisation?
Karen Steenkamp shares her journey from designer to creative leader, revealing how constraints can inspire innovation, the balance between artistic expression and commercial outcomes, and how authentic creativity drives better business results.
Karen is a marketing and creative leader with over 20 years of experience across advertising agencies, financial services, and in-house creative teams in Africa, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. Now leading an in-house agency at one of Australia's Big Four banks, she specialises in combining creativity, strategy, and customer-centred thinking to deliver meaningful business impact.
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LINKS:
Karen Steenkamp- Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-steenkamp-361281171/
Béhance: https://share.google/j6wFcBwWpJcE8BieC
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlock Brisbane's creative future with Barton Green, Chair of Brisbane Creative Collab. In this episode, Barton shares how bold ideas, unlikely collaborations, and a passion for the arts can shape a city's identity ahead of the 2032 Olympics.
From his early days as a drummer and journalist to becoming a respected communications strategist and board leader, Barton reveals how creativity thrives when business, community, and culture work together. Discover why fostering creativity isn't just good for the arts, it's essential for wellbeing, economic growth, and building a city people are proud to call home.
With more than 40 years of executive leadership and communications experience, Barton has served on numerous private, public, and not-for-profit boards. As Chair of Brisbane Creative Collab, he champions a vision of a Brisbane where creativity is embedded in everyday life and celebrated as a catalyst for innovation and community connection.
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LINKS:
Barton Green - Special Guest
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/barton-green-gaicd-843a6314
Website - www.creativebrisbane.com.au
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Chris Meredith as he chats with musician, composer, producer, and choir master Mitchell Kwanten about the transformative power of singing. Together, they explore how music fosters connection, supports mental wellbeing, breaks down barriers, and unlocks creativity in all of us.
Mitchell is a Sydney-based multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer who has performed and toured with some of Australia's leading artists, including David Campbell, Shannon Noll, Casey Donovan, and Marcus Corowa. A graduate of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, he is also a member of the band Bow and Arrow and has released several original works, including Triad and 7 Forces.
If you've ever felt self-conscious about singing or believed you weren't "musical enough," this episode will inspire you to find your voice and embrace creativity in a whole new way.
LINKS:
Mitchell Kwanten- Special Guest
Website - https://sydneyvocalarts.com/portfolio/mitchell-kwanten/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discover how John Sharpe (“Sharpey”) turned a passion for art, engineering, and adventure into some of Australia’s most iconic tourism experiences. From the Story Bridge Adventure Climb to Brisbane’s upcoming Flying Fox project, Sharpey shares lessons on creativity, entrepreneurship, navigating challenges, and bringing bold ideas to life.
With more than 25 years of experience creating innovative and inclusive adventure attractions, Sharpey reveals how curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty can transform passions into experiences that inspire people of all abilities.
John is the founder of several renowned adventure tourism ventures, including the Story Bridge Adventure Climb, Riverlife Adventure Centre, Vertigo, Walkabout Creek Adventures, and Tangalooma Water Sports. A leader in accessible tourism, he continues to develop pioneering experiences that help position Brisbane and Queensland as world-class destinations ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
LINKS:
John Sharpe- Special Guest
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/brisbaneflyingfox/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61589836615814
Website - https://www.sharpey.co/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discover how creativity and nature are deeply intertwined and how this connection can shift the way you see the world.
In this episode, award-winning author and illustrator Megan Forward shares how observation, storytelling, and visual art can deepen our relationship with the natural environment even in the middle of busy urban life. Beyond children’s books and illustrations, Megan reveals how artistic curiosity can become a powerful tool for understanding, appreciating, and protecting the world around us.
Megan Forward is a Brisbane-based author and illustrator of twelve children’s picture books, twice shortlisted for the Children’s Book Council of Australia Awards. With a background in visual arts and education, she creates stories and workshops that connect creativity, science, and nature. Megan is passionate about sustainability education and inspiring young people to explore the natural world through curiosity, play, and artistic expression.
This conversation is an invitation to start where you are using creativity as a lens to reconnect with nature, spark curiosity, and inspire meaningful action.
LINKS:
Megan Forward - Special Guest
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meganforwardstudio/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meganforwardstudio/
Website: https://www.meganforwardstudio.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlock the secret to harnessing your innate creativity, it’s not just for artists or entrepreneurs, it’s for everyone.
In this special milestone episode celebrating 200 inspiring shows, hosts Paul and Chris reveal the surprising lessons, stories, and science behind the creative mind that can transform your personal life, career, and wellbeing.
Discover how creativity is a powerful form of self-expression, no matter your profession or background. From a young doodler turned successful artist to neuroscientists explaining the brain’s hidden networks, this episode unpacks actionable insights on how to unlock your creative potential whenever you need it most. Learn why rest, curiosity, and playfulness are your secret weapons, and how you can switch your brain into a creative mode on demand.
Join us for a lively conversation packed with stories, science, and practical wisdom that will inspire you to see yourself as a creator every day. Essential listening for anyone eager to unlock their potential and bring more joy, innovation, and authenticity into their life. Hit play and start your creative journey today.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Most of us are unknowingly wasting hours each day that could fuel creativity, improve focus, and boost productivity. But what if the secret to achieving more isn’t working harder, it’s learning how to rest better?
In this insightful episode, bestselling author and future-of-work expert Alex Soojung-Kim Pang shares how intentional rest can become a powerful tool for creativity, performance, and well-being.
Drawing on research from elite athletes, Nobel Prize winners, and high performers, Alex explores how practices like microbreaks, physical activity, deep play, and shorter workweeks can help unlock better thinking and sustainable productivity. This conversation offers practical ways to integrate meaningful rest into everyday life so you can work smarter, think clearer, and feel better. He is the Director of Research and Innovation at 4 Day Week Global and the bestselling author of Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less, Work Less, Do More: Designing the 4-Day Week, Shorter: Work Better, Smarter, and Less Here’s How, and The Distraction Addiction.
LINKS:
Alex Soojung-Kim Pang - Special Guest
Strategy+Rest: www.strategy.rest
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/askpang
Twitter and Instagram: @askpang
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlocking the secret to blending creativity with everyday life, Peter Hickson's surprising journey from accountant to artist reveals how curiosity, humor, and bold experimentation can transform your world. If you've ever felt stuck in a routine or unsure how to start your creative passion, this episode is your blueprint for unleashing the artist within.
Peter Hickson is a former accountant, cattle property owner, and award-winning photographer with deep ties to rural Australia. Born in Sydney and raised partly in the Gulf of Carpentaria, he built an international career with Touche Ross and Price Waterhouse before co-founding accounting firm MHM in 1996, later retiring in 2017 after its acquisition by RSM. He continues to own his family’s cattle property, Melinda Downs, and is passionate about travel, golf, and photography. His acclaimed photographic work has won numerous international and domestic awards, with his current series, Australian Gothic, blending humour, rural Australian landscapes, and a touch of absurdity.
LINKS:
Peter Hickson - Special Guest
Instagram: @peterhicksonphotographer
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Paul sits down with , retired architect, author, and educator, Mark Jones to explore the connection between creativity, happiness, and profitability. Drawing from decades of experience and extensive interviews with architects, Mark shares how principles like simplicity, opportunity recognition, and design thinking can improve both business performance and personal fulfilment.
Dr. Mark Jones LFRAIA is an Australian architect whose career spans more than 35 years across professional practice, leadership, and academia. He founded Mark Jones Architects, later served as Director at , and has held key roles within the , including Queensland Chapter President. Awarded Life Fellowship in 2023, Mark also holds Masters degrees in Management, Business, and Sustainable Urban Development from , as well as a PhD from . He is currently an Honorary Associate Professor at.
LINKS:
Mark Jones - Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-jones-lfraia-63073746/
Website: https://www.markjonesarchitect.au/
Avail his book here: https://www.andalsobooks.com/#/success-in-architectural-practice-forthcoming/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does it really take to call yourself an artist?
In this episode, David Hinchliffe shares the moment that shifted his identity after more than 50 years of creating when a single word on his passport changed how he saw himself. It’s a powerful reminder that confidence often follows belief, not the other way around.
A globally exhibited painter with over 100 solo shows, David is known for his contemporary impressionist style and distinctive technique of painting from dark to light using negative space. From oils to acrylics, galleries to global workshops, his career spans decades of evolution and exploration.
His message is simple: painting isn’t reserved for the few. With the right attitude and persistence, anyone can learn the craft.
LINKS:
David Hinchliffe- Special Guest
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-hinchliffe-77277b16
Website: https://www.davidhinchliffe.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Jenn Just shares her journey from young entrepreneur to creative force in the LEGO and fandom space. We explore how she leverages neurodiversity as a strength, builds a business around her passions, and why authenticity is a competitive edge in today’s world.
Jenn is the founder of The Brick Chick, a niche brand creating custom-printed LEGO elements, fan-inspired merchandise, and small-batch creative products for a global audience. Blending creativity with sharp business systems, she manages everything from product development to cross-border logistics in-house.
Through her work, Jenn champions creative independence, ownership, and building unconventional paths to resilience and long-term success.
LINKS:
Jenn Just- Special Guest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrickchick/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebrickchick/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheChickBrick
Website: https://thebrickchick.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Step inside the creative mind of Brad Walls, a photographer redefining perspective through precision, constraint, and bold artistic choices. In this episode, we explore how limitations can unlock innovation, why patience is a creative superpower, and how a clear artistic vision turns everyday subjects into extraordinary work.
Brad Walls is an Australian visual artist celebrated for his striking aerial compositions that blend symmetry, space, and form. From synchronized swimmers to ballet dancers, his minimalist bird’s-eye perspective transforms the familiar into something unexpected. Originally from Sydney and now based in New York, Brad gained global recognition through his Pools From Above series launching international exhibitions, awards, and a growing collector following.
Like his photography, Brad’s exhibitions are thoughtfully immersive inviting audiences to see the world differently, one perspective at a time.
LINKS:
Brad Walls - Special Guest
Instagram: @bradscanvas
LinkedIn: @bradscanvas
Website: https://bradscanvas.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What really drives someone to buy art?
In this episode, Miriam Schulman unpacks the powerful role of self-awareness, storytelling, and emotional insight in increasing art sales. Drawing from her journey from Wall Street to becoming a leading art sales coach, Miriam reveals why selling isn’t about pushing products, it's about creating connections. You’ll learn how to tap into the emotional motivations of collectors, craft authentic stories around your work, and position your art in a way that resonates deeply and sells.
Miriam Schulman is a luxury-market messaging and pricing strategist for creative entrepreneurs. She is the author of Artpreneur: The Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Sustainable Living from Your Creativity (HarperCollins) and host of The Inspiration Place podcast, ranked in the top 1% globally. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Igniting Creativity, and Where Women Create.
Miriam helps creatives position their work as premium, what she calls “reassuringly expensive” so they attract clients who value taste, certainty, and execution… not discounts.
LINKS:
Miriam Schulman- Special Guest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schulmanart/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schulmanart
Website: https://schulmanart.com
Podcast: https://schulmanart.com/podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@schulmanart
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Dave Brown explores the depths of creativity through playful inquiry, long-term projects, and the interplay of whimsy and logic. This episode delves into creative principles, the art of collaboration, and how to foster innovation in both arts and business. Dave shares seven foundational principles he's developed over 40 years from limiting your palette to mapping and reflecting that help unlock creative potential at any stage of the process. Learn why patience, persistence, and playful experimentation matter more than you think, and how these elements lead to deeper, more layered outcomes.
Join us for a conversation that challenges the conventional, encourages experimentation, and celebrates the wonder of discovery because your next big idea may just be a whimsy away.
LINKS:
Dave Brown- Special Guest
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/sevenwell/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thepaperboats/
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/brownpaperboat
Blog- https://sevenwell77.substack.com/
Company- https://thepaperboats.org/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Chris explores why creativity in business means accepting that things won’t always go to plan and how leaders can create cultures where experimentation and learning are encouraged.
Chris Meredith is the author of The Spice Project, a book about unlocking creativity in the workplace and beyond. Drawing inspiration from the spirit of exploration, he shares practical ideas to help individuals and organisations embrace uncertainty, take creative risks, and turn curiosity into meaningful innovation.
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Kylee Leota shares her journey from accidental entrepreneur to trusted leadership advisor. We explore how curiosity fuels creativity, how leaders can create psychologically safe cultures, and the practical frameworks Kylee uses to help people think differently, lead with confidence, and unlock human potential.
Kylee Leota is the Founder and Chief Vision Officer of Elements 4 Success and the creator of the INFINITE Leadership™ framework. With over 25 years of experience across education, behaviour support, trauma-informed practice, and leadership development, she works with organisations to build inclusive, high-performing cultures.
A TEDx speaker and sought-after advisor to senior leaders, Kylee combines real-world experience with practical tools and big-picture thinking to help leaders lead with clarity, courage, and purpose—one meaningful conversation at a time.
LINKS:
Kylee Leota - Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylee-leota-leadershipexpert/
Instagram: @elements4success
Website: https://elements4success.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, we are joined by Dale Beaumont, serial entrepreneur, author, and technology innovator. Dale shares his entrepreneurial journey, the mindset shifts required to thrive in a fast-changing world, and how technology and AI are reshaping the way we build businesses and think creatively.
The conversation explores creativity in business, staying ahead of technological waves, and practical strategies for building resilience and momentum as an entrepreneur. Drawing on decades of experience building multi million-dollar companies and authoring 19 best-selling books, Dale offers grounded insights for founders, leaders, and curious creatives alike.
This episode is a forward-looking look at how curiosity, technology, and bold thinking combine to fuel meaningful business innovation.
LINKS:
Dale Beaumont- Special Guest
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/dalebeaumont
Instagram: @dalejbeaumont
Website: https://dalebeaumont.com | https://businessblueprint.com
Dale’s Books - https://dalebeaumont.com/books/secrets-exposed/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Paul and Chris are joined by Johanna Fink, who shares the story behind Yellow Shelf, a platform designed to help busy people discover books and podcasts through short, focused interviews. Joe reflects on his transition from corporate life to creative storytelling, and how clarity and brevity can help ideas cut through the noise.
The conversation explores concise communication, content curation, and building a community of authors and podcast hosts from around the world. Joe also discusses how Yellow Shelf was shaped by founder Johanna’s 25+ years in corporate roles across people, culture, and organisational leadership.
This episode offers a practical look at how thoughtful curation and short-form storytelling make cultural discovery more accessible, meaningful, and easy to engage with.
LINKS:
Johanna Fink - Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/finkjohanna/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yellowshelf_podcast/
Website: https://yellowshelf.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Paul is joined by Kelly Stoetzel, curator, creative producer, and former Head of Conferences at TED. Kelly shares her journey from the art world to shaping some of the world’s most influential idea-driven stages, and how powerful ideas are discovered, refined, and brought to life.
The conversation explores idea curation, storytelling, speaker development, and what makes a message truly resonate with an audience. Drawing on nearly two decades at TED and her current work leading the TEDxGlobal Idea Search, Kelly offers a practical and thoughtful lens on turning raw insight into memorable impact.
This episode is a grounded look at how creativity, clarity, and thoughtful curation help ideas travel further and matter more.
LINKS:
Kelly Stoetzel - Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellystoetzel/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kstoetzel/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Paul and Chris are joined by Nina Sunday, educator, author, speaker, and host of the global podcast Manage Self, Lead Others. Nina shares her creative journey across education, film, television, and leadership, and offers sharp insights into how ideas live or die inside organisations.
The conversation explores psychological safety, constructive conversations, vision boards, and why practices like free writing and doodling matter more than we think. Drawing on decades of experience through her company Brainpower Training, Nina brings a practical, human lens to leadership, curiosity, and real change at work.
This episode is a thoughtful look at how creativity, communication, and self-leadership shape the way we lead and the cultures we create.
LINKS:
Nina Sunday - Special Guest
Brainpower Training Pty Ltd: https://www.brainpowertraining.com.au/signature-programs/
NinaSunday.com: https://www.ninasunday.com/
linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninasunday/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nina.sunday
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nina_sunday
X: https://x.com/ninasunday
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The Common Creative Podcast, Chris Meredith speaks with Robin Moon, a former nurse who reinvented her life to become an accomplished wildlife photographer.
Robin shares her transition from a high-pressure healthcare career to discovering photography later in life, finding connection, creativity, and meaning through the natural world. The conversation explores the role of change and crisis in personal growth, the power of storytelling through imagery, and why age can be an advantage when beginning a creative journey.
Known for her light-hearted and authentic approach, Robin finds joy in nature’s unpredictability especially in wildlife photography, where humour and spontaneity keep her inspired. She is Vice President of Mosman Camera Club, a published photographer, and a Sony Imaging Advocate who regularly judges, presents, and educates for Sony.
Together with her husband Timothy, Robin runs Wanderlust Imagery, offering photography education, tours, and unforgettable creative adventures.
LINKS:
Robin Moon- Special Guest
Website: https://www.wanderlust.sydney/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robin_moon_photography/
https://www.instagram.com/wanderlustimagery.sydney/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobinwMoon
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Chris interviews award-winning crime writer Natalie Conyer about her journey from a career in administration to becoming a successful author later in life. Natalie shares her love of crime fiction, the pivotal moment that led her to pursue writing full-time, and insights into her creative process including the challenges, discipline, and rewards of following a creative calling.
Her debut novel, Present Tense, won the Ned Kelly Award for Best Debut Crime Novel in 2020, with her second novel, Shadow City, shortlisted for both the Ned Kelly and Danger Awards. Her third novel, Finding the Bones, will be released in March 2026. Natalie’s short fiction has also been published in anthologies and in her collection The Book Club and Other Stories.
Based in Sydney, Natalie is a swimmer, TV tragic, world-class procrastinator, and lifelong crime fiction devotee, a passion she explored so deeply she completed a doctorate on the genre.
LINKS:
Natalie Conyer - Special Guest
Website: https://natalieconyer.com/
X: https://twitter.com/natalieconyer
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-natalie-conyer-93257826
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalieconyer1/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Toni Powell shares her journey from marrying young and raising a family to becoming one of Australia’s most loved storytellers and keynote speakers. She explores the power of gratitude, the role of creativity in overcoming life’s challenges, and how pain can be a powerful teacher when met with perspective and purpose.
Renowned for her hilarious, story-driven talks, Toni is a leading voice in positive culture and wellbeing. She’s a two-time international business award winner, author of two books, whose Goalcast talk has over 15 million views, and the founder of the Heart of Gold International Film Festival, featured on ABC’s Australian Story (Let There Be Light).
LINKS:
Toni Powell- Special Guest
Website: https://www.tonipowell.com/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tonipowell
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this heartfelt episode, Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith pay tribute to Paul's late mother, Enid Margaret Fairweather, who recently passed away at the age of 94. The episode revisits an earlier interview with her, celebrating her vibrant creativity and resilience throughout her life. Despite facing challenges like polio, Enid lived a life full of artistic expression, from painting to writing a memoir. Her story serves as an inspiration to embrace creativity at any age.
Links:
Special Guest: Enid Fairweather
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The Common Creative Podcast, Paul chats with Warwick Heathwood about his journey from Outback Queensland to leading creative strategy on the world stage. Warwick shares how his early life, love for music, and agency experience shaped his views on storytelling, intuition, and the creative process. The conversation highlights the power of curiosity and the importance of understanding human behaviour in great strategy.
Warwick is a strategic leader with over 20 years’ experience in brand, creative, and business strategy. He’s helped drive growth for global brands, startups, and nonprofits, blending commercial acumen with sharp behavioural insight to create award-winning work across Australia, San Francisco, and New York.
It’s a conversation packed with wisdom, humility, and creative inspiration.
LINKS:
Warwick Heathwood - Special Guest
Website: https://subfrac.com/
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/warwick-heathwood-9aa3682a
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The Common Creative Podcast, Claire Gray shares her journey from behavioural science to founding Thriving Culture. She talks about the shift from traditional HR to people and culture, and why creativity, psychological safety, and strong leadership matter more than ever.
Claire draws on over two decades of experience helping organisations build confident leaders, aligned teams, and cultures of accountability. Known for simplifying complexity and bringing clarity, she works with clients across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and the UK.
Based in Byron Bay, Claire is an accredited coach, facilitator, and speaker who is passionate about helping people thrive at work.
Claire Gray - Special Guest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriving.culture/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leadership-coach-facilitator/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivingculture
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thrivingculture.com.au/
Website: https://thrivingculture.com.au/
Thriving Teams | Thriving Leadership book : https://thrivingculture.com.au/products
Podcast : https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claire-gray6/episodes/Its-here----the-Thriving-Leaders-Podcast--Leadership-Styles-e2ihvr5/a-ab69q5k
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com/
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Paul sits down with Ally Nitschke, a former professional ballet dancer turned leader in communication, influence, and executive development. Ally shares her unconventional career journey from the discipline of ballet to the structure of banking and how these experiences shaped her approach to leadership.
They dive into the evolving role of leaders in the age of AI, exploring creativity, communication, and the ethics of emerging technology. Ally also discusses the key ideas behind her book Grunt, Grit and Grace, offering practical insights on resilience, courage, and leading with heart.
Ally Nitschke is a powerhouse in leadership and communication, known for her neuroscience-backed, holistic approach that integrates mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. As the Founder of Made For More, she partners with executives and senior teams across industries to ignite potential, build resilience, and elevate performance.
Ally Nitschke - Special Guest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ally.madeformore/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ally-nitschke/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ally-nitschke
Website: https://www.madeformore.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com/
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Chris and Paul chat with Dr Ken Hudson, speaker, author and organisational creativity expert. Ken shares how his journey from senior marketing roles at American Express, Citibank and Dunlop Slazenger led him into the world of creativity, innovation and his signature approach: switch thinking.
They explore why leaders often struggle with creativity, how different brain networks shape our thinking, and simple, practical ways teams can switch modes to spark fresh ideas. Ken also reflects on his academic work including a PhD in Organisational Creativity, his three internationally released books, and his teaching and course design across UTS, AIM, the Marketing Institute of Singapore and the China Institute of Innovation.
A fast, insightful conversation about thinking differently and making creativity accessible to everyone.
Dr Ken Hudson- Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mykeldixon/
Website: drkenhudson.com | switchthinking.net
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com/
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The Common Creative Podcast, Chris and Paul dive into the creative journey behind Paul’s new book, Bold, Brave and a Bit Quirky.
Paul opens up about the challenges and triumphs of writing, illustrating, and publishing a book that’s part memoir, part manifesto, and full of creative insights. The conversation explores themes of creativity, storytelling, and the courage to embrace your quirks with Paul reflecting on his own growth and the lessons learned along the way.
You can grab a copy of Bold, Brave and a Bit Quirky from the publisher: https://www.andalsobooks.com/shop/boldbraveandabitquirky, or directly from the author here: https://www.paulfairweather.com/book
Paul Fairweather - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mykeldixon/
Website: https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode of The Common Creative, Chris and Paul sit down with Mykel Dixon speaker, author, musician, and all-round creative catalyst. Mykel shares his journey from rebellious student to professional musician to one of Australia’s most sought-after voices in creative and cultural transformation.
The conversation dances between music, creativity, and meaning exploring how art and nature can reawaken our aliveness, how to stay human in an age of AI, and why participation and presence matter more than ever.
A master of mixing poetry with provocation, Mykel designs experiences that ignite people from the inside out. Part concert, part campfire, part corporate intervention this one’s a must-listen for anyone who believes creativity still has the power to change everything.
Mykel Dixon - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mykeldixon/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mykeldixon/
Website - www.mykeldixon.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode ofThe Common Creative Podcast, Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith chat with creative consultant Chris Doherty, who helps organisations navigate change through creativity, design, and storytelling.
Chris shares how intention, tension, and imperfection fuel creativity and why handmade, human-centred work builds stronger connections. From his innovative “silence workshops” to blending illustration with strategy, Chris reveals how creative practices can transform teams and spark meaningful change.
Based in Canberra with the Holan Group, Chris draws on a background in theatre, psychology, and design to help people imagine and build a better tomorrow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's episode, Amanda Stevens shares her journey from running a successful marketing agency to becoming a renowned keynote speaker. She discusses the challenges and rewards of public speaking, the importance of creativity and innovation, and the power of positioning in business. Amanda also offers insights into using humor effectively and the significance of speaking with intention.
Amanda Stevens, CSP is one of Australia’s most engaging and in-demand keynote speakers. Entertaining, inspiring, and memorable, she’s captivated audiences in 14 countries with her unique blend of humour, insight, and practical wisdom.
A specialist in customer experience and brand advocacy, Amanda combines her double degree in marketing and consumer psychology with over a decade of consulting for major brands including Microsoft, Westpac, Foxtel, and Priceline.
With five books to her name and a reputation for tailoring every presentation to her audience, Amanda delivers powerful messages that stick and inspire action long after the event.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather as they engage in a lively discussion about the sport of pickle ball, exploring its origins, unique rules, and the creative aspects that make it appealing. They delve into how pickle ball combines elements of existing sports and the creativity involved in its invention, highlighting its tactical nature and accessibility for all ages.
LINKS:
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather explore the concept of being responsive versus reactive, using the metaphor of a 'better pill to swallow.' They discuss how creativity involves a shift from reacting instinctively to responding thoughtfully, emphasising the importance of control and intelligence in creative problem-solving.
LINKS:
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, with Chris Meredith on holiday, Paul Fairweather welcomes back creative entrepreneur, curator, and storyteller Remo Giuffré. He discusses his latest project, REMORANDOM, a series of books that blend storytelling, curation, and design. They explore the enduring power of print in a digital age, the role of serendipity and surprise in creative work, and the mentors who have shaped Remo’s journey.
Best known as the founder of REMO General Store, TEDxSydney, and REMORANDOM, Remo has built a career around curiosity, connection, and creativity. Today, he shares how optimism and a belief that the best work lies ahead keep him inspired.
Remo's motto: Do Good Work. Have Some Fun.
LINKS:
Remo Giuffré - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/remogiuffre/
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/remogiuffre
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/remogiuffre/
Website:
- https://www.remogiuffre.com/https://remosince1988.com/
- https://www.remorandom.com/
Remo’s previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/episode-32-remo-giuffr%C3%A9-a-general-thinker/id1525162918?i=1000527825306
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, artist and thought leader Sarah Rowan, whose journey is anything but ordinary. From training as an Olympic hopeful to becoming one of Australia’s leading speed painters and keynote speakers, Rowan has built a life around transformation, creativity, and courage.
Rowan shares how art has the power to shift mindsets, why mental preparation is key, and how creativity isn’t just for the “artistic”, it’s a birthright for all of us. Along the way, Rowan has performed at over 600 live events, raised more than $400K for charity, and worked with clients like Ferrari, Nestlé, and Sydney Airport.
This conversation is full of energy, humour, and inspiration perfect for anyone curious about pushing boundaries, embracing change, and unlocking their own creative spark.
LINKS:
Sarah Rowan - Special Guest
Website: http://www.artistsarahrowan.com/
Instagram: @artistsarahrowan
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/artistsarahrowan
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artistsarahrowan
X : https://twitter.com/sarahrowanart
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Paul and Chris chat with creative entrepreneur and design leader, Jake Kahana about forging your own path, doing deep work, and embracing creativity in every part of life.
From his early days as an aspiring animator to co-founding Cave Day, a global community helping people focus. Jake shares insights on non-linear careers, the future of work, and building environments that spark creativity. He’s also led design work for Twitch, Facebook, and Johnson & Johnson, and is now exploring AI tools to boost productivity.
An inspiring conversation for anyone rethinking how they work and why.
LINKS:
Jake Kahana - Special Guest
LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/in/jakekahana
Instagram - instagram.com/jakekahana
Website -http://www.caveday.org
http://www.jakekahana.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Matthew Fay, founder of Narrative Hub, shares his inspiring journey from blue-collar work to leading a creative marketing agency. He opens up about his path of self-discovery, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the pivotal role storytelling has played in his success.
Matt discusses the transition from trades to videography and social media marketing, the lessons he’s learned building a business from the ground up, and why creativity can be a powerful tool for connection and change. His story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the courage to follow your passion.
LINKS:
Matt Fay- Special Guest
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/matthew-fay-00548850
Website -https://www.narrativehub.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, we sit down with Lisa James, founder of The Wentworth Collective, to explore her remarkable journey from a life on the road to becoming a leader in event management and creative experiences.
Lisa shares how she uses creativity to transform corporate gatherings into unforgettable moments that spark real human connection. With more than 30 years of experience designing events for global brands, she’s seen firsthand the energy, emotion, and magic that only happen when people come together in the same room.
When the world went online in 2020, Lisa adapted but the shift only reinforced what she had always believed: nothing can replace the power of being together.
In a world that often values convenience over depth, Lisa makes a compelling case for substance, reminding us: “Innovation matters, but not at the cost of what makes us feel alive.
LINKS:
Lisa James- Special Guest
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thewentworthcollective/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisajames/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thewentworthcollective/
Website - http://www.thewentworthcollective.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Paul and Chris in this episode as they delve into the often-overlooked pleasures of manual labour. They shared their experiences of practical handiwork, sparking a discussion on the deep satisfaction and creativity found in using one's hands. From building fences to the art of pottery, explore how these tangible activities contrast with our tech-driven lives.
LINKS:
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather in a lively discussion about the power of curiosity in fostering creativity. Inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert's insights, they explore how consistent curiosity can lead to innovation and the courage to take risks. Discover why the bravest person might just be the one who first tried an oyster, and how embracing failure can be a stepping stone to success.
LINKS:
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Judy Andrews, Creative Director, brand strategist, and self-belief mentor whose journey from corporate life to self-help author is as inspiring as it is relatable. She shares how she transformed personal challenges into creative fuel, leading to the launch of her agency and her beautifully crafted book Wonder Journey Joy.
The conversation explores the power of visual storytelling, making self-help more accessible, and the role of clarity and creativity in building confidence. She also talks about You Can Club, a grassroots initiative helping people see themselves more clearly and support each other through collective courage.
If you’ve ever wrestled with self-doubt or needed a creative reset, this episode is full of practical insight and honest inspiration.
LINKS:
Judy Andrews- Special Guest
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/judy_andrews_/?hl=en-gb
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewsjudy/
Website - judyandrews.co.uk | https://judyandrews.substack.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What if creativity was a muscle you could train just like going to the gym? In this energising episode, writer and creativity advocate Nicoline van Slingelandt shares her fascinating journey from international development to publishing playful, art-inspired books and games for families and lifelong learners.
She introduces her latest project, Gymsical, a creative "gym" designed to help you pause, pay attention, and play your way into deeper self-expression. Nicoline opens up about the mental resistance we all face, how to stay disciplined without killing the joy, and why creativity is less about talent and more about permission.
Whether you're a parent, a professional, or a closet doodler this conversation will inspire you to stretch your imagination and give yourself space to create.
LINKS:
Nicoline van Slingelandt- Special Guest
Website: https://gymsical.com
Newsletter: https://gymsical.substack.com
Instagram: @gymsical.guide
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/gymsical/
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nvanslingelandt/
YouTube: @gymsical
Pinterest: https://nl.pinterest.com/gymsical
BlueSky: @gymsical.bluesky.social
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oliver Sheer and Ross Mansfield, are directors of a Be Challenged - company dedicated to unlocking creativity and building stronger teams. They explore how to create safe, engaging spaces for collaboration, the myths around team building, and why human connection matters more than ever. From the impact of COVID to the ever-growing role of AI, it’s a lively, thought-provoking conversation on the future of teamwork and its role in promoting creative thinking.
Oliver, Be Challenged’s Strategic Director, shares how his background in sport, business, and behavioural science helps design transformative programs that challenge thinking and bring out the best in people.
Ross, a Senior Team Development Consultant, brings his energy and hospitality mindset to the table creating memorable, purpose-driven events that go beyond the typical team-building day.
If you care about people, leadership, and the future of work, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration you won’t want to miss.
LINKS:
Oliver Sheer - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliver-sheer-a72ba216/
Website - https://bechallenged.com.au/
Oliver Sheer - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ross-mansfield-671b7b226/
Website - https://bechallenged.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this vibrant episode, Stephanie shares her wonderfully layered life as a ceramicist, performer, and philanthropy leader. From accidentally discovering ceramics to championing wildlife conservation at Taronga, she opens up about navigating creativity, boredom and how art can give voice to what often goes unheard.
We talk about Frumpus, absurdist theatre, working with major donors, and why embracing creative freedom is essential for real impact whether on stage, in the studio, or saving endangered species.
Stephanie’s story is a powerful reminder that living creatively doesn’t have to mean choosing one path, it's about weaving your passions together to create something that resonates.
Let this episode inspire your own creative cross-pollination.
LINKS:
Stephanie Hart- Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-hart-20481b15/?originalSubdomain=au
Instagram: @stephaniehartceramics (or Hart.to.Art)
Website: https://www.stephaniehartceramics.com/about
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Chris and Paul explore the intricate relationship between creativity and the brain. They discuss the latest neuroscience findings on how the brain generates ideas, emphasizing the importance of mind wandering and the role of different brain networks. Paul shares his personal experiences with doodling as a tool for enhancing creativity and offers practical advice for integrating creative practices into business. The conversation highlights the need for awareness and intentionality in fostering creativity, suggesting that scheduling time for mind wandering can lead to innovative ideas and solutions.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The Common Creative Podcast, we’re joined by Bill Jennings - educator, facilitator, and founder of Time & Space, a program designed to help young people and their parents or mentors have the kinds of meaningful conversations we often hope for, but rarely make time for. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience, Bill shares how structured, emotionally honest dialogue can transform relationships.
He explores the growing need for connection in today’s distracted world, and the surprising power of simply showing up and listening. From practical tips for parents to the vital role of mentorship in both families and workplaces, this conversation is a timely reminder that real growth starts with real connection. Whether you're a parent, leader, or just someone who wants to be more present, this episode will leave you inspired to turn up – and stay present – for the people who matter most.
LINKS:
Bill Jennings - Special Guest
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-jennings-csp-25098213/
Website: https://time-space.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The Common Creative Podcast, marketing maverick Oksana Koriakova shares her journey from Russia to Australia and how she built a standout brand by mixing bold storytelling, creative thinking, and authentic connection.
Known for her unforgettable “Wedding dress keynote” and contagious energy, Oksana dives into why marketing should feel personal, purposeful, and a little bit brave. She also previews her upcoming book, Not Another Freaking Water Bottle, and shares practical tips for building a brand people genuinely love.
LINKS:
Oksana Koriakova - Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oksanakoriakova/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imperobyoksana/
Website: impero.com.au
Free gift for all listeners 23 ideas ebook impero.com.au/ebook
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Julia Grace is a musician, speaker, and all-round mental health champion. Backed by a deep understanding of the science of mental wellbeing, Julia shares how music, humour, and her iconic pink boots help her (and others) through life’s “wobbly moments”.
Julia introduces us to a range of practical wellbeing tips and especially the idea of a “jelly buddy” (everyone needs one!) and reminds us why “being real” beats being perfect. It’s a heartfelt, funny, and uplifting convo with someone who knows how to mix science, story, and song to help us all be a little kinder to our minds.
LINKS:
Julia Grace - Special Guest
LinkedIn: Https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-grace-074687183/
Facebook: Https://www.facebook.com/juliagracenz
Instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/juliagracenz
Website: Https://www.juliagrace.co.nz/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever wonder what makes someone a great interview guest?
Julia Grace shares her secret, and it’s pure gold.
Hint: it’s about listening to yourself while you speak.
Catch the full episode this Friday!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Michelle Cox shares her journey of overcoming adversity, embracing creativity, and the importance of personal growth. From her diverse career path to discovering her passion for ceramics, Michelle emphasizes the significance of reinvention and the role of creativity in both personal and professional life. She discusses the lessons learned from failure and encourages listeners to pursue their passions without fear of judgment.
Michelle Cox is a podcast host, author, speaker, board director, and ceramist. With a unique blend of business acumen and creative flair, she’s held executive roles across major travel brands, founded multiple companies, and now leads a dynamic portfolio career. Michelle is the founder of Wabi Sabi Studios and host of One Question with Michelle Cox. She sits on the board of ASX-listed Experience Co and is Chair of the charity Motherless Daughters Australia.
LINKS:
Michelle Cox - Special Guest
Website: https://www.michellejcox.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelle.j.cox/?hl=en
Podcast: https://www.michellejcox.com/podcast
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejcox/?originalSubdomain=au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coxxygal/
Flung Ceramics
Website: https://flung.com.au/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flungceramics/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flungceramics/?paipv=0&eav=Afb0d9bk1Bq7iS3c_ZPju84OV3IfNk5aTZqE4q_xxA3ZwdAZJzZIE8oEw4egu7oXkL4&_rdr
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Melissa Forbes chats about her bold leap from law to music and why she’s never looked back. She talks about singing, creativity, and why belting out a tune with others might be just what the world needs more of. Melissa shares how music builds connection, boosts well-being, and helps us all find a space to be ourselves.
Melissa Forbes is an Associate Professor of Contemporary Singing at the University of Southern Queensland, a Churchill Fellow, and the host of the Leading Notes Podcast. Her work focuses on the intersection of music, health, and community.
LINKS:
Melissa Forbes - Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-forbes-5b63832b2/
Leading Notes Podcast:https://leadingnotespodcast.podbean.com/
Website: https://www.melissaforbes.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Jillian Reilly discusses her journey from the US to South Africa and the inspiration behind her book, 'The Ten Permissions.' She emphasises the need for adults to navigate profound changes in a volatile world, advocating for a new operating system for life that embraces creativity, self-permission, and intentional living. Gillian shares insights on the importance of looking for challenges, engaging with one's desires, and celebrating individuality as a means to contribute meaningfully to society.
Jillian Reilly is a founder, writer, keynote speaker, and consultant with 30 years of experience driving change across Africa, Asia, and Central Europe. She helps individuals and organisations navigate transformation and growth. Her upcoming book, The Ten Permissions, empowers readers to redesign their lives for the disruptive realities of the 21st century. Jillian’s work has appeared in The Washington Post, Newsweek, and the LA Times. Her memoir, Shame, reflects on her early career in international aid, explored further in her TEDx talk Vain Aid. She also hosted the Ford Foundation-funded podcast Courageous Conversations, featuring African activists and change makers.
_____________________________________________________________________
LINKS:
Jillian Reilly- Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianreilly/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetenpermissions/?hl=en
Website: www.tenpermissions.com
Substack: https://substack.com/@thetenpermissions
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode Paul and Chris sit down with Andy Balzat, founder of the (very a-peeling) Banana Life, a Brisbane-based consultancy that’s been bringing creativity and team building to the workplace for over a decade.
They dive into how practical hands-on experiences like scavenger hunts and skateboard building can transform workplace dynamics and liberate creativity. Andy also shares why inclusiveness, and “a little bit of weird” are essential ingredients for high-performing teams. With a background in organisational psychology and a passion for adventure, Andy suggests that curiosity, craft and courage are the foundation stones for business success.
LINKS:
Andy Balzat- Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/banana-life/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andybalzat/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banana_life/
Website: bananalife.com.au
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The Common Creative Podcast, Chris and Paul explore the heart of creativity. How it connects us, and why authenticity matters more than ever in public speaking.
Paul offers a behind-the-scenes look at his new keynote, Bold, Brave, Better Together, revealing how creativity is a process of constant evolution and how courage and vulnerability on stage can create deeper, more meaningful connections.
Together, the hosts unpack the common fears around public speaking, the value of truly seeing and being seen by others, and the growing crisis of authenticity in today’s digital world. With candid stories and thoughtful reflections, Paul encourages listeners to embrace their own creative voice and the human connections it can inspire.
If this episode resonates with you, share it with a friend, leave us a review, and subscribe for more conversations that celebrate creativity, courage, and connection.
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LINKS:
Paul Fairweather- Special Guest/Host
LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/paulfairweather
Website: https://www.paulfairweather.com
_______________________________________________________________
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this insightful snippet, Frank Newman unpacks the complex dance between ego and creativity. He explains how ego, often seen as a creative force, must be kept in check with empathy, collaboration, and an openness to audience feedback. Frank also highlights the often-overlooked power of play in adult creativity, suggesting that structured play can lower defences and unlock fresh thinking.
Whether you're leading a team or pursuing personal projects, this conversation offers practical wisdom on how to harness ego without letting it hijack your creative process.
LINKS:
Frank Newman - Special Guest
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/frank-newman-2a55329a
Article {Creativity; what actually is it?): https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/creativity-what-actually-frank-newman/ trackingId=p%2FhzyaWRTOCc%2BO6VhyUFPA%3D%3D
Selena Bartlett Episode - https://tinyurl.com/35fs8vtc
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What happens when you combine a theatre director, teacher and facilitator with a passion for ‘ideas at the edge’?
Say ‘hi’ to Frank Newman, who takes us on a fascinating journey from grassroots activism to the world of theatre and education. Along the way, he unpacks the powerful connections between creativity and business, making the case for valuing process over product in creative work.
Frank challenges us to confront unconscious biases that can limit innovation and explains why careful observation is key to truly understanding creativity. He also delves into transdisciplinary learning and how creative leadership can shape more dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking organisations.
Get ready for insights about emergent vs connective creativity and also the creative power of reflection. Whether you're a seasoned creative or just starting out, Frank offers practical insights and everyday strategies to help you tap into your creative potential.
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LINKS:
Frank Newman - Special Guest
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/frank-newman-2a55329a
Article {Creativity; what actually is it?): https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/creativity-what-actually-frank-newman/ trackingId=p%2FhzyaWRTOCc%2BO6VhyUFPA%3D%3D
Selena Bartlett Episode - https://tinyurl.com/35fs8vtc
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does it really take to change a young person’s life?
In this episode of The Common Creative podcast, we sit down with John Godwin, an educator, social entrepreneur, and founder of the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation to find out.
With over 25 years leading schools, national programs, and community organisations, John has dedicated his life to empowering young people through education, mentorship, and real-world opportunities. He’s also the founder of Inspiring Positive Futures Foundation, running mentoring programs for at-risk youth and the long term unemployed. His work blends strategic leadership with grassroots action, creating lasting impact in local and national communities.
John shares his journey from the classroom to running not-for-profit organisations, the importance of restorative education models, and the transformative power of giving young people hope and skills for a better future.
Whether you're an educator, leader, or someone passionate about making change, John's story will inspire you to think bigger about what’s possible.
Tune in and discover how you can help create brighter futures too.
LINKS:
John Godwin - Special Guest
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/john-godwin-b35490b
Website -http://www.inspiringbrighterfutures.com/| http://www.cpff.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“The key is to recognise that creativity is not connected to your identity. Whether your creative project succeeds or fails, it doesn’t make you a better (or worse) person. Its not about you. All that matters is the process”.
This week’s guest on the Common Creative Podcast is author, composer, artist and filmmaker Robert Fritz.
For many, an act of creativity is all about instinct and intuition. But for Robert Fritz, creativity is the result of “structural tension” - the gap between where things are today and how you’d like them to be. It means that creativity is an output of a clearly defined process that aims to close the gap between these two forces.
Robert is a multi-award winning filmmaker and composer and author of Your Life As Art, the best seller The Path of Least Resistance and also The Path of Least Resistance for Artists. He is a pioneer in applying creative structure to human development (in the opinion of the show hosts!) a true creative rock star.
Tune in to transform the way you think about the process of creativity.
LINKS:
Robert Fritz- Special Guest
LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/robert-fritz-84a92b48
Website -www.robertfritz.com/wp/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can art really change the way we do business?
In this episode, Dr. Cathryn Lloyd shows us how creativity, curiosity, and a dash of serendipity can unlock fresh thinking and drive meaningful change in the workplace. She takes us on her journey from graphic designer to thought leader at the intersection of art and business. She shares how her year-long creative project, MM365, sparked new ways of seeing and doing, and why daily practice can be a powerful tool for transformation.
As Australia’s first certified creativity coach and founder of Maverick Minds, Cathryn works with organisations to challenge assumptions, re-frame problems, and inspire new possibilities. Her unique approach blends visual arts, systems thinking, and experiential learning to create spaces where innovation can thrive.
If you're a leader, a creative, or simply curious about how to bring more imagination into your work, this episode is packed with ideas to shift your mindset and energise your approach.
Creativity isn’t just for artists it’s a way of thinking, leading, and connecting.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation.
LINKS:
Dr. Cathryn Lloyd - Special Guest
Instagram: @maverickminds1 | @cathrynlloydart
Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/drcathrynlloyd
Website - https://www.maverickminds.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does it take to lead in a way that inspires, not just instructs?
In this episode of The Common Creative Podcast, Leadership coach, Jonno White shares his journey from individual contributor to global mentor, offering practical insights on leading with purpose, clarity, and creativity. He talks about the challenges of leading volunteers, why engagement goes beyond money, and how to find meaning in everyday work. We also explore the limits of rigid systems and why simplicity is key to building a truly creative culture.
Jonno White is the author of the bestselling book Step Up or Step Out: How to Deal With Difficult People, Even If You Hate Conflict, which has sold over 10,000 copies globally. He is also the host of The Leadership Conversations Podcast, with over 230 episodes and listeners in 150+ countries. As Co-Founder of Clarity Group Global, Jonno helps leaders and teams build healthy culture, lead through change, and develop practical communication strategies that work.
LINKS:
Jonno White- Special Guest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonno.white
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonno-white-983486136/
Website: https://www.consultclarity.org
Book: Step Up or Step Out on Amazon
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/leadership-conversations-with-jonno-white-podcast/id1593825558
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How does a former lifeguard and accountant become a leader in human-centered design? Denise Belling shares her journey, revealing how creativity, empathy, and storytelling shape meaningful design.
They explore the connection between drawing, writing, and communication, highlighting the role of listening, playfulness, and psychological safety in fostering innovation. Denise also unpacks the power of ethnographic research and the iterative design process.
If you're curious about how design thinking can transform the way we work and connect, this episode is packed with insights to inspire your next big idea.
Tune in now!
LINKS:
Denise Belling - Special Guest
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/denise-belling-3354843
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What makes a team truly creative? In this episode, Dr. Amy Climer joins us for a second time and dives into the key ingredients of teamwork and innovation, drawing from her new book Deliberate Creative Teams. She explores how a clear team purpose, strong dynamics, and a structured creative process can transform any group into a powerhouse of fresh ideas.
Amy unpacks the role of psychological safety in fostering innovation, the evolving impact of AI on creativity, and the personal journey behind writing her book. She highlights how creativity isn’t just a talent, it's a skill that can be developed with the right mindset and leadership.
If you’re a leader, team builder, or simply curious about how to boost creative collaboration, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help your team thrive.
Tune in now and start building a more creative team today!
LINKS:
Amy Climer - Special Guest
Climer Consulting (Amy’s main website): climerconsulting.com
Deliberate Creative Teams Book: climerconsulting.com/book
book listing on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4bYCBZu
Climer Cards: climercards.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyclimer/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyclimer/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/climerconsulting
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/amyclimer.bsky.social
X/Twitter: https://x.com/amyclimer
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is play just for kids? Think again! In this episode, Trudi Boatwright, global Playful Experience Designer reveals how play is the secret ingredient to creativity, innovation, and human connection.
Trudi takes us on her journey from acting to designing playful experiences that transform workplaces and communities. She shares why play isn’t just about having fun, it's a game-changer for problem-solving, communication, and unlocking fresh ideas.
Discover how to use play to spark creativity and innovation, create safe spaces for bold ideas to flourish, and shift to a playful mindset in work and life.
Whether you're a leader, creator, or simply curious about the power of play, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!
LINKS:
Trudi Boatwright- Special Guest
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/trudi-boatwright
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trudi.boatwright
Website: trudiboatwright.com
TBC Creative: https://www.tbccreative.com
Institute for Experiential Learning: https://experientiallearninginstitute.org/team/trudi-boatwright/
Tedx Talk: https://youtu.be/178nWmbgjmM?si=8F6JYticv2qIIcGN
Speaking reel: https://youtu.be/mRUP4HA26ig?si=YL6HtUqAMXEEvyuJ
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode of the Common Creative Podcast, James Sills shares how singing connects people, builds community, and enhances well-being. From football chants to leading choirs, he explores the joy of group singing, its mental health benefits, and why the process matters more than performance. Chris and James also discuss singing’s role in overcoming loneliness and rekindling human connection.
James Sills is a musician, author, and TEDx speaker passionate about connecting people through singing. Founder of Sofa Singers and author of Do Sing, he works globally to inspire community and well-being through music. His latest project, Bantam of the Opera, transforms football fans into performers for a new BBC series.
Tune in and rediscover the magic of collective music-making!
LINKS:
James Sills - Special Guest
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jsillschoirstarter
Instagram: @jsillsmusic
Facebook: @jsillsmusic
X:@jsillsmusic
Website: www.james-sills.com
Sofa Singers: www.thesofasingers.com
Teambuilding webite: www.onevoiceteambuilding.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on The Common Creative Podcast, we dive into the game-changing role of generative AI in creativity and productivity. Neo Aplin, a full-time AI trainer at Inventium, shares how AI is more than just a tool. It's a creative partner. He explores the balance between authenticity and automation, the power of human-AI collaboration, and the ethical considerations shaping the future of creativity.
With over 20 years in tech and innovation, Neo has helped businesses harness AI for smarter work, better customer experiences, and sustainable growth. In this episode, he breaks down how to integrate AI into creative workflows, navigate its risks, and stay ahead in the evolving landscape.
Tune in for a fresh perspective on AI’s role in the creative world!
LINKS:
Neo Aplin - Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neoaplin/
Website: https://inventium.com.au/genai/
More AI Insights from our previous guests:
Marcus Bryne - https://tinyurl.com/mtf2zb7t
Jeremy Wagstaff - https://tinyurl.com/2hsnrtr3
Mark van Rijermann - https://tinyurl.com/bdfe22pw
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode of the Common Creative Podcast, James Victore shares his journey as a designer and artist, emphasising the importance of embracing one's weirdness and creativity. He discusses the challenges of self-motivation, the impact of childhood experiences on creativity, and the significance of teaching and supporting creative expression in children.
James encourages listeners to rediscover their passions and define their purpose, ultimately advocating for a life of creative freedom and authenticity.
LINKS:
James Victore- Special Guest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesvictore/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesvictore/
Website: yourworkisagift.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What is the future of work? How hard should we work? How can we navigate work life balance? Meet Tim Duggan, author of Work Backwards, who answers many of these questions (and more!) in this weeks episode.
And as an added bonus, Tim takes us through the KILLER ideas framework from his book on creativity called Killer Thinking.
Stand by for a deep-dive into his MAP framework for navigating and understanding your relationship with the world of work (Meaning, Anchors and Priorities) also an explanation of why the “Movember” charity fund raising scheme fits his K.I.L.L.E.R. framework for crafting big creative ideas that people will love.
Tim is the co-founder of Junkee Media and Chair of the Digital Publishers Alliance. His books Cult Status and Killer Thinking have been widely recognized, and his latest book, Work Backwards, explores new ways to approach work in a changing world.
LINKS:
Tim Duggan - Special Guest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim_duggan/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timduggan1/
Website: www.timduggan.com.au
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we welcome back the brilliant Neall Foard to The Common Creative Podcast for a deep dive into the evolving world of storytelling especially through video. Neal inspired us so much with his first Common Creative conversation (see episode no 83 “Grateful Creativity”) that he’s the first ever guest to be invited back for more.
Over the past 18 months, Neil has been honing his craft and discovering what resonates in today’s fast-moving digital story telling landscape, whilst launching a new training program for story telling on-line called “Storyfire”.
Neil, with his 25+ years in advertising and marketing, knows a thing or two about storytelling. He’s created award-winning campaigns for brands like Budweiser, Lexus, and Sony, and was once ranked among the top ten most awarded creative directors in the world.
Now, with his viral videos inspiring millions, he’s sharing the news about the role of video and how to build your own on-screen presence. Listen out for tips on the importance of getting great by practicing again, again and again (to the point where you cant ‘act’ anymore).
If you want to take your video storytelling game to the next level, this episode is a must-listen.
LINKS:
Neal Foard - Special Guest
Episode 83: Neal Foard - Grateful Creativity - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/episode-83-neal-foard-grateful-creativity/id1525162918?i=1000621336255
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-foard-3727403/
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@nealfoard/videos
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nealfoard/
Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@nealfoard
Storyfire Course - https://storyfire.mykajabi.com/a/2147962025/fus3Dd28
Website - nealfoard.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s conversation of the Common Creative Podcast, Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather discuss the PARA filing system, a method for organizing projects, areas, resources, and archives. They explore the simplicity and effectiveness of this system, emphasizing the importance of keeping current projects front and center while maintaining a disciplined approach to archiving. The conversation highlights the challenges creatives face in organising their work and the potential future role of AI in streamlining this process.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Ian Stephens shares his inspiring journey from a corporate career to becoming one of Australia's leading speakers. He shares so many insights, including the courage it took to step away from the security of a career to follow his passion, and an area where he had no idea what to do. The hall mark of a creative act.
Ian Stephens is a top-rated business speaker, trainer, and award-winning educator specializing in sales, leadership, and mindset. A master of NLP, he equips teams and leaders with practical tools to drive results. Ian is the author of seven books, and his dynamic, humor-infused keynotes and workshops inspire focus, discipline, and success.
Ian is also the convener of the Professional Speakers Association's 2025 conference Cadence.
LINKS:
Ian Stephens - Special Guest
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianstephensspeaks/
Website - https://ianstephensspeaks.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this conversation of the Common Creative Podcast, Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather discuss the importance of being prepared for spontaneous opportunities in life, using the metaphor of always carrying swimming trunks and a beach towel. They explore how creativity is tied to being observant and taking notes, whether through sketches, words, or photographs. The conversation emphasises the value of curiosity and an open mind as essential tools for embracing life's adventures.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week's conversation, Paul and Chris dive into Indigenous Australian perspectives on problem-solving and respect with our guest, Paulina Larocca. Drawing on the work of Tyson Yunkaporta, Paulina explores the idea that true respect begins with acknowledging our own ignorance, an approach that contrasts sharply with conventional problem-solving methods.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s conversation, Paul and Chris delve into the concept of 'daily-ish' habits, inspired by Oliver Berkman's insights. They discuss the importance of flexibility in habit formation, especially for those with busy lives or distractions. The conversation transitions into the relationship between creativity and mindset, emphasizing that a creative approach to life can be more beneficial than rigid daily outputs. They explore how journaling and curiosity can enhance creativity without the pressure of constant production.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Would you have the courage to sell your house in order to fund a retro startup in the music industry?
Neil Wilson is co-owner of Suitcase Records, a family-owned vinyl pressing business based in Brisbane, Australia. Neil shares his fascinating journey from the safe world of urban planning and architecture to co-founding one of only three vinyl record manufacturers in the country.
He provides a unique perspective on the challenges of making the commitment to the startup (“burn your bridges”) and also the many rewards and frustrations of running a manufacturing business that operates in a creative field. (Did you know that there’s often more stress in getting the artists to agree on the cover design than the music itself?)
Throughout the conversation, Neil highlights the deeper engagement that vinyl offers in today's digital age and emphasises the importance of fostering community and connection in both business and creativity.
LINKS:
Neil Wilson- Special Guest
Linkedin - linkedin.com/in/neilawilson
Instagram - @suitcaserecords
Website - http://suitcaserecords.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How can businesses embrace artistic processes and become more innovative?
Chloe Preece works at the intersection of arts and marketing, focusing on how businesses can learn from artists' creative processes. Drawing on her observations of the way real artists work, she beats the drum for concepts such as play, experimentation, and embracing failure in fostering a creative culture within business.
Chloe is a Professor of Marketing at ESCP Business School and Academic Director of the MSc in Marketing & Creativity. Her research focuses on marketing within the arts and creative industries, exploring how the arts generate social, cultural, and economic value. She has published in top journals, co-edited Marketing the Arts (2023), and has an upcoming book, The Power of Consumer Creativity (2024). Chloe has presented her work globally and been featured in outlets like The Financial Times and Newsweek. She holds degrees from McGill University and King’s College London
LINKS:
Dr. Chloe Preece- Special Guest
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-chloe-preece-2798246/
X - @chloempreece
Website - https://escp.eu/preece-chloe
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this mini episode, Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather discuss the concept of 'Quarter by Quarter', inspired by Anne Lamott's book 'Bird by Bird'. Paul shares his personal struggle with completing self-initiated projects due to his tendency to get distracted by new ideas. He introduces his plan to undertake 100 side projects over the next 25 years, with each project lasting approximately 90 days. The conversation emphasises the importance of deadlines, accountability, and the motivation to create meaningful work before it's too late. Chris highlights the beauty of recognising our limited time and the urgency it brings to our creative endeavours.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Who wouldn’t want to be a “Creative Catalyst”! With a background as both a practicing and academic creative, Paulina Larocca shares her powerful insights about the role of respect, the importance of ‘movement’ and the need to ask the right questions when developing creative ideas. For her, ideas are easy - it's framing the questions in the right way that generates results.
With over 20 years of experience leading global innovation teams and lecturing in creativity, she explains how asking the right questions can unlock creativity and how organizations can foster innovation through curiosity, authenticity, and collaboration.
As the author of three books on creativity (including “The Holey Bible”) and a soon-to-be PhD in creativity and innovation, Paulina offers practical insights to help business people develop sustainable, innovative solutions.
(And, listen out for a very special “ bonding moment” as Paul and Paulina discover a shared interest in watercolour painting!).
LINKS:
Paulina Larocca - Special Guest
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/me?trk=p_mwlite_feed-secondary_nav
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/paulina_larocca_creative?igsh=OTNzdWhqdHdxcHI1&utm_source=qr
Website - https://paulinalarocca.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this engaging conversation, Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith explore the intersection of creativity, woodworking, and personal organization. Chris shares his unique approach to organizing his workshop, using whimsical 'ministries' to categorize tools and materials. The discussion evolves into a broader reflection on the importance of creativity in organization and the balance between following frameworks and embracing personal expression.
Chris also humorously highlights his 'rule of chocolate recipes' as a metaphor for personalizing experiences.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We’re re-publishing this incredible episode with Rachel Barnard because we want more people to hear her amazing story of creativity and social change. She’s the founder of Young New Yorkers, a program that uses art and creativity to help young offenders avoid criminal records. (Yes! Art can be used to avoid a criminal record!)
An Australian-born architect and with no experience of the legal system,, Rachel turned a pandemic career hiatus into an opportunity for change. Through her unique “Mapping” process, she’s helped over 1,400 young people exit the criminal legal system, partnering with agencies like NYC Criminal Courts and the Department of Probation.
Rachel is also a coach, entrepreneur, and artist, known for her proprietary Map process that helps creative entrepreneurs achieve their dreams. With multiple awards and fellowships, she’s a true example of how creativity can change lives.
LINKS:
Rachel Barnard - Special Guest
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-g-barnard-49335751/
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/redgwenblue/
- Website - http://mapwithrachel.com
- Young New Yorkers - https://www.youngnewyorkers.org
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the world of elite sports, discipline, commitment and resilience tend to reign supreme. So, is there a role for creativity?
In this episode, Rowena Meredith (double olympian and also Chris’ daughter) shares her journey from a young athlete trying various sports to becoming a medal-winning Olympian. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to take rowing seriously, the competitive nature of the sport, and the balance between individual ambition and teamwork.
Rowena also reflects on the importance of creativity within the highly structured discipline of rowing, her experiences with art as a form of relaxation during competitions, and offers advice for young athletes and their parents.
The conversation culminates in her reflections on the surreal experience of standing on the Olympic podium and what the future holds for her after her competitive career. Tune in for olympic insights and a dash of father-daughter chemistry.
LINKS:
Rowena Meredith- Special Guests
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rowena-meredith-oly-00a63a64
Instagram: www.instagram.com/roorows/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In many ways, Marion Deuchars is the ultimate poster child for the Common Creative. A successful illustrator and author and illustrator of her own books, she also has a powerful creative philosophy.
Key elements of her creative formula are embracing deadlines (even if they’re self-imposed) curiosity, observation and playfulness. Faced with the overwhelming amount of material that’s now available on-line, Marion emphasizes the value of creating for oneself rather than for others, highlighting the meditative benefits of engaging in creative activities. She also explores the use of non-conventional materials in art-making, encouraging listeners to embrace their creativity without fear of judgment. (Listen in and you’ll never see a pebble in the same way again!)
Marion Deuchars, a Scottish illustrator and author, is celebrated for her award-winning books that inspire creativity and imagination in both children and adults. Her latest book, Make Every Day Creative, encourages adults to experiment with various art techniques and materials, including painting, drawing, and collage.
LINKS:
Marion Deuchars- Special Guests
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marion-deuchars-4997342
Instagram: @mariondeuchars
Website: www.mariondeuchars.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Hanne Kristiansen shares her journey from Denmark to Barcelona and her evolution into a creativity consultant. She introduces the Creative ID concept, which emphasizes that everyone is creative in their own way. Hanne discusses the importance of breaking down traditional views of creativity in corporate settings and presents five distinct types of creativity. The conversation highlights the significance of collaboration and understanding individual creative preferences to foster a more innovative corporate culture. Hanne also shares insights on building a community of certified consultants to amplify the impact of creative intelligence in various fields.
Hanne’s mission is to put creative intelligence within reach of everyone so the world of work becomes a more human, agile and inclusive place to be. She spent the first half of her career working for McVitie’s, Diageo and latterly Kellogg’s where she was Head of European Innovation. For the last 15+ years, Hanne and her partners at the University of Sheffield have developed a psychometric tool (Creative ID™) which pinpoints your preferences across 5 creative styles and helps you discover how you are creative.
LINKS:
Hanne Kristiansen- Special Guests
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hannekristiansen |https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourcreativeid/
Instagram: @yourcreativeid
Website: www.yourcreativeid.com
www.wearecreativecreatures.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is Lewis Rossignol an illustrator, visual storyteller or a comedian? And what IS the secret of drawing an Australian or a person with Down’s Syndrome?
In this episode Lewis shares his journey from a non-creative background to becoming a successful visual artist with a jittery, nervous style that somehow captures more of the essence of his subject than a more traditional portrait
In the discussion, Lewis emphasizes the importance of humor in his work, the value of embracing negativity, and the idea of drawing what you think rather than what you see.
Lewis Rossignol is an American visual artist known for his loose illustrations where he uses multiple mediums and collage. Rossignol has worked for many clients, including Tyler the Creator, Adult Swim, Brad Garrett, and Mark Hoppus' clothing brand, I am Mark.
LINKS:
Lewis Rossignol- Special Guests
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lewisrossignol
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lewisrossignol
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVlj1wtUKUS2cOn8_HBnOxg
Website: www.lewisrossignolart.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this conversation, Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith delve into the themes of creativity, visual art, and storytelling, particularly focusing on Chris's upcoming photographic exhibition titled 'Spirits of Balmoral.' The discussion explores the unique aspects of Chris's digital art, its resemblance to Renaissance paintings, and the deeper narratives behind the images, including the representation of sirens and the interplay of history and imagination. The conversation also touches on audience engagement and the importance of storytelling in art.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Mark Shayler shares his journey as a sustainability and innovation consultant, delving into the intersection of creativity, storytelling, and personal growth. He discusses the power of visual communication, and the humorous yet impactful story of his singing experiences. Mark also explores the symbolism of lemons and how they relate to creativity and resilience, ultimately emphasizing the need to unlock creativity in others through safe spaces and storytelling.
In this engaging conversation, Mark and Paul explore the interconnected themes of authenticity, creativity, and sustainability. They discuss the importance of seeing beyond superficial appearances to connect deeply with others, the joy of cycling as a metaphor for freedom, and the transformative power of creativity in addressing global challenges. Mark emphasizes the need to imagine a better future and the role of every individual in fostering creativity within organizations.
LINKS:
Mark Shayler- Special Guests
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-shayler-778ab64
Instagram: @markshayler
X : @greenape
Website: http://www.thisisape.co.uk/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The Common Creative, Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather delve into the insights from Anne Lamott's book 'Bird by Bird'. They discuss the intersection of writing and life, emphasising how humour and authenticity play crucial roles in storytelling. The conversation highlights the importance of self-discovery through creative expression and the lessons learned from both fiction and non-fiction writing.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sparketypes, “One” Beer, and a singer who is a semi-tone out! Mark Truelson fits the mold of the passionate creative. Join us as he shares his journey from leading innovation at Foster's to becoming a consultant focused on sparking creativity in organizations. Mark explores how leaders can build supportive environments, engage employees, and lower the stakes to drive innovative projects. He introduces the concept of “sparketypes” a framework to uncover and harness our innate creative impulses.
And if evidence of his practical creativity were needed, Mark also tells us how he launched his own beer brand (“One”) at the height of the Covid Pandemic.
Either tune in now and learn how to start igniting creativity in your workplace OR head to the free Sparketype questionnaire to learn about your own creative style. (link below)
LINKS:
Mark Truelson- Special Guests
Linkedin: https://au.linkedin.com/in/marktruelson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marktruelson/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.truelson
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCdiz6JtTfh0LAtC5ZypJYQ
Slideshare: https://www.slideshare.net/MarkTruelson
Website: marktruelson.com
Sparketype Questionnaire https://sparketype.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Common Creative Podcast, Shivani Gupta. Shivani shares her transformative journey from being an engineer to becoming an entrepreneur and educator. She discusses the pivotal moment during her travels in Nepal that led her to reassess her life choices and pursue a path that aligns with her passions. Throughout the conversation, Shivani emphasizes the importance of creativity, the value of learning from failures, and the significance of finding joy in one's work. She offers insightful advice for those looking to reinvent themselves and pursue a more meaningful career.
Shivani is an award winning entrepreneur, speaker, coach and author and obsessed with Engaging Talent. She’s the first woman in my lineage to work and moved from India to Australia at the age of 11. Over the last 21 years, I have presented to over 250,000 people across 19 countries, worked with over 1500 leaders and authored 8 books.
LINKS:
Shivani Gupta - Special Guests
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/askshivani/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askshivani/
Website: www.askshivani.com
Book: Getting Your People To Step Up here: https://www.amazon.com.au/Getting-People-Step-Up-Strategies/dp/139424875X
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode of The Common Creative our guest, Masami Sato, founder of B1G1, shares her journey in creating a social good enterprise that’s making a global impact. B1G1 (Buy1GIVE1) aims to foster a world of giving, where everyday actions lead to real change. Businesses can choose high-impact projects and link their daily activities to measurable outcomes. With over 300 million giving impacts and support for 450+ projects across 50 countries, B1G1 is transforming the way we give back.
Masami’s personal journey, from overcoming shyness and feeling disconnected to launching multiple ventures, reflects her deep passion for a more equitable world. Her upside-down approach to business is captured in her books like ‘JOY - The gift of acceptance, trust, and love’, ‘GIVING BUSINESS – Creating the maximum impact in the meaning-driven world’ and ‘Better Business, Better Life, Better World’. She’s also sought-after TEDx speaker and global advocate for purposeful business.
Tune in to hear how Masami’s innovative ideas can inspire you to create meaningful impact in your business.
LINKS:
Masami Sato - Special Guests
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masami_b1g1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/masamisato/
Website: https://b1g1.com/
Other links: https://www.forbes.com/sites/afdhelaziz/2024/05/07/how-masami-sato-and-the-b1g1-movement-help-companies-to-create-a-world-full-of-giving/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode of The Common Creative, we sit down with Mark Schenk, co-founder of Anecdote, to explore why he feels business communication is broken. Interestingly, Mark suggests that the word "story" is too soft or irrelevant in a corporate environment, and flips the script arguing that simple, everyday events are the key to engaging, authentic communication. Mark shares the value of building a "story bank" , a collection of real-world examples that leaders can draw upon to illustrate points, foster connection, and communicate more effectively. By grounding events in relatable, concrete experiences, Mark demonstrates how relating events and examples becomes a natural and powerful communication process for business leaders.
With over two decades of experience as a business communications practitioner, Mark has made it his mission to help organizations cut through the noise, reduce misunderstandings, and save time, energy, and money. His journey, from a career in the Royal Australian Air Force to becoming CEO of Anecdote, is packed with insights that leaders around the world can apply today.
Join us as we dive into how examples and events (aka “stories”) can become a practical, everyday solution to tackling communication challenges.
LINKS:
Mark Schenk- Special Guests
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mschenk1/
Website - www.anecdote.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Matthew Dicks is one of the world’s storytelling greats. In this show, Chris and Paul challenge him to reveal the secrets of his storytelling tricks and probe for ideas on how to use stories in the world of work. (Listen out for ideas like “life homework” and how to spot those “five second moments” which are central to every great story) The result is a 30 minute pot of “podcast inspiration” for anyone who is keen to get better at communicating.
Matthew is an award-winning elementary school teacher with 26 years of experience, a columnist, and the internationally bestselling author of several novels including Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend and Twenty-one Truths About Love. He is also the author of the acclaimed nonfiction books Storyworthy and Someday Is Today. As the CEO of Storyworthy and the founder of Speak Up, a Hartford-based storytelling organization, Matthew has been inspiring audiences and teaching storytelling across the globe.
LINKS:
Matthew Dicks- Special Guests
Instagram - @matthewdicks
X - @matthewdicks
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/matthewdicks
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-dicks-84a95711/
Website - matthewdicks.com | storyworthy.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special episode of The Common Creative podcast, Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith celebrate Australia Creativity Day 2024, emphasising the importance of creativity in everyday life. Paul and Chris engage in a lively discussion about how businesses and individuals can benefit from fostering a creative mindset to navigate the rapidly changing world.
The conversation touches on various themes such as the human connection needed for innovation, the paradox between interpersonal interactions and digital engagements, and the importance of embracing both AI technology and nature to fuel creative thinking. As they work on writing a book encapsulating their learnings from over 100 podcast episodes, Paul and Chris highlight that creativity isn’t just found in designated spaces or days—it is a ubiquitous aspect of the human experience that thrives on connectivity and collaboration.
Through a live creative exercise, the Paul and Chris illustrate that spontaneous creativity can be simple, yet profound, suggesting a challenge for listeners to connect and create with others through a 'blind contour drawing'. This episode is not only a celebration but also serves as a reminder of the power and need for creativity in the modern world.
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this caffeine-loaded episode of The Common Creative podcast, hosts Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather explore the stimulating connection between caffeine and creativity with guest Dean Merlo, the founder of Merlo Coffee. The discussion brews with insights into the impact of coffee culture on business innovation and how simple changes revolutionise consumer experience. Dean shares his journey from the practice of law to pioneering café culture in Australia, highlighting the importance of staying ahead of the crowd,
As a young man, Dean spent some time in California and was inspired by the quality of the American service model. With restaurants well and truly in his genes, he followed the footsteps of both his father and grandparents and launched his first coffee shop on Queen Street. A little while later, frustrated with the quality of coffee he was sourcing, he decided to give roasting his own a crack. The rest, as they say, is history.
LINKS:
Dean Merlo- Special Guests
Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/merlocoffee
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/merlocoffee
YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQycAuGuuwBJtpfnMqpIBXA
Website - https://www.merlo.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week’s episode, Scott Andrew James is a multifaceted creative located in Austin, Texas, who operates in the dual roles of a book coach and a roving poet. Scott found his true calling in the world of words. He ultimately discovered his passion for creating interactive, co-creative poetry. Using his grandfather's 1946 Smith Corona typewriter,
Scott's creative journey began with an unconventional path as he chose the wilderness over the classroom. Eventually settling in Austin, Texas, his passion for poetry took an interactive turn when he began composing personalised poetry at events. Scott's technique of tapping into his intuitive creativity raises intriguing questions about the spaces where technology aids and hinders the creative process. The episode culminates with a remarkable live demonstration of Scott's typewriting skills, prompting reflections on the importance of preparing mentally and physically to harness creativity.
LINKS:
Scott Andrew James - Special Guests
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/scottandrewjames/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottajames/
Website - https://www.scottandrewjames.com/
https://scottjamesconsulting.com/
The episode with the Neuroscientist who studies intuition is.
The episodes on Mindwandering and Mindwondering
Roger Beaty on the 3 networks
Sunni Brown’s TED Talk
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
World Story Telling Day was originally created in Sweden to encourage people to tell stories and build better connections. This year’s theme “Building Bridges” seems particularly poignant.
In this snippet, Paul and Chris celebrate World Story Telling Day 2024 with a conversation about the history of the event, the role of story telling in bringing people together and a review of some of the episodes of The Common Creative with particular powerful story tellers.
Neal Ford (episode 83), James Hegarty (episode 99), Gavin Blake (episode 94), Brock Swinton (episode 96), Professor Uri Hassen (episode 56), Rachel Barnard (episode 72) and Miranda West (episode 104) are all discussed.
Themes such as the importance of ensuring that stories have a message inside them, painting pictures in the mind, keeping a sense of humour and being brutal with editing are all brought to life.
Jump in to join the World Story Telling Day vibe!
LINKS
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“When you first see a new idea [for a book cover], don’t judge it immediately. Instead,sleep on it and let it mull”
“It really helps to trust great creatives - they need the space to do their best work”
“A real, printed book avoids information overload. It is a one-to-one connection with the author”
Our guest this week is Miranda West, the visionary founder and publisher behind The Do Book Co., an independent publishing venture established in 2013 in partnership with The DO Lectures.The Do Book Co. stands out for its exceptional commitment to empowering creative entrepreneurs, makers, and Doers to work smarter and effect positive change.
With an impressive background in the industry, including a tenure at Penguin Random House, Miranda took the leap to establish The Do Book Co - a business that aligns with her vision of creating books that are tools for personal growth and societal transformation.
Join us as we delve into Miranda's journey, her passion for the power of the printed word and the remarkable impact of The Do Books in catalysing positive change.
LINKS:
Miranda West - Special Guests
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dobookco/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/miranda-west-6aa0b231/
Website - https://thedobook.co/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Roger Dennis is a seasoned expert in the art of “foresight” - guiding leaders beyond conventional strategic planning and short time frames. Drawing from his academic background in psychology and zoology, Dennis offers a distinct perspective on long-term trends and their impacts on businesses and society. Renowned for his skill in crafting powerful narratives, he helps business leaders to think beyond the near-term and prepare for the possibilities ahead.
Dennis consults with top-tier companies on future strategies, distinguishing himself as an expert in foresight rather than a traditional futurist. Leveraging insights from psychology and zoology, he employs a diverse toolkit to assist businesses in anticipating what lies ahead.
Tune in now to gain valuable insights from Roger Dennis on topics such as AI, idea viruses, and navigating the complexities of tomorrow.
LINKS:
Roger Dennis- Special Guests
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/rogerdennis
Website - http://www.dennis.partners/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to The Common Creative with Dan Golden and Jen Huh.
Dan Golden and Jen Huh are a dynamic creative duo known for their playful and humorous design approach. Dan's expertise in design and rug collections merges seamlessly with Jen's background in poetry and photography, resulting in their unique brand, "U ME U," offering cozy throws infused with creativity.
Join us as Dan and Jen share their journey from New York's design scene to their collaborative ventures. Discover how their latest project, "U ME U," embodies their ethos of blending creativity with humour and simplicity.
Tune in now for insights into their creative process.
LINKS:
Dan Golden & Jen Huh - Special Guests
Dan Golden - linkedin.com/in/dangoldenstudio
Jen Huh - linkedin.com/in/jenhuh
Website - dangolden.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to the 101st episode of The Common Creative podcast!
In this week's episode, we sit down with Nick Jaffe, a multifaceted individual who embodies the ethos of not just creative thinking, but also creative execution. With a diverse array of experiences under his belt, Nick has ventured into solo sales across the globe, established successful businesses centered around Canvas and leather products, and delved into philosophical realms of thought.
Nick wears many hats - he's a freelance photographer, filmmaker, sailor, overlander, craftsman, and a writer. Currently he is based in Tasmania, Australia and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Victorian College of the Arts.
Join us as we explore Nick's fascinating journey and glean insights into his unique approach to creativity and life.
Tune in now!
LINKS:
Nick Jaffe - Special Guest
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nick_jaffe/
https://www.instagram.com/kohuttco/
https://www.instagram.com/thetinlantern/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/hellojaffe
Website - http://www.nickjaffe.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Work hard and deep focus are the most important things we can do”
“You shouldn’t try to be someone else - you have to be you”
“I’m a stubborn mule”
"The quest isn't becoming less, the quest is how to become more. How do we dial up the crazy shit more?”
“Sometimes you're in a part of your life where you're at a crossroads and you have to turn left or right. You just don't know which one.”
Welcome to the 100th episode of The Common Creative podcast!
To celebrate, we’re delighted to welcome David Hieatt - a “Creative Jeanius” on a mission to use his entrepreneurial skills to make a positive impact.
After leaving ad agency Saatchi and Saatchi, he built Howies into one of the most influential active sports brands in recent years.
After selling it to Timberland, he co-founded The Do Lectures, voted one of the top ten ideas festivals in the world by The Guardian.
More recently, he started Hiut Denim in his home town of Cardigan in west Wales. A town that used to have Britain's biggest jeans factory. Its purpose is to get 400 people their jobs back.
David has a cult internet following, and has spoken at Apple, Google, Red Bull and many other top companies and conferences. David has written two Do Books, Do Purpose: Why brands with a purpose do better and matter more (2014) and Do Open: How a simple email newsletter can transform your business (and it can) (2017). David first self-published The Path of a Doer in 2010. Ten years on and still as relevant as ever, the book has been reissued by The Do Book Co.
Tune in now for insights, inspiration, and a deep dive into the world of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and doing something positive in the world.
LINKS:
David Hieatt - Special Guest
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/davidhieatt
Twitter - hiutdenim
Website - https://hiutdenim.co.uk
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"If obituaries can't be fun, what's the point of dying?" - James Hagerty
Known to his friends as Bob, James Hagerty has an illustrious career as a staff reporter and editor for The Wall Street Journal spanning over four decades, covering stories across the U.S., Asia, and Europe.
James Hagerty is the author of "Yours Truly," a remarkable guide to crafting life stories. This exceptional book has garnered acclaim from prestigious publications such as the New York Times, Washington Post, and, of course, The Wall Street Journal. Currently a freelance writer for The WSJ, James has spent the last seven years crafting nearly 1,000 obituaries.
Get ready to gain powerful and also light-heated insights into the art of storytelling, especially the hardest story of all - your own!
LINKS:
James R. Hagerty- Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-r-bob-hagerty-38371a6/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/JamesRHagerty
Book Website - http://yours-truly.jamesrhagerty.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to this week's episode featuring Kat Driscoll, the visual artist, designer, and creator behind Bobbi Frances jewelry. Kat shares a captivating story of how she entered the business of statement jewelry, and her brightly coloured vibrant work is a testament to joy, happiness, and brightness, delivering a truly uplifting experience.
Bobbi Frances specializes in crafting vibrant, one-of-a-kind statement earrings from acrylic. Kat's journey into this creative venture was inspired by a talented artist friend who encouraged her to draw, revealing the innate creativity within. Overcoming fears and doubts, Kat expresses gratitude for her current role in a dynamic team of four and eagerly anticipates the continued growth and learning as they launch their new venture, “Bling Hound”.
Here are a few creative gems from the podcast:
“I’m always looking for a story that might spark my next collection”
“”My brain is always pinging - the people around me have to reign me in!”
“I love to make people smile”
Tune in now for an inspiring conversation about joy, innovation and creative bling!
LINKS:
Kat Driscoll - Special Guest
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bobbifrancesshop/
https://www.instagram.com/bling.hound/
Website - https://www.bobbifrances.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Troy and Zara Love are directors of presentation skills training company “Great Talk”, and renowned Australian stand-up comics. (Fun fact, they’re a married couple who chose the family name “Love” because they love what they do and they love each other!)
From award-winning breakfast radio hosts to live event MC’s for major companies, they bring over 30 years of experience, captivating an audience of over 20 million on stage, radio & screen
During the podcast, Troy and Zara navigate from lighthearted topics like the role of humour in communication through to deeper thinking on how to achieve a real human connection with people in business and beyond.
A remarkable double-act, their stories and ideas prove that there’s magic created when two like-minded people who love what they do come together to share their thinking.
LINKS:
Troy and Zara Love- Special Guest
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Gr8Talk
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/troymlove/
Instagram - https://instagram.com/Gr8Talk
X (Twitter) - https://x.com/Gr8Talk
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/user/l1vt9rcjkxc1tju88qpzwc4u5
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoLkTBHWb1BMEGc02RBBF3g
Disrupt Radio - https://disrupt.radio/programs/great-talk
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Never pick an argument with someone who buys ink by the barrel”.
Brock Swinson is a filmmaker, screenwriter, interviewer for Creative Screenwriting Magazine and presenter of Creative Principles Podcast.
His new book “Ink by the Barrel - secrets of Prolific Writers” references a quote by William Greener, which suggests that the key to great creativity lies in delivering work in volume rather than waiting to craft the perfect piece.
(For example, Brock references movie director Bong Joon-Ho, who directed ten unsuccessful movies about class struggle before finally breaking through with his Oscar-winning masterpiece “Parasite”)
Having conducted interviews with over 400 writers, Brock unveils some of the best-kept secrets not only for creative writing but also fueling any creative process.
Tune in for a conversation that delves into powerful ideas for creativity with the insightful Brock Swinson.
LINKS:
Brock Swinson- Special Guest
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/brockswinson
Instagram - www.instagram.com/brockswinson/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/BrockSwinson
Website - www.brockswinson.com/home
Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-principles/id1292130289
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How does a film director balance the desire for a high octane creative output with the practicalities of lights, cameras and action? And what draws a talented writer to focus his energy on the crazy world of Sci-Fi comedy?
Stimson Snead is based in Los Angeles and is an award-winning director and writer with a passion for independent film, unexpected perspectives, and stories infused with themes of scientific discovery and education.
His most recent short, “Tim Travers & the Time Travelers Paradox”, is an official Selection of the Spokane International Film Festival and stars Samuel Dunning and Cassandra Carpenter. His earlier short, Spirit: A Martian Story, was the winner of “Best Science Fiction Short” at the 2020 Chicago Southland International Film Festival.
Tune in to discover what drives Stimson to deliver his quirky art and how he embraces an iterative creative process that evolves and changes as a raw script is turned into film and film is transformed into the final edit.
Stimson Snead - Special Guest
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/stimson-snead-370a1b15
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stimsonsnead/
Website - https://stimsonsnead.com
Vimeo - https://vimeo.com/user3519878
IMDb - http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4676381/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Kristy Goodwin is an expert in digital well-being and productivity and the author of “Dear Digital We Need To Talk” -a guide to developing realistic, research-based ways to cultivate healthy and helpful digital habits.
With her extensive background as a speaker, author, researcher, and consultant, Kristy provides invaluable insights into the impact of digital technologies on the health, well-being, and learning of children, adolescents, and adults.
Chris and Paul’s big take-outs? Switch off all notifications. And allow time away from technology to immerse yourself in the ‘real world’.
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Kristy Goodwin
LINKS:
Kristy Goodwin- Special Guest
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/dr-kristy-goodwin
Twitter: drkristygoodwin
Instagram: www.instagram.com/drkristy/
Website: drkristygoodwin.com
Check out his new book: drkristygoodwin.com/deardigital/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week's episode, we are thrilled to introduce Dr. Mark Williams, a distinguished neuroscientist and educator who is on a mission to create a ‘brain healthy world’.
During the show, we delve into the intricate relationship between technology and the human brain. Mark, sheds new light on the detrimental effects technology, particularly on our creative faculties. (He suggests a couple of powerful and practical solutions: disconnect from notifications and immerse ourselves in activities that ignite different regions of our brain)s.
Mark is an internationally recognised Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience, with over 25 years of experience conducting behavioural and brain imaging research, focusing on our social skills.
Not your typical academic, Mark is also defined by his desire to make his neuroscience discoveries more accessible to the general public (in other words, he’s a super-bright guy who also talks plain English!)
Head to the podcast to hear why being creative is to be vulnerable, why we should be honey bees not locusts and why our understanding of ‘tribes’ is so vital to the way we interact.
LINKS:
Mark Williams- Special Guest
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-4b401354/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDrMarkWilliams
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarkWil93486024
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedrmarkwilliams/
Website: https://www.drmarkwilliams.com/
Check out his new book: https://rethinkingthebrain.com/books/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nik Robinson is the founder of Good Citizens, a company dedicated to untrashing the planet by transforming plastic waste into stylish eyewear.
Nik's diverse career has taken him from being a radio broadcaster and creative director to a donut maker and lecturer. He's driven by a deep passion for utilizing his creative talents to address critical issues and drive positive change. In 2018, he embarked on his mission with Good Citizens, leading the charge against the global plastic crisis.
In this episode, we not only gain insights into building a purpose-driven enterprise but also discover Nik's unique approach of involving his own children in this venture. It's a remarkable story of an entire family fully invested in making a meaningful impact, where success is the only option.
Stay tuned to the end to discover why fear is an essential element of creativity, and be prepared to be inspired by Nik's unwavering dedication to making the world a better place through creative innovation.
LINKS:
Nik Robinson - Special Guest
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/robinsonnik
Instagram -www.instagram.com/goodcitizens_official/
Website - http://www.goodcitizens.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's episode features Avi Liran - “The Eternal Optimist”. A professional speaker and trainer, Avi's message is clear: the best way to nurture your soul is through the habit of seeing things positively and bringing delight into the world. (As he points out, if you wake up each morning in a real bed with access to running water you’re already much more lucky than millions of others). In this delightful conversation, we explore the concept of 'soul food' for personal development and its impact on creativity.
Avi Liran is renowned for his engaging and humorous approach to creating delightful workplaces and exceptional employee experiences. With a diverse career spanning roles as a former diplomat, trade commissioner, venture capital entrepreneur, and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of two IT companies, Avi brings a wealth of leadership insights to his sought-after talks and workshops.
Join us now for a journey into the benefits of delight, eternal optimism (and the importance of making your donations anonymously).
LINKS:
Avi Liran- Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/avizliran/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/avi.liran/
Website - https://www.deliveringdelight.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to this week's episode featuring Steve Sharp, the 'workplace whisperer.' Steve shares his wisdom on cultivating workplace creativity and improving teamwork. Discover how to foster a culture where individuals feel empowered to contribute and collaborate effectively.
With over 25 years of experience leading large teams and conducting more than 150 leadership development and high-performance culture workshops, Steve's insights are invaluable. He was recognized as Young Executive of the Year by the Australian Financial Review.
Steve's approach blends neuroscience, psychological safety, and evidence-based leadership frameworks, all delivered in an engaging and enjoyable manner.
Join us for an eye-opening conversation on creating exceptional workplace environments and maximizing creative potential.
LINKS:
Steve Sharp- Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevesharpspeaker/
Website - https://stevesharp.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A creative powerhouse with a reputation that most can only dream about,, Scott Belsky wears many hats: entrepreneur, author, investor, and now an integral part of Adobe's leadership team. He's the genius behind Behance, the go-to online platform for the creative industry, where talent is showcased and discovered. Scott led Behance as CEO until Adobe's acquisition in 2012.
His influence extends beyond Behance; Scott has been an early product advisor and investor in noteworthy ventures like Pinterest, Uber, Carta, Flexport, sweetgreen, and Ro, to name a few.
He's also a prolific author with two national bestselling books: 'Making Ideas Happen' and 'The Messy Middle.' (Don't forget to check out his popular monthly newsletter, 'Implications,' and his brainchild, 99U, a publication and annual conference dedicated to enhancing productivity in the creative world).
Join us for this super- insightful episode as we delve into Scott's remarkable journey and glean insights about sticking to the vision, wearing different hats (dreamer, incrementalist & doer) and the creative opportunities of AI.
LINKS:
Scott Belsky - Special Guest
LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/scottbelsky
Twitter - https://twitter.com/scottbelsky
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/scottbelsky/
Website - http://implications.com/
https://www.scottbelsky.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Step right into our creative snippet, a mini-episode that provides a glimpse of this week's main attraction featuring, Lenny Ravich, a presenter, teacher, an author and has a youthful spirit that's truly inspiring.
Join Chris and Paul as they explore the profound art of reframing everyday events and how humor can ignite creative thinking.
This episode is a joyful journey into the world of humour and the enriching rewards of optimism.
Tune in now and let the positivity flow!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lenny Ravich, 87, joins us from Tel Aviv in Israel at 1:00 AM local time - a supremely youthful presenter, teacher and author of the best-selling book, "Everlasting Optimism."
Lenny is also the co-creator of “Delivering Delight” alongside Avi Liran, where they offer crazy-sounding keynotes on "Dance Life. Don't Drag It" and workshops on "Humour and Laughter as a Way of Life."
But there's more to his humour than meets the eye; beneath every punchline lies a profound message about the upsides of being able to re-frame every day events and way that humour can unleash creative thinking.
This episode is a joyful journey into the world of humour and the life-enriching benefits of optimism. Tune in now and get ready to be uplifted by this super-young 87 year-old.
LINKS:
Lenny Ravich- Special Guest
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/lenny-ravich-21982536
Website - www.Lennyravich.org
www.deliveringdelight.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Embark on a journey into the world of creativity with our mini episode, a glimpse of our featured conversation with the multi-talented Joey Coleman. As a lawyer, coach, singer, and watercolorist, Joey effortlessly blends the realms of art and business, with a special emphasis on visual and cyber creativity.
Join your Chris and Paul, as they delve into a captivating discussion with Joey. Discover how he's reshaping the landscape of customer and employee retention, all while infusing the business world with the enchantment of creativity.
This is a conversation you won't want to miss. Tune in to the Common Creative Podcast and explore the magical fusion of creativity and business with Joey Coleman.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to this week's episode, featuring Joey Coleman - lawyer, coach, singer, and watercolorist. Joey weaves creativity into the world of business, with a particular focus on visual and cyber creativity. (If there's one thing Joey exemplifies, it's the power of showing someone something in a way that makes them believe so that they’re motivated to help).
Joey's Wall Street Journal #2 best-selling book, "Never Lose a Customer Again," serves as a treasure trove of strategies and tactics for transforming one-time buyers into lifelong, loyal customers. Furthermore, his upcoming book, "Never Lose an Employee Again," unveils a framework that companies across the globe can employ to curtail turnover rates and amplify employee engagement.
Join us for a riveting conversation with Joey Coleman, a person who is changing the game in customer and employee retention, while infusing the world of business with the magic of creativity.
LINKS:
Joey Coleman- Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeycoleman1/
Website - joeycoleman.com
Book Links
NEVER LOSE AN EMPLOYEE AGAIN
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3WHOTME
B&N: https://bit.ly/NLEA-BN
Bookshop: https://bit.ly/GetIndieBooks
NEVER LOSE A CUSTOMER AGAIN
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2U0N2nE
B&N: https://bit.ly/NLCA-BN
Bookshop: https://bit.ly/GetIndieBooks
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to this week’s creative snippet, offering a sneak peek into this week's featured episode featuring Kristi Herold, as the author of "It Pays to Play" and the CEO of JAM, Kristi sheds light on the captivating concept of play as a transformative force for business and creativity.
Join Chris and Paul as they embark on a fascinating conversation about Kristi's insights. Discover how seemingly simple playful initiatives, like company sports teams or 'shout-out Slack channels,' play a pivotal role in fostering genuine connections among individuals. These interactions go beyond the professional realm, nurturing trust and camaraderie – the foundation for effective collaboration and creativity.
Curious to learn more about unleashing the potential of play within your workplace? Tune in and immerse yourself in the world of creativity, collaboration, and innovation with Kristi Herold.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is play something to be reserved for the safety of home or ring fenced as something that’s only for the kids?
In this week's conversation, Kristi Herold, author of “It Pays to Play” and the CEO of JAM we learn that there’s a reason we should all embrace play as a fuel for business and also creativity.
As Kristi explains, even simple playful structures such as a company sports team or a ‘shout out slack channel’ help people to get to know each other as people (perish the thought!) and build a relationship of trust. This in turn paves the way for people to collaborate and create.
It means that businesses that embrace playfulness achieve improved retention, creativity and engagement.
Kristi’s business “JAM” employs over 40 staff worldwide and has orchestrated over 3500 corporate team-building events spanning across 30 diverse countries since its inception in 2020. Kristi herself has been recognised in the Top 100 Canada’s Most Powerful Women and as a top three finalist in the Canadian Women Entrepreneur awards. She has earned multiple Great Places to Work certifications and is a Governor General’s “Queen’s Diamond Jubilee” recipient.
Tune in to find out about harnessing the power of play in your own work place!
LINKS
Kristi Herold - Special Guest
Personal Website - https://kristiherold.com/
JAM Group - https://jamgroup.com/
Keep Playing Kids - https://www.keepplayingkids.com
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-herold-8a7180/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/KristiHerold_
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kristi.herold.5
Twitter - https://twitter.com/KristiHerold
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kristiherold8
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Step right into this mini episode of our creative snippet, offering a sneak peek into this week's featured episode featuring the remarkable Maz Farrelly, a producer who seamlessly marries boundless creativity with efficient delivery.
Join Chris and Paul as they delve deep into the realm of TV and creativity. Their discussion is a treasure trove of insights, covering writing techniques, innovation strategies, and more—too numerous to capture in one go.
Don't miss out on the captivating discourse on the Common Creative Podcast, featuring the powerhouse producer, creative extraordinaire, and visionary thinker, Maz Farrelly.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do TV producers juggle the need to ride the creative wave whilst keeping the show on-budget and on-time? What is the secret behind the success of TV favourites like Big Brother, The X-Factor, Dancing with the Stars?
In her stellar career as an international TV producer, Maz Farrelly has commanded the biggest teams, budgets, and audiences, and worked with superstars. She co-created the long-standing ABC Current Affairs show, Q&A, and many of the hit shows that have enthralled the UK and Australia over the past 20 years.
Her content has been interacted with over eight BILLION times (that’s roughly one interaction for each person on planet earth!) She even orchestrated an event that famously broke Twitter – intentionally.
These days, Maz is also a renowned keynote speaker - on a mission to empower intelligent individuals and ambitious corporations to think strategically and critically, (just like TV producers!)
In this episode, Maz reveals her secret for training her brain to be creative and her formula for delivering creative ideas whilst ensuring that shows go out on-time and on-budget ( It’s also no-coincidence that Maz is full of fun and humour - it seems that a light touch is an essential ingredient for her success!)
If you’ve ever wondered whether creativity and business efficiency can mix, tune in now.
LINKS
Maz Farrelly - Special Guest
LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/maz-speaks
Website - https://absolutelyfarrelly.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to this mini episode of our creative snippet, where we'll preview this week's main episode featuring Gavin Blake, a unique professional scribe. He's known for "drawing mostly in words" and excels in visually capturing events, conferences, talks, and more.
Join us as Paul and Chris explore Gavin Blake's fascinating journey and discover the transformative power of visual scribing in communication and memory retention. Whether you're a creative enthusiast, business professional, or curious about innovative knowledge sharing, this episode is not to be missed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to this week's episode of our podcast, where we have the pleasure of hosting Gavin Blake, a seasoned professional scribe who brings a unique approach to his craft. Often described as someone who "draws mostly in words," Gavin's expertise lies in visually capturing and recording various events, conferences, features, talks, and keynotes.
With over two decades of experience in drawing conversations, systems, and stories, Gavin's work has left a lasting impact at over 70 TEDx Events across Australia and beyond. Gavin's journey in visual scribing began when he learned from a world-class facilitation group in the UK, refining his skills to become an expert in his field. Today, he skillfully deploys this capability at a diverse range of settings, from executive retreats to product launches, conferences, and even yarning circles.
Join us in this episode as Gavin shares his insights, experiences, and the transformative power of visual scribing in the realms of communication and memory retention. Whether you're a creative enthusiast, a business professional, or simply intrigued by innovative approaches to knowledge sharing.
LINKS
Gavin Blake - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavinblake/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gavin_scribes/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/gavin_scribes/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GavinScribes/
Website - https://gavinblake.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to this mini episode of our creative snippet. Having a look at this week's main episode - Neal Foard, a seasoned advertising and marketing expert who has worked with renowned brands such as Budweiser, Lexus, and Sony.
Prepare to be captivated by Neal Foard's heartwarming and meaningful personal stories. In every tale he shares, there's a precious gift and a profound message awaiting you. Neal's genuine and beautiful soul shines through as he effortlessly draws you into his world. Get ready for an episode filled with warmth and inspiration that will leave a lasting impression on your heart.
Join us as Paul and Chris shared their insights on Neal Foard. It is a natural storyteller and a true inspiration. Don't miss the chance to unlock the art of storytelling.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week's episode, we welcome Neal Foard, a seasoned advertising and marketing expert who has worked with renowned brands such as Budweiser, Lexus, and Sony. With over 25 years of experience.
The show is peppered with Neal’s own personal stories, which showcase not only the way stories communicate meaningful ideas but also how a story is richer and deeper if delivered in a straightforward unassuming style. (Or maybe it’s just Neal’s beautifully rich voice that does the work!)
Did you know the best stories are personal stories? Have you ever thought that, if your story is about you, the audience will only be drawn in if it's a story that celebrates a setback or failure? (No-one needs to hear why you think you’re so great!)
Neal has crafted award-winning campaigns and ranked among the top ten most awarded creative directors worldwide. He's also an accomplished author, serving as the Worldwide Director of Creative Learning for Saatchi & Saatchi.
Don't miss this fascinating conversation with a natural storyteller and a true inspiration.
LINKS
Neal Foard- Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-foard-3727403/
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@nealfoard/videos
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nealfoard/
Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@nealfoard
Website - nealfoard.com
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Did you know AI bots can hallucinate? The term doesn’t mean that Chat GPT is taking drugs (!!) - instead it’s a technical term to reflect the fact that AI can ‘invent or derive answers to questions that it doesn’t have a direct answer for.
In other words, not everything that a bot states is true and, in their own way, bots are gaslighting or promoting ideas that appear to be based on fact.
In this episode, Jeremy Wagstaff, technology journalist, explains more about AI’s “hallucination” and raises other thought-provoking questions such as the fact that the people who will be most affected by AI were not consulted or considered when it was developed.
In short, AI is rapidly developing into something that no-one has forecast or has planned for.
Jeremy Wagsatff, is one of the world's foremost technology journalists. A writer, consultant and good friend of Chris, he has over 35 years of experience, working with organizations like the BBC, Reuters, and The Wall Street Journal.
LINKS
Jeremy Wagstaff- Special Guest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wagstaff/
Blog: https://www.loosewireblog.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/loosewire
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's guest on The Common Creative, Dr. Mark van Rijmenam, CSP—a trailblazing strategic futurist and highly sought-after international keynote speaker. With his knack for simplifying complex ideas and captivating audiences, Mark has inspired over 100,000 leaders across more than 25 countries on all continents.
In this episode, we dive deep into the captivating realm of future tech, with a special focus on artificial intelligence and the metaverse. Mark's expertise in these cutting-edge fields makes for a ripper conversation.
Get ready to have your mind blown as Mark delves into the potential repercussions of AI - including a prediction that, if AI is like the genie’s lamp (you know, the one that offers three magic wishes), then the third wish will inevitably be “undo the first two wishes”.
Tune in now as we explore the uncharted territories of creativity on steroids!
Mark van Rijmenam - Special Guest
My website: https://thedigitalspeaker.com
My LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/markvanrijmenam
Read my latest article: Unleashing the Generative AI Genie: A Brave New Metaverse or a Nightmare Scenario?
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Marcus Bryne is an accomplished illustrator, Design Director at ad agency Thinkerbell and father of seven-year-old illustrator Charlie Marker - a previous guest on The Common Creative.
Marcus's recent personal projects have captured global attention. His explorations into AI have led to viral sensations such as "What if Antoni Gaudi designed regular household appliances" and "What if graffiti tags influenced the architecture of the buildings they once adorned?"
These projects gained significant traction, being featured in renowned publications like Forbes, Trendhunter, Designboom, Cool Hunting, and even landing printed pieces in Germany. Marcus was also interviewed by The Guardian UK about his groundbreaking work.
In light of the growing influence of AI in the creative industry, Marcus is interested in exploring how we, as humans, can utilize this power for social good, or if it's too late to control its impact.
Join us as we delve into his experiences, his creative journey, and his insights into the ever-evolving intersection of art, technology, and social impact.
LINKS:
Marcus Byrne - Special Guest
LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/marcus-byrne
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/marcusbyrnephotography/
Website - http://marcusbyrne.com/
Marcus's Book to help with Prompt Crafting.
- 101 Midjourney Prompt Secrets: Packed with AI Art Image Ideas https://amzn.asia/d/ihntQeb
- THE GUARDIAN - https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2023/jan/14/moderngadgets-style-gaudi-ai-midjourney-in-pictures
- ARCHIPANIC INTERVIEW - https://www.archipanic.com/graffiti-architectures-marcus-byrne/
- MUMBRELLA OPINION PIECE - https://mumbrella.com.au/has-the-horse-already-bolted-772395
- AI WEBSITES - https://www.midjourney.com https://openai.com/product/dall-e-2
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to a special episode of our podcast as we join the world in celebrating National Creativity Day! and today we are diving deep into the boundless power of imagination and honouring the remarkable capacity for creativity within all of us.
In this short but impactful episode, we will explore the wonders of creativity and its profound impact on our lives. From art to music, writing to design, and everything in between, creativity encompasses a vast spectrum of expressions that enrich our world.
Let us remind ourselves that we are all creative beings, and our unique ideas have the power to shape the world around us
So, take a moment to pause, sit back, and listen to this special episode dedicated to National Creativity Day. Enjoy!
LINKS:
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Derek Leddie, our special guest this week, is a visionary entrepreneur who built a global market research consultancy by combining the perfect blend of a vibrant culture and agile creative leadership. He is the founder of The Leading Edge, Australia's most successful market research company, known for its cutting-edge approaches. After selling his company, Derek embarked on a transformative journey, exploring his passions for teaching yoga and running a grade school in Bali. Today, he is recognised as one of Australia's most successful business coaches, renowned for his unique style that blends spirit, biology, and the power of the mind.
Derek shares his inspiring story and discusses the profound shift in mindset he experienced when he made the decision to sell his company and pursue other interests. We delve into his insights on intuition, exploring the connection between the mind, body, and spirituality. It's a captivating exploration of how these elements have found acceptance in the broader corporate world. His depth of thought and emotional awareness are truly remarkable.
Tune in to this episode as we explore Derek Leddie's remarkable journey and gain valuable insights into the realms of intuition, mind-body connection, and spirituality in the corporate world. Prepare to be inspired!
LINKS:
Derek Leddie - Speacial Guest
- LinkedIn - https://au.linkedin.com/in/derekleddie
- Website - collectivemind.com.au
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, we have two special guests, Lauren Tan and Liz Soutar, who are both specialists in human-centered design that help teams inside organisations to solve complex problems using empathy and creativity.
Lauren and Liz are both Design Thinking Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) with over 17 and 20 years of experience respectively. They have worked at the intersection of design and business, published papers and books on design, and presented at conferences. Lauren currently works as a Specialist Director in Deloitte Australia's Consulting practice, while Liz is a Specialist Senior Manager. They both apply creative thinking to solve problems for start-ups and large institutions, and have pioneered the use of Human-Centered Design (HCD) in various organisations, including Westpac.
They delve into their own journeys and how they successfully enable creative processes for professional services consultants. It was incredibly insightful to learn from their different points of view and experiences. And discussed how human-centered design can help teams to be more creative and innovative, and how it can be integrated into existing business processes.
The show is titled "Creativity by Style," which is a fitting title as it highlights how they have learned to wrap creativity in business processes and language, making it more accessible and comfortable for business people. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into the power of human-centered design and how it can be used to solve complex problems and drive innovation in organisations. We hope you enjoy the discussion as much as we did!
LINKS:
Liz Soutar
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/liz-soutar-3744079
Lauren Tan
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/laurentan
MAKE PUBLICATION - https://www2.deloitte.com/au/en/pages/technology/articles/make.html
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week’s guest is the multi-talented Chris Lutkin, an award-winning audiobook narrator, actor, content creator, and a writer. Chris is a professional, full time creative. He knows what it's like to be creative and earn money as a creator, throughout his career. He emphasises the importance of understanding the material and being able to take direction in having a good voice.
Chris started his audiobook career in 2014 and has since narrated over 60 titles, receiving recognition with a Parent's Choice Silver Award and an EarPhones Award for his exceptional work. He's now converting his screenplay, which has been twice optioned, into a novel, inspired by the real-life story of a forgotten 19th-century baseball player named "Bull." Chris will produce this novel as an audiobook, bringing the story to life for audiences.
In addition to his work in audiobooks, Chris is a member of Ensemble Studio Theatre, as well as SAG-AFTRA and AEA. He has appeared in numerous commercials, films, television shows, and on stages across the country. Chris has also taught Acting for Camera classes and workshops for various institutions, including New York University, Lee Strasberg Institute, Weist-Barron Studios, Chicago Improv Festival, and Kansas City Improv Festival. He has even taught for a non-profit in Detroit.
Join us as we dive into Chris Lutkin's unique and impressive career path, and hear his insights into audiobook narration and content creation.
LINKS:
Chris Lutkin - Special Guest
- LinkedIn - ttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-lutkin-85714ab9/h
- Website - https://www.chrislutkin.com/
- Audiobooks - https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Chris+Lutkin
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lutlucky/
- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100081013245787
- Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lutlucky?lang=en
- Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/Screengym
SELF PUBLISHING LINKS:
“A Guide to the Accurate Presentation of 1858-1869 Baseball”
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085K7T5F8/ref=rdr_ext_tmb
“Team Improv 123” by Heather Lutkin
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1713210754?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860
Chris Lutkin’s Fine Art America Site
https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/chris-lutkin
Bull the MOVIE
https://bullthemovie.wordpress.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrea Sampson has a natural talent for developing compelling stories and persuasive content. Her job is to help bright people communicate their ideas to an audience. She talked about the role of storytelling, visuals, and how she assists people.
With over 25 years of experience in marketing and advertising, Andrea Sampson is a former Strategist and Consultant. She has presented and developed strategies for Fortune 100 companies. Andrea is sought after for her assistance in helping teams and executives develop their presentations or pitches.
Four years ago, Andrea's passion for ideas led her to volunteer at TEDxToronto as a Speaker Coach. She eventually became the Director of Programming in 2015 and the Conference Co-Chair in 2016. This voluntary role was instrumental in the creation ofTalk Boutique, a speaker management, development, and representation company. Andrea was also the Co-Director of the 2017 Singularity University Canada Summit.
LINKS:
Andrea Sampson - Special Guest
- LinkedIn -linkedin.com/in/acsampson
- Twitter -https://twitter.com/LightningRod29
- Website - http://www.talkboutique.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you’ve ever considered launching your own business, this is the show for you. Donna Loughlin has helped over 500 businesses come to market and is full of insights for budding entrepreneurs.
Donna Loughlin is the Founder of LMGPR and known for her work with futurists and innovators. She has launched more than 500 companies taking them from stealth to market leaders since forming her agency in 2002.
She is also the host of “Before It Happened”, a leading narrative podcast featuring visionaries and the moments, events, and realisations that inspired them to change our lives for the better.
Donna excels in the realm of storytelling, and uses those skills to propel new companies into the mainstream.
LINKS:
Donna Loughlin - Special Guest
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnal2/
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beforeithappenedshow/
- Website - https://www.lmgpr.com
- Podcast - https://www.beforeithappened.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
The Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Looking for insights about the role of a physical space in building creativity and community? This is the episode for you!
To Melissa Marsden, a workspace isn't just the place to come to work. Instead, it is a place that should elevate the employee experience. An interior designer and a workplace design strategist, Melissa shares insights about what a workplace is really for and the role of ‘neighbourhoods’ in the workspaces.
A Workplace Dynamics Strategist and founder of COMUNiTI who reimagines work environments to drive high-performing teams, Melissa's unique Workplace Dynamics Blueprint (™) guides organisations to create workplaces that attract top-tier talent. Melissa is also the host of the popular “Work Life by Design” podcast.
With over 20 years' experience in her field, her client list includes APA, Hall Chadwick, Rugby Australia, Sunshine Coast City Council, Air New Zealand, Entain, and many more.
LINKS:
Melissa Marsden - Special Guest
- LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/melissamarsden
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/melmar/
- Website - https://www.melissamarsden.com.au/
- Podcast - Work Life By Design (melissamarsden.com.au)
- Book - The Next Workplace
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rachel Barnard's project, “Young New Yorkers”, is a powerful example of creativity as a force for good.
It’s a program for young offenders that embraces the idea of art and creativity as an alternative to the criminal record system.
An Australian-born architect, Rachel found herself responding to a mid-pandemic career hiatus by applying for a fellowship which would fund the development a radical new system for rehabilitating New York’s young offenders. As she confesses during the podcast, she pitched the idea to a judge explaining that she’d won a fellowship to fund the project - but somehow forgot to mention that her fellowship was in fact, for Architecture!
Via a creative process called Mapping, she has assisted over 1,400 young people to exit the criminal legal system. In this role, she partnered with multiple criminal legal agencies including NYC Criminal Courts, Kings County DA's Office, NYC Department of Probation, and the New York Police Department.
It's a stunning story of how lives can be changed forever with a clear vision, a lot of grit and a dash of creative magic.
Rachel is a coach, entrepreneur, and artist. She created the proprietary Map process that allows creative entrepreneurs to get unstuck and achieve their wildest dreams. She has been acknowledged in the media and has received awards and fellowships. She holds a Master of Science in Advanced Architectural Design from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Queensland.
LINKS:
Rachel Barnard - Special Guest
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-g-barnard-49335751/
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/redgwenblue/
- Website - http://mapwithrachel.com
- Young New Yorkers - https://www.youngnewyorkers.org
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do home grown pineapples teach us about creativity? In this “snippet” Paul shares the heartbreaking story of the home-grown pineapple that was not-to-be. But luckily for fans of The Common Creative, the pineapple disaster has borne fruit in the form of three powerful lessons about life, the universe and (of course) creativity.
Tune in to find out more about the importance of patience, the need to “strike while the iron is hot” and the meaning of what things are really worth. (Sorry, no lessons about growing pineapples)
LINKS:
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Peter Edwards an award-winning Architect, an accomplished and recognised urbanist and a leading figure in Queensland’s urban design community. He brings over 30 years of experience in architecture and urban design to provide leadership, design expertise and strategic thinking to the major projects shaping our nation’s cities.
He is regularly sought as a design leader, city making expert, public speaker, and is a consistent advocate for better cities through design.
Here are some juicy quotes from Peter Edwards that you don't want to miss.
[11:30]- “It's very hard to come in, and to be a poet, you have to come in and be a pragmatist. And one's journey to poetry is through pragmatics.”
[12:33] - “The creative act is being able to look and see the golden thread that needs to be pulled and to pull all of those things together into a unifying and compelling idea that will carry the day.”
[17:18] - “You're building a huge kind of foundation of advocacy for what might be the ultimate design. “
[20:47] - “I think of simply looking at the world, and seeing an underlying beauty that has attracted you that would like you to somehow engage with more.”
[24:59] - “There are cities that often made of accidents rather than made of purpose for maneuvers.”
[28:30] - “City making is a really fundamentally basic thing that we do every day. If you get into Bondi in Sydney, you will see a city made and unmade every day.”
LINKS:
Peter Edwards - Special Guest
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-edwards-97b17129/
- Instagram - archipelagoarchitects
- Website - https://www.archipelago.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A professor of psychology at Drexel University in Philadelphia USA John Kounios is a world expert on understanding “aha moments”. Using fMRI scanners to map brain activity, John has shed new light on the way people are able to get new insight on challenges they’re facing, either through the classic “aha-moment” or through deliberate analysis.
His findings crystallise many of the themes that have emerged from earlier episodes of our Neurocreativity season including:
The importance of mind wandering
The role of psychological safety
The difference between exploratory and exploitative thinking
John Kounios has held research and faculty positions at Princeton University, Tufts University, the Boston Veterans Affairs Medical Center, the University of Pennsylvania, and Drexel University. He has published research on a variety of topics in cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience, including knowledge representation, insight in problem solving, creativity, and episodic memory.
Join us as he tells the story of his breakthrough research and how to set yourself up to experience more “aha-moments.”
LINKS:
John Kounios- Special Guest
- LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/john-kounios-5242951a
- Twitter - https://tinyurl.com/3a852ux3
- Website - https://sites.google.com/site/johnkounios/
Additional Links
New York Times
The Eureka Factor Book
- U.S Amazon
- Australia Amazon
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Market research companies are front and centre of the challenges of building creativity in business - they are constantly challenged to strike a balance between being faithful to the data they've gathered, whilst being creative about the insights they generate.
This week’s guest, Imogen Randell, is the CEO of both Quantum Research, and Hall & Partners (part of Clemenger Group) and ideally placed to judge how to get that balance right.
Join us to hear why Imogen describes herself as an adventurer and to learn about her ideas on creative flow, creative tension and creativity on the move.
Imogen Randell - Special Guest
LinkedIn -linkedin.com/in/imogen-randell-9207635
Websites-hallandpartners.net.au
qmr.com.au
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode, we welcome Alina Gozin’a, who describes herself as an interdisciplinary artist. She’s not only one of Australia's most celebrated photographers, but also an artist and a keynote speaker. Alina has lived and worked in Odessa, Sydney, Berlin, Amsterdam, LA and New York. In her ‘former life’ she was a tax advisor in Banking & Finance at PwC but her passion for storytelling led her to pursue a postgraduate degree in Media Arts and Production at UTS. She went on to become a Cannes Lions nominated award winning creative artist using photography, film and art to tell stories for global corporations.
She has executed campaigns for global companies like HBO, Tribeca Film, Stan, Forbes, AFR Magazine, SMH, Good Weekend Magazine, Madame Figaro Magazine, Universal Music, Sony Pictures, Warner Bros (NYC), BMF, Grey, McCann, ABC, SBS, Channel 9, Westfield and many more. Alina had numerous solo exhibitions and is represented by Wentworth Galleries. She has photographed notable personalities such as Scott Farquhar, Frank Lowy, Andrew Forrest, Anthony Pratt, Gretel Packer, Judith Neilson, Kevin Rudd, Christine Lagarde and more. As a speaker and educator, Alina’s international experience spans across New York and Sydney, giving masterclasses, keynote speaking and The Art of Seeing for major corporations, cultural and educational intuitions
LINKS:
Alina Gozin’a - Special Guest
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/alina-gozin’a-23a58335
Instagram - www.instagram.com/alinagozina/
Website- www.alinagozina.com
Saxton - www.saxton.com.au/speakers/alina-gozina
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week’s guest is Renai Grace. She's the CEO of the Museum of Brisbane and she revolutionised the museum and brought it into the public eye. She's a visionary and her whole thing about telling the story in the social fabric of Brisbane has been incredibly successful in her six year tenure. Renai has dedicated her career to raising awareness of the impact of creativity to connect and inspire communities and create vibrant cities.
Renai Grace was appointed Director/CEO of the Museum of Brisbane in November 2016. Since joining Museum of Brisbane, Renai has led popular exhibitions including Mao’s Last Dancer the exhibition (2017-2018), The Designers’ Guide: Easton Pearson Archive (2018-2019), World of Wonder: Margot McKinney (2022) and initiated the bi-annual BRISBANE ART DESIGN FESTIVAL (BAD).
Prior to joining Museum of Brisbane, Renai worked for some of Queensland’s leading cultural institutions and projects including Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art, Women of the World Festival, Northsite (formerly Kickarts) and Artisan (Queensland’s peak body for Craft and Design). She has also served as director of investment and development at Arts Queensland. As a curator, Renai has supported the work of many artists. She co-founded art galleries, Spiro Grace Art Room, Smith & Stoneley and Blindside as well as Independent Arts Management, an arts consultancy that has overseen the management of corporate art collections and orchestrated the master planning and commissioning of major public artworks across Australia.
LINKS:
Renai Grace - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/renai-grace-58472538/
Website- https://www.museumofbrisbane.com.au/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nigel Marsh is the poster-boy for any professional looking to navigate the tricky balance of family, career and personal goals, whilst having some fun along the way. A former ad-man, he is now a professional coach, speaker, best-selling author and award-winning podcaster.
The author of four books including his latest book ‘Smart, Stupid and Sixty’, he is the co-founder of Earth-Hour which is recognized as one of the most successful brand launches anywhere in the world. Nigel also founded and runs The Sydney Skinny - a mass nude swim that’s all about celebrating body positivity. His TED speech on work/life balance remains one of the most popular ever given outside of the USA with over 6 million views. Amongst his other roles he is a proud ambassador of the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation and host of the award-winning Five of My Life podcast.
Challenged by Chris and Paul to explain why creativity in business is often stifled, he suggested that it’s all about defining clear goals and then pursuing them ferociously - harnessing creative tools along the way if they help you get there.
His hilarious and insightful book ‘Smart Stupid and Sixty’ is Chris’ book of the year.
LINKS:
Nigel Marsh - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigel-marsh-28790416/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nigel_marsh/
Website- https://nigelmarsh.com/
Australian Indigenous Education Foundation - http://www.aief.com.au/
Sydney Skinny - Sydney Skinny Plantation Shutters and Outdoor Blinds (thesydneyskinny.com.au)
Earth Hour https://www.earthhour.org.au
Books:
Smart, Stupid and Sixty - Smart, Stupid and Sixty
Fit, Fifty and Fired Up - Fit, Fifty and Fired Up
Overworked and Underlaid - Overworked and Underlaid
Fat, Forty and Fired - Fat, Forty and Fired
Podcast: The Five of My Life
https://omny.fm/shows/the-five-of-my-life
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode is Caroline Weaver, who talked about the freedom of principle brought to rediscovering the pleasure of a graphite pencil on paper and how a pencil is permanent, and yet erased.
Caroline Weaver is the founder of the former CW Pencil Enterprise, a pencil specialty shop in New York City, and an expert on stationery and small business retail. She lives in New York and spends her time working on ways to better support the independent businesses in her community.
Caroline Weaver - Special Guest
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolineweaver
Instagram - @ladygraphite
Websites
carolineweaver.nyc
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode Ben Gardiner who is a practicing Barrister in IP law, which means he's the person who helps creatives protect their thinking of their ideas. And it's interesting, you'd imagine it'd be a rather dry, dusty topic but also has some fascinating past times outside of his day job, and they all inform the way he practices law.
Ben Gardiner has tertiary qualifications in pharmacy, business and law and completed post-graduate studies in law (BCL) at the University of Oxford in 2005. The Australian Financial Review’s Best Lawyers lists Ben as a leading junior barrister in intellectual property law. Doyle’s Guide has listed Ben as a recommended or leading junior barrister in intellectual property law since 2010.
Ben Gardiner - Special Guest
linkedin.com/in/ben-gardiner-4ab62848
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode Dr. Kerry Sulkowicz talks about his journey from pre-eminent psychiatrist to successful business leader and business coach. He describes how he made that change, why he made that change, and shares his lessons for anyone considering a change of direction.
Kerry J. Sulkowicz, MD serves as a trusted advisor on people and culture to some of the world’s most well-known and respected CEOs and corporate boards. He is the founder and Managing Principal of the Boswell Group LLC, a management consultancy based in New York since 1998. Dr. Sulkowicz is President of the American Psychoanalytic Association.
Kerry Sulkowicz - Special Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-j-sulkowicz-md-06b9b12
Websites
https://boswellgroup.com/
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au=
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 61: Roger Beaty - Creative Thinking
How does the brain develop new ideas? And are different neural networks involved in different types of creativity? In this week’s episode Dr. Roger Beaty talks about the three neural networks that drive the way we think and shares insights about managing your own personal creativity.
Big insights include:
- Take a break to help ‘re-set’ the mind
- Harness the power of a positive mood to boost creativity
- Focus on the tiny details of something (anything!) before generating new ideas
Dr. Roger Beaty is an assistant professor of psychology at Pennsylvania State University and the principal director of the Cognitive Neuroscience of Creativity Lab. Having studied creativity for ten years, he is primarily interested in understanding the brain basis of creative thoughts.
Roger Beaty - Special Guest
https://beatylab.la.psu.edu
Websites
Sonophilia Foundation
https://www.sonophiliafoundation.org/roger-beaty/
Society for Neuroscience of Creativity
https://www.tsfnc.org
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
Two Common Creatives
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are there different kinds of mindwandering? What is the difference between mindwandering and mindfulness? What is the link between creativity and curiosity?
In this week's episode, Professor Jonathan Schooler helps to answer these complex-sounding questions in plain english and help us continue to navigate the world of creative neuroscience.
Jonathan is a distinguished professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of California, Santa Barbara and research attempts to understand the nature of mental life, and in particular consciousness.
Jonathan Schooler - Special Guest
https://psych.ucsb.edu/people/faculty/jonathan-schooler
The Open Mind Project
https://open-mind.net/about
Paul Fairweather - Co-host
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith - Co-host
https://www.chrismeredith.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode, we interview Linda Ray - CEO and founder of Neurocapability, a business which is on a mission to change the world one brain at a time by building psychologically safe workplaces.
An early adopter of psychological safety and the links to high performing teams, Linda is an engaging facilitator and speaker. She is a regular contributor to Australian and international leadership, business and education conferences and her courses and programs have been tested and validated by researchers around the world.
https://neurocapability.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week's episode let's talk about brain training!
Professor Selena Bartlett is a Group Leader in Neuroscience and Neuroplasticity at the Translational Research Institute and a Research Capacity Building Professor at QUT. Join us for a fantastic conversation about brain training, flow states and the importance of working in teams for creativity.
Links/References
Selena Bartlett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drselenabartlett/
Selena Bartlett website: https://www.profselenabartlett.com/
Thriving Minds Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thriving-minds/id1471835230
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode, we interview Professor Joel Pearson, a psychologist, neuroscientist and public intellectual working at the forefront of science, innovation and agile science. He both studied art and science because he felt that these two are very similar and the way he practices science is probably more like an art. So, he developed “Agile Science”. He takes a multidisciplinary agile approach to running his lab, bringing in staff and students from art, architecture, mathematics, computer science, psychology, neuroscience and medical imaging.
Professor Joel Pearson’s research has been recognised with major accolades including the 2009 William James award for the greatest scientific contribution to understanding consciousness. His team’s efforts have been featured in The Huffington Post, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Australian Financial Review, LiveScience, Discovery Channel, BBC and a host of other major media outlets.
https://www.profjoelpearson.com/
https://www.futuremindslab.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A celebrated TED speaker, Uri Hasson started his career with the intention of becoming a fictional writer. Nowadays, he’s taken storytelling to a new level and is a world authority on the neuroscience of storytelling. His research confirms what many know instinctively that stories are how we listen and learn. Stories are how we connect. (By contrast, humans struggle to make sense of data, statistics and raw facts). Interestingly Uri defines a story as ’a stimulation’ something that almost implants a memory into the listener's mind. “A story is like the juice of an orange - it squeezes the essence of the experience” he explains.
Professor Uri Hasson is a Professor in the Department of Psychology and the Neuroscience Institute at Princeton University. His research focuses on understanding how communication through story telling can affect human cognition. His TED talk “This is your brain on communication” has achieved over 250,000 views.
https://www.hassonlab.com
https://youtu.be/FDhlOovaGrI
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week’s episode, we interview Professor Moshe Bar, whose new book Mindwandering reveals that the creative brain continues to work hard, even when we’re at rest. As he puts it, “Mindwandering is like mental time travel” because it helps to open the mind up to new possibilities and what might be in the future. Moshe’s research also suggests that, in order to be creative, the brain needs to be in an ‘exploratory’ mode - open to the world and tolerant of uncertainty. And that, in turn, means mastering your mindset and particularly recognising the power of a positive mood for unlocking creativity.
Moshe Bar is a neuroscientist, director of the Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain research centre at Bar Ilan University and head of the Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory at the Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Centre.
https://www.moshebar.org/mindwandering
https://www.amazon.com.au/Mindwandering-Improve-Your-Boost-Creativity/dp/1408888068/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on The Common Creative Podcast Episode 54, our guest talks about being ideas rich. There is an image illustration of what he describes as "....the promise that in the future, there'll be something beautiful and creative and inspiring to come.", join us and find out what that image is! Let's welcome Dan Best.
Dan Best is the CEO of Wolters Consulting Group. He is a highly driven, success-oriented leader who moved into executive management after a successful career in the legal profession. Dan is also an award-winning author, having co-authored the award-winning Graphic Novel, “The Amazing, Remarkable, Monsieur Leotard” in 2008. The novel was recently translated into French and in 2017 received the prestigious honour of being named on Angoulême Official List of outstanding Graphic Novels.
Dan has also written for DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics and co-published the popular Australian Comic Anthology series, Dee Vee. His creative side is not just limited to writing and in his spare time he is the conductor of an amateur male voice choir.
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-best-gaicd-441788179/
Website: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/2923529-the-amazing-remarkable-monsieur-leotard
&
https://www.amazon.com.au/Amazing-Remarkable-Monsieur-Leotard-Best/dp/1596433019
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Special Mention: Simon Cleary: http://www.simoncleary.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on The Common Creative Podcast Episode 53, our guest describes creativity as about taking risks and diving straight in. She tells us that illustration is imagination - those little doodles are your imaginations running wild.
Let's welcome Kristina Snyder! She is a creative force in the business world as the founder and CEO of SNYDER. She uses her creativity to represent artists, illustrators, animators, and visual artists from around the world. Kristina is a former photographer and travel writer and has meandered through the creative communities in New York City since she arrived from her native Sweden. Her greatest creative expression comes out in her work in the business world, and she believes that that is what has set her apart as a successful entrepreneur.
LINKS:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/aka_kristinasnyder/
&
https://www.instagram.com/wearesnyder_/
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-snyder-3390ab6/
Website:
http://wearesnyder.com
Ideas & Stories that Matter:
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives:
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join us in this new episode as our guest talks about the importance of Story Telling. She says when a story is told, it is not necessarily the end of it. That storytelling is not for those who share the story, but for the listeners! Tune in and let's welcome our guest Ike Levick, it's fascinating to hear someone who has storytelling in their business title.
Ike Levick, Marketing Director, Story Telling. She has over 25 years of experience in management consulting and working for large corporates to drive communication excellence. Ike is passionate about seeking, shaping, and sharing stories that show the incredible impact Deloitte makes with their clients and people and in society.
LINKS:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/fortheloveofagoodstory/
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ikelevick/
Short bio:
https://www2.deloitte.com/au/en/profiles/ike-levick.html
Deloitte storytelling homepage:
https://www2.deloitte.com/au/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/stories-of-impact.html
Ideas & Stories that Matter:
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives:
https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On to the second half, we're ready to kick off! For our 51st episode, our guest talks about the power of rituals, and how human beings love rituals. She also tells how important it is to be the custodian of an existing culture. How are they selling dreams and memories? Let's welcome Allisa O’Connell the Head of People and Culture for Flight Centre Travel Group Australia, where she has worked for over 33 years. Allisa is an avid traveler and believes travel has the ability to change people in immeasurable ways. She believes everyone should have the privilege to experience new places in their home country or around the world. Join us in our flight of creativity today!
Links:
LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisa-oconnell/
Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flight-centre/mycompany/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Finally, we've reached our 50th episode!!! Tune in to this half-century celebration as we talk about some of the highlights and lessons for creativity. Curiosity, bravery, doubt, stand-up, and mind wandering are just some of the learnings that we discussed. A big 'thank you' to our lovely guests, listeners and to everyone who we're part of our journey! What will the next fifty bring? More amazing insights and even more superb guests. See you there!
Links:
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-common-creative/id1525162918
Chris Meredith: linkedin.com/in/chrismeredith
Paul Fairweather: linkedin.com/in/paulfairweather
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Creativity has an image problem... And yes it also needs a makeover! Join us in this week's latest episode of Tamra Rule - Creative Makeover, as she talks about how covid was a gift for Allens and how Story Telling is the answer to every brand's misconception.
Tamra is a creative and commercially astute communication professional with more than 20 years of experience in a range of local and global comms roles.
She is currently the Head of Communications and Brand for Allens – a leading commercial law firm about to celebrate its 200th year. Tamra is responsible for telling the Allens brand story across a range of internal and external platforms and deepening connections between the firm and its people, clients, the talent market, and the broader business community.
Links:
Tamra Rule: linkedin.com/in/tamra-rule-19a0a04
Allens (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/allenslawfirm/?viewAsMember=true Allens (Website): https://www.allens.com.au/ This is Allens: https://www.allens.com.au/people/this-is-allens/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do creatives manage self-doubt? In this week's episode, Gemma Rasdell (professional artist and 2022 Wynne Prize Finalist) shares her insights about navigating and thriving despite creative doubt, how to totally surround yourself with a source of inspiration (ie water) and why she chooses to paint on sailcloth rather than paper.
Gemma is one of Australia’s leading young artists and lives a life that sounds as though it’s a setting for a fantasy movie - she lives alone aboard her at-anchor yacht with puppy Arkie and paints every day from an island studio in Sydney’s Pittwater. Gemma’s Wynne Prize entry is currently on display at the Art Gallery of NSW and she is also hosting a solo exhibitor “Water Access Only” at The Bathers Pavilion Gallery in Mosman, near Sydney.
Links:
Gemma Rasdall LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gemma-rasdall-0481a781 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gemmarasdall/ Artworks: https://www.gemmarasdall.com/water-access-only-exhibition
Bathers Pavilion: https://www.batherspavilion.com.au/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Michelle Loch: linkedin.com/in/michelleloch
Mark McGuinness: linkedin.com/in/markmcguinness
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A quick walk to the beach or anywhere around nature, little things you see affect your creativity and it leads to new ideas and curiousity on how to apply it in our day to day life in business. Tune in to this new episode about curious creativity with our guest Bronwyn Powell, as she talks about things from innovation to being child like. She is a recognised leader for new, brave, disruptive campaigns. Such as the introduction of the McDonalds digital menu and the transformation of the in-store experience, in which she played an instrumental role and launched the “How very UN- McDonalds campaign”.
Catch this new episode about how her curiousity helped her to being successful.
Links:
Bronwyn Powell: linkedin.com/in/bronwynpowell
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How COVID impacted speaking gigs, but he innovated the game plan for the Professional Speakers Association. Catch this latest episode about creative talk with our guest Tony Eades. He currently serves as Chief Strategy Officer and CEO of Salted Stone APAC, and is a featured expert on one of Australia’s leading business TV shows -- with 3M + weekly viewers. Tony works with growing companies to develop market leadership authority and deliver measurable ROI across the buyer’s journey. He is passionate about digital marketing and thrives on growing brands, from start-ups to corporate enterprises.
Tune in and listen to how he changed his mindset from playing to win, rather than playing not to lose!
Links:
Tony Eades: linkedin.com/in/tonyeades
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Introducing, Ideas & Stories That Matter!
This episode of The Common Creative lifts the hood on Chris and Paul’s new workshop, Ideas and Stories that matter.
They discuss the science behind the benefit of finding new ideas in a group environment, and how good story tellers and translate their stories into the mind of their audience.
Plus lots more about their experiences of holding a live version of the workshop!
Links:
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Chris Meredith: linkedin.com/in/chrismeredith
Paul Fairweather: linkedin.com/in/paulfairweather
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You might not have heard of GSK but we can guarantee you've heard of some of their brands including Panadol, Sensodyne and Voltaren. Meet Cate Sefton, the Marketing Director of GSK Consumer Healthcare ....and also a Certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Method Facilitator.
You might think that the scientific world of healthcare and creativity wouldn't mix but Cate is a big believer in creative thinking, customer-centricity and operating creatively within frameworks rather than viewing them as a barrier.
Links:
Cate Sefton: Cate Sefton LinkedIn
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever thought of using comedians as a source of creative inspiration?
Roshni Hegerman is the Executive Strategy Director at McCann and the Managing Director at Hero Agency in Sydney. Roshni is a passionate advocate for creative effectiveness, and uses creativity and innovation to help brands and businesses interact with people in a more meaningful and exciting way.
Tune in for a fantastic episode that dives into the importance of context, simplicity, and how to frame a narrative in a way that will resonate with people.
Links:
Roshni Hegerman: Roshni Hegerman LinkedIn
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's episode is an unusual one and you'll understand why when we tell you that our guest this week is just seven years old! Meet Charlie Marker, a seven year old Australian artist. His art is full of energy with dynamic graphic shapes. Dinosaurs, fish on skateboards, funny little characters and abstract line work make up the oodles of doodle worlds that fill the spaces that Charlie creates. He uses black markers and doodles on whatever he is allowed to draw on. From big white boards, paper, walls and canvases to furniture and white cups.
Join us for a fantastic episode with some big insights from a young creative including the importance of trying again and learning how to turn mistakes into masterpieces.
Links:
Charlie Marker Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charliemarker/
Charlie Marker website: https://charliemarker.com/
Charlie Marker Redbubble: www.redbubble.com/people/CharlieMarker
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Season 4 we're back! Joining us to kick off the season is Kate Young, Head of Customer Centricity & Capability at ANZ. Having been with the banking group for over five years, Kate is driving cultural change at ANZ by putting customers at the heart of all her work. She is passionate about bringing together cross-functional, enterprising purposeful teams using a customer-centric perspective.
Join us for a fascinating episode all about consumer behaviour, AI and what a day in the life might look like in 2024...
Links:
Kate Young: https://www.linkedin.com/in/youngkate1/
Two Common Creatives: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/
Ideas & Stories that Matter: https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/workshop
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Named as one of IBM's 100 Global Creative Leaders in 2011, Dr Ralph Kerle is an internationally respected thought leader, management innovation consultant, writer & designer of executive programmes on leadership, creativity and innovation. He is also creator of the Management Innovation Index, an analytic that benchmarks and measures innovation.
Tune in for a wonderful conversation about finding connection through creativity and Ralph's own journey in combining his knowledge about creative processes with self-expression and commercial viability.
Links/References
Ralph Kerle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralphkerle/
Ralph Kerle website: https://www.ralphkerlesart.com/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Let's talk about brain training!
Professor Selena Bartlett is a Group Leader in Neuroscience and Neuroplasticity at the Translational Research Institute and a Research Capacity Building Professor at QUT. Join us for a fantastic conversation about brain training, flow states and the importance of working in teams for creativity.
Links/References
Selena Bartlett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drselenabartlett/
Selena Bartlett website: https://www.profselenabartlett.com/
Thriving Minds Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thriving-minds/id1471835230
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Where do science and creativity intersect?
Michelle Loch is an expert in the conceptual neuroscience of human motivation, self-leadership and powerful conversation. She and her team at Leading Humans help organisations, and the people in them, to rewire the way they think, behave and lead. This is a fascinating episode about working WITH the human brain rather than against it, and how to best access your creativity!
Links/References
Michelle Loch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleloch
Leading Humans: https://leadinghumans.com.au/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Season 3 we're back!
Kicking off the season with a creative bang as we're joined by Sophie Saville, the creative director and co-founder of The Story Mill, a production company that specialises in producing engaging video content for local brands and businesses. Join us for a fascinating conversation with a professional creative all about founding a business, passion projects and collaboration.
Links/References
Sophie Saville: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-saville-b0742755/
The Story Mill: https://thestorymill.com.au/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Marnie Flanagan describes her life as one of "choose your own adventure" and that explanation could not be more fitting for her fascinating and varied life as well as career!
Having had over 20 years experience in blue chip companies, Marnie founded the company Naturally Wild - an Australian meat processor and distributor specialising in products sourced from Outback Australia. Tune in for an insightful episode about leadership, adaptation and to find out just what an "intrepreneur" is...
Links/References
Marnie Flanagan: Marnie Flanagan LinkedIn
Naturally Wild: http://naturallywildproduce.com/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Simon Cleary is a novelist and lawyer - two pursuits he connects strongly with storytelling.
Join us this week for a fantastic conversation about the power of storytelling and pursuing more than one passion.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"So who's Elvis around here?"
This is the question that Bono used to ask when he turned up to big organisations to find out who to work with, who made things happen, and who was a little bit daring. It is also the question that inspired the name behind Upping Your Elvis, a creative leadership business which helps companies to understand and harness their creativity.
Chris Baréz-Brown and Jim Lusty join us this week for a fantastic episode filled with insights such as how to make business fit you (and not the other way around), building a dynamic around a team rather than a company-wide culture, and how to overcome the fear of stepping outside of the norm.
Links/References
Chris Baréz-Brown: Chris Baréz-Brown LinkedIn
Jim Lusty: Jim Lusty LinkedIn
Upping Your Elvis: https://www.uppingyourelvis.com/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do you strike the right balance between creativity and profitability?
Joining us this week is the Executive Vice President of Sony Pictures Entertainment, Stephen Basil-Jones, who shares some of the more surprising and challenging aspects behind creativity and how to target markets effectively. Tune in now for an episode full of creative insights and to learn why creativity might best be summed up by the quote "nobody knows anything"!
Links/References
Stephen Basil-Jones: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-basil-jones-58739699/?originalSubdomain=au
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do you combine the use of stimulus and deprivation to develop new ideas?
Remo Giuffré is a fascinating creative strategist who is both an entrepreneur and a brand-builder. He is founder of both the Remo General Store and the General Thinking Network and is also the Licensee and Director of TEDxSydney! Tune in for a wonderful episode all about developing new ideas and designing your own next stage.
Links/References
Remo Giuffré: https://www.remogiuffre.com/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do you come up with new ideas when you feel like you've exhausted all avenues?
Meet Dr. Amy Climer - a speaker, trainer, and coach who teaches teams how to innovate on demand. Amy has a Ph.D. in Leadership and Change and developed the Deliberate Creative™ Team Scale to help teams understand how to increase their creativity. She hostsThe Deliberate Creative™ podcast and she is the designer of Climer Cards, a creativity and teambuilding tool. This is an episode jam-packed with creative insights that you can action for success.
Links/References
Amy Climer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyclimer/
Climer Consulting: climerconsulting.com
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever thought about changing your career?
After 18 years in the banking industry, Jonathan Brunello decided it was time for a complete career shift and came up with the idea to design and manufacture height adjustable desks with the primary purpose of allowing children the same flexible learning opportunities as adults. And thus amperstand was born...
Tune in to this episode for a fantastic conversation about careers, innovation and the importance of discipline in the creative process.
Links/References
Jonathan Brunello: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanbrunello
amperstand: https://amperstand.com.au/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How does absorption in a task contribute to the art itself?
As an artist and sculptor, Stephen Hart has always been someone who has "made things" and he has some wonderful insights to share about devoting yourself to a task, developing a craft and the power of divine providence in creativity.
(Part 2 of 2)
Links/References
Stephen Hart: https://stephenhart.com.au/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How does absorption in a task contribute to the art itself?
As an artist and sculptor, Stephen Hart has always been someone who has "made things" and he has some wonderful insights to share about devoting yourself to a task, developing a craft and the power of divine providence in creativity.
(Part 1 of 2)
Links/References
Stephen Hart: https://stephenhart.com.au/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As CEO of Opera Australia and former Managing Director of Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Rory Jeffes has an intricately wound background in both creativity and business.
Tune in for some fantastic insights on mediating competing priorities, how to communicate more effectively and the importance of asking the right questions.
Links/References
Rory Jeffes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rory-jeffes
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cameron Schwab became the youngest CEO in AFL history when he was appointed the role for Richmond Football Club at age 24.
Having spent the next 25 years as CEO of Richmond, Melbourne and Fremantle, Cameron has an extremely strong background in leadership, team-building, unifying groups and mentoring. He now works as a CEO, leadership coach and strategist in his business designCEO and is also an artist and writer. Tune in for some fascinating insights that creatives and business people alike can benefit from.
Links/References
Cameron Schwab: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronschwab/
designCEO: https://www.designceo.com.au/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shane Hatton is an author, speaker, trainer and coach who works with organisations to develop remarkable leaders. Working to close the leadership gap between mid and senior level leaders, Shane has a multitude of creative insights on ideation, storytelling and "creativity within consistency" that he utilises to bring clarity to his clients and improve the way they communicate and connect.
Tune in to find out how you can develop your own creative process and the value in learning when to let go and when to use your resilience to dive a little deeper…
Links/References
Shane Hatton: https://shanemhatton.com/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris):https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-common-creative/id1525162918
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Photographer Paul Harris has met the Queen and worked with A-list celebrities… and yet it’s the real people and their stories that stick with him the most. Having worked at The Age where you’re only as good as your last Page 1, Paul has had to deal with all manner of people, situations and surprising circumstances - and as a result has some fantastic creative insights about curiosity, mindfulness and taking risks.
Currently working on a personal project called “In the Long Run”, Paul has been meeting with a number of people training for the Gold Coast Marathon and exploring the unique reasons people have for running and why they push themselves and their bodies to the limit.
Join us and this fascinating photographer for a wonderful episode about finding the magic around the edges and to learn how passion projects can also teach you about yourself.
Links/References
Paul Harris: https://www.paulharrisphotographer.com/
In the Long Run project: https://www.paulharrisphotographer.com/in-the-long-run
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Over 8,000 people across Australia sleep rough every night and as a result of being vulnerable and unprotected, hundreds lose their lives each year due to attacks, suicide, overdoses and pneumonia. The average life expectancy of someone who is sleeping rough long-term is just 47 years old.
Having been personally impacted by homelessness, for Norman McGillivray this was unacceptable. He created Beddown to address the situation of sleeping rough through utilising carparks which had previously remained vacant at night and turning them into safe, accessible accommodation which allows guests a safe place to sleep as well as access to services that will help repair their quality of life.
When planning and building code began to present as an obstacle, Norman was introduced to Natalie Rayment, the Executive Director of Wolter Consulting Group. Incredibly inspired by Norman's idea and with a career in town planning, Natalie was able to help turn Beddown into a reality.
Join us for an incredibly moving episode of The Common Creative, as Chris and Paul speak with Norman and Natalie about the design thinking involved in the creation of Beddown and the planning associated with making this incredible initiative possible.
Links/References
Norman McGillivray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/normmcgillivray/
Natalie Rayment: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-rayment-a30a0832/
Beddown: https://beddown.org.au/
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join us for a fantastic episode this week as Chris and Paul talk with Mark McGuinness - poet, creative coach and fellow podcaster!
Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on creativity that is jam-packed with insights including the power of building assets in the creative world, taking the time for ideas and just what creative symbiosis involves. Check it out now!
Links/References
Mark McGuinness: https://lateralaction.com/
Mark's podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-21st-century-creative/id1238456017?mt=2
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tune in to the second part of a discussion about "The New Normal" as Hosts Chris & Paul dive into the topic of working from home as part of an interspersed miniseries all about the insights and changes that have come about in the midst of a pandemic.
This episode features a conversation about shifting power dynamics between employers and employees, a rise in leaders who are facilitators rather than dictators, and the necessity of communicating effectively virtually AKA.... "how to make it NOT boring". Tune in!
Links/References
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
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Hosts Chris & Paul talk THE NEW NORMAL in the first part of an interspersed miniseries all about the insights and changes that have come about in the midst of a pandemic.
This episode features a conversation about consumer consciousness and the growing awareness we have towards buying local and prioritising quality. We also dive into a discussion about community and recognising the influence that local governments could have in returning things "to normal". Plus... where do camper kitchens fit into all of this?
Links/References
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
Drifta: https://www.drifta.com.au/
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An experienced podcaster and UX Lead for the Banker Experience at ANZ, Greg is at the forefront of connecting ANZ Bank to its customers in a way that feels seamless and intuitive.
Greg sees himself as a creative thinker rather than a creative, and admits to blending play, research and story telling to help him collaborate with his community of designers.
Challenged to describe design within ANZ as a movie, he proclaims that “it’s not Being John Malkovich” because in ANZ’s design team, everyone is different and it's that mix of people that makes it so special.
Tune in to find out not only about this inspirational designer but also about Greg’s fascinating podcast “Film Maker, Film Watcher”
Links/References
Greg Ralph: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregralph/
Film Maker Film Watcher Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/film-maker-film-watcher/id1059652410
Godesses in Every Woman (Jean Shinoda Bolan): https://www.bookdepository.com/Goddesses-Everywoman-Jean-Shinoda-Bolen/9780062321121
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
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Welcome back to Season 2 of The Common Creative! We are thrilled to be back and oh do we have a fantastic opening episode for you....
Alicia Olson-Keating has been working in the media industry for over 30 years, 28 of which were spent in Canada. Alicia has strong industry experience in disciplines that span strategy, B2B marketing, qualitative and quantitative research, data, analytics and insights. She is highly skilled in using data and insights to drive better outcomes for the organisations she works with, and she has a flair for leading and developing teams who hold a high bar and inspire a creative, results-driven culture.
Tune in to learn how data can be used to better connect with audiences, the many ways to get to 8 and to learn just what the "George on Seinfeld" principle is and how it could drive better outcomes for you....
Links/References
The Common Creative Podcast (Paul and Chris): https://creativecommons.org.au
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Putting Design in the Bank
As Chief Design Officer at ANZ Bank, Opher Yom-Tov is arguably one of Australia’s most experienced and influential designers – on a mission to help ANZ Bank use design as a strategic capability.
With a background in a different bank as well as innovative agencies and startups, Opher is uniquely qualified to understand creativity and design from a variety of perspectives.
With a passion for creating things that are new, his big idea for embedding design within ANZ is that “it’s all about leadership all the time”. Tune in to find out how this inspirational leader has achieved his goals.
Links/References
Opher Yom-Tov (LinkedIn)
https://www.linkedin.com/in/opheryomtov/
ANZ Bank
https://www.anz.com.au/personal/
Richard Buchanans Four Orders of Design
https://www.ghostinthepixel.com/?p=76
The Common Creative Website (Paul and Chris)
https://thecommoncreative.co
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Have you ever had a conversation that changed your life? Meet Glen Boyle, the co-founder of KokoNiu who got the idea for the business after a conversation at a 5th birthday party.
KokoNiu is a business that is transforming Global Coconut Replanting to help combat declining productivity rates of existing trees at a time when the demand for coconuts is soaring.
This story is one about curiosity, risk and entrepreneurship and it's one that all creatives should listen in to!
Links/References
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
The Common Creative (Website): www.thecommoncreative.co
KokoNiu: https://www.kokoniu.com/
Paul Fairweather: www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith: www.chrismeredith.com.au
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This week on The Common Creative we have a very special guest… Paul’s mum!
Once told by a boarding school superior that she “had no business playing the piano”, Enid Fairweather has lived a life filled with creativity and at 89 is still creating things daily. (She also left boarding school and continued to play the piano!)
From music to crochet, cake icing to porcelain dolls, Enid’s ability to shift between creative mediums is remarkable, and a wonderful reminder that creativity is a transferable skill that can be expressed in a multitude of ways.
Links/References
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
The Common Creative (Website): www.thecommoncreative.co
Paul Fairweather: www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith: www.chrismeredith.com.au
Paul Fairweather Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/paul-fairweather-30257012802
Chris Meredith Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/chris-meredith-13801260261
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How “the ripple effect” can deliver a creative impact well beyond a simple decision.
Troy Smyth is an award winning Brisbane-based architect and director of Ryall & Smyth Architects. He’s also a personal friend of Paul’s.
Troy was invited to join the show to tell a low-key story about a quiet moment of reflection at the side of the street when he’d observed two turkeys in action:
Turkey No 1: a brush turkey which busily (and quietly) cleared the pavement of leaves as it made its nest
Turkey No 2: a garden maintenance worker on the other side of the street who blasted the pavement with a noisy leaf blower.
Despite the temptation to react negatively to both of common irritants, Troy was able to look at the situation differently and the podcast conversation revealed some of our most powerful insights about creativity and the broader idea of freedom.
As Troy put it, “When you take a step back, you can observe the ripple of consequences of each action you take. You notice the opportunity. It’s important to make a simple choice and let it expand”.
Whether you’re a fan of turkeys and leaf blowers or not, this thought-provoking episode is full of big ideas for creatives everywhere.
Links/References
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
The Common Creative (Website): www.thecommoncreative.co
Troy Smyth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-smyth-27b01b35/
Paul Fairweather: www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith: www.chrismeredith.com.au
Paul Fairweather Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/paul-fairweather-30257012802
Chris Meredith Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/chris-meredith-13801260261
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Kath Blackham is the founder and CEO of Versa – a digital agency whose mission has ignored tech jargon and instead is all about facilitating conversations between their clients and customers.
Kath appeared on our radar when we spotted an ABC story about her agency moving to a four day week and doubling profits in the process.
In this inspirational interview, we discover how Kath has used creativity to create the ultimate flexible working environment that not only delivers great work and increased profits but also boosts the mental health of her work force.
As she puts it “my life's work is using my business as a platform to move the needle on the things that I'm most passionate about. And the number one on that list is mental health in the workplace”
Links/References
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
The Common Creative (Website): www.thecommoncreative.co
Kath Blackham/Versa Agency: https://versa.agency
Paul Fairweather: www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith: www.chrismeredith.com.au
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Dani Venn is a three-time Masterchef contestant, founder of Eat It Up Creative (consultancy) and The Wholehearted Cook and the driving force behind a delicious Sri-Lankan style Pineapple Curry, which is available in Coles Supermarkets.
In this super-fresh and tasty interview, we learned that even under the pressure of performing as a Masterchef contestant, Dani unleashes her creativity by applying a playful and almost child-like approach to her cooking. (Her Korean Rice Burgers are still a growing trend!)
But despite a seemingly light-hearted approach to business (and life) Dani’s creative streak is complemented by a commitment to hard work that’s sustained over time. Or as Paul put it, “Dani is a 10-year overnight success”.
For insights into food, creativity, and helping people move from “pain island to pleasure island”, tune in to this remarkable episode.
Links/References
The Common Creative (Mailing List Subscriptions): http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j
The Common Creative (Website): www.thecommoncreative.co
Dani Venn: www.danivenn.com.au
Eat It Up Creative: https://eatitupcreative.com
Paul Fairweather: www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith: www.chrismeredith.com.au
Dani Venn – Masterchef: https://10play.com.au/masterchef/participants/season-12/dani-venn/pa200218pwcxf
Dani Venn Pineapple Curry (Coles Supermarkets): https://shop.coles.com.au/a/warrawong/product/coles-dani-venn-srilankan-pineapple-curry
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Creative Accounting at a Stretch
When Chris and Paul challenged Camille Woods (accountancy teacher, yoga teacher and founder of www.mondaymind.com) to explain how she has managed to combine two such different disciplines into one career, she said “you have to let your creativity come out”.
In this powerful interview, Camille reveals a range of deep insights about what drives her and how everyone can understand and embrace their own passions. Or as she puts it “when you have a passion, the job is going to happen”
Camille has carved out her own ‘blended career’ which combines her love of accountancy and numbers with a successful yoga school. It appears to defy convention (surely it would make sense to focus on one!) but her explanation of how they reinforce and support each other is a source of inspiration for anyone who has a passion that’s trying to get out.
Links:
Subscribe www.thecommoncreative.co
Camille Woods (Guest) www.mondaymind.com
Paul Fairweather (Co-Host) www.pauifairweather.com.au
Chris Meredith (Co-Host) www.chrismeredith.com.au
David Eagleman - The Runaway Species (How Human Creativity Remakes the World)
https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-runaway-species-david-eagleman/book/9780857862075.html
David Baldacci (Novelist and Lawyer) https://www.davidbaldacci.com
Franco Mondini-Ruiz https://www.davidbaldacci.com
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Creativity and risk go hand in hand. New ventures often require a step into unknown territory and this uncertainty can be scary. Sometimes those risks pay off and other times... they don’t.
The name elderflower sounds delicate and sweet… so how was it that this flowering plant caused so much trouble for chef Garry Flynn? This week on The Common Creative, Paul and Chris chat to Garry about a business venture that didn’t go to plan and the creative lessons we can take away from misfortune. Plus: the importance of asking that crucial yet elusive “one last question”…
Subscribe to our mailing list http://eepurl.com/hgp0_j The Common Creative https://thecommoncreative.co Paul Fairweather (Podcast Co-host) https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith (Podcast Co-host) https://chrismeredith.com.au
CREATIVE MASTERCLASSES
Creative Thinking Packed Lunch [Ingenious Leadership]: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/creative-thinking-packed-lunch-ingenious-leadership-tickets-115464241655
Expresso Edition [Story telling | Presenting Online | Online Workshops | Creativity at Work]: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/chris-meredith-13801260261
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“Frisson" is the feeling you have when you get up on stage for a first performance or the moment when an inner idea goes public. It's the mid-point between fear and excitement and we’ve discovered it's one of the vital fuels for creativity.
In this episode, Paul describes how as a teenager and as an adult various teachers told him ‘you can’t sing’. Driven by a need for “frisson”, he persevered. He took lessons, he took risks and finally learned to hit the right notes so that he could sing to his kids.
If ever there were proof that creativity is a powerful force that we all have within us, this is it. Tune in to find out how to harness your "frisson".
The Common Creative https://thecommoncreative.co Paul Fairweather (Podcast Co-host) https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith (Podcast Co-host) https://chrismeredith.com.au
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Should the business title CEO mean “Creative Empowerment Officer”?
Confronted by a gunman who had raided the bank branch where she worked, our special guest Lexi Airey realised that, in her short life, she hadn’t had a chance to experience life to the full. So, she declared that she would never work in a bank again and took a job glassing the bottom of boats.
After taking two degrees and moving from the UK to Australia, Lexi is now one of the youngest CEOs in the Australian financial services industry (she’s CEO of Gateway Bank). She is also an artist, sculptor, writer, and stand-up comic.
This episode is littered with powerful creative insights from someone who oozes creativity from inside one of the most structured industries in Australia. If you’re keen to understand ‘the opportunity of constraints’ or what ‘happy accidents’ can mean for your career, tune in and find out!
Lexi Airey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexi-airey-10ab351/ Gateway Bank: https://www.gatewaybank.com.au Amy Mullins (TED Talk “The opportunity of adversity”): https://www.ted.com/talks/aimee_mullins_the_opportunity_of_adversity?language=en The Common Creative: https://thecommoncreative.co Paul Fairweather (Podcast Co-host): https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith (Podcast Co-host): https://chrismeredith.com.au
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Michael Fairweather (AM) - the guest on this episode is a business heavyweight and a retired Major General in the Australian Army (Reserve). He is also Paul Fairweather’s big brother. Despite what may seem to be a background I’m highly structured and disciplined environments, Michael reveals that there is a streak of creativity running throughout the army - from the everyday ranks (who have learned to create new flavours with their rations via the use of spicy sauces) through to the officers whose selection for army depends in part on their creative skills, through to the Centre for Army Lessons Learned who are charged with encouraging the army to change and adapt to new circumstances. Michaels tip for incorporating more creativity in business? Communicate - Communicate by Listening, sharing feelings, and expressing the ideas that will help to move things forward. Michael Fairweatherhttp://www.mfa.net.au Australian Defence Forcehttps://www.defence.gov.au The Common Creativehttps://thecommoncreative.co Paul Fairweather (Podcast Co-host)https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith (Podcast Co-host)https://chrismeredith.com.a
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Build a Bridge - Episode 6 of The Common Creative Many of us harbour a secret desire to create something or do something a bit different but “life” seems to get in the way. In this episode, Chris shares a story about how he discovered how to unlock his secret passion for photography via a ‘moment of clarity’ while motorcycling across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The lessons for creatives everywhere are: Allow the mind to wander - whether on a motorbike, swimming in the sea or gazing out of the window of an aircraft. In a semi-meditative state, the mind goes to new and exciting places and it’s vital to allow time for ‘mental wandering’ and to recognise the power of the ideas that are generated Make it till you make it. The barriers to achieving the next goal are in the mind. Lack of money, time or talent are often excuses rather than the underlying reasons that a new idea or next project doesn’t happen.
Links Atomic Habits (Julian Clear)https://www.amazon.com.au/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/1847941834 Make it till you make it - Chase Jarvis hhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chase_Jarvis Chris Merediths Photography Websitehttp://www.christophermeredith.com.au The Common Creativehttps://thecommoncreative.co Paul Fairweather (Podcast Co-host)https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith (Podcast Co-host)https://chrismeredith.com.au
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“Chillis" - Episode 5 - The Common Creative
Chris and Paul share a passion for chillis - and not just because they enjoy the flavour. Chris’ consultancy business is called Chilli Sauce and Paul has been painting chillis for many years. Inspired by this passion, Chris and Paul explore the impact of chilis on creativity and discover some surprising lessons:
In order to create ‘new new’ ideas, it’s important to break the hard-wired “rivers of thinking’ which exist inside the brain. A jolt - such as the heat of a chilli or the stimulus of an exciting idea or a new person can help the brain cut across its rivers of thinking, form new connections and hence new ideas
Just as the right amount of chilli (but not too much) can make a good dish into a great dish, so business needs to incorporate the right amount of creativity in order to innovate and grow. Too much chilli or too much creativity will explode the taste buds and a successful business idea!
Chilis are a meme for exchanging ideas. In business, great ideas are super-spicy and invite storytelling and sharing. Small tweaks to a business formula are like vanilla flavoured food - pleasant but at risk of being forgotten
An idea isn’t an idea until it's been shared and ‘bought’ by someone else. (For artists, it means work doesn't become an artwork until someone else has bought it)
Links/notes
Edward De-Bono
http://www.debonothinkingsystems.com/tools/lateral.htm
Chilli Chopsticks Paintings (by Paul)
Watercolour Tabasco ( by Paul)
The Chilli Pepper and the Columbian Exchange
http://sageshistoryblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-chili-pepper-and-columbian-exchange.html
The Common Creative
https://thecommoncreative.co
Paul Fairweather (Podcast Co-host)
https://www.paulfairweather.com
Chris Meredith (Podcast Co-host)
https://chrismeredith.com.au
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The Common Creative Episode 4 “Shampoo”
What is the role of creativity in the cut-and-thrust of the business world? In this episode, Chris Meredith shares a story about his experience as a junior brand manager in charge of a shampoo brand. Despite having a creative idea to boost sales the idea was squished by the all-powerful Marketing Director who explained that ideas like that are not what we do around here.
The creative lessons for business are:
Sometimes without even knowing it, businesses kill creativity.
For creativity to work effectively, it pays to start out by understanding the existing rules (“How we do things around here”)
Once an idea has been created, gain traction by allowing colleagues to explore it and play with it. (Play is an important tool for creatives)
Don't get too attached to your own ideas. Once a team gets to play with an idea, it will alter and change - so don’t be defensive and protect the original concept.
Links/References:
Silvikrin Shampoo
https://www.wella.com/international/about-wella/silvikrin
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What can nuts teach us about creativity? Paul and Chris take an unusual angle in this episode by challenging each-other to use ‘nuts’ as their inspiration for sharing ideas about creativity. And despite their initial misgivings, both end up pleasantly surprised about the rich insights it reveals: Too much of a good thingJust like nuts, too much creativity on a single theme can be a handicap. (For example, too many Brazil nuts can cause selenium poisoning and loss of hair!) Everyone, eventually, has to move on and stretch themselves in a new creative direction. Some nuts aren’t nutsPeanuts, Cashews and Brazil nuts aren’t in fact technically nuts - they’re legumes! And equally, creative ideas are often misunderstood or miscategorised when they’re first aired. It’s important to ensure they’re accurately understood when sharing them - even if they look like something that seems familiar. Were all a little nutsCreatives, by definition, think up and share ideas that are new. This means they’re bound to be criticised and potentially be perceived as being a bit weird (or maybe ‘nuts’!) The solution is to signal in advance to those around that the creative person is in an expansive mode and it means that they’ll be sharing ideas that might at first sound strange. One persons waste is another’s raw material[paul - can you insert details of your friend who makes the bowls from nut shells?]
Links/references Nuts that aren’t actually nutshttps://www.businessinsider.com.au/nuts-that-arent-actually-nuts-2016-2 Are Creative People Crazier?https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/open-gently/201904/are-creative-people-crazier
Chris Meredith (Co-Host)https://chrismeredith.com.au Paul Fairweather (Co-Host)https://www.paulfairweather.com The Common Creativehttps://thecommoncreative.co
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In this show, hostsPaul and Chris use a single personal story as a vehicle to explore different aspects of creativity. Paul kicks things off with his light heated story about his disastrous attempt to be an extra on the TV Show “Water Rats”. (Paul failed in his role as a corpse and fluffed a scene where his only task was to shuffle some pieces of paper!) Despite his disastrous experience, there are five important learnings about creativity: Give it a go - even if you have no idea where it will lead, it’s worth it to try something new. (Despite the lack of on-screen success, the experience gave Paul a valuable insight into the process of creating a TV show) Be Calm - for the best creativity to occur, everyone involved needs to be calm and collected. (On set, even if the scene is high octane, the crew always remain calm and focussed on their role) Build the big picture - the creatives' job is to visualise and deliver the overall idea - individuals on the journey many not be able to see the big picture and it’s important they don’t distract the creative from his/her task. (on-set, the actors may not understand how each particular scene fits together but it’s vital that the director has this in the front of his/her mind) Teamwork - the big ideas are delivered by a range of different people working together effectively. It means each person contributes only when their expertise is needed and they also stay silent when others are better placed to move things forward. ‘Why not?’. When opportunity presents itself, dive in and have fun along the way!
Links/references:Water Rats TV show:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_Rats_(TV_series) Paul Fairweather (Co-host)https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith (Co-host)https://chrismeredith.com.au The Common Creativehttps://thecommoncreative.co
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In this episode, Paul and Chris draw on their personal experiences of daily acts of creativity (daily watercolour and a daily photograph) to understand what creative energy is and how to maintain it. The big theme that Chris and Paul draw out are that creative energy is like a rechargeable battery that has to be used regularly to keep it working well but which also needs to be re-charged (through rest and reflection) in-between uses. Even though they are each known for their one daily act of creativity, they agree that creativity is a life’s work and that they are in fact 24/7 creatives who will struggle to ‘retire’. More detailed notes/learnings from this episode: Lots of practical factors affect creative energy - Physical fitness, avoiding alcohol/caffeine, being in the right physical environment and with the right people all affect creativity Rest and reflection are a vital part of the process - it sparks new ideas and as creativity is physically and mentally draining, so rest a vital phase to enable new energy to flow Barriers to creative energy are fear (of being judged/ridiculed by others) and ignorance (some people don’t know or acknowledge how creative they are. Creativity is a life’s work - real creatives never retire.
Links/References
Jackson Pollak (Artist)
Lloyd Rees (Artist)
Michael Fairweather (Paul's Brother)
Pro Hart (Artist)
Flow (Psychology Concept)
Paul Fairweather (Co-Host)
Chris Meredith (Co-Host)
The Common Creative (Podcast)
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What happens when two obsessed creatives and their guests get together to share the secrets of making creativity as everyday as brushing your teeth?
Using as their inspiration a common passion for creating and sharing a new artistic image every single day Paul and Chris, are on a mission to understand and share the tools and techniques of creativity.
Their aim to help anyone ins business, at home or at play to pick up creative tools and use them as easily as a saucepan or a paperclip.
During the shows, the hosts use their own personal creative experiences and also input from a range of surprising guests (including Paul’s Mum) to generate and share new and old learnings about what it takes to be someone who isn’t ever ordinary but who is always “A Common Creative”.
https://thecommoncreative.co/
https://www.paulfairweather.com/
https://chrismeredith.com.au/
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