Country Creatives is a podcast for and about the incredible creative people living throughout our regional areas, who are traversing the many stages of creating a business around what they love and getting paid for it.
Whether you are in the early stages of your creative endeavour or already further down your creative path, join Caleb Maxwell and Reece Hendy as they interview thriving creatives from across the creative sphere about their success stories and helpful failures. Caleb and Reece also throw in nuggets of wisdom from their own creative business journeys to keep you inspired and moving forward. Check out the episodes below. With a new one dropping every two weeks, make sure you save it to your favourites to get notified when they do.
Brought to you by Emporium Creative Hub.
MEET THE TEAM
Who is behind the Country Creatives Podcast? Find out HERE
GET IN TOUCH
Got a burning question about creative business you’d like explored on the podcast? Want to be a guest on the show? Just want to say hello? Get in touch below, we’d love to hear from you.
EPISODES
Episode 64: How to make your TV show a reality with Nick Jackson of Channel 31
In this episode of Country Creatives, Reece and Caleb are joined by Nick Jackson, producer at Channel 31, to dive into the world of community broadcasting. Nick shares his journey from high school film projects in New Zealand to a thriving career in video production. Together, they explore an exciting opportunity for the Bendigo community to create and air local content on free-to-air TV.
Nick discusses the importance of community-led broadcasting, the steps involved in getting shows on Channel 31, and how locals can pitch ideas, secure funding, and produce their own episodes. It’s a fascinating conversation about the potential of community TV to amplify regional voices and ignite creative pathways.
The details for the upcoming Channel 31 information night in Bendigo can be found HERE
You can explore Channel 31 HERE
You can contact Nick at nick@c31.org.au
Episode 063: Book Recommendations and Reviews - Creativity Over Commercialism
In this episode, Caleb and Reece dive into a thought-provoking—and fun—discussion inspired by their recent readings: Rick Rubin's The Creative Act and Ed Catmull's Creativity, Inc. Fresh from a holiday and digital detox, Reece shares insights from Rubin's book, which views creativity as an infinite, spiritual energy, encouraging us to embrace creativity beyond the usual constraints of commercialism.
On the flip side, they also explore Caleb's recent read- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull, co-founder of Pixar, who brings a playful balance of creativity and commerce to the table. The conversation bounces between the importance of big ideas, the value of people, and keeping an open mind in the creative process. It's a rich and lively exploration of different philosophical approaches to creativity that will inspire and entertain!
Episode 062: Procrastination. What is it and how to overcome it with David Gagliardi
In this episode of Country Creatives, Caleb Maxwell is joined for a second time on the podcast by David Gagliardi, this time to tackle the relatable and pressing issue of procrastination. Together, they explore what procrastination really means, its underlying causes, and share personal strategies for overcoming it through habit-building and self-discipline. David highlights the crucial role of community in addressing procrastination, demonstrating how leveraging the skills and knowledge of others can elevate creative work.
The conversation also touches on practical resources for building productive habits, as Caleb and David delve into the balance between leading oneself versus being led by emotions, and the powerful impact of community on creative endeavours. They wrap up with thoughtful insights on developing personal philosophies and how integrating artistic practice with self-knowledge can lead to greater fulfilment. Listen in to take action for your best creative self.
Episode 61. Rodney Carter - The Djarra Story
In this episode of Country Creatives, your host Caleb Maxwell is flying solo while Reece Hendy explores the world. But Caleb isn't really alone; he's bringing you an extraordinary interview with Rodney Carter, the CEO of the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation
Originally recorded for Caleb's other fantastic podcast, Remarkable Regional Business, this conversation delves into Rodney's journey from a project manager in the construction industry to leading an organization with over $23 million in annual revenue and more than 200 staff members. Rodney shares incredible insights into Djaara, the phenomenal projects and initiatives, and the wisdom he's gained in managing large, diverse teams.
Tune in for a wealth of knowledge on leadership, cultural heritage, and the remarkable work being done by the Dja Dja Wurrung.
Episode 60: Navigating Social Media's Impact on Creativity
Join hosts Reece Hendy and Caleb Maxwell in this insightful episode as they delve into the profound effects of social media on creativity and mental health. They explore issues like dopamine hits, doom scrolling, and the struggle for meaningful connections in our digital age. Through personal stories and strategies, Reece and Caleb share how they’ve managed to regain control over their time and creativity. Caleb offers valuable insights on breaking free from the addiction of instant gratification, while Reece discusses balancing the need to stay connected with the importance of curbing distractions. Tune in for a relatable and engaging discussion, perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed by digital overload.
Don't miss this episode for practical tips and thought-provoking conversations on reclaiming your creativity and focus in a world dominated by social media.
Episode 059: Louise Davis & Bethany Padgham on reinventing and reinvigorating your creative business
Join hosts Caleb Maxwell and Reece Hendy for a lively conversation with graphic designers Louise Davis and Bethany Padgham. In this episode, Louise and Bethany share insights into their successful solo businesses, strong collaborative working relationship, and rock-solid friendship. They delve into the evolution of their businesses post-COVID, balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, and their experiences in a creative incubator program. This episode is a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and creative friendships, showcasing how to reinvent business in the modern world. Don't miss this inspiring chat with two dynamic creatives who are truly walking the walk.
Episode 058. Aaron Lougoon on managing your clients, spotting red flags and avoiding scope creep
In Episode 058 of Country Creatives, Reece and Caleb dive deep into the world of architecture with special guest Aaron Lougoon. With an impressive career in residential architecture, Aaron shares his insights on maintaining a productive client-creative relationship throughout the long and intricate process of designing and building homes. The conversation covers key topics like spotting red flags in client interactions, recognising and responding to signs of potential issues, and dealing with scope creep. Aaron explains how to identify when a project's scope is expanding beyond its original boundaries and provides strategies for communicating effectively about these changes and setting clear next steps. Tune in for valuable advice that can be applied to all creative industries from a seasoned professional in the architecture industry.
Episode 057. Chris Kennett on the publishing industry and protecting your creative process
Join Reece and Caleb in the latest episode of Country Creatives as they sit down with Bendigo local and internationally renowned artist, Chris Kennett. Chris, who has been drawing since he could hold a pencil (or so his mum says), has crafted an incredible career as a full-time creative without any formal training. His journey is a testament to the power of putting oneself out there and seizing opportunities.
Over the past 20 years, Chris has created quirky characters and worked on some truly "out of this world" projects, including the beloved Star Wars series of Little Golden Books. His recent work includes the hugely popular first reader series School of Monsters with Sally Rippin, the Nerd Herd series with Nathan Luff, and Cross Bones with Jack Henseleit.
In this episode, Chris shares invaluable tips on protecting your creative time and gives a behind-the-scenes look at the publishing world. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, you'll find Chris's insights on navigating a creative career and understanding the intricacies of publishing both inspiring and practical. Tune in to hear Chris's story and learn how to maintain your creative spark amidst a busy schedule. Don't miss it!
Find out more about Chris HERE
Episode 056. Sustainable Passion Projects with Kimberley Furness
In this episode, Caleb has an honest and personal conversation with Kimberley Furness, an award-winning businesswoman, content creator, and founder of OAK Magazine. Kimberley opens up about her journey from starting a digital agency to building a successful print magazine that champions the stories of rural and regional women. They delve into the mission of OAK Magazine, its highlights and hurdles, and the business model behind it. Kimberley also shares her experiences with podcast hosting and tips for sustaining a creative career. Tune in for a relatable and inspiring discussion on creativity and sustaining the business you love.
Find out more from Kimberley HERE
Episode 055. Conducting Exceptional Discovery Calls
Join Reece Hendy and Caleb Maxwell on the Country Creatives Podcast as they delve into the fundamental importance of the discovery process in creative business. In this insightful episode, they explore what exactly constitutes a discovery process and why it serves as a cornerstone for success in any project.
Without a structured discovery process, the consequences can be dire. Reece and Caleb examine the pitfalls of proceeding without clarity and direction, highlighting the potential for wasted time, resources, and missed opportunities. They emphasise how a lack of process can lead to confusion, miscommunication, and ultimately, unsatisfactory outcomes.
Conversely, adopting a robust discovery process can transform the creative journey. By implementing a systematic approach, individuals can unlock a wealth of benefits. Reece and Caleb paint a vivid picture of the growth that comes with having a well-defined process in place. From enhanced productivity and efficiency to greater client satisfaction and personal fulfillment, the rewards are plentiful.
Tune in to learn how the discovery process can empower you to unleash your creativity and achieve business success.
Episode 054: Becoming a Reliable Creative.
This week, Caleb and Reece tackle a crucial topic for creatives: Becoming a 'reliable creative'. If you're tired of the stereotype that creatives are hard to work with and unreliable, this episode is for you. They share actionable advice on creating systems and disciplines to shift this narrative. Learn how to document your process to communicate it effectively to clients, implement a project management system to organize your tasks, and establish a 'Default Diary' to separate creative time from business tasks. They also discuss collaborating with fellow creatives who struggle under pressure and offer insights on changing your perspective on creativity to focus more on what you love. Don't miss this extra concise episode filled with practical tips to elevate your creative game!
Episode 053: Crafting Clarity: Communicating the Value of Creativity
Embark on a profound exploration of creativity with Caleb and Reece in our latest episode, as they discuss creativity's significance in both our lives and professions. Beginning with a high-level examination of what creativity truly entails and why it's crucial, they gradually delve into its intricate role in our daily lives and interactions.
Navigating the challenging terrain of justifying the necessity of creativity, even for those deeply entrenched in creative fields. Caleb and Reece provide you with not only insights but also the language needed to effectively communicate the value of creativity to others. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how creativity shapes our world and learn how to articulate its significance with clarity and conviction.
Episode 052: Vern Hardie on Unlocking Emotional Depth
In this insightful episode of Country Creatives Podcast, we delve into the often overlooked terrain of men's emotional landscapes, discovering the transformative power it holds for both personal growth and creative expression.
Our special guest Vern Hardie, a wonderful creative performer and advocate for emotional intelligence, offers invaluable insights into the importance of men connecting with their inner emotional selves. Through candid discussions and personal anecdotes, Vern guides us through the journey of understanding and embracing emotions as a crucial aspect of masculinity.
As we unravel the stigma surrounding male vulnerability, Vern shares practical strategies for men to cultivate emotional awareness and articulate their feelings effectively. From fostering deeper connections in relationships to unlocking newfound avenues of creativity, the benefits of embracing emotional fluency are boundless.
Tune in as we explore the intersections between emotional authenticity and creativity, uncovering how unlocking one's emotional depth can enrich the creative process. Whether you're an artist seeking inspiration or an individual striving for personal growth, this episode offers profound insights into harnessing the power of emotional intelligence.
Episode 051: Is Reece Funny?
In this episode of Country Creatives Podcast, Reece continues his solo spotlight while cohost Caleb takes a break. Joining forces with longtime friend and fellow creative Pat Thompson, Reece explores the question that's been on everyone's minds: "Is Reece Funny?"
Together, Reece and Pat share anecdotes, insights, and laughter, delving into the significance of humour in the realm of creative work. As they navigate the twists and turns of their own comedic styles, they dissect the nuances that make humour an essential component of their artistic processes. Along the way, they also create a 'chatterbox' which promises to provide scientific accuracy in determining whether Reece truly possesses the comedic prowess he claims.
Tune in for an entertaining exploration of humour in the creative process, where Reece's comedic journey takes centre stage. Don't miss the laughter and friendship in this lighthearted episode of Country Creatives Podcast.
Episode 050: Country Creatives Turns 50!
Raise a glass with the Country Creatives Podcast as they mark their 50th episode milestone! Hosts Reece and Caleb, joined by their producer Aimee, take a celebratory dive into their podcasting journey so far. From on-camera charisma to behind-the-mic mastery, the trio shares invaluable tips on presentation and collaboration. Uncover the secrets to a successful creative voyage, sprinkled with anecdotes and laughter. Join the party for the snacks, but stay for the wisdom—because this episode is a jubilant mix of reflection, camaraderie, and the joyous spirit of 50 episodes!
Episode 049. Reece Interviews Himself
In this special episode, our fearless co-host, Reece Hendy, takes the plunge into solo podcasting for the very first time! Aptly titled 'Reece interviews himself,' this unique instalment allows listeners to delve deeper into the mind of this honest, creative, and wonderful collaborator. With a touch of humour and a sprinkle of insight, Reece fields questions from a few friends who've thrown some curveballs his way, ensuring he's not navigating the podcasting waters without his floaties. Join us for an intimate and entertaining journey as Reece opens up about his experiences, inspirations, and the behind-the-scenes magic that makes him the captivating host we know and love. It's a one-of-a-kind episode that showcases the authentic charm of Reece Hendy like never before!
Episode 044: The Year in Review
Join hosts Caleb and Reece as they candidly explore the highs, lows, and triumphs of the past year in this special 'Year in Review' episode of the Country Creatives Podcast. With their signature honesty and warmth, they delve into the themes that shaped their creative experiences in 2023, highlighting the wins and acknowledging the challenges faced. This episode offers an introspective look back on a year of growth, adaptation, and learning. Tune in as Caleb and Reece share their insights and optimism for the creative possibilities awaiting in 2024.
Episode 043: Creativity in Food with Sonia Anthony
Join hosts Reece and Caleb on a delectable journey through the world of culinary creativity in their latest episode of the Country Creatives Podcast. In this special installment, the spotlight shines on the remarkable Sonia Anthony, one half of the visionary force behind Masons Restaurant, whose entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to championing local food producers have redefined the city of gastronomy.
With an insatiable passion for all things food, Sonia takes listeners on an immersive exploration of her awe-inspiring journey as a chef and entrepreneur. From the genesis of her culinary career to the pivotal moments that shaped her commitment to supporting local producers, Sonia's story serves as a testament to the immense creativity wielded by chefs in their craft.
Reece and Caleb delve deep into the pivotal question: just how creative can chefs be? And when it comes to Sonia, the answer is unequivocally: immensely. Discover the secrets behind Sonia's innovative approach to ingredient selection, menu curation, and the harmonious fusion of flavors that elevate every dish at Masons Restaurant to a work of art.
Episode 042: How to Confidently Lead Any Meeting
Are tedious, ineffective meetings slowly draining the life out of you? Join Caleb and Reece in this enlightening episode of "Country Creatives" as they reveal the secrets to save you from the perils of meeting doom. In this engaging discussion, the duo will walk you through the essential elements of leading a perfect meeting, starting with the crucial step of crafting a foolproof agenda.
Discover how to transform your meetings from mundane to magnificent, all in one fell swoop. Caleb and Reece share invaluable insights and practical tips to help you become a meeting hero.
As a special bonus, Reece will also share the presentation journey that turned a challenging meeting into a dream job. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your meeting leadership skills and make your work life more productive and enjoyable. Tune in now and conquer the world of meetings!
Download Reece’s presentation HERE
Episode 041: Mastering the Art of Saying NO!
In this episode of Country Creatives, hosts Caleb and Reece are serving up some scorching advice on mastering the fine art of saying "no" while safeguarding your precious "yes." Tune in as they dissect their own overflowing lists of commitments and explore ways to reclaim your time for what truly matters. Join them in a compelling discussion on the power of vocalizing your thoughts to reveal the answers that were hiding within you all along. Prepare to confidently say "NO" and bask in the satisfaction that comes with it.
Episode 040: Finance for creative people and businesses (the totally not boring edition) - with Hamish Riley
Join Caleb and Reece on this episode of Country Creatives as they dive into the crucial topic of managing finances for self-employed individuals. They're joined by money expert Hamish Riley, who shares invaluable advice on approaching finances, setting goals, and avoiding common pitfalls when starting and growing your creative business.
It's easy to get caught up in the artistic side of things, but neglecting your finances can lead to setbacks. Hamish highlights the importance of having a solid financial strategy, ensuring your creative endeavors thrive in the long run.
Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with laughter and candid insights. Hamish's expertise shines through, providing listeners with practical tips and a fresh perspective on financial success for creatives.
And don't miss the golden nugget towards the end: Caleb and Reece discuss the steps you'll need to take as a self-employed individual to secure your own home. It's a topic that resonates with many, and they've got the advice you need to turn that dream into a reality.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your creative business, this episode is packed with actionable advice that you won't want to miss. Join us for a lively discussion that could be the key to unlocking your financial success!
Episode 038: 3 steps to getting great clients.
Dive into a 30-minute whirlwind with The Country Creative Duo, Reece and Caleb, as they spill the beans on supercharging your client game. Get ready to discover your dream client in just three steps!
Reece and Caleb will guide you through identifying "Who's Your Best Client." Unearth those perfect matches, for creatives of any kind.
Wondering where to find your dream clients? Fear not! The dynamic duo will reveal secrets on "Where to seek them out" Get ready to rub elbows with your ideal clientele.
Grab your trusty pen and paper for the finale: "How to Best Engage with Them." Reece and Caleb will ensure your dream clients stick around and become your creative patrons.
Level up your client game with the Country Creative duo, guaranteeing an insightful and downright fun ride. Don't miss it!
Episode 037: Be Bendigo Business Excellence Awards recap episode.
On August 17th, 2023, Be Bendigo threw their annual Business Excellence Awards bash, where they rolled out the red carpet to honor the rock stars of Greater Bendigo's business scene. And guess what? This year, they cranked up the excitement meter by introducing the dazzling debut of the Creative Industries Award. Picture this: Country Creative Caleb Maxwell strutting in as a nominee.
But hold the phone, because Reece and Aimee didn't just stand by as spectators. Armed with their trusty microphones, they dove headfirst into the celebration chaos, snagging interviews with nominees, the eventual conqueror of the award, and oh-so-much more.
Get ready to come along with as in this awards recap episode. We're unleashing a lively chatwith the maestro of Blunt Agency, Brent Nolan. Plus, we've cherry-picked the juiciest, most head-turning highlights of the night, all while throwing in a few curly questions to the Creative Industries nominees Stay tuned, because this is one wild ride you won't want to miss!
Find out more about Be Bendigo HERE
Explore the finalists and winners:
Blunt Agency
Props Theatre
Hebron Films
E+Plus Architecture
Arena Theatre Company
Episode 036: How to find and benefit from your North Star - with Leah Sertori
Ever wished you could confidently and with full honesty answer the question ‘why do you do what you do?’ Perhaps you’d like to truly know your worth and charge accordingly for the incredible work you do? Well get ready to unlock the answers to those and many more with this weeks incredible guest Leah Sertori.
Leah is an expert in helping people to unlock meaning and potential in their work and in the highly practical episode she walks Caleb and Reece through the game changing concept of your North Star. Learn how to identify your purpose as a creative in business, uncover what drives you and how you can grow and scale your creative career with maximum satisfaction.
Learn more about Leah’s work HERE
Episode 035: AI and the future of creativity - Bailey Cook
Join Caleb, Reece, and video editing wizard Bailey Cook as they delve into the world of AI. Whether you're an AI enthusiast or trying to avoid it altogether, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how they've seamlessly integrated AI into their creative processes, with beginner and advanced tips, and gain insights into the future of AI in the creative industries. Don't miss out!
To find out about Bailey and his amazing work plus download a pdf outlining all the resources Bailey spoke about in the episode and more, at: www.baileycook.com.au/ai
Episode 034- Creativity as a driver for business success- with Kira Hyde
Business and creativity, not always an instant match made in heaven but with this week’s guest Kira Hyde, creative mastermind behind the KH studio, harnessing creativity to serve business becomes a piece of cake.
Reece, Caleb and Kira talk about the client process from onboarding right through to celebrating the end of the project and along the way you’ll get tips and understanding of the communication required and the best tools to have in place. You’ll be inspired to ensure you have nailed your proposal to save you headaches down the track and you’ll learn that asking for and receiving feedback is a crucial piece in achieving business success as a creative. If you have been exploring just how to run a creative business that achieves exceptional business outcomes, but still manages to stay creative, then buckle up, because this is an episode just for you!
Learn more about Kira and the incredible work of the KH Studio HERE
Episode 033- Take back your time with automation.
Do you find yourself dragging your feet on sending all your invoices our, writing up that quote, emailing that customer enquiry back? Perhaps you are actually pretty effective at keeping all the the admin balls in the air - but Caleb and Reece want to ask you in this episode - is there a way for that work to happen without you?
It's short and sweet episode where Caleb and Reece will help you take back significant amounts of time in your work day by implementing simple strategic automated tools and sleek systems to finesse your processes across high quality leads and sales, finance and communications.
So settle in for a listen now and be inspired to have a few processes automated before your head even hits the pillow tonight.
Some of the services that Caleb & Reece mention in this episode are:
Calendly
Trippetto
ClickUp
Proposify
Text Blaze
Episode 032: Lauren Starr- Big Wins and the bigger decisions that follow.
It's time to check in with Bendigo based photographic artist Lauren Starr who, when Caleb and Reece had her on the show 12 months ago, was working at striking a balance between artist and day job until she was ready to make the flip to full-time. Fast forward to 2023 and Lauren has very much made that transition, focussing full time on her creative future after taking out the Bluethumb Art Prize 2022.
In this Part 2- We delve into where Lauren finds herself, the pressures that come with taking out such a lofty award, the pathways she has needed to weigh up, as well as the mindset she continues to cultivate and the exciting project that she is now injecting her time and energy into creating. Listen in as Lauren offers some wonderful relatability and strategies for surviving the journey into the unknown as an artist.
Explore Lauren’s work HERE
Episode 031: Thomas McCarthy
Thomas McCarthy is putting the power of film finance directly into the hands of the audience and filmmakers with his game changing startup JubJub.
If you are a filmmaker, a film lover, a champion of the arts, a creative entrepreneur, a start up business operator or anything in between then this is an episode of Country Creatives you don't want to miss.
Explore how Thomas who has worked extensively across the industry as a filmmaker both independent and with industry behemoths such as Industrial Light and Sound, is now poised to launch an app that has the potential to completely disrupt how films are financed and consumed. There are some dense insights into how Tom has approached his start up that are required listening if you are considering exploring your own, and some very inspiring talk on how Jub Jub will enable diverse voices on film to have a viable platform and audience. Strap in!
Sign up HERE as a filmmaker or audience member and find out more about JubJub
The start up accelerator that Thomas refers to can be found HERE
Episode 030: Imposter Syndrome Club
It was only a matter of time before Alice Edy and Jessamy Gee, the talented Melbourne based artists and presenters behind The Imposter Syndrome Club Podcast, and our very own Reece Hendy and Caleb Maxwell of Country Creatives Podcast got together in a room for a far reaching chat about the tricky act of juggling multiple creative balls simultaneously, the vulnerability of putting your creative work into the world and much more.
Recorded live in front of a studio audience at the Emporium Creative Hub, creative dynamos Jessamy, Alice, Reece and Caleb, draw on their collective wisdom to bring a thoughtful, lively discussion on defining your creative self, doing meaningful creative work and setting yourself up to thrive despite sometimes feeling like a total imposter.
Click through HERE listen to other episodes of Imposter Syndrome Club
To learn more about Jessamy Gee visit HERE
To explore Alice Edy’s work visit HERE
Episode 029: Jimmi Buscombe
Jimmi Buscombe from Warnambool in Victoria's South West, is a stunning visual artist with an array of impressive large scale mural work in his catalogue. In this episode Reece Hendy talks with Jimmi about his transition from full-time chef to full-time artist, which opens up some really interesting conversation around taking risks and seizing opportunities (even when it's out of your comfort zone), capitalising on becoming a surprise viral sensation (anyone for 60+million views?!), sharing your expertise with other regional creatives and some nuanced thoughts around the tricky question what makes good public art There is a lot to take in during this episode, so settle in for an incredibly satisfying chat.
Episode 028: Justin Balmain
Justin Balmain is a regionally based multi-disciplined artist who has cultivated an engaging creative process driven by a deep inquisitiveness. Reece Hendy, who is minus Caleb in the hosting seat for this episode, uncovers Justin’s path from painter to his current work in long form art video work and in particular a project that began when Justin read a chance paragraph in a book that then took him to France to uncover the interesting story of a haunted object, through to the creation of a complex video work that has involved Justin scriptwriting, directing and editing in new and challenging ways. Listen in now to uncover this Country Creative doing highly innovative and inspiring creative work.
Learn more about Justin HERE
Episode 027: Andre Sardone
Joining Caleb and Maxwell in this latest episode is Country Creatives number 1 fan Andre Sardone who, when he’s not listening to the podcast and giving valuable feedback and cheerleading to the team, is a successful sculpture artist who has produced thought provoking public art works alongside small intimate works from his studio in a bush setting of Bendigo Victoria.
This lively chat explores Andre’s journey from full time tradie to full time artist, his refreshingly honest take on building and sustaining creative business, his creative process integrating sustainability and nature, and the phenomenally challenging balancing act of making stuff because you want to explore creative itches versus making stuff because you have to pay the bills.
With so much to think about in this episode, you may want to head out into nature and listen whilst on a long walk- just like Andre! Enjoy.
Learn more about Andre HERE
Episode 026: Hiring People- When, Why Who and How?
You might be a creative who currently hires other people to work inside your business, you may be considering expanding your team in the near future or perhaps you hadn't even considered additional hands on deck before? Wherever you find yourself in the staffing game, this episode is going to get you thinking about what staffing situation can best help you nurture and grow your creative career.
Caleb & Reece sort out your full timers from your casuals, your freelancers from your outsourcers and all the variations in between. Using real examples from their respective businesses alongside the processes they've developed to make the whole process a breeze, the Country Creatives will hand you a strong set of starting points for when and why to hire people, who is going to be the best person for the job and specifically how to find and onboard your dream team.
Episode 025: Harry Morton
When Reece and Caleb speak to a successful podcast producer about podcasting inside the Country Creatives podcast- it's a recipe to get very meta!
This addictively interesting chat is with Harry Morton, Founder of the podcasting production company @lowerstreetmedia who have worked with some of the biggest international brands to create a stable of successful podcasts. Harry brings a wealth of knowledge, not only about the podcast industry and some key considerations if you are thinking of stepping in front of the mic yourself, but also valuable insight into the way he has navigated growth from a sole trader to heading up a company of 20+ employees and how he is able to do all of this from a regional town outside of London with a 100% remote team dialling in from around the world. He even graces Caleb and Reece with a bit of feedback on Country Creatives.
Find out more about Harry’s company Lower Street here:
https://lowerstreet.co/
Listen to the podcast Harry mentions in this episode:
https://feeds.transistor.fm/vygo
Episode 024: Seasons in Creative Careers
Caleb and Reece have reconvened to bring you a brand new episode for 2023. The duo are catching up on where they find themselves in business and life which instigates a great discussion on embracing different seasons in your creative journey. They explore where opportunities for career growth might be hiding in plain sight, figuring out which opportunities to pick up or put down and how you might integrate them into your ever-changing creative career.
Episode 019: Craig Barker
In a career that has so far seen him move from teaching in the education system, to creating a successful freelance stock video production business, to finding a current happy place as the creative director of a fast growing online platform, Craig Barker is a country creative with a whole lot of ingenuity, curiosity and business skills to spare, as we find when he joins Caleb and Reece for their final podcast episode for the year.
In this fascinating chat, Craig discusses the choices, work ethic and processes that have helped him make the move from primary school teacher to the biggest producer of stock video footage in Australia, then transform from solo operator to content creation roles inside larger businesses. Caleb and Reece then uncover how Craig built on the sum of all these skills to now remotely manage content creators and other contributors from all over the world from his home in Bendigo, alongside tips for managing teams and productivity tools to make the whole experience a breeze. .
Find out more about Craig here:
https://au.linkedin.com/in/craig-barker-a23aa8a2
Explore Craig’s istock library here: https://www.istockphoto.com/portfolio/themediasuitcase
Learn about Inquisitive here:
https://www.inquisitive.com/au
Episode 018: Check-in Chat
As we begin to wind down to the end of the year, Caleb & Reece are grabbing a beer and sitting down for a bit of a check-in chat. First up they talk with honesty about a situation familiar to many creatives at this time of the year- the financial black hole that can open up when clients, and their money, go on Summer holidays. Thankfully Caleb has some very recent experience staring down, and then solving, this very problem in his own video production company. Reece has been venturing into his home shed, aka laboratory, to invent some new ideas for future podcast episodes and Caleb also shares a huge creative win.
Sit back and relax as Caleb and Reece cover some great creative business learning, some laughing and then round it out with some table tennis talk.
The brewery where Reece picked up their beers: https://shirazrepublic.com.au/beer/
The mastermind that Caleb refers to is here: https://denlennie.com/the-power-of-a-mastermind/
The podcast that Caleb refers to is here: http://engagevideomarketing.com/podcast/scaling-with-strategy-as-a-production-company-with-caleb-maxwell/
If you’re keen to see the video that Caleb talks about in his big creative win, check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpVK1oYPNNk
Episode 017: Burn Out. What is it and how to get out.
Reece and Caleb speak candidly about an all too common occurrence for creatives - Burn Out. They look at what it is, how to recognise it, what might be causing it, and drawing from their own experiences, some of the ways that you might work through it to a brighter side. This is important work for all creatives who want to cultivate long enriched careers, so go easy on yourself and settle in here for some empathy and wisdom.
Episode 016: Megan Champion
Caleb and Reece discuss the invisibility of female artists and the devaluing of women's work with creative Megan Champion, founder of not for profit organisation 'We Are Untold'. Megan shares how she is building a business that utilises storytelling and visual art to ensure that the achievements of females working across all sectors is visible, valued and held up as vitally important. Megan talks about her Women of Gold program that is creating role models for the present day, stories that will become required historical learnings for future generations, as well as ensuring female art is paid for appropriately and displayed in prominent locations. There are more than a couple of mic drop moments as Megan turns the questions on Reece and Caleb and they delve deep into how we can all play a big role in shifting the needle on gender equality and eradicating the motherhood penalty. Listen in now and perhaps bring a notepad and pen, it's a big one.
Learn more about Megan and her work at:
http://weareuntold.org/
https://au.linkedin.com/in/megan-champion-creative-producer
Episode 015: Kylie Eddy
Kylie Eddy's presentation and workshop at Conflux Bendigo (A creative industries event held in regional Victoria in September 2022) was a highlight for so many of the participants including Caleb and Reece. So much so, that they asked Kylie to join them in this episode to give us all the lowdown on Lean Filmmaking, a revolutionary method for making feature films (or short films, book publishing or many other creative projects) using Agile processes. The impetus as Kylie explains is that in the past, gatekeepers like studios, distributors and exhibitors had the power to dictate which films got made and what audiences saw on screens. They’ve had a notorious reputation for silencing marginalized voices, discouraging diversity and lacking inclusivity. But as you’ll learn in this inspiring chat, Lean Filmmaking means you don’t need permission from the gatekeepers to make your film anymore. Tune in now to discover a whole new way of working that puts collaboration, fans and story at the forefront.
For more about Lean Filmmaking including where to buy the book and the course visit:
https://www.leanfilmmaking.com/
Episode 014: How to have difficult conversations in business.
Listen in to sharpen up your communication skills in less than 60 minutes with Country Creatives!
If you struggle with asking your clients 'what is your budget?'. If you find it hard to put boundaries in when they ask you 'for just a little change', if you find your ego in the drivers seat when a client doesn't like the work you deliver, or when a project simply all goes a bit awry and you need to pick up the pieces pronto, then this episode is for you. Using real life situations from their own creative careers, Reece and Caleb unpack communication fails and troubleshoot how to ensure better outcomes as well as sharing their key strategies and scripts for all too common pitfalls when navigation the client/creative relationship.
The link to the book referenced by Reece in the episode can be found at:
https://www.booktopia.com.au/twelve-and-a-half-gary-vaynerchuk/book/9780063203839.html
Episode 013: Conflux Bendigo Highlights
Over two days in September 2022, creative trailblazers converged for Conflux Bendigo. It was full of thought provoking conversations, inspirational performance, enlightening workshops and purposeful connection. There were panel discussions, masterclasses, practitioner presentations, group forums, lively debates, Q&As, workshops, networking, performance, installations and Caleb and Reece were right in the thick of it as artistic contributors and audience members.
Tune in as Country Creatives take you inside their Conflux Bendigo experience and recap the thoughts and ideas that resonated with them, the performances that moved them deeply and the people they met who inspired them. In between all the action Reece and Caleb also managed to grab some microphones and speak to a bunch of the creative folk about what Conflux Bendigo meant to them and what they hoped would grow from this fantastic creative gathering.
Explore the many speakers, artists, contributors discussed in this episode at:
https://www.emporiumcreativehub.com.au/contributors
Episode 012: Toby Benador
In this live podcast recording from Conflux Bendigo (A Creative Industries gathering that took place on September 9 & 10, 2022), Caleb and Reece speak with Toby Benador in the pop up studio just after a presentation Toby had given on cultivating strong partnerships. Toby Benador is a neurodiverse, genderqueer, POC who has successfully made a name for themselves as an independent gallery owner, project manager, and curator in the Urban Art sector for over 15 years. Throughout their extensive time spent involved in the industry, Toby has opened and run several notable galleries and businesses all with a driving force to showcase and support emerging and established artists.
In this chat, Caleb and Reece get the lowdown on how Just Another Agency came to be back in 2010, the type of work that the agency undertakes including large-scale, multi-artist creative projects, what kind of artists and clients Toby likes to work with and most importantly how, with some humanity, empathy and radical collaboration, this work can thrive in an incredibly fun and fulfilling way.
Learn more about Toby & Just Another Agency:
https://www.justanother.com.au/
Episode 011: Louise Terra
Louise Terra is the epitome of a multi-facitated creative. She is an electronic music producer, songwriter and performer, tertiary educator, festival programmer and community cultural development artist. As a solo artist or as a member of bands such as Sugar Fed Leopards and Sawtooth she has appeared at iconic events such as Woodford Folk Fest, Reservoir Stomp, Melbourne Int'l Comedy Festival and Adelaide Fringe and more.
In this episode of Country Creatives Caleb and Aimee speak to Louise about her pathway to electronic music and VR collaborations, the challenges and approaches for creating work such as her current VR live shoot when you don't have an audience present and Louise presents a future vision for the music industry that is Artist led!
It's another rich, inspiring episode so settle in for a listen now.
To find out more about Louise Terra:
https://www.louiseterra.com/
https://www.instagram.com/louise_terra
Episode 010: David Gagliardi
What happens when you let the ideas guide the way? For composer and artistic director David Gagliardi, guest of Country Creatives 10th episode, the answer is EVERYTHING! Using his immersive performance work 'Everybody Goes To Heaven in the Clothes They Died In' as a vibrant example, David illustrates his process for allowing ideas to emerge and be explored with much needed time and space. David also brings some great grant writing tips on how to get the funding you need to support the making of ambitious projects as well as his thoughts on assembling a creative team to really take on the journey with you. Listen now for the inspiration you need to show up to your creative work.
Find out more about David and his projects:
http://davidgagliardi.com.au/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XokbgLGSUIM
Episode 009 | Ben Watts
Delivering a veritable masterclass in how to live and thrive as a regionally based creative, is this weeks guest Ben Watts. Ben who lives and works in Swan Hill, Victoria is a Motion FX expert who has created stunning work with major film, tv and advertising companies across the world including Pixar and Disney to Nike and Playstation. Caleb and Reece have their minds blown by Ben's insights and experience on how to build this kind of fast paced creative tech career without any tertiary studies. They discover what skills other than the technical are absolutely integral in order to get hired, and what opportunities the future of motion fx and similar technology hold (Spoiler alert- it’s HUGE) Strap in for a truly fascinating chat!
Some links from the show:
https://rocketlab.tv/
https://www.instagram.com/benwattsdesign
Episode 008 | Snippet #3. NFTs, the Blockchain and
opportunities for creatives
Non Fungible Tokens, the Metaverse, Blockchains and Discord servers?! If this all feels like a foreign language to you, then this week's episode of Country Creatives Podcast is necessary listening. Caleb and Reece take a condensed look at the fundamentals of what NFTs are, how they work and most importantly why should creatives even care? Get up to speed with the future, tune in right here, right now.
Episode 007 | Lauren Starr
Bendigo Visual Artist Lauren Starr is the special guest on this episode of Country Creatives. Lauren discusses how Bendigo has influenced her art and the creative goldmine that she has found in embracing her shadow side. There is also some great insight into how Lauren has struck a fantastic balance between artist and day job until she is ready to make the flip to full-time and she also gives Reece and Caleb the scoop on what creative adventures lie just on the horizon.
Find out more about Lauren HERE
Episode 006 | Snippet #2 - The Why
It's a short sharp snippet episode on Country Creatives today that still manages to pack a lot of punch.....Uncover your WHY!
Using their current 'why' as starting points, Caleb and Reece get into the finer details of why your why matters and where to start with discovering your own why and applying it to your creative business.
Some links to the resources mentioned in the podcast can be found at:
https://businessmadesimple.com/mission-statement-made-simple/
https://www.emporiumcreativehub.com.au/incubator
Episode 005 | Pick a Project
Get the inside scoop on a couple of creative projects that Reece and Caleb have worked on recently. They explore how they got the gigs, why the projects have been so satisfying, the potential obstacles and challenges they faced and more. They also give some insight to when joining a committee might be a great career move as well as exploring the fine art of delivering a feedback sandwich!
Episode 004 | Aimee Chapman
Balancing a multi-faceted creative career is at the forefront of this chat with Aimee Chapman, who produces the Country Creatives alongside a bunch of other work as a musician, concert producer and programming of events at the Emporium Creative Hub.
Caleb, Reece and Aimee go deep on how to not lose your creative self when you are also managing the business side of things, tips for kicking imposter syndrome to the curb, getting comfortable in front of the camera, methods for getting through creative road blocks and a lot more.
Find out more about Aimee HERE
Episode 003 | Troy Firebrace
Troy Firebrace is the first guest on Country Creatives Podcast and what a conversation it is.
Troy Firebrace is a Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung man making incredible visual art via his company Firebrace Designs. Join Caleb and Reece as they learn about Troy's path to creating a significant and varied artistic career, from the process and motivation underpinning his evolving practice on canvas and on walls to his work as an Aboriginal Educational Officer at Sandhurst Catholic Education Office Bendigo.
Tune in now for some invaluable insight and inspiration from this generous and talented guest.
Find out more about Troy HERE
Episode 002 | Snippet #1 Getting Started
So you want to make your creative career a viable business, or perhaps you're considering embarking on a new project inside your existing business and you're not quite sure where to start?
Join Caleb and Reece as they talk through their thoughts and experiences on when to start, how to start, what to focus on once you've set off, keeping up momentum, moving from part-time to full-time and much more.
Episode 001 | The Concept
Join Caleb Maxwell and Reece Hendy in their first official episode as they talk in depth about who they are, what they endeavour to achieve with their respective creative businesses and what they hope to explore with the Country Creative Podcast. They discuss their own creative journeys complete with the glorious hits and tragic misses that defined their early careers and the advice and actions that have set them on the path to creative success.
Episode 000 | The Introduction
Welcome to the Country Creatives Podcast with Caleb Maxwell & Reece Hendy.
Listen in to this quick introduction to a podcast for and about the incredible creative people living throughout our regional areas, who are traversing the many stages of creating a business. Get the lowdown on Caleb and Reece as they let you in on what they'll be covering in future episodes.