PODCAST · business
The Common Creative
by Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith
The Common Creative - But Never Ordinary A podcast series with Paul Fairweather and Chris MeredithThe 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. C
Episodes
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Episode 211: Paul & Chris - Creative Pause
After 210 episodes and six years of conversations, Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather are pressing pause on The Common Creative. In this reflective episode, they look back on what the podcast has taught them from the power of creative conversations and storytelling to the chemistry that has…
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S9E210: Episode 210: Paul & Chris - Creative Risk
Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather spend this episode unpacking risk as a core part of the creative process. It is a conversational, unscripted exchange about why making art, sharing work, and moving beyond a safe formula all involve vulnerability, judgment, and the possibility of…
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S9E209: Episode 209: Stacy Hall - Make Creative
In this episode, Chris and Paul are joined by Stacy Hall, founder of MAKE and Promosapien, 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…
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S9E208: Episode 208: Paul and Chris - The Art of Leadership
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...
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S9E207: Episode 207: Graham Bligh - The Art of a Creative Life
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...
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S9E206: Episode 206 - Shantanu Starick - Creative Trade
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...
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S9E205: Episode 205 - Karen Steenkamp - Constrained Creative
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...
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S9E204: Episode 204 - Barton Green: Creative Collab
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...
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S9E203: Episode 203 - Mitchell Kwanten: Good Vibrations
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...
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S9E202: Episode 202 - John Sharpe: Sharpe Creativity
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...
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S9E201: Episode 201 - Megan Forward: Patch of Creativity
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...
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S9E200: Double Century Not Out - 200 shows in review
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...
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S8E199: Episode 199 - Alex Soojung-Kim Pang: Creative Rest
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...
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S8E198: Episode 198 - Peter Hickson: Creative Accountancy
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...
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S8E197: Episode 197 - Mark Jones: Creativity for Excellence, Happiness and Profit
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…
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S196E8: Episode 196 - David Hinchliffe: Yes to Creativity
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...
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S8E195: Episode 195 - Jenn Just: Brick Chick Creative
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…
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S8E194: Episode 194 - Brad Walls: High Art
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...
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S8E193: Episode 193 - Miriam Schulman: Creative Belief
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...
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S8E192: Episode 192 - Dave Brown: Slow Brewing Creativity
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...
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S8E191: Episode 191 - Chris Meredith: The Spice Project
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…
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S8E190: Episode 190 - Kylee Leota: Creativity on Pause
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...
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S8E189: Episode 189 - Dale Beaumont: Creative Blueprint
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…
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S8E188: Episode 188 - Johanna Fink: Yellow Shelf Creative
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...
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S8E187: Episode 187 - Kelly Stoetzel: creaTED Ideas & Stories
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…
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S8E186: Episode 186 - Nina Sunday: Self-starting Creative
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…
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S8E185: Episode 185 - Robin Moon: Picturing Creativity
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...
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S8E184: Episode 184 - Natalie Conyer: Crime and Creativity
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...
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S8E183: Episode 183 - Toni Powell: Sh!t Happy Creative
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...
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S8E182: Episode 182 - Enid Fairweather: The Arts and Craft of Creativity
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.…
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S8E181: Episode 181 - Warwick Heathwood: The Creative Strategist
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…
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S180E8: Episode 180: Claire Gray- Creative Culture
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...
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S8E179: Episode 179: Ally Nitschke - Made for More Creativity
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…
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S8E178: Episode 178: Dr Ken Hudson - Creative Switch
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:...
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S8E177: Episode 177 - Paul Fairweather: Bold, Brave and a Bit Quirky
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...
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S8E176: Episode 176 - Mykel Dixon: Everyday Creative
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...
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S8E175: Episode 175 - Chris Doherty: The Crafted Creative
In this episode of The 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...
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S8E174: Episode 174 - Amanda Stevens: Taking Creative Position
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...
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S8E173: Episode 173 - Paul and Chris: Creative Pickle
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...
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S8E172: Episode 172 - Paul and Chris: Better Pill
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...
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S8E171: Episode 171 - Remo Giuffré: The Creative Power of Random
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...
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S8E170: Episode 170 - Sarah Rowan: Creative Reconnection
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…
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S8E169: Episode 169 - Jake Kahana: Creative Deep Work
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…
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S8E168: Episode 168 - Matthew Fay: Creative Narrative
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...
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S8E167: Episode 167 - Lisa James: Creative Connection
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...
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S8E166: Episode 166 - Paul & Chris: Manual Labour
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…
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S8E165: Episode 165 - Paul and Chris: Power of Curiosity
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...
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S8E164: Episode 164 - Judy Andrews: Creative Wonder & Joy
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…
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S8E163: Episode 163 - Nicoline van Slingelandt: The Gymsical Creative
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…
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S8E162: Episode 162 - Ross Mansfield & Oliver Sheer: Creative Teamwork
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...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The Common Creative - But Never Ordinary A podcast series with Paul Fairweather and Chris MeredithThe 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. C
HOSTED BY
Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Common Creative have?
The Common Creative currently has 205 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Common Creative about?
The Common Creative - But Never Ordinary A podcast series with Paul Fairweather and Chris MeredithThe 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...
How often does The Common Creative release new episodes?
The Common Creative publishes regularly with 205 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to The Common Creative?
You can listen to The Common Creative on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Common Creative?
The Common Creative is created and hosted by Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith.
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