The Creative Commune

This episode looks at how creativity gives grief somewhere to go. We talk about making art in the middle of the ache, letting emotion move instead of bottling it up, and finding small moments of meaning as you heal.

A gentle, practical chat on returning to your craft when you feel rusty. We unpack break vs. block, set simple victory conditions, and share nervous-system-friendly re-entry tools: a 7-day micro-plan, the Future Work idea bank, the 10-Try Rule, and why community makes courage easier. Perfect if you’re itching to make again but scared to start—come for the reframes, leave with next steps.

Why the “awkward space” between rest and return is part of the process—and how to re-enter gently. We unpack break vs. block, nervous-system-friendly micro-moves, the Future Work idea bank, and why community makes the comeback lighter. Perfect for anyone feeling rusty, tender, or unsure where to start.

A joy-filled chat with Amy, Dani and Demi on why play is the secret engine of creativity. Expect John Cleese and Julia Cameron quotes, toddler-tested tactics, and real-life tips to loosen up, trust the process, and make better art—together.

Mark shares how developing self-awareness has helped him understand what he needs to complete creative projects — from knowing his rhythms and working style, to building the mindsets that help him move through resistance, stay motivated, and follow through on creative ideas.

In this episode, Demi shares the practical tools, habits, and mindset shifts she’s used to build a functional, fulfilling life as a multipassionate creative. From planning systems to brainstorming rituals and making time for all her hobbies, she breaks down how structure has helped her stay inspired — without burning out. Whether you're juggling side projects, creative dreams, or just trying to get organised, this is a warm, honest guide to making it work.

Demi, Amy, and Dani dig into the challenge of balancing our artistic passions with financial stability. We share our journeys, explore how to identify high-value skills, and navigate the tension between authenticity and commercialisation. We talk about the importance of play, the emotional struggles of turning creativity into a business, and how skill adaptability helps us evolve. Plus, we dive into the role of passive income in creating the freedom to do what we love.

In this episode, we dive deep into our world of art and creativity. Join us as we explore the delicate balance between sharing our work with the world and preserving a sacred space for personal expression. We'll discuss the challenges of artist burnout, the importance of slowing down, and the power of redefining what it means to be an artist in today's society.

Demi and Amanda share touching moments in this heartfelt podcast on Amanda's journey to making art and maintaining a sustainable creative practice through play and rest.

Today, we are talking to Nathan Vuuren. Nathan is a full-time artist currently based in Johannesburg, South Africa. On this episode, Nathan will be sharing his inspiring art journey, and how his commercial skills have not only sustained him but also propelled his growth as an artist.

Today we are talking to Demi van Tonder. Demi is currently based in Cape Town, South Africa as business owner, jewellery maker, crafter, artist. youth mentor and many other creative avenues. Demi is interested in emotional intelligence and supporting people in processing intense emotional in healthy and helpful ways. She is a mentor and supporter to young people and anyone looking to live authentically. On this episode Demi will be sharing how she has integrated her emotions with her creativity and the lessons and insights she has gained along the way.

Today we are talking to Daniela van Aswegen. She is currently based in KZN, South Africa, as a creative coach and artist. Dani is passionate about building community and supporting people in overcoming negative thoughts and behaviours that prevent them from taking creative risks. On this episode, Dani will share her own journey of creative expression, how it is the antidote to fear, and her identity as an artist.

Today we are talking to Amy Jane. Amy is currently based in Utrecht, the Netherlands as a part time artist, tattooist, writer and mom. Amy is interested in working with artists to uncover their full potential and work towards their career success and life’s true north- all by demystifying the art world and being a total art world rebel! On this episode Amy Jane will be sharing her beginning as an Artist and how she overcame some of the professional and personal struggles she faced in the art world; leading her to the path of art mentoring.

Welcome to the Creative Commune Podcast! The hosts are Amy, Dani, and Demi from The Good Place, a creative wellness business. We are a team of multi-disciplined women who work with creatives, artists, and anyone looking to align who they are with the life they want. We believe coaching, community, and collaboration enable creative thriving! The Creative Commune is our group of creatives and artists who have completed The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron. We encourage each other to live out principles from the book through authentic community, creative challenges and online "playdates". Through the sharing of stories, we aim to provide insight into the struggles encountered on the creative journey, with the hope of inspiring and encouraging you.