The Creative Business Community Podcast

It’s our Season One finale and 30th episode! In this episode, Erin and Ronnie look back at the moments that mattered most, from the unexpectedly powerful chat on creativity and mental health to the lessons learned from an incredible line-up of guests. They distil five big takeaways — why simple social media is worth it, how branding sets your foundation, the non‑negotiable admin, business plans that actually guide you, and why community always beats competition. You’ll also hear how structure creates space for creative play, why balance is a shared struggle, and how past life experience can supercharge your creative business. Go behind the scenes with honest confessions about batching, editing mishaps, tech hiccups and those days when the vibes just aren’t vibing (plus the eternal studio debate: coffee vs Diet Coke). Then, a sneak peek at Season Two: deeper dives into the Instagram algorithm, influencers and AI, working with friends and family, real talk on money and accounting with expert guests, and fresh voices from across creative industries—yes, even a spicy romance author (well, a girl can dream anyway!). We want your input to shape what’s next. Share your thoughts via the feedback form in the show notes for the chance to snag a free mini social media audit (or setup basics if you’re just starting out). Join the Creative Business Community Hub on Facebook and connect with us on socials.  Let us know your thoughts about the Creative Business Community Podcast! We are busy planning season 2 and want to make sure we are hitting the mark. As an added incentive, if you fill in the feedback form, you go in the draw to win a FREE social media audit! Don't have your social media set up? No worries, instead we can offer you a FREE consult to get them set up!   Let Us Know Your Thoughts Here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/6f29a91726408721cb7f4963f9731789?r=use1

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin is joined by our PR and marketing whiz, Renee, to unpack the hype around “going viral” — why it shouldn’t be your north star and what to focus on instead.   We dig into what viral really means across platforms (including the surprise rise of Facebook Reels), the metrics that matter most (views vs viewers, watch time and location), and the hidden downsides — trolls, admin blowouts and audiences that won’t convert. Renee shares a real-world case study from our client Women on the Tools, whose 1.6M-view reel delivered sold-out workshops, media attention and global enquiries — along with serious operational overwhelm. You’ll come away with practical ways to prepare and profit: set up auto-responses and funnels, balance awareness and sales content, write emotion-led hooks, caption for sound-off viewing, and know when to boost or back off.   Plus, our Creative Business Spotlight! Creative Business Spotlight: Seed Station Website: https://www.seedstation.com.au/  Instagram: @seed.station Facebook: Seed Station

This week on the Creative Business Community pod, Erin and Ronnie are chatting all things creative voice — what it is, how to find it, and why it shifts as you do. Think of it as your creative fingerprint: the style, tone and vibes that make people go, “yep, that’s yours.” They talk inspiration vs straight-up copying (and why credit matters), plus simple ways to sharpen your style — revisit old work, follow your curiosity, have a play in low-pressure mediums, and come back to your why. You’ll also hear how to navigate creative ruts, step away from the algorithm to protect your spark, and even build an “analogue bag” to reset when screens or sales pressure start to stifle your flow. Plus, the power of community feedback when friends and family don’t quite get it. And of course, our Creative Business Spotlight! Creative Business Spotlight: Master and Dame Website: https://www.masteranddame.com.au/  Instagram: @masteranddame Facebook: Master and Dame

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin sits down with Perth tattoo icon Fizz of Fizz Ink — the artist behind most of Erin’s own ink and a well known name for colourful work, big heart and making clients feel safe in a vulnerable process. Fizz traces her path from sketching designs and selling on Facebook as a teen to landing an apprenticeship in 2010, and unpacks how social media has reshaped portfolios, apprenticeships and the people skills needed to thrive. We dive into the real cost of running a creative studio: navigating councils and health regs, commercial leases, tax, hiring friends, setting boundaries and protecting quality — plus the COVID surge of tattoo artists, today’s saturated market and skyrocketing insurance. Fizz gets candid about the physical toll of tattooing, the tough call to close her much-loved Midland studio in 2025, and how stepping back to focus on art at Hood Royals in Gosnells has rekindled her creativity. You’ll hear grounded advice for aspiring tattooists — build a brand, nurture your socials and your soft skills, look after your body, and don’t put all your eggs in one basket — along with a playful quickfire round and our Creative Business Spotlight. Connect with our guest! Find Fizz Ink: Website: https://fizzinktattoo.bigcartel.com/  TikTok: @fizzinktattoo Instagram: @fizzink Hood Royals Tattoo Studio Creative Business Spotlight: Ella Mobbs Website: https://ellamobbsart.com/  Instagram: @ella_mobbs_art TikTok: @ella_mobbs_art Facebook: Ella Mobbs Art Pinterest: https://au.pinterest.com/ella_mobbs_art/ 

This week we’re chatting AI — what it actually looks like for creatives in 2026, beyond just ChatGPT. Renee’s back to talk about on where it’s popping up (Canva, Adobe, your inbox, schedulers, even Meta ads) and how to use it without losing your voice or your values. We swap easy, time-saving wins — turning brain-dumps into clean copy, brainstorming post ideas, softening tone, proofreading, planning content, and setting up auto-replies so you can actually have a weekend. We also call out the traps: dodgy “facts” and made-up quotes, US vs AU spelling, AI images that misrepresent your product, ad “enhancements” that burn budget, and those uncanny celeb-style voiceovers. Big picture: keep your creative muscles working — AI’s a tool, not the whole process. Be transparent when it helps, and flick off default AI settings that don’t serve you. Your ideal customers still want the real, human-made stuff (they can spot the AI ick a mile away). Plus, super simple, ethical prompt tips to get started today, and of course, our Creative Business Spotlight! Creative Business Spotlight: Earthbound Website: https://earthboundstudio.org/  Instagram: @earthbound_studio Facebook: Earthbound Studio

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin chats with El from Maple and Wren — the Perth floral studio renowned for intentional, timeless floral moments — and the brains behind the Maple and Wren Floral Art Academy. El talks with us about her move swapping her government comms and corporate events job to running her own business, going from market‑stall flower crowns to luxe weddings, big‑deal installs and a buzzing education arm. We get into how she niched down and proved that what you show is what you attract, how she builds and trusts a team with clear briefs and mood boards (and lets go of the “my way” stuff when it doesn’t matter), and how she juggles being both creative and CEO — finding fresh spark in marketing, shop curation and new products. She also shares the real‑life rhythms keeping burnout at bay: crack‑of‑dawn walks, calendar blocking, Friday family movie night and the whole glass‑vs‑plastic balls mindset. Plus, she’s scaling with intention — acquiring Zest Flowers in Dunsborough and opening a new Beaufort Street store in Perth — and teaching the modern, on‑trend wedding design she wished existed when she started. It’s a fun, practical, heart‑led chat about building a luxury creative brand without losing the joy of making.    Connect with our guest! Find Maple and Wren: Website: https://mapleandwren.com.au/  Instagram: @mapleandwren Facebook: Maple and Wren Find Maple and Wren Floral Art Academy: Website: https://www.mwfloralartacademy.com.au/  Instagram: @mapleandwren_floralartacademy Facebook: Maple and Wren Floral Art Academy Find Zest Flowers: Website: https://www.zestflowers.com.au/  Instagram: @zestflowers Facebook: Zest Flowers   Creative Business Spotlight: The Dainty Co Website: https://www.thedaintyco.com.au/  Instagram: @thedainty_co Facebook: The Dainty Co YouTube: Coralie Carosin

This week we’re talking social media scheduling software — what it is, whether you really need it, and how to use it without losing the human touch. We’ll cover batching and auto‑publishing, planning with calendars and feed previews, and why scheduling is a tool (not a strategy). You’ll hear why you still need to keep showing up (think engagement), how platform nuances matter, and which metrics actually count now — think watch time, saves, shares and carousel swipes over likes. We touch on analytics, from native insights in Meta to when paid tools like Loomly make sense for multi‑brand workflows. You’ll learn how to align content to business goals with clear calls to action, write SEO‑friendly captions that can surface on Google, and free up headspace by setting a realistic posting rhythm. Plus, practical ways to start: use free options and trials, lean on tutorials, ask the community—and choose the platform you’ll actually use.  Creative Business Spotlight: Modern Homewares Instagram: @modernhomewares  Facebook: Modern Homewares

This week, Erin sits down with Lucy, founder of Not Yet Perfect — a boutique pottery studio in Applecross known for soul‑soothing workshops and masterclasses — to explore how letting go can unlock your best creative and business work. Born in Norway, raised in WA’s southwest and forged in a decade of fashion, Lucy shares how a surprise stint teaching at‑risk teens led her to pottery as a grounding practice, first in her lounge room with wine and clay, then via Gumtree classes, and eventually into a thriving studio space of their own. We dive into separating creativity from business identity, building resilience by self‑educating (yes, even through boring books), growing organically, and getting radically honest — about money, motives and the mundane daily habits that actually move the wheel. You’ll hear how community shaped her systems during COVID, why becoming your own cheerleader matters, and Lucy’s beautiful “vessel” metaphor for holding space, creativity and business without losing yourself. Plus a quick‑fire round: weekly Ghost references, meditation as a must, green juice, sewing comebacks and big clay vessels. If you’re a creative wrestling with perfectionism, this conversation is a breath of fresh air. Connect with our guest! Find Not Yet Perfect: Website: https://www.notyetperfect.com/  Instagram: @nyperfect Facebook: Not Yet Perfect Creative Business Spotlight: Coralie Carosin of Coco Studio Website: https://www.cocostudio.com.au/  Instagram: @coralie.carosin YouTube: Coralie Carosin

Note: In this episode we chat about reporting income, the idea of an income “threshold”, and when your creative pursuit is considered a business vs a hobby for tax purposes. After recording, we double-checked the details to make sure you have the most accurate information - please see the list at the bottom for links to relevant websites.    This week we’re talking about the unsexy side of creative business. Admin admin, systems and boundaries that help to turn a passion project into a profitable, sustainable venture. Erin and Ronnie unpack how to shift your mindset, track money without tears, and stop your creativity from sliding into “expensive hobby” territory. Expect practical, low-cost ways to get organised. We also dig into project management tools, using automations and email templates to save hours, valuing your time, and setting gentle but firm boundaries. You’ll also hear practical ways to avoid burnout: time-blocking “boring” tasks, creating rituals or rewards to get through them, and protecting play time so your creativity keeps flourishing. Our quick-start tip? Book just 10–15 minutes a week to tackle the task you dread most — consistency beats overwhelm every time. Plus, a heads-up on our Small Business 101 workshop, and this week’s Creative Business Spotlight.  Book Into our Small Business 101 Workshop Date: Wednesday April 29th 2026 Time: 10am - 12pm Location: Goolugatup Heathcote, Applecross, Perth BOOK NOW Creative Business Spotlight: Not Yet Perfect Pottery Studio Website: https://www.notyetperfect.com/  Instagram: @nyperfect Facebook:  The Potters Market From Our Note: In Australia, there is no specific income threshold that determines whether you are considered a business. It’s based on a range of factors outlined by the ATO. If you are operating as a sole trader, the first $18,200 is generally the tax-free threshold (subject to your individual circumstances). For more detailed and up-to-date information, please refer to the official sources below: ATO – Are you in business? https://www.ato.gov.au/businesses-and-organisations/starting-registering-or-closing-a-business/starting-your-own-business/are-you-in-business Business.gov.au – Difference between a hobby and a business https://business.gov.au/planning/new-businesses/difference-between-a-business-and-a-hobby ATO – Assessable business income https://www.ato.gov.au/businesses-and-organisations/income-deductions-and-concessions/income-and-deductions-for-business/assessable-income As always, we recommend speaking with a registered accountant or tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin sits down with artist and House of Hobby founder Emilie Otto again for a chat about keeping your personal creativity alive while you run a creative small business. They unpack what happens when you take a beloved hobby and turn it into a business — and how to protect the joy when the admin, timelines and “make what sells” mentality creep in. They explore the very real guilt of “not creating enough,” the shift away from hands‑on everyday skills, and how reclaiming simple lifestyle making—mending, sewing, cooking—can rebalance your week. Emilie also shares what she delegated first, why teaching fuels her own creativity, and a reassuring reminder that many “creative” businesses are, at their core, events or retail operations — so you don’t have to be wildly arty to run one well.   Connect with our guest! Find House of Hobby: Website: https://www.houseofhobby.net/  Instagram: @houseofhobbyau Facebook: House of Hobby TikTok: @houseofhobby Connect with our guest! Find Emilie Otto Art: Website: https://emilieotto.com.au/ Instagram: @emilieottoart Facebook: Emilie Otto Art YouTube: Emilie Otto Art Creative Business Spotlight: Kalamunda Art Glass Website: https://artglasssupplies.com.au/  Books Mentioned in the Podcast: Craft for the Soul by Pip Lincolne  Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

Feeling a bit solo running your creative biz? You’re not the only one. This week Erin and Ronnie chat about finding your people and why real community beats those referral based networking nights. We share easy ways to meet fellow creatives; online groups, your local library, Eventbrite, Meet Up, and our own Creative Business Community. We talk about how to keep chats genuine, not salesy. Nervous? We’ve got low-pressure icebreakers (including a tiny script for introverts) and the “wear a conversation starter” trick. Plus quick, free ways to back each other—likes, shares and reviews. We also chat about outgrowing groups, collaborating without competition, and why community groups are rising as influencer culture fades. Join us for our first ever in person networking session! Held March 4th at Goolugatup Heathcote in Perth.  Running from 10am - 12pm. BOOK HERE Creative Business Spotlight: Perth Clothes Swap Instagram: @perthclothesswap

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin chats with Fremantle potter Rosie Button about her bold pivot from engineering to an 11‑year empowerment photography studio—then, 18 months ago, into full‑time clay. Rosie shares how a well‑timed redundancy sparked her first business, the organic way her portrait work transformed women’s confidence, and why she ultimately swapped the emotional load of that work for a slower, hands‑on life at the wheel. You’ll hear how she turned a much‑loved hobby into a sustainable business: choosing markets over online sales, keeping overheads lean, reusing materials, and regularly reviewing those sneaky subscriptions and insurance costs. Rosie also opens up about her sketch‑to‑throw process, Japanese influences, firing weeks, and the real costs behind a “perfect” pot. Plus, practical tips on authentic social media, engaging at markets, and building loyal collectors.  Rosie's mentor:  Cher Shackleton Instagram: @chershackleton Facebook: Cher Shackleton Connect with our guest! Find Rosie - Fremantle Pottery: Instagram: @fremantlepotteryrosie Creative Business Spotlight: Michelle Fleur Artist Website: https://www.michellefleur.com/  Instagram: @michellefleurartist Facebook: Michelle Fleur Artist YouTube: Michelle Fleur Artist

In this episode, Erin and Ronnie kick off from their new studio — our first video episode on YouTube — and tackle a decidedly unsexy but critical topic: insurance for creative businesses. We demystify what you actually need depending on how you work — whether you’re a market stallholder, maker, workshop host, hairdresser or service provider. We chat about why insurance is about peace of mind, not fear. You’ll hear how to run a quick risk assessment, what public liability typically covers (and why $10m is standard at Aussie markets), when product liability matters (especially for food, children’s toys and skincare), and the role of contents/equipment cover, workers’ compensation, income protection and professional indemnity. We unpack one‑off event cover vs getting your own policy, why sole traders can be personally liable, how an insurance broker can save time, and the importance of updating cover as your business evolves. Plus, a nudge to review your policy today and a heartfelt shout‑out for this weeks Creative Business Spotlight. Creative Business Spotlight: Elia Balms and Blends Website: https://eliabalmsandblends.com.au/  Instagram: @eliabalmsandblends Facebook: Elia Balms and Blends

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin chats with Perth-based bridal designer Sally of Sally Victoria Couture. From market stalls to her first custom wedding gown, Sally shares how a love of beading, corsetry and craftsmanship evolved into a couture brand built for modern brides—and a business designed to flex around life as a mum. We cover her rebrand to a more scalable, sale-ready identity, why she keeps production in-house for quality and uniqueness, and how she’s expanding with virtual appointments for East Coast brides. Sally lifts the veil on her process—sketch-to-toile-to-final with six to seven fittings and total transparency—plus the systems that keep creativity and business in balance, from time-blocking to carving out protected “play” time. She talks pricing and worth, defining her ideal client avatar, finding the right mentors, and the pinch-me moment of seeing her gowns on the Brownlow red carpet.   Connect with our guest! Find Sally Victoria Couture: Website: https://www.sallyvictoriacouture.com/  Instagram: @sallyvictoriacouture Facebook: @sallyvictoriacouture Creative Business Spotlight: Curated by Georgie Portfolio: Curated by Georgie Instagram: @curated.by.georgie TikTok:  @curated.by.georgie

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, we’re getting real about market stalls. Erin and Ronnie share what actually works — from telling your own audience you’ll be there (don’t just rely on the organiser) to packing smart with a labelled setup and a trusty Market Go Box. Think battery pack and cables, your card reader plus bank details if tap-and-go fails, a mini first-aid kit and weather gear. They even suggest a full test run at home: tape out your stall size, build it once, and pack in the order you’ll set up. Then it’s all about making your stall do the selling. Add height so people can see over the crowd, keep it clutter-free, style to your brand and make pricing obvious. Sort your lighting — aim for consistent daylight-style and watch those blue gazebos — and plan a layout that flows. Set a clear point of sale, group products sensibly, and keep small high-value items (like jewellery) close and secure. And remember, you’re part of the display. Dress on-brand, stand up, smile and say hi — don’t hide on your phone! Pack a change of clothes, deodorant and comfy, supportive shoes. Look after yourself: water, sunscreen, snack breaks, and tag in a mate or stall neighbour when you need five. Jot quick notes throughout the day so you know what to tweak next time. Don't forget to share your stall pics and tips with our community on social media!   Download our Market Go Box Checklist here.   Creative Business Spotlight: Zeezbeez Website: https://www.zeezbeez.com/   Instagram: @zeezbeez.honey Facebook:  @zeezbeezroleystone

In this episode of the Creative Business Community podcast, Erin chats with artist and workshop leader Emilie Otto, owner of Perth’s House of Hobby. Emilie shares how she went from graphic design to illustration to lounge-room workshops — and then took she the leap to buy an existing business during COVID. Emilie unpacks the pros and cons of stepping into someone else’s setup, why she moved from a mobile model to a dedicated studio to control the customer experience, and how she balances subcontracted creatives with in-house staff. You’ll hear candid lessons on innovating at the pace of social media, testing new offers (including flops), leading with clear, visual training, and handling feedback without taking it to heart. Emilie also reveals the power of a razor-sharp customer persona, the realities of rising costs, what to outsource first (hello, insurance broker), and the joy of building creative community. Tune in for practical, heartfelt insights you can apply to your own creative business. Connect with our guest! Find House of Hobby: Website: https://www.houseofhobby.net/  Instagram: @houseofhobbyau Facebook: House of Hobby TikTok: @houseofhobby Connect with our guest! Find Emilie Otto Art: Website: https://emilieotto.com.au/ Instagram: @emilieottoart Facebook: Emilie Otto Art YouTube: Emilie Otto Art Creative Business Spotlight: The Potters Market Website: https://thepottersmarket.com.au/  Instagram: @the.potters.market Facebook:  The Potters Market

Erin, Renee and Kyah break down how Gen Z behaves online and what that means for creative businesses. Get practical tactics to reach younger audiences while staying authentic.   This week on the Creative Business Community podcast, Erin is joined by Renee and our resident Gen Z voice, Kyah, to unpack how younger audiences actually show up online—and what that means for your creative business. We dive into platform habits (why Gen Z often prefers Instagram Reels over TikTok, how Facebook fits, and where YouTube sits), why short‑form video and fast hooks matter, and how to reach Gen Z without chasing every trend. Expect practical tips on storytelling that feels human, building trust through in‑person community, and why email marketing still punches well above its weight. We talk owning mistakes (and why that grows loyalty), what the algorithm really rewards, and where AI can help—or hurt—your brand’s authenticity. Plus, we explore generational differences in creative practice and how to keep your content fresh without losing your voice.  Creative Business Spotlight: Common Ground Collective. You can find them on: Instagram: @cmmngrnd Facebook: @cmmngrnd Website: https://commongroundcollective.com.au/   

Work–life balance is a myth for many creative small business owners; here’s how to build a realistic work–life blend. Erin and Ronnie share straightforward tactics for boundaries, time, support and mental health. This week on the Creative Business Community podcast, Erin and Ronnie unpack the myth of work–life balance and lean into a healthier work–life blend for creatives, parents and anyone juggling a small business with, well, life. Erin shares how her routine has evolved over a decade in business—from late-night office stints and firm school-hours boundaries to bringing in help, weathering COVID, then navigating burnout and chronic illness. They speak candidly about privilege and support networks, and offer practical strategies if you’re flying solo: get clear on your why, set boundaries clients respect, track and audit your time, create simple switch-off rituals, and build a personal support crew. You’ll hear how to communicate at home (do you need solutions or space to vent?), involve your kids in decisions, and why you truly can’t pour from an empty cup.    Creative Business Spotlight: Suk Workwear. You can find them on: Instagram: @sukworksear Facebook: @sukworkwear Website: https://sukworkwear.com.au/ 

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, hosts Erin Madeley and Ronnie Motroni chat about the powerful link between creativity and mental health. In a world of fast-paced living and doom scrolling, we explore how making with your hands slows you down, boosts dopamine, lowers stress, and helps you drop into that restorative “flow” state. From pottery, knitting and scrapbooking to makeup, gardening, cooking, Lego and even rearranging your furniture, they unpack why creativity is for everyone—not just “arty” types—and why the process matters far more than a perfect end result. You’ll hear: Practical ways to swap your phone for a short, creative moment How boredom and repetition build neuroplasticity and better problem-solving Gentle permission to start small, not finish every project, and keep some things just for you Tips on finding community—DIY craft clubs, workshops, online groups Budget-friendly supplies from op shops and Kmart Personal stories of burnout, recovery and using creativity as a genuine antidote to stress Tune in for science-backed insights, real talk and easy habits to help you feel calmer, more present and more inspired—one small creative act at a time.   TED Talk on How Boredom Can Lead to Your Most Brilliant Ideas with Manoush Zomorodi: https://youtu.be/c73Q8oQmwzo?si=lbkM-oGkois-w975  This week's Creative Business Spotlight: Fremantle Pottery Instagram: @fremantlepottery Stocked at Common Ground Collective in Fremantle

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin sits down with Tracey, founder of Margaret River Made — a natural skincare and haircare brand born in Margaret River and now based in Perth. Tracey shares how a love of plants, sustainability and wellness took her from soap-making to salon-quality shampoo and conditioner bars, including a chemo-friendly formula created for a friend, and an anti-dandruff bar that transformed her own scalp health. We dive into what it takes to build a values-led brand: choosing effective, nature-inspired ingredients, why pH matters for skin and scalp, proteins that protect colour (hello, quinoa), and the blend of botanicals and green chemistry behind her products. Tracey opens up about navigating her husband’s life-changing accident, scaling production without losing soul, and the moment she stepped away from wholesale to obsess over an exceptional direct-to-customer experience. Expect candid lessons on branding, markets, websites, team-building, and the number-one rule: don’t give up. By the end, you’ll have practical, no-fluff takeaways on choosing smarter ingredients, protecting coloured hair with bars, simplifying sustainable packaging, and crafting an unboxing experience that keeps customers coming back. If you’re keen to build a values-first brand without burning out, this one’s for you. Press play and let’s dive in. Tracey's Favourites: Anti Dandruff Shampoo Bar Maya Perfume Hyaluronic Acid & Kiwi Seed Face Cream Creative Business Spotlight: The Mulberry Pig. You can find them on: Instagram: @the_mulberry_pig Facebook: @mulberry_pig Website: https://themulberrypig.com/ 

This week on the Creative Business Community podcast, we’re diving into how to talk about what you do—with confidence, not arrogance. Struggle to answer “So, what do you do?” without cringing? This episode gives practical ways to talk about your creative business with confidence—without tipping into arrogance. If you’ve ever stumbled over “So, what do you do?”, felt the pinch of imposter syndrome or Tall Poppy culture, or downplayed your creative work as “just a hobby”, this one’s for you. Erin and Ronnie share simple tips for accepting compliments, a practical way to build your elevator pitch, and tips for tailoring your answer to different audiences — whether you’re at a market, a meeting or a networking event. We also unpack how to show up online authentically (face, voice or even just hands), why sharing wins — big and small — matters, and where to draw the line between honest transparency and oversharing. You’ll hear real-world examples, mindset reframes, and confidence boosters that help you take up space without feeling salesy. Tune in for permission to own your expertise—and the tools to talk about it with ease.   Mentioned in the show:  Drew Awfualo: Instagram: @drewafualo Natterdoodle: Instagram: @natterdoodles Creative Business Spotlight: Jotterbook Flowers. You can find them on: Instagram: @jotterbookflowers Facebook: @jotterbookflowers Website: https://www.jotterbookflowers.com/ 

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin is joined by Renee and intern-turned-team-member Kyah to explore how internships can supercharge creative businesses. We dive into mentoring styles that spark confidence and creativity, the real-world pace of marketing beyond uni, and smart ways to use AI without sounding robotic. You’ll hear how the team tackles newsletter fatigue, brainstorms better ideas, and leverages cross‑generational perspectives to reach younger audiences (hello, student happy hour). We unpack practical steps for hosting interns ethically and effectively, from setting clear objectives to building portfolios, plus why going through universities can make placements smoother. Kyah shares her biggest takeaways, what’s next as she heads into advertising design, and a sunny shout‑out to small business Salty Dunes. Tune in for actionable advice on mentoring, marketing and making the most of internships in a creative business. Creative Business Spotlight: Salty Dunes. You can find them on: Instagram: @salty.dunes Facebook: @salty.dunes Website: https://saltydunes.com.au/ 

In this episode, Erin Madeley sits down with Perth photographer and educator Tanita Seton who shares how she built a people-first creative business and why she’s leaning into smartphone photography. After returning to study at TAFE and earning her Advanced Diploma, Tanita has built a career capturing women in business and wellness retreats — before following her gut into teaching photography, especially smartphone skills. She shares what it’s really like to shoot branding sessions versus retreats (think “silent ninja”), how COVID derailed travel and nudged her towards workshops and online delivery, and the milestones that kept her going. Expect candid lessons on resilience and mental health in business, selling through relationships, tuning out the noise, and practical tips like showing your face in your marketing and asking for better testimonials. Plus, Tanita’s dream collab (smartphone photo travel tours, anyone?) and a Creative Spotlight to wrap things up.   Connect with our guest! Find Tanita Seton: Website: https://www.tanitasetonphotography.com.au/  Instagram: @tanita_seton_photography Facebook: @tanitasetonphotography Creative Business Spotlight: Spaniels & Co. You can find them on: Instagram: @spaniels_and_co._craft Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/SpanielsAndCo 

This week on the Creative Business Community podcast, Erin and Ronnie are joined by Renee, MarketLife’s marketing and PR coordinator, to unpack what branding really is—and why it’s far more than a logo and a colour palette.  Branding is more than a logo — it’s how your business makes people feel. Erin, Ronnie and Renee break down practical steps to sharpen your brand and stand out online and at markets. Together they explore the pillars of powerful branding for creative small businesses: getting crystal clear on your values and writing them down, knowing your audience and speaking directly to them, and choosing trends that genuinely align with your brand identity (yep, even when the internet goes all-in on Taylor Swift). They talk about showing up consistently across every touchpoint—from your stall display and packaging to fonts, colours, captions and customer interactions—and why repetition is essential for recognition. You’ll also hear a practical take on when AI helps and when it hurts, how to handle pop culture and political moments through a brand lens, and why searchability, legibility and simple naming conventions matter more than you think. Creative Business Spotlight: Solyte Website: https://www.solyte.com.au/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Solyte-61572628515969/  Instagram: @solyte__

This episode breaks down the real value of handmade — for you, your community and the planet. We share quick examples, clear benefits and simple actions you can take today. This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin and Ronnie dive into the handmade difference—why choosing handmade matters for your home, your community and the planet. Kicking off with a sneaky bowl buy and the hunt for the perfect mug, they unpack the emotional stories behind objects, the beauty of the human touch, the local economic ripple effect, and the sustainability wins of buying close to home. They chat markets and maker co-ops, heirloom-quality pieces that outlast fast everything, and practical ways to nurture creativity—think kids’ screen-free making, 3D-printed “Rocktopus” side hustles, and finding calm through craft. Stick around for simple actions you can take this week: visit a local market, buy handmade, share and tag your makers, and carve out 15 minutes to make something yourself—even if it’s just a quick doodle. Mentioned in the Podcast: Fremantle Pottery Xanthe Caesia Pottery Creative Business Spotlight: Tina Scott Collections. You can find them on: Instagram: @tinascottcollections Facebook: @TinaScottCollectionsJewellery Website: https://www.tinascottcollections.com/ 

*Content warning* There is mention of a placenta during this episode as part of an exhibition.  This week on the Creative Business Community podcast, Erin sits down with multi-creative Jana Braddock — visual artist, jewellery maker and Senior Curator at Goolugatup Heathcote. From a small country town in SA to the helm of one of Perth’s most vibrant contemporary art galleries, Jana shares how she carved a career in the arts, the moment she walked away from a comfortable teaching job, and the path that led her into a curating career. You’ll hear her no-nonsense advice on balancing a full-time role with a creative practice — why you need to create even when you’re tired — plus practical ways to embed yourself in the arts community, find mentors, and choose collaboration over competition. Jana takes us behind the scenes of contemporary installs (including the wildest piece they’ve ever shown), spotlights November’s trio of exhibitions at Goolugatup (including Tilt with Jessee Lee-Johns, a solo by Jess Day and a collaboration between Paul Boye and Ella Valentine), and opens up about her own silversmithing — from stocking local gallery shops to turning holidays into hands-on learning opportunities with makers abroad. Connect with our guest! Find Jana Braddock: Website: https://www.janabraddock.com/ Instagram: @janabraddock Volasa Wearable Art Instagram: @volasawearableart Businesses and artists mentioned in the podcast (in no particular order): Jess Day: https://www.jessday.net/about  Jessee Lee Johns: http://www.jesseeleejohns.com.au/  Paul Boye: https://www.goolugatup.com/staff/paul-boye  Ella Valentine: https://ella-valentine.github.io/  Midland Junction Arts Centre: https://www.midlandjunctionartscentre.com.au/  Fremantle Arts Centre: https://wfac.org.au/  Mundaring Arts Centre: https://www.mundaringartscentre.com.au/  Third Hand Studio: https://www.goolugatup.com/tenants/third-hand-jewellery-studio  Curtis Taylor: https://www.goolugatup.com/exhibitions/curtis-taylor  Kate Sale: https://katesalejewellery.com/    Creative Business Spotlight: Goolugatup Heathcote. You can find them on: Instagram: @goolugatupheathcote Facebook: @GoolugatupHeathcote Website: https://www.goolugatup.com/ 

Practical cheat codes for creative small businesses. Erin Madeley and co-host Ronnie share the habits, tools, and systems that keep things running smoothly—without burnout or bloat. Daily creative reset to prevent burnout (and what to do when your hobby becomes your job). People-first operations: genuine check-ins, fair pay, zero tolerance for bad behavior, and simple community hubs (Facebook groups, mailing lists) that build loyalty. Tools that punch above their price: Monday.com for documented workflows and Loomley for affordable social scheduling. Loyalty without discounts: transparency, fast comms, and a frictionless customer journey (mobile-first site, minimal pop-ups, visible email, easy checkout). Time and decision frameworks: canned replies/templates, smart automation, values-led outsourcing, start-before-perfect, accountability, and a living business plan. Creative Business Spotlight: Confetti Rebels—bold tees, bigger mission, unapologetically empowering. You can find them on: Instagram: @confetti_rebels Facebook: @confettirebelsstore TikTok: @confetti_rebels Website: https://confettirebels.com.au/ 

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, Erin welcomes Amy, the candle maker and workshop host behind Cherry Blossom Candle & Co. Amy shares how a tough season with postpartum depression led her to candle making, and how she pivoted from selling products at markets to creating intimate, mindful workshops that prioritise connection, calm and community. We dive into navigating anxiety and self-doubt, setting boundaries and embracing self-care, plus practical tips on selling experiences, showing up authentically on socials, listening to feedback and leveraging platforms like ClassBento. You’ll also hear how one raw, unplanned moment became a turning point for her business, and why smaller, lounge-room-style classes are her secret sauce.  Mentioned during the podcast: Class Bento: https://classbento.com.au/  House of Hobby: https://www.houseofhobby.net/  Find Cherrie Blossom Candle & Co:  Website: https://cbcandco.my.canva.site/ Class Bento: https://www.facebook.com/cherrieblossomcandleandco/  Facebook: @cherrieblossomcandleandco Instagram: @cherrieblossomcandleandco    Creative Business Spotlight: Kreations by Kerry Website: https://kreationsbykerry.com/ Facebook: @kreationsbykerryd Instagram: @kreationsbykerry Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/KreationsbyKerryShop   

If you’re a creative‑entrepreneur who feels overwhelmed by social media, this episode is for you. Erin Madeley and social‑media expert Ronnie break down a simple, four‑hour‑a‑week plan that anyone can follow. What you’ll learn in minutes: Pick just two platforms: choose the ones where your audience hangs out (Instagram for most, TikTok for younger folks, Facebook for older shoppers).   Post twice a week: one Reel to attract new people, one carousel/post to keep current followers engaged.   Hook your Reel fast: grab attention in the first 3 seconds with a visual or a quick line.   Do a daily story: 5‑minute raw, behind‑the‑scenes clip that boosts clicks and conversation.   Spend 10 minutes a day engaging: like, comment, and scroll on other accounts to show the algorithm you’re a real person.   Use smart captions & locations: write SEO‑friendly text instead of loading up on hashtags, and tag your city or market.   Batch & schedule: two hours each week can create a month’s worth of content using Instagram’s built‑in scheduler or Meta Business tools. Grab a coffee, get comfortable, and learn how to turn a few hours each week into a social‑media engine that grows your creative business. Let’s dive in!

Welcome to the very first episode of the Creative Business Community Podcast! Meet your hosts, learn what we are all about and join us to help grow your creative business. Erin  and Ronnie kick off the inaugural episode of the Creative Business Community (CBC) Podcast, explaining why they’re passionate about helping makers, designers, artists and small‑business owners thrive. Erin recounts almost ten years of running her business, consulting under the Erin Madeley banner, buying Perth Upmarket and re‑branding the consultancy to MarketLife. Ronnie shares her shift from a decade‑long legal career to market‑staff work, scrapbooking, Instagram growth and now a working in the social‑media and content‑creation role of MarketLife.   Both agree that many creatives launch products without the essential business know‑how. They have the passion and the product, but lack the fundamentals of finance, marketing and systems. CBC will plug that gap with weekly topics such as SEO optimisation, Instagram Reels, and website building, plus in‑person workshops, recorded sessions, downloadable guides and a podcast that doubles as blog content to help creatives thrive.   They also flag the unique challenges of mixing friendship, family and work, stressing the need for clear boundaries while championing a “community‑over‑competition” ethos. CBC aims to create a supportive hub where creative entrepreneurs can learn, collaborate and build financially viable ventures. Join them on the Creative Business Community Podcast Journey!   This week's Creative Business Shoutout is Spectrum Hair by Lexi! You can find them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spectrum_hair_by_lexi/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094431018937