Country Creatives

In this episode of Country Creatives, hosts Reece and Aimee sit down with Bendigo-based writer Rachel Nightingale to explore the winding path of her creative career and the release of her upcoming novel Raluana Lane. Rachel shares insights from her early love of storytelling, her shift between academic and creative writing, and the emotional and logistical challenges of authorship. Diving into the process behind her latest historical drama—set during World War II and inspired by true events—Rachel discusses the tension between traditional and self-publishing, the impact of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic on narrative themes, and what it takes to write with heart and historical depth.   Rachel's new book Raluana Lane will be available from July 1st, with a special launch event happening June 29th at the Emporium Creative Hub. Learn more about Rachel HERE

In this solo episode of Country Creatives, host Caleb Maxwell takes a deep dive into one of the most powerful tools in a creative's toolkit: personal branding. Far from being about logos or catchy slogans, Caleb unpacks personal branding as the way others perceive, describe, and ultimately trust you. He shares why being known matters, and how building a brand can open doors to more opportunities, higher impact, and greater pricing power. With thoughtful insights, real-world experiences, and actionable advice, Caleb offers a roadmap for creatives who want to build their personal brand authentically and intentionally. 

In this episode of Country Creatives, hosts Caleb and Reece sit down with returning guest Patrick Thompson to unpack his bold leap from agency life to full-time freelance business owner. After years at Blunt Agency, Patrick shares what it's been like to step into self-employment—navigating the highs, the challenges, and the learning curves of managing both client work and business development. The conversation dives into the nuances between freelancing and running a business, building a sustainable work rhythm, and how to align your professional life with your creative energy. Whether you're thinking about going out on your own or simply curious about what it takes, this episode is full of honest insights and practical advice.

In this mini Country Creatives snippet, hosts Caleb Maxwell and Reece Hendy dive into the kinds of guests and conversations that light them up. They reflect on the types of creatives they're drawn to—philosophical thinkers, bold innovators, and people who've taken unconventional paths in their creative careers. The hosts also extend a warm invitation to listeners: Know someone inspiring? Want to nominate yourself? They're open to guest suggestions from anywhere, not just Bendigo. This short and thoughtful episode is a call-out for meaningful conversations and new connections, with a few hints at exciting future plans—including revisiting favourite past guests and aiming high for new voices. Find the form HERE

In this episode of Country Creatives, hosts Reece Hendy and Caleb Maxwell sit down with the Honourable Colin Brooks, Victoria's Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing and Minister for Creative Industries. The conversation explores how government portfolios are assigned, the fascinating relationship between the creative industries and advanced manufacturing, and Colin's surprising love for contemporary dance. He reflects on the critical importance of equitable access to creative opportunities, especially for people in regional areas and underrepresented communities. Colin also shares insights into current and upcoming government initiatives designed to support creatives across Victoria, offering listeners a rare peek behind the policy curtain. The episode wraps with a lighthearted yes-or-no round that gives us a playful glimpse into the Minister's personality. Whether you're a practicing artist, creative entrepreneur, or policy nerd—this episode is packed with thought-provoking ideas and genuine moments.

In this special mini episode of Country Creatives, recorded live at a late 2024 media event, Aimee catches up with the brilliant Dr. Karen Annett, Director of La Trobe Art Institute in Bendigo. Dr. Annett reflects on the challenges young creatives face when building community and accessing opportunities—especially in regional and smaller towns. She speaks to the importance of networking, mentorship, and accessible exhibition spaces, and the real-world barriers of things like grant writing and industry connection. This insightful conversation dives into the many pathways into a creative career, whether through formal education or self-taught exploration, and why interdisciplinary collaboration is key to the future of creative work. Dr. Annett also highlights the role of institutions like the La Trobe Art Institute in providing both educational and experiential opportunities, helping young creatives pair their passion with practical skills for long-term success. It's a short but powerful conversation about creativity, opportunity, and the future of regional creative industries. Learn about Latrobe Art Institute HERE

In this episode of Country Creatives, hosts Caleb Maxwell and Reece Hendy reflect on their experience at The Wands exhibition by Ben Wrigley, an immersive and collaborative art event held at Bendigo's historic Beehive building. They break down the creative elements that brought the event to life, including Ben's sculptures, Kelly Hartland's aphorisms, Aimee Chapman's sound design, Ivan Sun's documentary screening, and Jason Kerr's ceremonial smoking performance. Beyond the event itself, they explore the power of creative collaboration—how grassroots art projects evolve, the balance between DIY exhibitions and traditional galleries, and the snowball effect of partnerships in scaling creative work. Whether you're an artist, curator, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights on building community-driven projects that leave a lasting impact.

In this episode of Country Creatives, hosts Caleb Maxwell and Reece Hendy sit down with Les Watson, the productivity powerhouse known as the 'Time Lord.' With decades of experience in time management and personal development, Les shares his expert strategies for boosting productivity, overcoming procrastination, and mastering your daily schedule. From getting tasks out of your head and into a trusted system to setting clear goals and managing email overload, this episode is packed with practical tips to help creatives take control of their time. Les also introduces a time management challenge and shares insights from his book, Get Back an Hour in Every Day. If you're looking to work smarter, not harder, this conversation is a must-listen!

In this episode of Country Creatives, Reece and Caleb sit down with Ben Wrigley, a multifaceted creative whose journey is deeply rooted in the arts. From growing up in a creative household to carving out a career in architectural and heritage photography, Ben shares how his perceptive approach has shaped his work. He reflects on moments from his remarkable career, including photographing icons like Bob Hawke and Desmond Tutu, and delves into his passion for sculpture, particularly his latest project, The Wands. Sacred sculpture created from a 100-year-old pine tree, this spiritually and emotionally charged exhibition explores the relationship between material, memory, and transformation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, resilience, and the power of seeing the world through a perceptive lens. For information on The Wands event visit HERE For more about Ben visit HERE

In this episode of Country Creatives, Reece and Caleb sit down with Dan Walsh, a seasoned film industry professional who recently returned from Canada with nearly 20 years of experience. Dan takes us behind the scenes of the camera department, breaking down the intricacies of roles like focus puller and explaining the complex coordination required to bring films and TV shows to life. With an impressive career working on productions for Apple, Amazon, Disney, and Netflix and more, Dan shares captivating stories from the set, the essential soft skills that make a great crew member, and valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers. If you've ever been curious about the inner workings of high-level film production, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss!  

Starting Strong: Creative Planning and Goal-Setting for 2025 Welcome to the 2025 premiere of Country Creatives!

Welcome to the Country Creatives Summer Series! In this encore episode, Caleb and Reece revisit one of their favourite conversations of the year: their book review episode. This thoughtful and inspiring discussion dives into two books that profoundly shaped their creative journeys in 2024. Reece shares his experience with Rick Rubin's The Creative Act: A Way of Being, a philosophical exploration of creativity as an intrinsic part of life. Caleb reflects on Ed Catmull's Creativity, Inc., a practical and insightful guide to balancing creativity and business, drawn from Catmull's experience as co-founder of Pixar. With personal anecdotes and lessons learned, Caleb and Reece unpack how these books have influenced their perspectives as creatives and professionals. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to deepen your creative practice, this episode offers inspiration, practical wisdom, and a few laughs along the way. Tune in, soak up the insights, and enjoy this replay as you kick back this summer!

In this special year-end episode of Country Creatives, hosts Caleb and Reece are joined by their producer, Aimee, for a lively look back at 2024. Together, they reflect on personal and professional highlights, from Aimee's transformative role with the Emporium Creative Hub to Caleb's rollercoaster year with Hebron Films, and Reece's efforts to prioritize focus and meaningful projects. The conversation is packed with insights on overcoming challenges, celebrating wins, and learning from the past year. Plus, the trio gives an exciting glimpse into the podcast's future—think expansion, live recordings, and even TV appearances! Whether you're reflecting on your own year or planning for a creative 2025, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of community, collaboration, and setting bold goals. Tune in and get inspired!

In this episode of Country Creatives, hosts Reece and Caleb sit down with Maree Edwards MP to celebrate the exciting next chapter for Bendigo's Emporium Creative Hub. Following the announcement of La Trobe University as the hub's new governing body, the discussion highlights the government's dedication to creative industries and reflects on the hub's achievements since opening in 2019. Maree shares insights into the role of the hub in fostering regional creativity, the economic value of the creative sector, and the fresh opportunities ahead under La Trobe's leadership. This inspiring conversation showcases the collaborative spirit driving Bendigo's thriving creative community.

In this episode of Country Creatives, hosts Reece and Caleb shake things up with their first-ever live streaming session on YouTube. They dive into the challenges of managing mental load, sparked by Reece's reflections on the limits of juggling tasks in our heads. The conversation explores strategies like externalising tasks, habit stacking, and effective project management to lighten the cognitive load. Along the way, they discuss cultural expectations, the impact of technology on productivity, and the vital role community plays in thriving as a creative. As a bonus, they tease their upcoming guest, productivity expert Les Watson, promising even more insights on working smarter, not harder. Tune in for a mix of practical tips, deep reflections, and an exciting new way to connect with the Country Creatives community.

In this episode of Country Creatives, Aimee sits down with Kerina McIntyre, Coordinator of Heritage Gardens and Amenity Landscapes, to explore her 18-year journey from gardener to overseeing Bendigo's cherished green spaces, including the Botanical Gardens and Rosalind Park. Kerina shares the challenges her team faces in preserving these historical sites, from adapting to environmental changes to managing wildlife, including the fluctuating bat populations in Victoria. Kerina's passion shines through as she emphasises the emotional and community significance of these spaces. She speaks passionately about the importance of simply sitting and listening in nature—not just for its impact on creativity, but for personal wellbeing. With a forward-thinking vision, the conversation dives into sustainable urban planning and the balance between historical preservation and future strategies for ensuring these green spaces thrive for generations to come.

In this fun and insightful episode of Country Creatives, hosts Caleb Maxwell and Reece Hendy embrace spontaneity with some mystery questions for each other, as they dive into the evolution of Hebron Films, the power of community, and the impact their podcast has had so far. They explore core values, balancing digital and real-life experiences, and the opportunities available to creatives in today's world. The conversation touches on breaking the fourth wall with their audience and pursuing purpose beyond financial success. Reflecting on their own journey, Caleb and Reece emphasise the importance of meaningful engagement and encourage listeners to interact and share their feedback.

Join hosts Reece and Caleb, alongside producer Aimee, for an exciting episode of Country Creatives. The discussion centres on Aimee's fascinating project, Sonic Bloom, an innovative sound experience at Rosalind Park in Bendigo. The project captures the essence of the park through field recordings, music, and stories, offering an immersive experience for visitors. Learn about the power of sound in transforming spaces and community engagement, and get insights into Aimee's approach to creative projects, collaboration with various stakeholders, and strategic pitching to large organisations. Discover how Sonic Bloom aligns with the Bloom Festival, offering unique ways for the Bendigo community and tourists to connect with their environment. This conversation is packed with practical tips for creatives on effectively executing multifaceted projects and leveraging community involvement. Click HERE to learn more about Bendigo's Bloom Festival  Click HERE to see more of Aimee's work

In this episode Aimee is at the helm and taking you into the heart of the recent live creative conference event: Conflux Bendigo, where some of the brightest creative minds gathered together to pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities!✨ We listen in to excerpts from two of the presenters Megan Champion and Leah Sertori, uncovering their insights and highlights. If you're ready to get inspired and see what's shaping the future of creativity in our region, this one's for you!

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

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

Reece throws some new podcast concepts into the ring for 2024 plus we dive back into the archives for our final Summer Encore featuring the extraordinary Ben Watts. Hailing from Swan Hill, Victoria, Ben, a Motion FX virtuoso, shares his unparalleled journey crafting cinematic marvels for global giants like Pixar, Disney, Nike, and Playstation. Join Caleb and Reece as they unravel Ben's secrets to building a thriving creative tech career sans formal education. Discover the non-technical skills crucial for success, and brace yourself for a glimpse into the vast opportunities awaiting in the future of motion FX and similar technologies. 

Get ready for a summer encore as we bring back one of our most beloved episodes. Join hosts Caleb and Reece for a thoughtful exploration into the skillful practice of saying "no" and safeguarding your precious "yes." In this encore presentation, Caleb and Reece share candid insights into managing overwhelming commitments by navigating the delicate art of setting boundaries. Drawing from their own experiences, they offer practical advice to help you regain control of your time and focus on what truly matters. Engage in a compelling discussion on the transformative power of vocalizing your thoughts. Discover how embracing the strength of a well-placed "NO" can lead to personal growth and a more fulfilling life. This episode is a gentle reminder that saying "no" is not about limitation but about creating space for the things that align with your values. Join us for a refreshing perspective on the art of saying "no," and empower yourself to make choices that align with your true priorities. Don't miss the encore presentation of this fan-favorite episode—because sometimes, saying "no" is the key to unlocking a more intentional and fulfilling "yes."

Join us for a special summer encore episode as we delve into the vibrant world of creativity with the dynamic minds behind The Imposter Syndrome Club Podcast and the Country Creatives Podcast. Recorded live at the Emporium Creative Hub, this lively discussion brings together Melbourne-based artists Alice Edy and Jessamy Gee alongside our very own hosts, Reece Hendy and Caleb Maxwell. In this engaging exchange, these creative powerhouses navigate the intricate art of balancing multiple creative pursuits while exploring the vulnerability of sharing one's creative endeavors with the world. From juggling diverse creative endeavors to grappling with the self-doubt that often accompanies the creative process, this conversation goes deep into the challenges and triumphs of being a creative soul. Drawing upon their collective experiences and wisdom, Jessamy, Alice, Reece, and Caleb lead an insightful exploration into defining one's creative identity, cultivating meaningful creative work, and forging a path to flourish in an industry where feeling like an imposter is all too common. If you're seeking a boost for your creative spirit, tune in for an invigorating discussion that's sure to ignite your passion and fuel your creative journey.

As one of our most sought-after episodes this year, we're bringing back a game-changing conversation to help all creatives close out 2023 with clarity and step into 2024 with purpose. Join us for a special encore with the incredible Leah Sertori. Have you ever struggled to articulate why you do what you do? Yearned to confidently value your work and charge what it's truly worth? Leah Sertori, an expert in unlocking the potential within, guides Caleb and Reece through the transformative concept of discovering your North Star. In this highly practical episode, Leah unveils strategies to identify your purpose as a creative in business. Discover what truly drives you and gain insights on growing and scaling your creative career while maximizing personal satisfaction. It's time to unlock the keys to your creative journey and set the stage for a successful 2024. Tune in and chart your course toward fulfillment and success!

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.

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. Tune in to this mouthwatering episode as Reece, Caleb, and the inspiring Sonia Anthony uncover the depths of culinary creativity and its transformative power in the world of gastronomy. Prepare to be tantalized, inspired, and left craving for more as they unravel the delicious mysteries behind the scenes at Mason's Restaurant.

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!

In the newest 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.

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!

Join Caleb and Reece on the latest adventure of the Country Creatives podcast as they embark on a journey straight to the heart of crafting the perfect pitch document. In this episode, get ready to dive into the nitty-gritty details of what makes a pitch document truly shine. Caleb and Reece will walk you through it all, using not one, but two real-life examples. Discover the integral components that will make your written presentation stand out, learn how to avoid those pesky potential pitfalls, and pick up some of the best tips in the business. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with the knowledge and know-how to ensure your client pitch is not just good but great, setting you on the path to landing that perfect creative work. Tune in now and get ready to unleash your pitching prowess!

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!

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!

Ever wished you could confidently and with full honesty answer the question ‘why do you do what you do?'  Perhaps you'd like to have the confidence 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.

Join Caleb, Reece, and video production wizard Bailey Cook as they delve into the rapidly growing world of AI. Whether you're an AI enthusiast or trying to avoid it altogether, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how this trio has been integrating AI into their creative processes, learn beginner and advanced tips, and also gain insights into the future of AI in the creative industries.

Business and creativity, not always an instant match made in heaven but with this week's guest Kira Hyde, creative mastermind behind 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 of 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!