The Creative Business Community Podcast

Finding a Creative Community

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 SwapInstagram: @perthclothesswap

In Conversation with Rosie Button of Fremantle Pottery

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 ShackletonInstagram: @chershackletonFacebook: Cher Shackleton
Connect with our guest! Find Rosie - Fremantle Pottery:Instagram: @fremantlepotteryrosie
Creative Business Spotlight:
Michelle Fleur ArtistWebsite: https://www.michellefleur.com/ Instagram: @michellefleurartistFacebook: Michelle Fleur ArtistYouTube: Michelle Fleur Artist

The Unsexy Essential: Protecting Your Small Business

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 BlendsWebsite: https://eliabalmsandblends.com.au/ Instagram: @eliabalmsandblendsFacebook: Elia Balms and Blends

In Conversation with Sally Victoria Couture

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: @sallyvictoriacoutureFacebook: @sallyvictoriacouture
Creative Business Spotlight:
Curated by GeorgiePortfolio: Curated by GeorgieInstagram: @curated.by.georgieTikTok:  @curated.by.georgie

Setting Up Your Market Stall for Success

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: ZeezbeezWebsite: https://www.zeezbeez.com/  Instagram: @zeezbeez.honeyFacebook:  @zeezbeezroleystone

From Studio to Community: House of Hobby’s Journey

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: @houseofhobbyauFacebook: House of HobbyTikTok: @houseofhobby
Connect with our guest! Find Emilie Otto Art:Website: https://emilieotto.com.au/Instagram: @emilieottoartFacebook: Emilie Otto ArtYouTube: Emilie Otto ArtCreative Business Spotlight:
The Potters MarketWebsite: https://thepottersmarket.com.au/ Instagram: @the.potters.marketFacebook:  The Potters Market

From Markets to TikTok: Reaching the Next Gen

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: @cmmngrndFacebook: @cmmngrndWebsite: https://commongroundcollective.com.au/ 
 

Beyond Balance: Building a Work - Life Blend

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: @sukworksearFacebook: @sukworkwearWebsite: https://sukworkwear.com.au/ 

Community, Craft, and Mental Health

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 PotteryInstagram: @fremantlepotteryStocked at Common Ground Collective in Fremantle

Shampoo Bars With Heart: Building Margaret River Made

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 BarMaya PerfumeHyaluronic Acid & Kiwi Seed Face Cream
Creative Business Spotlight: The Mulberry Pig. You can find them on:
Instagram: @the_mulberry_pigFacebook: @mulberry_pigWebsite: https://themulberrypig.com/