The Common Creative

In this special episode of The Common Creative podcast, Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith celebrate Australia Creativity Day 2024, emphasising the importance of creativity in everyday life. Paul and Chris engage in a lively discussion about how businesses and individuals can benefit from fostering a creative mindset to navigate the rapidly changing world. The conversation touches on various themes such as the human connection needed for innovation, the paradox between interpersonal interactions and digital engagements, and the importance of embracing both AI technology and nature to fuel creative thinking. As they work on writing a book encapsulating their learnings from over 100 podcast episodes, Paul and Chris highlight that creativity isn’t just found in designated spaces or days—it is a ubiquitous aspect of the human experience that thrives on connectivity and collaboration. Through a live creative exercise, the Paul and Chris illustrate that spontaneous creativity can be simple, yet profound, suggesting a challenge for listeners to connect and create with others through a 'blind contour drawing'. This episode is not only a celebration but also serves as a reminder of the power and need for creativity in the modern world. Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this caffeine-loaded episode of The Common Creative podcast, hosts Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather explore the stimulating connection between caffeine and creativity with guest Dean Merlo, the founder of Merlo Coffee. The discussion brews with insights into the impact of coffee culture on business innovation and how simple changes revolutionise consumer experience. Dean shares his journey from the practice of law to pioneering café culture in Australia, highlighting the importance of staying ahead of the crowd, As a young man, Dean spent some time in California and was inspired by the quality of the American service model. With restaurants well and truly in his genes, he followed the footsteps of both his father and grandparents and launched his first coffee shop on Queen Street. A little while later, frustrated with the quality of coffee he was sourcing, he decided to give roasting his own a crack. The rest, as they say, is history. LINKS: Dean Merlo- Special Guests Instagram  - http://www.instagram.com/merlocoffee Facebook  - http://www.facebook.com/merlocoffee YouTube    -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQycAuGuuwBJtpfnMqpIBXA Website     - https://www.merlo.com.au/ Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week’s episode, Scott Andrew James is a multifaceted creative located in Austin, Texas, who operates in the dual roles of a book coach and a roving poet. Scott found his true calling in the world of words. He ultimately discovered his passion for creating interactive, co-creative poetry. Using his grandfather's 1946 Smith Corona typewriter,  Scott's creative journey began with an unconventional path as he chose the wilderness over the classroom. Eventually settling in Austin, Texas, his passion for poetry took an interactive turn when he began composing personalised poetry at events. Scott's technique of tapping into his intuitive creativity raises intriguing questions about the spaces where technology aids and hinders the creative process. The episode culminates with a remarkable live demonstration of Scott's typewriting skills, prompting reflections on the importance of preparing mentally and physically to harness creativity. LINKS: Scott Andrew James - Special Guests Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/scottandrewjames/ LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottajames/ Website - https://www.scottandrewjames.com/                 https://scottjamesconsulting.com/             The episode with the Neuroscientist who studies intuition is. The episodes on Mindwandering and Mindwondering Roger Beaty on the 3 networks Sunni Brown’s TED Talk  Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World Story Telling Day was originally created in Sweden to encourage people to tell stories and build better connections. This year’s theme “Building Bridges” seems particularly poignant. In this snippet, Paul and Chris celebrate World Story Telling Day 2024 with a conversation about the history of the event, the role of story telling in bringing people together and a review of some of the episodes of The Common Creative with particular powerful story tellers. Neal Ford (episode 83), James Hegarty (episode 99),  Gavin Blake (episode 94), Brock Swinton (episode 96), Professor Uri Hassen (episode 56), Rachel Barnard (episode 72) and Miranda West (episode 104) are all discussed. Themes such as the importance of ensuring that stories have a message inside them, painting pictures in the mind, keeping a sense of humour and being brutal with editing are all brought to life. Jump in to join the World Story Telling Day vibe! LINKS Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“When you first see a new idea [for a book cover], don’t judge it immediately. Instead,sleep on it and let it mull” “It really helps to trust great creatives - they  need the space to do their best work” “A real, printed book avoids information overload. It is a one-to-one connection with the author” Our guest this week is Miranda West, the visionary founder and publisher behind The Do Book Co., an independent publishing venture established in 2013 in partnership with The DO Lectures.The Do Book Co. stands out for its exceptional commitment to empowering creative entrepreneurs, makers, and Doers to work smarter and effect positive change.  With an impressive background in the industry, including a tenure at Penguin Random House, Miranda took the leap to establish The Do Book Co - a business that aligns with her vision of creating books that are tools for personal growth and societal transformation. Join us as we delve into Miranda's journey, her passion for the power of the printed word and the remarkable impact of The Do Books in catalysing positive change.  LINKS: Miranda West - Special Guests Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dobookco/ LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/miranda-west-6aa0b231/ Website - https://thedobook.co/ Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Roger Dennis is a seasoned expert in the art of “foresight” - guiding leaders beyond conventional strategic planning and short time frames. Drawing from his academic background in psychology and zoology, Dennis offers a distinct perspective on long-term trends and their impacts on businesses and society. Renowned for his skill in crafting powerful narratives, he helps business leaders to think beyond the near-term and prepare for the possibilities ahead. Dennis consults with top-tier companies on future strategies, distinguishing himself as an expert in foresight rather than a traditional futurist. Leveraging insights from psychology and zoology, he employs a diverse toolkit to assist businesses in anticipating what lies ahead. Tune in now to gain valuable insights from Roger Dennis on topics such as AI, idea viruses, and navigating the complexities of tomorrow. LINKS: Roger Dennis- Special Guests LinkedIn -  linkedin.com/in/rogerdennis Website -  http://www.dennis.partners/ Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Common Creative with Dan Golden and Jen Huh. Dan Golden and Jen Huh are a dynamic creative duo known for their playful and humorous design approach. Dan's expertise in design and rug collections merges seamlessly with Jen's background in poetry and photography, resulting in their unique brand, "U ME U," offering cozy throws infused with creativity. Join us as Dan and Jen share their journey from New York's design scene to their collaborative ventures. Discover how their latest project, "U ME U," embodies their ethos of blending creativity with humour and simplicity. Tune in now for insights into their creative process. LINKS: Dan Golden & Jen Huh - Special Guests LinkedIn    Dan Golden - linkedin.com/in/dangoldenstudio   Jen Huh - linkedin.com/in/jenhuh Website -  dangolden.com Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the 101st episode of The Common Creative podcast!  In this week's episode, we sit down with Nick Jaffe, a multifaceted individual who embodies the ethos of not just creative thinking, but also creative execution. With a diverse array of experiences under his belt, Nick has ventured into solo sales across the globe, established successful businesses centered around Canvas and leather products, and delved into philosophical realms of thought. Nick wears many hats - he's a freelance photographer, filmmaker, sailor, overlander, craftsman, and a writer. Currently he is based in Tasmania, Australia and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Victorian College of the Arts. Join us as we explore Nick's fascinating journey and glean insights into his unique approach to creativity and life.  Tune in now! LINKS: Nick Jaffe - Special Guest  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nick_jaffe/                    https://www.instagram.com/kohuttco/                    https://www.instagram.com/thetinlantern/ Twitter  - https://twitter.com/hellojaffe Website -  http://www.nickjaffe.com.au/ Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Work hard and deep focus are the most important things we can do” “You shouldn’t try to be someone else - you have to be you” “I’m a stubborn mule” "The quest isn't becoming less, the quest is how to become more. How do we dial up the crazy shit more?” “Sometimes you're in a part of your life where you're at a crossroads and you have to turn left or right. You just don't know which one.” Welcome to the 100th episode of The Common Creative podcast!  To celebrate, we’re delighted to welcome David Hieatt - a “Creative Jeanius” on a mission to use his entrepreneurial skills to make a positive impact.  After leaving ad agency Saatchi and Saatchi, he built Howies into one of the most influential active sports brands in recent years.  After selling it to Timberland, he co-founded The Do Lectures, voted one of the top ten ideas festivals in the world by The Guardian.  More recently, he started Hiut Denim in his home town of Cardigan in west Wales. A town that used to have Britain's biggest jeans factory. Its purpose is to get 400 people their jobs back.  David has a cult internet following, and has spoken at Apple, Google, Red Bull and many other top companies and conferences. David has written two Do Books, Do Purpose: Why brands with a purpose do better and matter more (2014) and Do Open: How a simple email newsletter can transform your business (and it can) (2017). David first self-published The Path of a Doer in 2010. Ten years on and still as relevant as ever, the book has been reissued by The Do Book Co. Tune in now for insights, inspiration, and a deep dive into the world of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and doing something positive in the world. LINKS: David Hieatt - Special Guest  LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/davidhieatt Twitter - hiutdenim Website -  https://hiutdenim.co.uk Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"If obituaries can't be fun, what's the point of dying?" - James Hagerty  Known to his friends as Bob, James Hagerty has an illustrious career as a staff reporter and editor for The Wall Street Journal spanning over four decades, covering stories across the U.S., Asia, and Europe. James Hagerty is the author of "Yours Truly," a remarkable guide to crafting life stories. This exceptional book has garnered acclaim from prestigious publications such as the New York Times, Washington Post, and, of course, The Wall Street Journal. Currently a freelance writer for The WSJ, James has spent the last seven years crafting nearly 1,000 obituaries.  Get ready to gain powerful and also light-heated insights into the art of storytelling, especially the hardest story of all - your own! LINKS: James R. Hagerty- Special Guest  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-r-bob-hagerty-38371a6/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/JamesRHagerty Book Website - http://yours-truly.jamesrhagerty.com/ Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au Two Common Creatives https://www.twocommoncreatives.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.