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The Common Creative - But Never Ordinary A podcast series with Paul Fairweather and Chris MeredithThe worlds of business, home and play are all starved of creativity. From an early age, we’re taught how to analyse, critique and simplify but the tools for exploring, ideating and creating are assumed to be instinctive. The Common Creative is all about bringing creativity back into everyday life - understanding the essence of creativity and making creativity a common as a loaf of bread and as well understood as a common language.Hosts Paul Fairweather and Chris Meredith are both creative thought-leaders and have been bonded by a common passion for creating and sharing something new and inspiring every day. Paul paints a watercolour of the household object and posts the image on IG “@everythink”, Chris photographs the same beach each and every day and posts the image on IG “@thisisbalmoral”By day, Paul Fairweather is a Brisbane-based, speaker, author, mentor, architect and artist. Chris Meredith is a Sydney-based, business coach, innovation consultant, and award-winning photo-artist.Each podcast explores a different aspect of creativity. Recent topics have included: Energy, Time, Constraints and even the Impact of Covid-19 (why not?!) The podcasts are ideal for anyone looking to get out of a rut and deliver stuff that goes beyond the norm.Join us for our conversations and surprising guests to unlock your own creativity. https://thecommoncreative.co/ https://www.paulfairweather.com/ https://chrismeredith.com.au/

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Check latest episodes from The Common Creative podcast

Episode 211: Paul & Chris - Creative Pause

2026/09/07

After 210 episodes and six years of conversations, Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather are pressing pause on The Common Creative. In this reflective episode, they look back on what the podcast has taught them from the power of creative conversations and storytelling to the chemistry that has shaped the show over the years. But this isn’t a farewell it’s a reset. Chris and Paul explore what might come next, including sharper questions, new seasons, fresh formats and potential partnerships. It’s a conversation about knowing when to pause, making space for new ideas, and allowing creativity to evolve.

S9E210: Episode 210: Paul & Chris - Creative Risk

2026/08/18

Chris Meredith and Paul Fairweather spend this episode unpacking risk as a core part of the creative process. It is a conversational, unscripted exchange about why making art, sharing work, and moving beyond a safe formula all involve vulnerability, judgment, and the possibility of rejection.Chris and Paul discuss how risk shows up differently for artists and commercial creatives, using examples from painting, exhibitions, and the careers of artists like Ken Done, Rothko, and Van Gogh. LINKS: Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E209: Episode 209: Stacy Hall - Make Creative

2026/08/11

In this episode, Chris and Paul are joined by Stacy Hall, founder of MAKE and Promosapien, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, creativity, and building businesses that people genuinely connect with. Stacey shares how an unexpected start at a struggling clothing manufacturer became her first real business education, eventually leading her to launch Vancouver’s first retail embroidery store and grow it into two successful brands. Along the way, she discovered the power of creating memorable customer experiences, collaborating with artists, and turning creativity into a practical business advantage. Whether you're an entrepreneur, retailer, creative professional, or simply curious about building brands people love, this episode is packed with insights on innovation, customer experience, and the many ways creativity can drive business success. LINKS: Stacy Hall - Special Guest LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-hall-445b524/ Websites : Promosapien Promo Inc. - www.promosapien.ca Make - www.makevancouver.com Ole Originals - www.oleoriginals.com Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E208: Episode 208: Paul and Chris - The Art of Leadership

2026/07/16

In this episode, Paul and Chris challenge traditional command-and-control leadership and explore how clear direction, intentional boundaries and creative freedom can help teams do their best work. They unpack the concept of the “three scripts” fully scripted, ad-lib and improv and how leaders can use each approach to balance structure with creativity. They also explore decision-making, the power of constraints, the “seed model” for developing ideas, and the role of leaders in turning chaos into clarity. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur or creative professional, this episode offers a fresh perspective on leading with curiosity, confidence and the courage to make decisive choices in an ever-changing world. Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E207: Episode 207: Graham Bligh - The Art of a Creative Life

2026/07/09

What does it mean to stay creative for life? At 93, retired architect Graham Bligh proves that curiosity, creativity, and connection don't have an expiry date. From designing iconic buildings to embracing art and lifelong learning in retirement, Graham reflects on a remarkable career spanning decades. He shares how staying open to new experiences, nurturing community, and continuing to create has kept his passion alive well into his 90s. Whether you're building a career, exploring a new hobby, or redefining retirement, this conversation is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to learn, create, and make a meaningful impact. Graham Bligh - Special Guest Documentation - https://youtu.be/WVtYdncKda4 Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E206: Episode 206 - Shantanu Starick - Creative Trade

2026/07/02

In this episode, Paul and Chris speak with architectural photographer Shantanu Starick about his remarkable Pixel Trade journey, where he travelled the world for over three years without spending money, exchanging photography for food, accommodation, and transport instead. Shantanu shares how trading creativity for human connection transformed his understanding of value, community, and success. Discover why relying solely on money can limit creative fulfilment, and how relationships, trust, and reciprocity can unlock entirely new ways of living and working. Shantanu Starick is an architectural photographer and creator of the internationally recognised Pixel Trade project. He works with architecture, design, hospitality, and wellness brands, and is also the creator of Therefore, a book series exploring architecture through photography and conversation. LINKS: Shantanu Starick- Special Guest Website: shantanustarick.com Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E205: Episode 205 - Karen Steenkamp - Constrained Creative

2026/06/26

How do you stay creative within the structure of a large organisation? Karen Steenkamp shares her journey from designer to creative leader, revealing how constraints can inspire innovation, the balance between artistic expression and commercial outcomes, and how authentic creativity drives better business results. Karen is a marketing and creative leader with over 20 years of experience across advertising agencies, financial services, and in-house creative teams in Africa, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. Now leading an in-house agency at one of Australia's Big Four banks, she specialises in combining creativity, strategy, and customer-centred thinking to deliver meaningful business impact. ___________________________________________________________ LINKS: Karen Steenkamp- Special Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-steenkamp-361281171/ Béhance: https://share.google/j6wFcBwWpJcE8BieC Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E204: Episode 204 - Barton Green: Creative Collab

2026/06/19

Unlock Brisbane's creative future with Barton Green, Chair of Brisbane Creative Collab. In this episode, Barton shares how bold ideas, unlikely collaborations, and a passion for the arts can shape a city's identity ahead of the 2032 Olympics. From his early days as a drummer and journalist to becoming a respected communications strategist and board leader, Barton reveals how creativity thrives when business, community, and culture work together. Discover why fostering creativity isn't just good for the arts, it's essential for wellbeing, economic growth, and building a city people are proud to call home. With more than 40 years of executive leadership and communications experience, Barton has served on numerous private, public, and not-for-profit boards. As Chair of Brisbane Creative Collab, he champions a vision of a Brisbane where creativity is embedded in everyday life and celebrated as a catalyst for innovation and community connection. ___________________________________________________________ LINKS: Barton Green - Special Guest LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/barton-green-gaicd-843a6314 Website - www.creativebrisbane.com.au Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E203: Episode 203 - Mitchell Kwanten: Good Vibrations

2026/06/12

Join Chris Meredith as he chats with musician, composer, producer, and choir master Mitchell Kwanten about the transformative power of singing. Together, they explore how music fosters connection, supports mental wellbeing, breaks down barriers, and unlocks creativity in all of us. Mitchell is a Sydney-based multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer who has performed and toured with some of Australia's leading artists, including David Campbell, Shannon Noll, Casey Donovan, and Marcus Corowa. A graduate of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, he is also a member of the band Bow and Arrow and has released several original works, including Triad and 7 Forces. If you've ever felt self-conscious about singing or believed you weren't "musical enough," this episode will inspire you to find your voice and embrace creativity in a whole new way. LINKS: Mitchell Kwanten- Special Guest Website - https://sydneyvocalarts.com/portfolio/mitchell-kwanten/ Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E202: Episode 202 - John Sharpe: Sharpe Creativity

2026/06/05

Discover how John Sharpe (“Sharpey”) turned a passion for art, engineering, and adventure into some of Australia’s most iconic tourism experiences. From the Story Bridge Adventure Climb to Brisbane’s upcoming Flying Fox project, Sharpey shares lessons on creativity, entrepreneurship, navigating challenges, and bringing bold ideas to life. With more than 25 years of experience creating innovative and inclusive adventure attractions, Sharpey reveals how curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty can transform passions into experiences that inspire people of all abilities. John is the founder of several renowned adventure tourism ventures, including the Story Bridge Adventure Climb, Riverlife Adventure Centre, Vertigo, Walkabout Creek Adventures, and Tangalooma Water Sports. A leader in accessible tourism, he continues to develop pioneering experiences that help position Brisbane and Queensland as world-class destinations ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. LINKS: John Sharpe- Special Guest Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/brisbaneflyingfox/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61589836615814 Website - https://www.sharpey.co/ Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E201: Episode 201 - Megan Forward: Patch of Creativity

2026/05/29

Discover how creativity and nature are deeply intertwined and how this connection can shift the way you see the world. In this episode, award-winning author and illustrator Megan Forward shares how observation, storytelling, and visual art can deepen our relationship with the natural environment even in the middle of busy urban life. Beyond children’s books and illustrations, Megan reveals how artistic curiosity can become a powerful tool for understanding, appreciating, and protecting the world around us. Megan Forward is a Brisbane-based author and illustrator of twelve children’s picture books, twice shortlisted for the Children’s Book Council of Australia Awards. With a background in visual arts and education, she creates stories and workshops that connect creativity, science, and nature. Megan is passionate about sustainability education and inspiring young people to explore the natural world through curiosity, play, and artistic expression. This conversation is an invitation to start where you are using creativity as a lens to reconnect with nature, spark curiosity, and inspire meaningful action. LINKS: Megan Forward - Special Guest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meganforwardstudio/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meganforwardstudio/ Website: https://www.meganforwardstudio.com.au/ Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S9E200: Double Century Not Out - 200 shows in review

2026/05/28

Unlock the secret to harnessing your innate creativity, it’s not just for artists or entrepreneurs, it’s for everyone. In this special milestone episode celebrating 200 inspiring shows, hosts Paul and Chris reveal the surprising lessons, stories, and science behind the creative mind that can transform your personal life, career, and wellbeing. Discover how creativity is a powerful form of self-expression, no matter your profession or background. From a young doodler turned successful artist to neuroscientists explaining the brain’s hidden networks, this episode unpacks actionable insights on how to unlock your creative potential whenever you need it most. Learn why rest, curiosity, and playfulness are your secret weapons, and how you can switch your brain into a creative mode on demand. Join us for a lively conversation packed with stories, science, and practical wisdom that will inspire you to see yourself as a creator every day. Essential listening for anyone eager to unlock their potential and bring more joy, innovation, and authenticity into their life. Hit play and start your creative journey today. Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S8E199: Episode 199 - Alex Soojung-Kim Pang: Creative Rest

2026/05/15

Most of us are unknowingly wasting hours each day that could fuel creativity, improve focus, and boost productivity. But what if the secret to achieving more isn’t working harder, it’s learning how to rest better? In this insightful episode, bestselling author and future-of-work expert Alex Soojung-Kim Pang shares how intentional rest can become a powerful tool for creativity, performance, and well-being. Drawing on research from elite athletes, Nobel Prize winners, and high performers, Alex explores how practices like microbreaks, physical activity, deep play, and shorter workweeks can help unlock better thinking and sustainable productivity. This conversation offers practical ways to integrate meaningful rest into everyday life so you can work smarter, think clearer, and feel better. He is the Director of Research and Innovation at 4 Day Week Global and the bestselling author of Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less, Work Less, Do More: Designing the 4-Day Week, Shorter: Work Better, Smarter, and Less Here’s How, and The Distraction Addiction. LINKS: Alex Soojung-Kim Pang - Special Guest Strategy+Rest: www.strategy.rest LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/askpang Twitter and Instagram: @askpang Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S8E198: Episode 198 - Peter Hickson: Creative Accountancy

2026/05/07

Unlocking the secret to blending creativity with everyday life, Peter Hickson's surprising journey from accountant to artist reveals how curiosity, humor, and bold experimentation can transform your world. If you've ever felt stuck in a routine or unsure how to start your creative passion, this episode is your blueprint for unleashing the artist within. Peter Hickson is a former accountant, cattle property owner, and award-winning photographer with deep ties to rural Australia. Born in Sydney and raised partly in the Gulf of Carpentaria, he built an international career with Touche Ross and Price Waterhouse before co-founding accounting firm MHM in 1996, later retiring in 2017 after its acquisition by RSM. He continues to own his family’s cattle property, Melinda Downs, and is passionate about travel, golf, and photography. His acclaimed photographic work has won numerous international and domestic awards, with his current series, Australian Gothic, blending humour, rural Australian landscapes, and a touch of absurdity. LINKS: Peter Hickson - Special Guest Instagram: @peterhicksonphotographer Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S8E197: Episode 197 - Mark Jones: Creativity for Excellence, Happiness and Profit

2026/05/01

In this episode, Paul sits down with , retired architect, author, and educator, Mark Jones to explore the connection between creativity, happiness, and profitability. Drawing from decades of experience and extensive interviews with architects, Mark shares how principles like simplicity, opportunity recognition, and design thinking can improve both business performance and personal fulfilment. Dr. Mark Jones LFRAIA is an Australian architect whose career spans more than 35 years across professional practice, leadership, and academia. He founded Mark Jones Architects, later served as Director at , and has held key roles within the , including Queensland Chapter President. Awarded Life Fellowship in 2023, Mark also holds Masters degrees in Management, Business, and Sustainable Urban Development from , as well as a PhD from . He is currently an Honorary Associate Professor at. LINKS: Mark Jones - Special Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-jones-lfraia-63073746/ Website: https://www.markjonesarchitect.au/ Avail his book here: https://www.andalsobooks.com/#/success-in-architectural-practice-forthcoming/ Paul Fairweather - Co-host https://www.paulfairweather.com Chris Meredith - Co-host https://www.chrismeredith.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Podcast reviews

Read The Common Creative podcast reviews

5 out of 5

3 reviews

★★★★★

DG10000 2022/08/29

Enjoyed the Podcast

I loved the interview with Kristina Snyder and looking forward to listening to your other episodes!

★★★★★

AClimer 2021/05/10

Great conversations about creativity!

Paul and Chris are great interviewers. I enjoy the conversations they host about creativity and leadership. I get new ideas when I listen and that’s a...

★★★★★

Business RPG 2021/04/12

Amazing premise

Great show and concept, it’s full of mentors that pursued the creative life over the corporate. Very helpful and encouraging.

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