In this episode of The Creative Trust Podcast, host Amanda Henderson sits down with architect Clare Cousins and designer Grazia Materia - longtime collaborators and friends whose work challenges the idea that design is a luxury. Together, they explore how trust, friendship and shared values form the backbone of their creative process, and why good design should be thoughtful, utilitarian and accessible to everyone - not just those with the budget for bespoke architecture or high-end furniture.

This conversation moves between the practical and the philosophical: designing when the end user is unknown, advocating for better everyday spaces in Australian suburbs, and the balance between function, longevity and quiet moments of delight. Clare and Grazia remind us that design is about solving problems, improving how we live, and creating things we’d want to use ourselves.

A smart, generous reminder: work with people you like, build with the community around you, and remember - your next great collaboration might already be sitting across the table.

In this energised conversation, Andy Kelly, founder of Oigall Projects, shares how he transformed a neglected corner building on Gertrude Street into a thriving gallery and how the uncertainty of lockdown became the catalyst for action. Andy’s career led him from visual merchandising to becoming the founder of one of Melbourne’s most groundbreaking galleries.

Andy reflects on the power of just beginning, the importance of bringing your audience along for the journey, and why networking isn’t just useful — it’s everything. He opens up about the mentors who shaped him and how he’s developed his own ‘bloodhound’ instinct for sniffing out good creative partnerships.

Andy talks about developing meaningful mentor relationships, trusting your instincts, and leaning into the culture of ‘now’ as a creative force. It’s a refreshing reminder that momentum starts the moment you begin.

Tune in for a conversation filled with honest insights and momentum-building advice for creatives at any stage.

Meet Australia’s pre-eminent Branding and Marketing wizard for creative small businesses. Fiona Killackey is the Founder of My Daily Business, brand building strategist, coach, author and podcaster (with over a million downloads so far!).

Fiona’s new book ‘Business to Brand’ is the complete authority on how to move your brand from transaction to transformation.

Amanda Henderson sits down to conversation filled with Fiona’s practical advice on building a brand, what are the best AI platforms and openly shares her wisdom when it comes to vital business knowledge that no one talks about. Listen as we hear how Fiona has found the right balance of family, freedom and a rewarding career.

Please enjoy!

This is an episode packed with the humble wisdom of Lucy Feagins , Founder , Owner and ‘Chief Collaborator’ of The Design Files .

In this conversation we find out how Lucy went from creating a tiny design blog to become one of Australia’s most influential design platforms – a media company reaching over 1.6 million design lovers each month !

Together with Amanda Henderson Lucy chats openly on why so many business women want to be liked, why Australian interior design is having a ‘moment’ globally and listen for clues as to what might be next for Lucy and the team.

Lucy generously shares her insights on how to stand out in a cluttered media space, how to find your authentic voice on social media, and why the team have launched a magazine for their die hard fans

It’s always an easy conversation when two creatives sit down to talk about the things they adore. In this episode, Amanda Henderson sits down with designer Brahman Perera to discuss what it means to be an "engineer of atmosphere." With creativity grounded in hospitality and fashion, Brem shares how he designs interiors with landscaping and movement, as well as his collaborations with Melbourne’s makers. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about Brem’s pursuit of experiential beauty.

Welcome back to The Creative Trust Podcast! We’re excited to kick off Season 5 with a captivating episode featuring two of Australia’s most influential figures in the creative and event industries: Bruce Keebaugh, founder and director of The Big Group, and Robyn Lea, an internationally renowned photographer, author, and creative visionary. Bruce, who co-founded The Big Group with his wife Chyka in 1990, has transformed the company into one of the largest and most innovative hospitality and event providers in the country. Robyn, with a career spanning over three decades, has authored 18 books and photographed for leading global publications, capturing the essence of creativity in everything from art to design.

In this special edition episode, Bruce and Robyn join Amanda Henderson to discuss their exciting new collaboration, By Invitation Only, which offers a rare behind-the-scenes look into the world of event curation and design. Together, they share their wealth of experience, offering insights into the evolving Australian event industry and the creative processes behind their work. Bruce’s expertise in high-profile events like the Spring Racing Carnival and the Australian Open Tennis, combined with Robyn’s eye for beauty and design, makes this conversation a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of creativity, hospitality, and innovation. Tune in for a compelling discussion with two of Australia’s most respected thought leaders!