My Creative Journey with Mike Jeffrey

Natasha Simpson is a Newborn Photographer with a massive Social Media following across all platforms. Seriously she has 300K followers on Facebook and nearly 400K on TikTok which is wild. She also runs a successful online Photography Education Business where she helps others start and run their own Photography Businesses. In this episode she shares her journey from being the kid who "stole" her dad’s camera to becoming a sought-after photographer, educator, and speaker. We dive into the fears, challenges, and breakthroughs that have shaped her career—from the struggle of imposter syndrome to the bold decision to step into speaking engagements.
Natasha opens up about how she built her business through self-teaching, community support, and a willingness to take risks, even when self-doubt tried to hold her back. She talks about shifting from weddings to newborn photography, the importance of finding your niche, and why learning to say "no" can be just as powerful as saying "yes."
If you've ever felt like you're not “good enough” to take that next big step, whether it’s raising your prices, niching down, or putting yourself out there — this episode is for you. Natasha’s honesty about pushing through fear, staying true to your creative passion, and embracing failure as part of the journey will leave you feeling ready to take action in your own business.
Say Hi to Natasha on Instagram, TikTok or Facebook
Natasha's Website
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Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

As creative professionals, we’re constantly balancing artistry, business, and human connection — but how do we truly master the people side of what we do? In this episode, I sit down with Matthew Vercoe, a marriage celebrant, MC, and live event expert who has spent years perfecting the art of reading a room, building trust, and creating experiences that leave a lasting impact.
I hope this conversation challenges you to think beyond your craft and focus on how you make people feel. Matty shares insights on:
How to build genuine connections with clients & audiences
The power of adaptability — handling pressure & unexpected challenges
Why emotion and experience matter more than technical perfection
Overcoming self-doubt and finding confidence in your craft
How to balance preparation with spontaneity for more authentic work
This episode is packed with real-world lessons from someone who performs live for a living, but the takeaways apply to any creative field. If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, felt pressure to "get it right," or wanted to deepen your impact beyond just the work you create, this one's for you.
Say Hi to Matty on Instagram or check out his Website
If you're in South Australia, check out the Wedding Industry Party happening July 1st, 2025.
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

What if your photography, paintings or digital art could become more than just a print on a wall? In this episode, Craig Holloway shares how he turned his passion for photography into a thriving e-commerce business—creating jigsaw puzzles from stunning images. As the founder of Jigsaw Gallery, Craig collaborates with photographers and artists to transform their work into interactive art, bringing a whole new dimension to the way people experience photography.
We dive into Craig’s journey, from his early days as a landscape photographer to navigating the challenges of running an e-commerce business. He opens up about the creative struggles, the importance of taking risks, and how he pushed through self-doubt to build a career on his own terms.
We also explore how jigsaw puzzles have become a tool for connection and storytelling, especially in small towns, and how Craig’s work with libraries is fostering community engagement through art. Whether you're a photographer looking for new ways to monetize your work, an artist interested in expanding your creative outlets, or just someone who loves a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice.
Tune in now and discover how Craig built a business that blends creativity, storytelling, and entrepreneurship!
Say Hi to Craig on Instagram or his personal Website
Check out Jigsaw Gallery
Craig also contributes his Photography to Aus Stock Photo and created a one-off Photo Book in conjunction with his 2017 exhibition of the same name.
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Luke Currie-Richardson is a Dancer who toured with Bangarra Dance Theatre Company for 6 years before turning to Photography where he recently won the People’s Choice Award at the 2024 National Australian Photographic Portrait Prize. Luke is a true storyteller in every sense of the word having also expressed himself through Poetry, Spoken Word, Acting & Fashion. This week he joins Mike to explore the power of Indigenous Storytelling and the relationship between Art and Culture in the modern world. A proud descendant of the Kuku Yalanji, Djabugay, Mununjali, Butchulla, and Meriam peoples, Luke shares how his creative work amplifies Indigenous voices and challenges perceptions of identity and belonging in contemporary Australia. He discusses the struggles of navigating multiple art forms, the tension between creative integrity and monetisation, and how social media has changed the way he shares his work. He also dives into the deeply personal story behind his poem That Type of Black Love — a piece written in heartbreak that later became his reality. Luke’s reflections on identity, imposter syndrome, and the impact of his work will leave you feeling inspired and challenged to think differently about storytelling and legacy. Tune in now for this powerful conversation!
Say Hi to my Brother Luke on Instagram @balaluke
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Charli English is a painter and creative advocate whose work is deeply inspired by the ocean, sustainability, and the evolving definition of success as an artist. In this episode, we explore Charli’s journey, how she transitioned from measuring success through immediate sales to finding fulfillment in the emotional connections her paintings create.
We dive into the reality of being an artist in today’s world, from navigating slow seasons and self-doubt to dealing with viral social media moments (and the negativity that sometimes comes with them). Charli shares how she balances her passion for art with her role as the CEO of Oak Tree, a youth-led nonprofit empowering changemakers in the Asia-Pacific.
Charli also opens up about her “Trash Pieces” – A collection of paintings made entirely from secondhand and repurposed materials, and why sustainability in art matters.
Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or someone seeking inspiration to push through creative blocks, this episode is full of insights on staying true to your craft, embracing evolution, and creating with intention.
Check out Charli's work on her Website
Follow Charli on Instagram or TikTok
Get Tickets to Charli's Talk at the Victorian Art Society 
Send Charli an Email: charlienglishart@gmail.com
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Sam Cousins is a Portrait & Family Studio Photographer who went from high-volume studio work to burnout, pivoted into sales, and is now rebuilding his creative career on his own terms. As the highest-billing photographer at a national studio, he mastered both the art and business of photography, developing innovative lighting techniques that were eventually adopted company-wide. He then went on to start his own children and family photography business, transforming a garage into a working studio and using Facebook ads to attract clients. He’s photographed everything from weddings to corporate headshots and even a full soccer club, but after stepping away from photography, he rediscovered his passion through creative collaborations and personal projects. In this episode, Sam shares his journey of balancing creativity with financial stability, the lessons he’s learned about sales, why free work still has value, and how to avoid burnout in a creative career. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, this conversation is packed with insights on growth, reinvention, and pursuing the kind of work that truly inspires you.
Say Hi to Sam Cousins on Instagram
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Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Divya Gordon is an Adventure Filmmaker who has created films such as Steady, Maven & Seven7Seven. In this episode, Divya shares the incredible journey from the corporate world of Business and Marketing to adventure filmmaking. With no formal training, Divya carved a path in the industry by embracing risk, creativity, and hands-on learning — eventually working with brands like Nikon and Arc'teryx to bring incredible stories to life.
Building a tiny home in the Australian Snowy Mountains is one of Divya's many incredible achievements along with documenting a variety of extreme outdoor sports. We explore the challenges of breaking into filmmaking, the balance between passion projects and financial sustainability, and the power of visual storytelling. Divya also gives a behind-the-scenes look at recent projects, including Steady, featuring a world-record highline unicyclist, and Maven, the first Australian backcountry snow film centered on women.
For filmmakers, photographers, and creatives looking to turn their passion into a career, this episode is packed with insights on storytelling, resilience, and navigating an ever-changing industry.
Say Hi to Divya on Instagram or YouTube
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Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Antonio Botic never set out to be a Content Creator — he was just a guy with a camera, having fun making videos. But that hobby quickly turned into a career, leading him from niche sports content to Wedding Photography and online education. In this episode, Antonio shares his journey, from going viral on TikTok to transitioning into the photography world, navigating brand deals, and staying true to himself as a creator.
We dive into the highs and lows of content creation, the pressure of maintaining consistency, and the delicate balance between creating for virality versus building an engaged audience. Antonio also opens up about handling negative comments, the unpredictability of online success, and how his wife’s simple suggestion to post a video changed everything.
If you're a photographer, content creator, or just someone curious about the behind-the-scenes of online growth, this episode is packed with insights, humour, and real talk about what it means to build a brand in today's digital world.
Say Hi to Antonio on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube
Check out Antonio's Photography
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Watch the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

What does it take to turn small gigs into a thriving creative business? This week, Mike chats with James Di Stefano, a Wedding and Event Photographer from Perth, Australia, who went from shooting $50 birthday parties to capturing high-end weddings at venues like the Ritz Carlton. James has also turned his attention to Instagram in recent months and increased his following to over 10,000 people by sharing short form videos.
In this episode James shares his insights on:- Adapting to local photography trends and standing out in a crowded market- Balancing creativity with client demands in today’s fast-paced industry- Leveraging social media to build trust and attract luxury clients- How his background in psychology shaped his storytelling and client relationships
Whether you’re a budding creative or an established professional, this episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiring lessons to help you elevate your craft and business. 
Say Hi to James on Instagram or his Website
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

This is a Compilation Episode with Snippets from Mike's 5 Favourite Episodes of 2024. It includes conversations with Australian Wedding Photographer Josh Huggett, YouTube Sensation Julia Trotti, Aussie Marriage Celebrant Pippa Moore, UK Wedding Photographer Andrew Keher & Wildlife Photographer Karolina Noree.
If you enjoyed any of the Conversations in this episode, make sure you check out the full episodes. In order of appearance;
00:00 - Introduction
06:48 - Josh Huggett (S02 E04)
18:12 - Julia Trotti (S02 E13)
29:43 - Pippa Moore (S02 E09)
39:58 - Andrew Keher (S02 E07)
51:29 - Karolina Noree (S02 E02)
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

If you have ever battled with Imposter Syndrome, struggled to price your work or find your style then this episode is for you. This week Mike is joined by Jasmine Pollock, a photographer navigating the early stages of her career and carving out her place in the creative world. Jasmine’s story is about more than just photography, it’s about finding the courage to start, embracing uncertainty, and following a path that feels true, even when it’s unexpected.
We dive into Jasmine’s journey, starting with a birthday gift, a Polaroid camera, that sparked her love for photography. She shares how that small start led to buying second hand DSLRs, enrolling in a TAFE course, and discovering the joy of working with people through events and weddings. Along the way, we discuss the pressures and challenges of capturing life’s biggest moments, like weddings, and how she turns those nerves into creative energy.
Jasmine also opens up about the emotional side of her journey. The struggle to confidently call herself a photographer, her transition from studio setups to working with real people and dynamic settings & balancing a part-time job while building her photography business.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, a creative just starting out, or someone searching for the courage to pursue their dreams, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a lot of heart.
Say Hi to Jasmine on Instagram or her Website
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

In this episode, Mike chats with Regan Shorter, a talented content creator and storyteller, to explore her journey from a small town in Oklahoma to collaborating with brands like Joby, Adobe Lightroom, and Lingoda. Regan shares how she transitioned from photography to user-generated content (UGC), creating authentic ads that resonate without needing a massive social media following.
They dive into what UGC is, why it’s so impactful in today’s digital world, and how Regan has turned her creative spark into a sustainable career—one that allows her to be location-independent and true to herself. From her time living abroad in France to a surprise moment when her photo ended up on the wall of B&H in New York, Regan’s story is full of inspiring insights for creatives at any stage.
If you’ve ever wondered how to work with brands, make a career out of your passion, or overcome the fear of putting yourself out there, this episode is packed with wisdom, tips, and encouragement.
Say Hi to Regan on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube or her Website
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

In this episode, Mike chat's with Gunawan who is an extremely talented Wedding Photographer with over 20 years experience, an Astrophotography Educator and Nikon Australia Creator. They discuss Gunawan's inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Indonesia to building a thriving creative career in Australia. G shares how resilience, gratitude, and a passion for storytelling have shaped his work, along with insights into teaching workshops, finding your tribe, and staying true to your values as an artist. Whether you’re a photographer or a dreamer, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement to help you chase your goals.
Say Hi to Gunawan on Instagram or his Website
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Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

This week Mike chats with Danielle Henry, a nurse of over 10 years who’s taken a bold new step into the world of professional photography. Danielle shares her journey of discovering a passion for capturing moments, building a business from scratch, and navigating the challenges of balancing family, nursing, and her growing creative career.
In this episode they dive into:
How Danielle transitioned from calling herself a beginner to owning her title as a professional photographer.
The impact of her nursing background on her ability to connect with clients.
Balancing a side hustle with family life and a part-time job.
Overcoming imposter syndrome and the fear of judgment.
The importance of education, community, and taking small, consistent steps toward success.
Whether you’re exploring a creative career, struggling with self-doubt, or curious about the balance of passion and practicality, Danielle’s story is filled with relatable moments and valuable insights. Tune in to hear how embracing discomfort, investing in growth, and finding joy in the process can lead to incredible opportunities.
Say Hi to Pippa on Instagram or her Website
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

This week Mike chats with Steve Fettis, a talented and self-taught Wedding Filmmaker from the UK who turned a chance opportunity into a thriving full-time career. Together, they explore the art and heart of wedding filmmaking, diving deep into Steve’s unique approach to capturing life’s most unforgettable moments.
From the challenges of managing client expectations to the creative process of selecting the perfect soundtrack, Steve shares invaluable insights for creatives and entrepreneurs alike. Discover how authenticity, humour, and connection have shaped his journey, and why embracing your personal style is the key to thriving in a competitive industry.
Check out Steve's work on Instagram or his Website
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
Follow Mike on Instagram | TikTok
Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Julia Trotti is a trailblazing photographer and YouTube creator, known for her engaging tutorials and authentic behind-the-scenes content. Her journey has inspired countless photographers to dream big and pursue their passions. Starting her career as a photo retoucher, Julia transitioned into wedding photography before dedicating herself fully to YouTube. While her path hasn’t always been smooth — battling introversion & self-doubt — her 600,000+ subscribers are a testament to the impact of her work. In this episode, Julia shares how she made the leap to becoming a full-time YouTuber, her experiences collaborating with top brands like Sony, Nikon, and Lumix, and her exciting new venture: Aperty, a portrait retouching software developed with Skylum. Supporting yourself through creativity is something that most creatives struggle with and Julia shares openly about how she generates income through her work, including selling her own presets through digitalfilmactions.com. If you’re ready to be inspired and take your own creative journey to the next level, don’t miss this conversation. Tune in now and share the episode with a fellow creative who could use a boost of motivation!
Say Hi to Julia on YouTube, Instagram or her Website
Check out Julia Trotti's photo retouching software Aperty
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, I would love it if you would consider leaving a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Ever dreamed of leaving it all behind to pursue what truly excites you? Ben Hargreaves did exactly that. Once pulling in a six-figure income in a corporate job, he traded it all to follow his passion for car photography and content creation. A leap that took plenty of planning, grit, and relentless dedication. In this episode, Mike sits down with Ben to dig into his five-year plan for breaking free from a life that no longer inspired him and the strategic steps he took to get there in just 18 months. Through sharing his journey Ben has built a rock-solid following of over 700,000 people on Instagram and nearly 200,000 on YouTube. His story is a testament to what’s possible with commitment, resilience, and an unshakable belief in oneself.
In this episode Mike & Ben discuss the challenges of leaving behind a comfortable life, the strategies Ben used to grow his audience, and the mindset shifts necessary to follow your passion — even when it seems risky. Whether you're considering your own career pivot, or just looking for a dose of motivation to keep going, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Tune in to discover what’s truly possible when you choose to follow your passion.
Say Hi to Ben on Instagram, YouTube or TikTok
Find out more about Ben on his Website
Sign up for the next Cohort of Ben's Escape Roadmap
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Jay Dekony is a New York City-based wedding Filmmaker and Photographer known for her unique, authentic style that’s making waves in the industry. In this episode, Jay shares her creative journey — how she got started, the challenges she faced, and how she’s built a successful media company from the ground up. Like many creatives, Jay’s path hasn’t been an overnight success. Standing out in NYC’s crowded creative scene took effort, and Jay turned to social media to do just that. By sharing her personality and distinctive approach to working with clients, she’s now fielding more inquiries than she can handle and has even reached a point where she can hire friends to join her team. Jay’s story is truly inspiring, and Mike is thrilled to bring it to you. Enjoy! 
Say Hi to Jay on Instagram or Website
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Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Today, Mike sits down with his wife, Emily, for an open and honest reflection on where he stands in business and life. Recently, they’ve embarked on a new chapter, living life on the road as they travel across Australia on an extended holiday. Achieving location freedom and working remotely has been a lifelong dream for Mike, but the journey hasn’t been without challenges. In this episode, he shares his current plans and how he intends to keep his business thriving while traveling. Making such a big change brings plenty of anxiety, but hopefully, this episode will offer a real-world example of how it can be done.
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
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Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.

Join me as I chat with my good friend Pippa Moore, a registered Marriage Celebrant in Australia. Pippa’s journey to this dream job didn’t happen overnight—she’s studied drama, tried stand-up comedy, attended film school, hosted a radio show, and finally started her own business. Her story is filled with inspiring twists and turns, proving it’s never too late to chase your dreams. We dive deep into her work as a celebrant, focusing on storytelling and connection—essential skills for any artist. Get ready for an inspiring and funny conversation with the amazing Pippa Moore!
Say Hi to Pippa on Instagram or her Website
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
Follow Mike on Instagram | TikTok
Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.