My Creative Journey with Mike Jeffrey

This is a recap of conversations that stuck with me this year and quietly shaped how I think about photography, work and growth. Instead of short highlight clips I’ve pulled longer excerpts from full length podcast conversations so you can actually sit with the ideas and not just skim past them. Across these conversations, I kept hearing the same things come up. Self doubt, even when things are going well. The pressure to move faster rather than do it sustainably. Others just burnout from trying to do everything at once. None of these conversations are neat or perfectly finished but I hope they're snapshots of people in the middle of figuring things out and learning in real time. If you’ve been feeling behind, questioning your pace, or wondering whether you’re doing this the right way, I hope this episode reminds you that not having it all figured out doesn’t mean you’re failing. Most of the time, it just means you’re still learning.
LINKS TO FULL EPISODES: Divya (S03 E02) – https://youtu.be/iJ_MWrsGO-Y Sam (S03 E03) – https://youtu.be/XV_oGAxom14 Travis (S03 E13) – https://youtu.be/8JllschYoqM Natasha (S03 E08) – https://youtu.be/7yPolIo23-8 Alex & Britt (S03 E10) – https://youtu.be/WX2Bv0DU1dE Cass (S04 E03) – https://youtu.be/z21keVd9Mh4
LINKS TO GUESTS:Divya Gordon - https://www.instagram.com/divyagordonfilm/Sam Cousins - https://www.instagram.com/samcshoots/Travis Hayto - https://www.instagram.com/travishayto/Natasha Simpson - https://www.instagram.com/dawnphotography.com.au/Alex & Britt Hall - https://www.instagram.com/chasingsunsetsllc/Cass Edwards - https://www.instagram.com/cassandraedwards_/
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
Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/
Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/
Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Isabella Alexis, Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year 2023, joins Mike to reflect on what really happens after you win the award you always dreamed of. At just 17, Isabella achieved a milestone many photographers chase for decades, but the moment didn’t bring instant clarity or certainty. Instead, it opened the door to deeper questions about purpose, patience, and what success actually looks like when the excitement fades. In this episode, Isabella shares the quiet reality of life after winning an award, how returning to the same work and showing up day after day shaped her creative identity and why paying attention to small moments matters more than chasing validation. Together they explore awards, burnout, faith, creativity, and building a sustainable creative life rooted in meaning rather than momentum. This conversation is a reminder that winning is rarely the end of the story, and often just the beginning.
Say Hi to Isabella Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byisabellaalexis Website: https://www.isabellaalexis.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
Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/
Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/
Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Mike is joined by his wife Emily for an honest conversation about the jokes, snarky comments, and quiet assumptions creatives often face at Christmas, especially when photography or creative work is not seen as a real job. Together they unpack why these comments happen, why they hurt more than criticism online, and how insecurity and generational ideas about work often sit underneath it all.
Emily brings insight from her background as a trained social worker with experience in mental health, helping frame these conversations with empathy and practical perspective. They also share ways to prepare for family gatherings, handle comments in the moment, and protect your energy during a season that can feel emotionally heavy.
They also share practical ways to prepare for family gatherings, handle uncomfortable conversations in the moment, and protect your energy during a season that can feel emotionally loaded. This episode is for anyone who wants to get through the holidays without having to justify their career or feel small for choosing a creative path. If you are a photographer or creative who feels anxious about seeing family over the holidays, this episode is for you.
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
Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/
Emily's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theinfluencerswife/
------------------------------------------------
Australia – Mental Health & Crisis Support
 
Emergency
CALL 000 — If you or someone else is in immediate danger
 
24/7 Crisis Support
Lifeline — 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service — 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue — 1300 22 4636
 
Disclaimer
This podcast is intended for general information, reflection, and discussion only. The content shared reflects personal opinions and lived experiences and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified mental health professional or healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your mental health or wellbeing.
 
Listener discretion is advised. If you find any content distressing, please prioritise your wellbeing and seek appropriate support.
 
If you are in Australia and need immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are elsewhere, please reach out to your local crisis or emergency service.
 

Gemma Higlett, Floral Designer, Stylist, and trained Marketer, joins Mike to unpack the marketing secrets every creative should know. They dive into why showing your face matters more than perfect work, how authenticity builds a stronger brand than aesthetics, and why sharing the messy middle of your journey is often the most powerful marketing you can do. Gemma talks about her transition from corporate PR and marketing into the creative world, the fears she had around being seen, and how learning to show up online transformed her business.
Together they explore practical marketing strategies creatives can put into action immediately, from getting over the fear of posting, to understanding what actually drives connection, to pricing your work with confidence instead of scarcity. They break down why so many creatives get stuck waiting for perfection, how to get real feedback from clients, and why relationships and collaboration will always outperform trying to build a business alone. Whether you are a photographer, florist, stylist or any kind of creative business owner, this episode will help you rethink your marketing, show up more consistently, and finally understand how to build a brand people connect with.
Say Hi to Gemma:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sub.subtleWebsite - https://www.subsubtle.com.au Party Stems Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/party.stems Party Stems Website - https://www.partystems.com.au
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
Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/
Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/
Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Francisco Hernandez, Portrait Photographer and long time flash educator, joins Mike to unpack how photographers can build a signature style with flash photography. They explore the mindset behind creating consistent work, why flash gives you more control in unpredictable environments, and how understanding light can completely change the way you shoot. Francisco shares the early struggles that shaped his approach, the years spent experimenting with strobes and high speed sync, and the practical ways beginners can learn flash without feeling overwhelmed. Together they dive into style development, creative confidence, and why trying trends, even when they feel overdone, can still lead you toward your own unique look. Mike and Francisco break down how one light can transform an image, how to blend flash with natural elements, and why honest experimentation is the key to finding your voice. Whether you are new to off camera flash or looking to create a recognisable visual identity in your work, this episode will help you understand how flash can become the foundation of your signature style.
Say Hi to Francisco: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@fjhphoto Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fjhphoto Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fjhphoto Website - https://www.fjhphoto.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
Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/
Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Mediahttps://www.www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/
Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Cass Edwards is a Perth based sports photographer who has gone from shooting local ice hockey games to photographing major sporting events across Australia. In this episode of My Creative Journey, Mike digs into Cass’s journey, her rapid rise in the industry and the huge wave of self doubt and imposter syndrome that followed her even as her career took off. Cass talks openly about what it's like as a woman in a male dominated industry and why the pressure and comparison can hit harder behind the scenes than people realise.
Alongside the mindset conversations, the episode is packed with practical advice for breaking into sports photography, building a portfolio without elite access, learning gear under pressure and understanding how to find your place in a saturated and competitive field. Cass also shares insights on burnout, community, workflow, and the small daily habits that keep her grounded.
Say Hi to Cass: Website: https://www.cassedwards.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassandraedwards_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cassandraedwards_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cass-edwards
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
Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/
Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Mediahttps://www.www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/
Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/
 

Mike chats with Karen Sadek, Personal and Business Brand Photographer, and Stacey Rolfe, Family Newborn Photographer and Founder of Tog Hub, for a conversation about understanding your personal brand & finding a community within Photography. Karen has spent her career empowering entrepreneurs through authentic brand imagery and is also the face behind Sydney Lifestyle Photography Facebook community. Stacey combines her background as a former lawyer with her expertise in client experience and systems, guiding photographers toward businesses that are structured, sustainable and aligned with their lives. Together they explore how creatives can find their people, why building a photography career alone can limit growth, and how in person connection can unlock clarity and confidence. They also share the defining moments in their own journeys, the role of personal branding and visibility and the importance of stepping into rooms that support who you are becoming, including the upcoming Glow Gala.
Glow Gala is a Sydney based in person celebration for creative women, bringing together photographers, entrepreneurs and storytellers for a night of connection, inspiration and community.
Grab a Ticket - https://events.humanitix.com/the-glow-gala
Say Hi to Karen - https://www.instagram.com/foundher.studios
Karen's Website - https://karensadek.com/
Say Hi to Stacey - https://www.instagram.com/staceyrolfephotography/
Stacey's Website - https://staceyrolfephotography.com/
Check out Tog Hub - https://www.instagram.com/toghub/
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
Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/
Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/
Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/
Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Sometimes positive motivation isn’t enough, and it’s the fear, pressure, and “toxic fuel” that pushes you into action. As they say, having something to run away from can be far more useful than having something to run toward, especially at the start. I share personal stories and practical insights on how to turn fear into purpose, embrace the discomfort of the beginning, and finally take the steps you’ve been putting off, whether it’s launching a creative project, growing your business, or chasing a dream you’ve been hesitant to start.
My Episode on Kickin It With Creatives
Follow Mike on Instagram | TikTok
Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube
Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice.

Camp Photography is our multi-day retreat where Wedding Photographers from across Australia come together for styled shoots, workshops, and community building, but this year’s event was anything but smooth. In this episode, I’m joined by my wife Emily, who helped me plan and run the camp, to share the unfiltered behind-the-scenes of our biggest event yet. We're spilling it all from the moments that pushed us to our limits to what we learned from the chaos. If you’ve ever wondered what really goes down when you put on a put on a massive photography retreat, this is the story you won’t hear anywhere else.
NEW MERCH ALERT - 'Hey Mike' Pink Hoodies are now for Sale
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.

Anissa Dev is a San Diego-based Couples & Family Photographer who built her business Photographing Weddings, but eventually realised the career she had created no longer aligned with the life she wanted. In this episode, Anissa shares the honest story behind why she walked away from wedding photography and how that decision opened the door to a more fulfilling path. One that includes Family Photography, Education, Content Creation, and a slower, more intentional pace of work.
We talk about the pressure to stick with Weddings even when they’re no longer sustainable and how motherhood reshaped her perspective as both a creative and a business owner. Anissa also opens up about rebuilding her business after taking time off for maternity leave and the emotional side of sharing everything online. If you're a full-time photographer or someone thinking about pivoting into a different niche, this episode is full of thoughtful insights and encouragement from someone who’s actually made the leap.
Say Hi to Anissa on Instagram or TikTok
Find Presets & Other Education on Anissa's 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.

Travis Hayto is a Live Events Photographer and the founder of SoCo Studios, a creative agency producing high-impact photo and video content for brands, events and sporting organisations. He’s shot everything from the NBA to the AFL Grand Final and even Coldplay Stadium Concerts. Travis has built a career working behind the scenes at some of Australia’s biggest events and if you've been on social media lately you've probably seen his BTS Videos on TikTok or YouTube.
In this episode, Travis shares how he went from volunteering courtside at basketball games to leading a full creative team. We talk about growing a photography career in the sports and events world, building a business that lasts, and what it really takes to stay creatively fulfilled over the long term.
You’ll also hear us chat about:
The early days of freelancing and saying yes to everything
The story behind some of Travis’ most memorable shots
Creating content while on the job
The mindset that’s helped him land major gigs
How and why he built a team
And why small jobs matter just as much as the big ones
Whether you’re a working photographer or just curious about what goes into shooting some of the biggest events in the world, there’s so much insight in this one.
Say Hi to Travis on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube
Learn more about Soco Studios on their 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.
 

Josh Huggett returns to the podcast to share the unfiltered, behind-the-scenes story of how Wedding Mania 2024 went from a wild idea in a voice memo to a three-day photography workshop that gave away real weddings. We talk about what worked, what didn’t, and why running a workshop in Australia is a completely different beast. Josh talks candidly about the emotional side of choosing couples, the financial risks of running workshops, and what he’s changing this year to make the experience even better. We also chat about my own upcoming retreat, Camp Photography, and how it’s designed to be a more hands-on, skill-building experience with a real sense of community. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into creating educational events that are actually valuable, and not just expensive styled shoots, this episode is packed with lessons, honesty, and a behind-the-scenes look at what’s next.
Come to Camp Photography: https://www.mikejeffrey.co/campphotography
Join Wedding Mania: https://joshuahuggettmedia.com/weddingmania
Say Hi to Josh on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube
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.

Zoe Joy Mobbs, a Newborn & Family Photographer, joins me on the podcast to share her journey of turning a lifelong passion into a thriving creative business. Zoe opens up about how her personal experiences with fertility struggles & motherhood have shaped the emotional connection she brings to her work. We also dive into the realities of running a photography business in a small town where competition is high and word of mouth spreads quickly. Zoe did something crazy last year by lowering her pricing structure and it actually transformed her business for the better. We also talk about the importance of human interaction and how staying true to yourself is the key for long-term success. Whether you're a photographer or creative business owner, you'll find plenty of practical advice and heartfelt inspiration in this episode.
Say Hi to ZOE on Instagram, Facebook 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.

Britt and Alex Hall from Chasing Sunsets, a Husband-and-Wife Wedding Photo Video team sit down with Mike this week to talk about their Creative Journey, both together and apart. Known for their stunning visuals, creative self-portraits, and positive vibes, these two have become icons in the online photography space. In this episode, Alex & Britt recount their story from first meeting at a McDonald’s drive-thru to building a successful photography brand and growing an online community that values authenticity and education.
They also talk about what it really looks like to run a business as a couple, how they transitioned from hobbyists to professionals, and why self-portraits played such a crucial role in building their portfolio. Britt & Alex share the highs and lows of creating content online, how they come up with ideas, and what they’ve learned about shooting together, setting boundaries, and showing up consistently, even when it's hard.
If you're a Wedding Photographer, Videographer or Content Creator looking to connect deeper with your audience, build a sustainable business with heart, and create content that actually helps people, this one’s for you.
Say Hi to Britt & Alex on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube
Check out their Website at chasingsunsetsphotoandfilm.com
— Click here for the Sunset Chaser Lightroom Preset Pack —
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.

In this solo episode, Mike gets real about the messy journey of building a creative business. From struggling with pricing his work to relaunching his photo editing course, Mike shares the lessons that only come from doing the work — even before you feel ready. He talks about the power of starting before you're "there," the freedom that comes from letting go of perfectionism, and why your pricing should reflect your value, not what you think people can afford.
Mike dives into the importance of understanding your audience, building a personal brand, and creating live, in-person experiences that truly connect. Teaching isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about showing up, learning from every class, and making each iteration better than the last. He opens up about turning people away, navigating self-doubt, and why passion—not just profit—should drive your creative work.
Plus, he shares behind-the-scenes insights from a recent Nikon Australia project and challenges you to ask yourself: What would it take for you to host something? Because the business you're meant to succeed in might not be the one you’re running right now. This episode is your reminder to embrace the process, show up as yourself, and go all-in on doing you.
Follow Mike Jeffrey on Instagram | TikTok
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
Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media. Check out their Website & Instagram.
Music Created by JWPATON. Check out his work on Instagram.
Timestamps00:00 - Introduction05:11 - Course re-Launch34:36 - Nikon NDA Project44:04 - Camp Photography

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
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.

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
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.

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
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.

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
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.

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
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.