Erin, Renee and Kyah break down how Gen Z behaves online and what that means for creative businesses. Get practical tactics to reach younger audiences while staying authentic.

This week on the Creative Business Community podcast, Erin is joined by Renee and our resident Gen Z voice, Kyah, to unpack how younger audiences actually show up online—and what that means for your creative business. We dive into platform habits (why Gen Z often prefers Instagram Reels over TikTok, how Facebook fits, and where YouTube sits), why short‑form video and fast hooks matter, and how to reach Gen Z without chasing every trend. Expect practical tips on storytelling that feels human, building trust through in‑person community, and why email marketing still punches well above its weight. We talk owning mistakes (and why that grows loyalty), what the algorithm really rewards, and where AI can help—or hurt—your brand’s authenticity. Plus, we explore generational differences in creative practice and how to keep your content fresh without losing your voice.

Creative Business Spotlight: Common Ground Collective. You can find them on:

Instagram: @cmmngrnd Facebook: @cmmngrnd Website: https://commongroundcollective.com.au/

Work–life balance is a myth for many creative small business owners; here’s how to build a realistic work–life blend. Erin and Ronnie share straightforward tactics for boundaries, time, support and mental health.

This week on the Creative Business Community podcast, Erin and Ronnie unpack the myth of work–life balance and lean into a healthier work–life blend for creatives, parents and anyone juggling a small business with, well, life. Erin shares how her routine has evolved over a decade in business—from late-night office stints and firm school-hours boundaries to bringing in help, weathering COVID, then navigating burnout and chronic illness. They speak candidly about privilege and support networks, and offer practical strategies if you’re flying solo: get clear on your why, set boundaries clients respect, track and audit your time, create simple switch-off rituals, and build a personal support crew. You’ll hear how to communicate at home (do you need solutions or space to vent?), involve your kids in decisions, and why you truly can’t pour from an empty cup.

Creative Business Spotlight: Suk Workwear. You can find them on:

Instagram: @sukworksear Facebook: @sukworkwear Website: https://sukworkwear.com.au/

This week on the Creative Business Community Podcast, hosts Erin Madeley and Ronnie Motroni chat about the powerful link between creativity and mental health. In a world of fast-paced living and doom scrolling, we explore how making with your hands slows you down, boosts dopamine, lowers stress, and helps you drop into that restorative “flow” state. From pottery, knitting and scrapbooking to makeup, gardening, cooking, Lego and even rearranging your furniture, they unpack why creativity is for everyone—not just “arty” types—and why the process matters far more than a perfect end result.

You’ll hear:

• Practical ways to swap your phone for a short, creative moment
• How boredom and repetition build neuroplasticity and better problem-solving
• Gentle permission to start small, not finish every project, and keep some things just for you
• Tips on finding community—DIY craft clubs, workshops, online groups
• Budget-friendly supplies from op shops and Kmart
• Personal stories of burnout, recovery and using creativity as a genuine antidote to stress

Tune in for science-backed insights, real talk and easy habits to help you feel calmer, more present and more inspired—one small creative act at a time.

TED Talk on How Boredom Can Lead to Your Most Brilliant Ideas with Manoush Zomorodi: https://youtu.be/c73Q8oQmwzo?si=lbkM-oGkois-w975

This week's Creative Business Spotlight: Fremantle Pottery Instagram: @fremantlepottery Stocked at Common Ground Collective in Fremantle