Country Creatives

Episode 090: The End of Things

The End of Things?  Reflecting on Change, Communication, and What’s Next In this thought-provoking and emotional episode of Country Creatives, hosts Reece Hendy and Caleb Maxwell explore the shifting landscape of communication—past, present, and future. From the decline of social media to the rise of AI, they reflect on how technology continues to transform the ways we connect and create. But this episode is also a personal one. After four incredible years of conversations, community, and creativity, Reece and Caleb share a major announcement about the future of Country Creatives and a look back on the podcast’s impact and lessons learned. It’s a thoughtful, inspiring, and deeply grateful reflection—on endings, evolution, and everything that comes next.

Episode 089- Nurturing Creativity. How Adults Shape Young Minds

In this episode of Country Creatives, Caleb, Aimee, and Reece reflect on the powerful role adults play in shaping the creativity of children. They share personal stories about how encouragement—or lack of it—impacted their own creative journeys, and explore how adults can either nurture or stifle curiosity and imagination. The conversation highlights the importance of balanced support, moving beyond rigid career expectations, and creating environments where kids are free to experiment and discover their unique talents. This thoughtful discussion is a reminder of how vital it is to give the next generation room to grow creatively.

Episode 088. Responding to Mayan Gagliardi: Thoughts on Art, Impact, and Persistence

In this special episode of Country Creatives, hosts Caleb and Reece are joined by Aimee to answer a series of deep, thought-provoking questions left by last week’s guest, Mayan Gagliardi. Together, they explore the delicate balance between creating art for personal fulfillment and making work for commercial purposes, and the unique challenges young creatives face as they find their footing in the industry. The trio reflects on the impact their work has on others, the struggles and rewards of the creative process, and the role of persistence in building a sustainable career. They also share updates on their current projects and dive into an open conversation about the role of manifestation in the creative journey. It’s an honest, wide-ranging discussion that offers inspiration for artists at any stage of their career.

Episode 087. Next Gen Creatives: Inside the Journey with Mayan Gagliardi

In this episode of Country Creatives, Caleb sits down with emerging creative Mayan Gagliardi for an inspiring conversation about stepping into the arts industry as a young person. Recorded at the Emporium Creative Hub, where Mayan spent a week immersed in creative projects, this chat offers a glimpse into the mindset and motivations of the next generation of artists. Mayan shares how his diverse influences, including music, street art, film set building and storytelling, have shaped his creative journey so far. From navigating personal setbacks to working on collaborative projects and exploring new creative technologies, he reflects on the importance of community and the many pathways available in the arts today. This episode is a candid look at what it takes to find your voice, build your craft, and pursue creativity with purpose. Click HERE [https://rive.app/downloads] find out more about the RIVE software Mayan mentions in the episode

Episode 086: Reimagining a Classic: Community, Creativity, and the Dahlia and Arts Festival

In this episode of Country Creatives, Reece and Caleb dive into the world of community festivals, focusing on the iconic Eaglehawk Dahlia and Arts Festival and a new initiative called the Ideas Forum. As president of Eaglehawk Festivals Inc., Reece shares the vision behind the forum—an open call for new ideas to help evolve the festival while honouring its deep local roots. They explore the importance of community involvement, the realities of post-COVID adaptation, and the challenge of volunteer fatigue—all while offering a hopeful look at how creativity and collaboration can breathe new life into beloved traditions.   Whether you're a creative, a community-builder, or just love a good festival, this episode is a celebration of reinvention, inclusion, and collective imagination.   Find out more on the festival HERE [https://eaglehawkfestivals.com.au/dahlia-and-arts]