Rekindle

A different kind of show this time as it's a discussion I had with four artists at the opening of their group exhibition. Do artists think like business people? What can we learn from their approach to their craft and does it translate to the wider world of work? Pull up a stool and let's find out.

Delightfully unfashionably, Merle Singer is more interested in contemplation and reflection than storming ahead into the world of the hustle. In this interview she shares her approach to the melding of life and work and why we should investigate the unseen.

John Doran is a possibilitarian, helping others see there's nothing wrong with them, that what's right can't fix. He leans heavily on his inner circle and uses a number of strategies, one summarised by the acronym, SHED. It resonated for me, see what you think. 

As skilled as she was teaching others to work productively and maintain a positive mindset, Emma Grey had to embrace external support when her world was turned upside down. 

Josie McLean was so worried that she saw the world differently to others, she questioned her own mental health. However, after years of research and exploration she's found many like-minded individuals and groups and this keeps her energised, motivated and on-track.

That's the theory Andrew Griffiths practices to ensure he doesn't sit in his comfort zone for too long. And it seems to work. But then he's not your average guy.

Bundled into a camper van with her globetrotting parents and experiencing a Steiner education, doubtless contributed to Vashti Whitfield’s take on life. As you’ll hear, she’s deeply committed to challenging human potential.

Hunter Leonard was running a 20 person agency and doing well, but fun and excitement had left the building, replaced by admin and drudgery. So he did what he’s done before and turned everything upside down. It seems to be a strategy that works.

Christine McDougall is not someone who sits still. In the years I’ve known her, she’s moved direction and focus a number of times and that surely helps keep her energised. There’s a thread that weaves throughout her work and she never lets it go.

After ten years growing and running her business, Mandi Gunsberger successfully sold up and took the family to Italy. So how does an extended break from work change her view of the world and set her up for the future? Let's find out.

Julian Mather had his heart set on being a photo journalist and yet his first lens was attached to a sniper's rifle. While his journey through the world of work has continued to be eventful, one thread has been constant.

For Leanne Faulkner everything seemed to be going so well. An ‘accidental business’ struck a chord and quickly grew. Then along came the downturn and almost overnight business plummeted and sadly so did Leanne. Her experience precipitated huge change and today she’s devoted to helping others avoid a similar fate.

I got delightfully lost talking with Julie Paterson and it wasn't until some way in that I got back on track with my theme. Funnily enough, letting things sit awhile is precisely what's worked for her. 

Yuri Cataldo's creative journey has seen him lecture at Yale, Princeton and Stanford, work in theatre design on Broadway and kickstart a couple of businesses. So what does he do when he's feeling less than energetic? Mainly, he leans on people. 

Lisa Sweeney values connection and is constantly on the lookout for partnerships and collaborations. This served her well in her corporate life and clearly suits her role as CEO of Business in Heels. As you’d imagine, she’s a firm believer in the power of a good network.

Ben Fewtrell has been involved in a number of businesses and today spends much of his time helping others build theirs. He’s a keen landscape photographer, pilot and family man and while he’s usually upbeat and energetic, he admits to getting a bit so-so now and then.

Sarah Jenkins knew the time was right to shift direction, but it was only after a little freelance assignment that the flashbulbs really went off. A few years on she’s winning international awards and forging ahead in some exciting directions.

Urs Koenig is not normal. He attempts incredible feats, pushing his stamina to the absolute limit. And he’s no slouch in the world of business either. As you’ll hear, he values variety in his life and whether on stage as an international speaker or on the ground as an international peacekeeper, he knows how to operate at his best.

I’ve followed Valerie Khoo’s business career for around 20 years and she never ceases to surprise and amaze. I can’t think of many accountants who end up as curator of a major arts festival. So how and why does she keep reinventing?

More an intro to reveal the look and feel of things around here. I'm currently working on episodes and can't wait to get airborne. Thank you for joining me. It'll be fun, you'll see.