Seven podcasts for contemporary designers and makers

One of the best ways to stay up to date with what’s happening in your industry is to literally tune into the conversations taking place. Luckily for AW there are lots of artists, makers, designers and shakers taking to the podcast space to share ideas and information about their passions and experiences. Accessible virtually anywhere at anytime, these audio resources are good company and often it’s like being in a room (or car) with the guests.

So, when it comes time to listen and learn, these are the podcasts we remember that have changed the way we approach our work, think about life and talk about what we do.

 

Low Tox Life


Alexx Stuart is an educator and change agent who founded Low Tox Life in 2010 after seeing the lack of transparency around our collective food system, personal care and cleaning products. She's built a movement that's non-judgmental, positive and encouraging, based off of providing factual information and highlighting the importance of each small action we have the choice of making.

Now more than ever, no matter what industry you work in, living thoughtfully and consuming consciously is essential. At AW we always try to minimise our impact on the environment and consider how our habits affect others, so we’re always tuned in to learn and improve.

From sustainability, health, fashion, food, farming, houses and mindfulness, Alexx is a gifted presenter who is able to ask the right questions of each guest to ensure that low-tox living is positioned as accessible and achievable for all.

 
 

Off Brand Podcast

Run by two local Gold Coast legends, Dave Lydiard and Kiel Tillman, this is where to find good chat about passion projects, creative experimentation, the weird jobs and behind the scenes of artist life. We’re immensely passionate about art and love listening to the podcast guests who share our fervour for all things creativity and design.  

 

The Design Files Talks

The Design Files is a fabulous blog, delving into the latest contemporary projects and stories from real people killing it in the creative industry. Their Talks series is deliciously good, featuring conversations with exceptional Aussie creatives, designers, artists, architects, entrepreneurs, makers and more. It’s definitely one of our favourite sources of inspiration.

The compelling, story-telling nature of this series is addictive and perfect for office listening. We are always inspired by other creatives doing what they love and grounded knowing we are all face similar challenges in our journey. Our favourite episodes include talks with Ken Done, Paul West, Stephanie Stamatis and Rone.

 

Honest Designers Show by Tom Ross

If you’re a designer dealing with the challenges of navigating a modern world, this is a resource to hold close. Learn how to make a dent in the creative universe with Tom Ross, Ian Barnard, Dustin Lee and Lisa Glanz. We love an honest and raw take on what it means to flourish as a creative professional, in an industry facing new challenges everyday. From clients to establishing a personal brand, we promise a very good (and constructive) time.

 

Public Art Works

Did you know Shake Shack originated as a Public Art Fund project? Explore things like activism, representation, feminism and street food (yep) through the lens of public art in The Big Apple. New York has been a catalyst for art and artists for decades, and is home to many creators, innovators and cultural leaders who have discussed their ideas in this podcast. The Public Art Fund cover how offering powerful public experience with art and urban environments broaden the reach of contemporary art.

Through critical discussion with heavyweight guests, including artists Ai Weiwei, Sue de Beer, Kate Gilmore and Xaviera Simmons; activists Paola Mendoza and Ariana Gil; chef & restauranteur Danny Meyer; former Director of Public Art Fund, Tom Eccles and more. Production of this podcast has finished, but you can still access the 6 part series online.

 

Talking Practice

It’s almost as good as a snoop into someone’s studio… Enter: a podcast from the world's premier design school, the Practice Platform at Harvard University Graduate School of Design. Listen to conversations between architects, landscape architects, designers, and planners exploring imagination and careers through design practice.

 

On Process

Ditching the vague, the small talk and the boring bits, host and designer Adam Busby facilitates conversations with designers, musicians, artists, writers, filmmakers and more providing inspiration and quenching curiosity for every creative.

Each interesting guest reveals new insider knowledge, sharing experiences and stories from their unique career. It’s genuinely enjoyable. Favourites include episodes featuring Rick Hayward, Claire Foxton, Matthew Haynes, Barry Spencer and Jack Stone.

 

If there’s a podcast about art, design, culture or subject that inspires you, we’d love to know about it. We accept recommendations via social media, email or snail mail.