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Episode 12 is a conversation with Shania from the Forever Reef Project; a powerful blend of science, conservation and hope for the future of our oceans.

We dive into what the Forever Reef Project is all about, from creating a living coral biobank to protecting and preserving coral biodiversity for generations to come. Shania shares the incredible work happening behind the scenes, what it means to “adopt a coral,” and how this world-first initiative is safeguarding reef species in the face of climate change.

We also chat about Shania’s own journey into marine conservation, the realities of working so closely with the reef, and the small, meaningful ways individuals and businesses can make a tangible impact.

This episode is a reminder that while our oceans face real challenges, there are passionate people doing extraordinary work to protect them; and there’s more hope than you might think.

@foreverreefproject @gbrlegacy

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From South Australia to the tropical north, Indi and Bethan share their journey of taking a leap in their 20s to start a small Pilates studio and turning it into something much bigger. Today, Basement Fitness & Pilates is two thriving Pilates studios, a full gym, and a dedicated recovery room, built on a foundation of community, creativity, and doing things differently.

In this episode, we dive into their story: the early challenges of moving interstate, finding their unique approach to fitness and how they’ve built a welcoming, results-driven space for people of all ages and abilities. They also share insights on growing a fitness business, staying motivated, and keeping community at the heart of everything they do.

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, entrepreneur, or someone chasing a dream, Indi and Bethan’s story is full of inspiration, grit and practical takeaways.

@basementtfitness @basementpilatesstudio

App: Basement Pilates

www.basementpilates.com.au

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Episode 10 is a conversation with Steph & Dave from SEA Gallery; a story of creativity, evolution and building something truly their own.

From Steph’s early days painting for the markets, hauling two suitcases into town each time, to now sending original works to collectors all over the world, her journey is one of grit, consistency and creative belief. Alongside her, Dave’s path into photography unfolded organically after years in the wine industry, eventually finding his place behind the lens. Together, their individual journeys have intertwined to shape SEA Gallery into what it is today; a seamless blend of painting and photography, and a shared creative vision.

They’re also raising two boys along the way, balancing family life with creativity, and have built a lifestyle centred around capturing the natural world, particularly the magic of Heron and Lady Elliot Island and of course Far North Queensland. 

This episode is about starting small, backing yourself and letting your path unfold in ways you never quite planned. 

@sea.studio.gallery

www.seagallery.com.au

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Episode 9 – Saskia Turner | Bodies In Motion Dance School

In this episode we sit down with Saskia Turner, principal of Bodies In Motion Dance School in Mossman. Saskia shares the story of taking over the studio at just 21 and the leap of faith that came with stepping into such a big role so young.

We chat about her own dance journey, how the school has evolved since she took the reins in 2012, and the incredible growth of Bodies In Motion from humble beginnings to the thriving community it is today. Saskia also gives us insight into the world behind the studio doors; from Eisteddfods and ATOD exams to finding the balance between creativity, performance and assessment for her students.

We also talk about the magic of seeing dancers take to big stages, including performances at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre and traveling interstate for competitions. 

It’s a conversation about passion, persistence and building something meaningful for the next generation of dancers. 💃✨

@bimdanceschool

https://www.bodiesinmotion.net.au/

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Episode 8 welcomes local wedding and funeral celebrant Anna Soltwedel to the podcast. Anna shares the story of how she found her way into celebrancy, and what it truly means to stand beside people during some of the most significant moments of their lives.

From joyful weddings to deeply emotional farewells, Anna talks about the responsibility, empathy and trust involved in guiding families through both celebration and grief. We dive into the personal side of her work, the connections she forms with clients, and the powerful perspective that comes from being part of someone’s final chapter.

It’s an honest, heartfelt conversation about life, loss, love and the privilege of helping people mark the moments that matter most.

@wed_by_anna @candlenut_funerals 

www.https://thelovechronicles.com.au/

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Episode 7 is a big, beautiful creative deep dive with Zoe Taylor; now officially stepping into her era as a full-time content creator.

Zoe chats through the many chapters that have shaped her: professionally singing and dancing, working as a travel agent, time spent on solar farms and at Wildlife Habitat, her candle making business and documenting it all along the way. She shares how each pivot added another layer to her creativity; and why no experience was ever wasted.

We also dive into her recent trip to the Maldives with Saxon Kent, the perspective shift it gave her, and how it’s sparked the next chapter of her career.

It’s a conversation about backing yourself, following curiosity and trusting that all the dots will eventually connect. 

@zokatetaylor

Mentioned: @tinytravelgirl @saxonkent @wildlifehabitat

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In this episode, we’re joined by Tessa McMonnies, founder of Anchorline Australia and TS Print and Embroidery.

Born and raised in Far North Queensland, Tessa shares what it was like growing up in a tropical community that shaped both her lifestyle and creative perspective. From salty air and long days outdoors to the practical needs of living and working in the tropics, her environment has always influenced her designs.

After studying a degree in fashion design, Tessa returned home with a clear vision; to build brands that blend function, style and authenticity. In this episode, she talks about how her love of the ocean, apparel and hands-on craftsmanship intertwine across both businesses, and what it really takes to turn a creative passion into something sustainable.

@anchorlineaustralia @tsprintandembroidery

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In this February recap episode, Raine and Mykaylah from Maker Port Douglas share a behind-the-scenes look at their in-store workshops, the creative moments that filled the space, and why these sessions are quickly becoming a highlight of the month.

They also chat about what’s coming up in March, dive into an honest mental health segment with personal tips that have been helping them lately, and finish with some heartfelt listener shoutouts.

A cozy catch-up packed with creativity, community and real talk.

@maker_portdouglas

www.makerportdouglas.com/events

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In this episode we sit down with Port Douglas abstract artist, Jacqueline Joosen, to explore the winding, personal path that shaped her creative life.

Originally from the Netherlands, Jacqueline shares the story of moving to Australia and building a new life in the tropics. Long before she found her voice in abstract painting, she worked as a sculptor and jewellery maker; drawn to texture, form and working with her hands. But in 2020, her arthritis forced her to step away from sculpture and metalwork, pushing her into an unexpected new chapter.

What began as a necessary pivot became a powerful evolution. Jacqueline opens up about how abstract painting became both a creative release and a meditative practice; a way to channel emotion, movement and memory onto canvas when her body could no longer create in the same way.

@jacquelinejoosenart

Brisbane Affordable Art Fair 7-10th May 2026 @affordableartfairau

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In this guest episode, we sit down with Lana, the founder of Lana Nas Studio, to chat about the journey that took her from the Netherlands to tropical Port Douglas. Lana shares what inspired the move, how she built her business from the ground up in a new country and the moments that shaped her creative path along the way. We also dive into how she met her husband, the realities of starting fresh somewhere new and what life looks like now; balancing business, creativity and family life as a mum to her daughter in the tropics.

@lananasstudio @maker_portdouglas