There's a version of the AI conversation that is almost entirely noise ... and then there's the one Rhiannon Lee has been having quietly inside her own business for nearly four years.

The founder of Oleander & Finch Interiors arrived in this episode carrying a story she rarely shares publicly. Her father, reflecting on her career, observed something she hadn't quite named herself: that the way she designs spaces ... the care, the safety, the sense of permanence she builds into every project ... might have everything to do with a childhood spent moving between schools and communities, never quite landing somewhere that felt like home. It's the kind of origin story that reframes everything. Design, in Rhiannon's hands, was never just about aesthetics. It was always about belonging.

That same instinct for protection threads through her approach to AI. While the design world has been busy chasing render generators and SketchUp shortcuts, Rhiannon has been making the opposite argument: ke...

What makes visual storytelling actually connect?

In the latest episode of A Designer’s Perspective, we sit down with Melbourne-based Creative Director, photographer and videographer Stef Hanson of Stef Hanson Productions known for her authentic storytelling and dynamic visual campaigns, with a difference for a conversation that goes well beyond cameras, content and campaigns.

With a strong background in sports and sports media, she hosted the hugely successful multimedia platform for women in sport for 15 years, which saw her traveling the globe interviewing professional athletes, covering events and creating content. In 2021 she transitioned and founded Stef Hanson Productions.

Her approach blends creative problem-solving with technical expertise, delivering campaigns that resonate with audiences and stand out in a crowded market. 

Stef's portfolio spans various industries, including lifestyle, fashion, and sports, showcasing her versatility and commitment to capturing genuine mom...

We’re thrilled to kick off Season 2 of our podcast, “A Designer’s Perspective”, with a refreshed focus and exciting new direction. This season, we’re spotlighting Australia’s top creatives, diving deeper into their journeys, insights, and the stories that make them leaders in their field.

Our first episode features none other than Neale Whitaker, a true icon in the design world. From magazine publishing to television stardom, Neale’s career is a masterclass in creativity, adaptability, and staying ahead of industry shifts. Join us as we explore his evolution, the role of design media, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

The Role of Design Magazines

Neale’s career began in the world of magazine publishing, where he quickly made a name for himself. "Design magazines shaped the industry," Neale shared, highlighting how these publications were once the primary source of inspiration for designers across the globe. As the industry shifted from print to digital media, Neale embra...