In this episode of Through the Creative Door, Alexis chats with Lara Deam, an Australian actress, dancer, director and writer based in Melbourne. Lara’s career spans film, television, theatre, commercials and presenting, with experience both in Australia and internationally, including time working and training in Canada. Before building her acting career, Lara spent almost 18 years as a professional classical ballerina across ballet, contemporary and jazz. She now brings that movement training and discipline into her screen and stage work, giving her a distinctive physical presence and versatility as a performer. Together, Alexis and Lara dive into her multi-disciplinary path, how dance continues to shape her creative process, and what it looks like to build a career across multiple artistic worlds. If you’d like to see more, you can follow on instagram; @ laradeam   This episode was recorded on 7th November 2025 on the lands of the Woiworung Peoples. We hope that this episode inspires you as a creative person and as a human being. Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for creative people to share their story and inspire others. Have you got someone in mind who would love to have a chat? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor   Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikToc: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Featured Artist: Sun City Featured Vinyl: Forever   Alexis’ Hot Pick  Into the Night Sam’s Hot Pick Forever Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Alexis chats with Chloe Mazzitelli, a painter from Lakes Entrance, East Gippsland, whose vibrant acrylic animal and pet portraits burst with colour and life. An “art-obsessed child” who studied Studio Arts and majored in Art History at the University of Melbourne, Chloe grew up surrounded by creativity thanks to her artist mum. After taking time away from painting to raise her three sons, she reignited her passion during the COVID-19 lockdowns and has been devoted to her art ever since. This conversation dives into her journey of rediscovery, balancing motherhood and creativity, and finding joy in returning to the canvas.

Featured Artist: Jessie Gordon & Mark Turner Featured Vinyl: All The Rage   Alexis’ Hot Pick  Pastry Song Sam’s Hot Pick Linger Ever Longer Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Alexis chats with Valentina, the Colombian-born artist behind Nakdlines Tattoo and resident artist at More Than Tattoo Melbourne. After leaving her teaching career to follow her creative passion, Valentina now channels emotion and identity through both tattoo and digital art. Tune in as she shares her journey from the classroom to the tattoo studio, and what it truly means to live as a full-time artist.  If you’d like to see more, you can follow on instagram; @ nakdlines_

Featured Artist: Electric Light Orchestra / ELO Featured Vinyl: On the Third Day   Alexis’ Hot Pick  Ocean Breakup / King of the Universe Sam’s Hot Pick Showdown Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

In this episode, Alexis sits down with Helen Shanahan, an evocative Perth-based folk singer-songwriter whose music gently whispers tales of life, love, and longing. With a voice that captures vulnerability and truth, Helen has become a beloved figure in the local music scene, not only for her storytelling but also as the creator and host of The Songwriters Cafe, a performance series that celebrates original music and the art of songwriting. Together, Alexis and Helen dive into the creative process behind her songs, the emotional honesty that fuels her writing, and how she continues to nurture community through connection and melody.   If you’d like to see more, you can follow on instagram; @ helenshanahan and @ songwriterscafe This episode was recorded on 17 August 2025 on the lands of the Wajuk Peoples. We hope that this episode inspires you as a creative person and as a human being. Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for creative people to share their story and inspire others. Have you got someone in mind who would love to have a chat? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor … Creative resources: Feel The Fear And Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers   Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikToc: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Featured Artist: The White Stripes Featured Vinyl: Under Great White Northern Lights   Alexis’ Hot Pick  Just Don’t Know What to Do with Myself Sam’s Hot Pick Fell in love with a Girl Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Meet Shane Khin, better known by his evocative stage name The MEeck. Hailing from Perth, Shane is an alt-folk singer-songwriter whose music is a delicate blend of raw emotion, heartfelt storytelling, and stripped-back artistry, just voice, guitar, and musical poetry. But his creativity doesn’t stop at music. Shane is also a talented maker of handmade puppets, proving he’s a true all-round creative. Join us as we explore his artistic journey, the stories behind his songs, and what fuels his imaginative world. If you’d like to see more, you can follow on instagram; @themeeck This episode was recorded on 16 August 2025 on the lands of the Wajuk Peoples. We hope that this episode inspires you as a creative person and as a human being. Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for creative people to share their story and inspire others. Have you got someone in mind who would love to have a chat? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor … Creative resources: Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikToc: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

  Featured Artist: Radiohead Featured Vinyl: The King of Limbs   Alexis’ Hot Pick  Bloom Sam’s Hot Pick Lotus Flower Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

This week, Alexis is joined by the incredible Shayne Lowe, a true all-rounder in the arts with over 25 years of experience as a performer, vocal director, and producer. Shayne’s passion for music and performance has shaped not only her own career but also the journeys of countless singers through her work as a qualified singing teacher and founder of Sing It Now Geelong, a thriving vocal studio she established 15 years ago. Shayne shares insights from her decades on stage and behind the scenes, from the art of vocal directing to the joy of producing shows and mentoring the next generation of performers. And if you’d love to see her in action, Shayne will be taking the stage in Mamma Mia at the Geelong Arts Centre in October 2025. 👉 Learn more about Shayne’s work at Sing It Now Geelong.

  Featured Artist: Haim Featured Vinyl: Days Are Gone   Alexis’ Hot Pick  My Song 5 Sam’s Hot Pick If I Could Change Your Mind Ruby’s Hot Pick Forever Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Alexis sits down with Katie, a powerhouse actor, singer, dancer, and teacher who lives and breathes musical theatre. From touring children’s productions that sparked vital conversations about anxiety, to overcoming challenges that reshaped her career, Katie shares the highs, lows, and lessons of a life on stage. With heart, humour, and a touch of sour-strap ritual, Katie reminds us to let our inner brilliance shine and embrace every opportunity to create. Catch her this October 2025 in Mamma Mia! at the Geelong Arts Centre. If you’d like to see more, you can follow on instagram; @ katie_lox This episode was recorded on 24th July 2025 on the lands of the Gulidjan Peoples. We hope that this episode inspires you as a creative person and as a human being. Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for creative people to share their story and inspire others. Have you got someone in mind who would love to have a chat? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor … Creative resources   Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikToc: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Featured Artist:  Aretha Franklin Featured Vinyl: Once in a Lifetime   Alexis’ Hot Pick  My Guy Sam’s Hot Pick Exactly like you Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

In this episode of Through the Creative Door, Alexis chats with James Lee, musical theatre and cabaret performer, voice-over artist, director, producer, singing teacher, graphic designer, and digital video editor, with over 35 years in the entertainment industry. He is also currently directing Mamma Mia at the Geelong Art Centre for October 2025! From Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera to The Producers and My Fair Lady (directed by Dame Julie Andrews), James shares the triumphs and challenges of a life in theatre, the resilience it takes to keep going, and the magic that makes it all worthwhile. He’s also contributed to the creative team for the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Party, showing just how versatile a career in the arts can be. If you’d like to see more, you can follow on instagram; @ jamesofthelee This episode was recorded on 24th July 2025 on the lands of the Gulidjan Peoples. We hope that this episode inspires you as a creative person and as a human being. Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for creative people to share their story and inspire others. Have you got someone in mind who would love to have a chat? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikToc: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Featured Artist: Kate Bush Featured Vinyl:  Never for Ever   Alexis’ Hot Pick  The Wedding List Sam’s Hot Pick Breathing Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Join Alexis as she welcomes Brisbane-based producer, engineer, mixer, and multi-instrumentalist Levi Russell for an inspiring conversation through the Creative Door. With 16 years of experience across genres, from indie rock to intimate acoustic, Levi opens up about his creative journey, the power of routine, embracing imperfection, and building safe, inviting spaces for artists to thrive. Together, they explore the art of turning a blank canvas into a finished song and the lessons learned from collaboration and feedback. Whether you’re a musician, producer, or creative explorer, this interview will leave you motivated to keep showing up and creating your own magic.

Featured Artist: Supertramp Featured Vinyl: Crime of the Century   Alexis’ Hot Pick  Bloody Well Right Sam’s Hot Pick Dreamer Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Meet Nate Eggins, musician, science communicator, and all-around creative force. In this uplifting chat, we sit down (on the floor, of course) to explore how curiosity, music, and critical thinking can change lives. From award-winning songs to sold-out planetarium shows, Nate shares how he found his voice by blending satire, soul, and science. and why creating from a place of joy, community, and authenticity is everything. If you’d like to see more, you can follow Nate on instagram; @conspiracyofone @inkindfolk   This episode was recorded on 19th June 2025 on the lands of the Yuggera Peoples. We hope that this episode inspires you as a creative person and as a human being. Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. Psst! We are always on the lookout for creative people to share their story and inspire others. Have you got someone in mind who would love to have a chat? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikToc: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Edited and Produced by Ruby Miguel

Featured Artist: Roberta Flack Featured Vinyl: The Best Of Roberta Flack   Alexis’ Hot Pick  Killing Me Softly With His Song Sam’s Hot Pick You’ve Got a Friend Thanks for listening, catch you on the next episode. You won’t find this record in its entirety anywhere but online as a YouTube playlist thanks to Rafael Martin—or spinning old-school on a purchased vinyl. Playlist:⁦https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1JmU8l-9JbWuH-VaQVI18TfiMs9rDW_9&si=_T_OKDBUA1KFcAK-⁩ Psst! We are always on the lookout for an artist's vinyl to listen to, have you got one in mind that we should check out? Get in contact with us via Instagram @throughthecreativedoor Let’s get social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/throughthecreativedoor/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttcdpodcast   CREDITS Created and Hosted by Alexis Naylor Co-Host: Sam Timmerman Music by Alexis Naylor & Ruby Miguel Voiceover: Ruby Miguel