Callie Hart is a bestselling author and screenwriter whose dark romance novels have captivated millions of readers worldwide. After years of self-publishing, she found global recognition when her novel Quicksilver went viral on TikTok, leading to a major publishing deal and a three-part Netflix adaptation. In this conversation, Callie shares her journey from burnout to creative rebirth, exploring the craft of worldbuilding, the evolution of fan-driven storytelling, and how she balances authenticity with commercial success.
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(00:00) Introduction(04:46) Facing Burnout and Reinvention(08:09) Discovering BookTok and Finding an Audience(12:05) Going Viral and Hitting #1(15:00) Bidding Wars and Publishing Offers(19:29) The Netflix Deal(23:17) Adapting Books for Screen(25:57) Managing Pressure from Fans and Publishers(30:15) Detaching from Outcomes and Creative Integrity(36:00) The Craft of Worldbuilding(43:59) Writing Morally Complex Characters(01:00:10) Lessons from Failure and Creative Resilience
Jesse Leeworthy is the co-founder and designer behind Memo Bottle. The globally acclaimed, flat reusable bottle that reimagined hydration through minimalist design. With a background in product design engineering, Jesse turned a simple frustration into an award-winning sustainable brand stocked in leading galleries and stores worldwide. In this episode, he shares how Memo Bottle grew from a Kickstarter idea into a cultural icon, and the lessons on design, sustainability, and storytelling that shaped its journey.
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(00:00) Designing the First Memo Bottle(04:01) From Sketch to Kickstarter(08:31) The Chaos in Taiwan(13:01) When Everything Almost Fell Apart(18:31) The Campaign That Changed Everything(23:01) Dealing with Backlash and Burnout(28:31) Design as a Trojan Horse for Change(34:01) Building Emotional Brands(40:01) The Art of Authenticity(46:01) Customer Experience and Packaging(55:01) Founder Content & Connection(1:06:01) Sustainability, Design, and Legacy
Allan Dib is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and marketing strategist best known for The 1-Page Marketing Plan, one of the most influential guides in modern business. As the founder of Successwise, Allan has helped thousands of companies create structured, scalable marketing systems that drive measurable growth. In this episode, he shares his insights on the psychology of customer behaviour, the power of clarity in strategy, and how timeless marketing principles can cut through noise in a fast-changing digital world.Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studioThe 1-Page Marketing Plan & Custom Marketing Plan Architect: https://leanmarketing.com/agency
(00:00) Introduction
(07:12) The One-Page Marketing Plan
(13:54) Why Most Businesses Struggle with Marketing
(22:33) Building a Scalable Marketing System
(31:18) The Psychology of Customer Decision-Making
(39:41) The Power of Niche Positioning
(47:56) Sales and Marketing Alignment
(56:28) Avoiding Common Marketing Myths
(01:04:17) Building Brand Longevity
(01:12:22) The Future of Marketing Strategy
(01:19:36) Lessons from a Lifetime in Business
(01:25:51) Closing Thoughts
Taryn Williams is the founder and CEO of The Right Fit and Wink Models, two pioneering platforms that have transformed how brands, creators, and talent connect. A visionary in the business of networking, Taryn has built her career around the power of relationships, authenticity, and community. In this episode, she explores how to build meaningful networks that drive opportunity, the psychology behind trust in business, and why genuine connection remains the ultimate currency in the modern creator economy.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(06:42) From Model to Entrepreneur
(13:27) Founding Wink Models
(21:54) Overcoming Industry Challenges
(30:31) The Birth of The Right Fit
(38:45) Scaling a Digital Marketplace
(46:52) Building a Brand with Trust
(54:08) Navigating Change and Burnout
(01:02:15) Lessons from Leadership
(01:09:37) The Future of Influencer Marketing
(01:16:22) Purpose and Personal Growth
(01:22:48) Closing Reflections
Matt Lakajev is the co-founder of 7 Figure Creators, a consultancy helping creators and businesses grow personal brands into thriving businesses. With a proven track record of generating over $3.5 million in sales on LinkedIn without paid ads or viral gimmick, he’s built a reputation as one of Australia’s leading voices in high-agency thinking, sales psychology, and business influence. Matt has guided countless creators and founders to scale their impact, harnessing the power of consistency, mindset, and smart strategy to achieve lasting success.
Access 'Figment Kit for LinkedIn' — https://sevenfigurecreators.com/lm/a-kit-to-design-your-linkedin-profile/Access 'F*ck Selling Build Trust Kit' Resource — https://sevenfigurecreators.com/lm/f-ck-selling-build-trust/
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction & Early Hustle (07:13) Cold Outreach & Sales Volume (14:42) Overcoming Fear & Founder Mindset (23:02) Building Authority on LinkedIn (32:45) Lessons from Early Clients (41:56) Breaking Down Sales Psychology (51:16) Delegation & Scaling Smart (1:02:25) The Craft of Influence (1:14:51) Creativity & Strategic Thinking (1:25:40) Defining High Agency (1:36:53) Building Relentless Momentum (1:45:59) Closing Thoughts & Reflections
Omer Shai is the Chief Marketing Officer of Wix, one of the world’s leading website and digital platforms. For over 17 years he has helped scale Wix to more than 250 million users worldwide and has led landmark campaigns including multiple Super Bowl ads. In this episode, Omer reflects on his journey from startup beginnings to global brand building, sharing insights on creative risk-taking, leadership at scale, and the future of digital platforms in an era shaped by AI and consumer behavior shifts.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(07:42) Early Days at Wix
(14:56) Building a Global Brand
(22:37) Marketing Lessons From Super Bowl Ads
(29:05) Leadership and Company Culture
(36:41) Navigating Challenges in Growth
(43:12) The Evolution of Digital Platforms
(49:28) The Future of Website Creation
(56:47) Branding in the Digital Age
(01:03:09) Advice for Founders and Marketers
(01:09:51) Creativity, Risk, and Growth
(01:16:22) Closing Reflections
Sindy Sinn is an illustrator and designer whose bold, handmade style has become iconic in music and pop culture. His work spans collaborations with Disney, Spotify, Blink-182, Fatboy Slim, and Queens of the Stone Age, blending raw imperfection with a distinct visual punch. In this episode, Sindy shares his journey from creating posters for local bands to building a global reputation. We discuss the psychology of style, navigating client dynamics, pricing creative work, and how simplicity and obsession shape lasting artistic impact.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(08:12) Developing a Distinct Artistic Style
(15:40) Working with Clients and Creative Briefs
(22:58) Finding the Right Clients
(31:05) Breaking Into the Industry
(39:21) Self-Taught Design and Problem Solving
(46:12) Embracing Simplicity and Confidence
(53:44) Flow States and Creative Discipline
(01:01:17) Value, Pricing, and Perception
(01:10:04) Collaborations and Brand Identity
(01:19:40) The Business of Being an Artist
(01:30:22) Lessons in Creativity and Longevity
Lachlan Cameron is an investor, entrepreneur, and founder who has raised over $200 million in capital across multiple ventures. Having operated on both sides of the table, he brings a rare dual perspective on what it takes to build, fund, and scale successful businesses. In this episode, Lachlan unpacks the myths of capital raising, the nuances of debt versus equity, and the cultural differences shaping global investment. He also shares candid lessons on founder conviction, risk, and the psychology of building lasting enterprises.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction: Lessons from Raising $200M
(05:06) Myths and Realities of Raising Capital
(12:21) Market Cycles and Global Investment Climate
(18:36) Australia’s Banking System and Growth Limitations
(25:00) Old Money vs New Money Mindsets
(32:45) Preparing for Capital Raising
(38:23) The Pitch Checklist
(44:11) Equity, Debt, and the Right Capital Mix
(50:21) Types of Investors and What They Want
(57:13) The Pitch Deck and Founder’s Story
(1:04:04) Risk, Exits, and Co-Founder Dynamics
(1:12:08) Legacy, Conviction, and Final Lessons
Taki Moore is one of the world’s leading business coaches, trusted by entrepreneurs like Alex Hormozi, Dan Martell, Jay Wright and many more. Over the past decade, he has trained more than 600 coaches worldwide to scale past seven figures. Known for his engaging frameworks and creative teaching style, Taki shares how to build what he calls a “Lifestyle Empire”. A business that delivers money, meaning, and freedom. In this conversation, he unpacks lessons on productivity, delegation, and building a brand that lasts.
Download Taki's Worksheet here:
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction: The Riskiest Move in Business
(04:13) Redefining Success with the Lifestyle Empire
(11:46) Money as Fun Tickets
(17:20) Designing for Freedom
(24:59) The Myth of Busyness and Real Productivity
(31:08) Rockstar Fridays and Energy Design
(37:41) Wearing the Right Hats in Business
(44:56) Scaling Through Marketing and Content
(51:21) Building Freedom Through Delegation
(58:04) The Shift from Obscurity to Influence
(1:05:43) Meaning, Legacy, and Leadership
(1:12:00) Closing Reflections
Vince Lebon is the founder and creative mind behind Rollie Nation, the global footwear brand celebrated for its bold designs and global reach. A multi-award-winning designer, he has scaled Rollie into an international label stocked in major markets worldwide. Vince is recognised for his innovation, storytelling, and ability to blend creativity with commerce, making him a leading voice in modern fashion and brand building.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(07:45) Discovering Design Inspiration
(14:32) Taking the Leap Into Footwear
(22:10) Building a Global Footwear Brand
(30:08) Balancing Creativity and Commerce
(37:46) Overcoming Challenges in Growth
(44:53) Innovation in Footwear Design
(51:37) Collaborations and Creative Partnerships
(58:12) Building Brand Identity
(01:04:29) Honesty and Authenticity in Business
(01:11:56) The Future of Footwear and Fashion
(01:20:18) Legacy and Long-Term Vision
Marissa Kos is a futurist and opinion leader in the AI space, and the founder of MxM, an AI-powered marketing and business development platform. She helps business owners and brands optimise marketing, sales, operations and culture through tailored automation systems designed for scalable success.
In this episode of The Agency Podcast, Marissa shares insights on the future of AI in business, the myths that hold companies back, and why integrating AI now is critical for building resilient, future-ready organisations.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(07:42) Entering the AI Space
(14:18) The Future of AI in Business
(21:03) Debunking AI Myths
(28:47) AI and Company Culture
(36:19) Building Scalable Systems with AI
(43:52) The Power of Personalisation
(51:05) Overcoming Challenges in Adoption
(58:44) AI as a Growth Multiplier
(01:05:16) The Human Side of AI
(01:12:38) The Future of Work and AI
(01:25:03) Final Reflections on AI’s Potential
Jason Georgatos is the President of Partners for Growth, a global investment firm providing tailored debt financing to high-growth companies. With over 20 years of experience in scaling businesses across the US, Australia, Asia, and Europe, Jason has become a trusted partner to ambitious founders navigating expansion. In todays conversation, he explores the nuances of growth financing, the psychology of entrepreneurs, and the evolving landscape of alternative capital, offering practical advice on building resilient businesses and sustainable partnerships.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(06:58) Early Career and Path to Finance
(12:43) The Role of Partners for Growth
(20:31) Lessons from Working with Founders
(28:10) Alternative Financing vs Venture Capital
(35:37) Building Trust with Entrepreneurs
(42:21) Growth Capital in Different Markets
(50:16) Common Mistakes Founders Make
(57:39) The Future of Growth Financing
(01:04:20) Evaluating Risk and Reward
(01:12:12) Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
(01:18:30) Closing Reflections
Poppy Reid is the Co-Founder and Chief Content Officer of Curious Media, where she has launched and led some of Australia’s most influential entertainment publications, including Rolling Stone and Variety in Australia and New Zealand. A multi-award-winning journalist and presenter, Poppy has become a leading voice in shaping the national music conversation. Today, she discusses the realities of running high-profile media brands, the art of impactful storytelling, and the role of representation in building a more inclusive industry.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(07:12) From Journalism Student to Editor
(13:47) Launching Rolling Stone Australia
(21:18) Building Variety's Australian Presence
(28:36) Leading a Creative Media Team
(35:51) Navigating Industry Disruption
(43:27) Championing Diversity and Representation
(50:49) The Business of Media Brands
(58:06) Storytelling that Resonates
(01:04:42) Relationships in the Music Industry
(01:12:09) Staying Relevant in a Fast-Changing World
(01:20:13) Lessons for Emerging Creatives
Sophia Athas is the founder and creative director of Hatrik House, the design studio behind some of Australia’s most distinctive brand identities. She is also the co-founder of ButterBoy, a cult cookie brand known for its bold and retro branding, sell-out drops, and devoted community. We explore the psychology of brand building, the tension between scaling and authenticity, and how Sophia protects creative energy while staying rooted in community.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(06:13) Finding Her Creative Calling
(11:32) The Launch of Butterboy
(22:29) Growing a Cult Following
(30:41) Crafting Cultural Relevance
(38:58) Balancing Two Businesses
(45:12) Protecting the Creative Process
(52:07) When to Scale and When to Stop
(01:00:34) Building with Integrity
(01:08:40) Industry Lies and Lessons
(01:15:39) A New Vision for Creativity
(01:22:08) Advice for Emerging Creatives
Chad Cohen is the founder of Fortem Media and Unofficial Run Club, known for building brands with cut-through content and strategically led storytelling. He continues to grow authentic communities and true fans. A seasoned marathon runner who has competed around the world, he brings a unique perspective on what it takes to build trust at scale. We unpack the mechanics of community-led brand building, the storytelling frameworks that drive engagement, and the long-term thinking required to cut through in a saturated digital landscape.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj
Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio(00:00) Introduction
(08:57) Building a Life Around Curiosity
(15:42) Escaping the Path of Obligation
(26:04) Challenging the Fear of Failure
(33:28) Redefining Success and Status
(42:16) Breaking Out of Conventional Thinking
(50:29) Turning Insights Into Action
(58:03) The Psychology of Selling Yourself
(01:07:44) Storytelling as a Sales Superpower
(01:16:28) Identity, Ego, and Reinvention
(01:28:57) The Power of Reframing
(01:39:46) Creating a Future with Intention
Gus Balbontin is an international keynote speaker, former Executive Director of Lonely Planet, and an insightful advisor to high-growth startups, joins us to share his extensive experience in guiding organizations through periods of significant change and fostering innovation.
This episode explores critical strategies for navigating evolving market landscapes, embracing discomfort, the importance of adopting new technologies, and the leadership principles essential for cultivating an adaptable and forward-thinking business culture.Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction Gus Balbontin on Change and Innovation
(07:07) Innovation as Problem Solving
(14:14) Listening First Testing Fast
(21:21) The Value of Time and Curiosity
(28:28) Judgment Creativity and Risk
(35:35) Why Leaders Resist Change
(42:42) The Power of Novelty in Business
(49:49) Escaping Business as Usual
(56:56) Innovation vs ROI
(01:04:03) Balancing Structure and Creativity
(01:11:10) Learning From Failure Fast
(01:18:17) How Lonely Planet Missed the Turn
Richmond Dinh, the creator of the 'Tiny Challenges' method and founder of a multi-seven-figure coaching business, shares insights from helping over 1200 coaches build high-performing ventures. Richmond shares the landscape of sales, the enduring value of human connection and experience in an increasingly automated world. Expect to learn the crucial role of storytelling in communication and influence, the importance of niche down, and the psychological impact of various personal pitfalls on entrepreneurial success.
Marty Hungerford is the Chief Innovation Officer and founding partner at BRX, where he is redefining how creative agencies deliver value through technology, insight and craft. With over 25 years of experience building and guiding digital, creative and strategic teams. Marty has helped some of Australia’s most iconic brands, including Optus, Medibank, AGL and Australia Post. In this episode, we explore the future of creativity in the AI era, the power of taste and human instinct, and why embracing these tools is essential for staying relevant.Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction to AI’s Creative Disruption
(06:52) Tools vs Taste in Modern Creativity
(13:31) Unlocking AI as a Creative Superpower
(20:10) Creativity Meets Commerce
(26:45) Scaling Ideas with AI Tools
(33:36) AI in Film, Content & Advertising
(40:22) Ethics, IP, and Prompt Responsibility
(47:00) Why AI Is Inevitable for Creatives
(53:40) Taste Over Tenure in the AI Era
(01:00:20) How AI Is Creating More Jobs
(01:07:04) Emotion and the Soul of Creativity
(01:13:58) The Future of AI-First Agencies
David Parsons is an award-winning expert in customer loyalty and the CEO of Ellipsis, a consultancy helping global brands like Audi, eBay, Visa, and Australia’s major banks drive growth through customer science. In this episode of The Agency Podcast, David breaks down the difference between emotional and behavioural loyalty, reveals why most brands misread what their customers really want, and shares how loyalty programs are evolving into powerful front-line brand strategies. A must-listen for anyone building customer relationships that last.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(08:23) Engaging Creatively with Influencers
(13:05) The Importance of Authenticity in Content
(24:29) The Evolution of Influencer Trends
(31:04) Addressing Challenges
(39:00) Building Influencer Networks
(44:19) The Transition to Product-Based Ventures
(50:41) Effective Branding
(53:26) Honesty and Transparency
(01:01:37) Navigating AI's Role
(01:08:06) The Emerging Role of Creativity
(01:12:43) Future Trends in Influencer Marketing
Bonnie Gillies is a seasoned beauty professional with over two decades of experience spanning fashion, film, and digital media. As the founder of the award-winning brand Basic By B, she’s built a loyal following by bridging the gap between expert knowledge and accessible beauty. In this episode, Bonnie reflects on the evolution of the industry, the rise of conscious consumerism, and the nuanced balance between education and influence. A thoughtful conversation on brand building, authenticity, and what it means to lead with substance in a saturated space.
Book Rivyl in for a free 30-minute call, here: http://l.rivyl.com/JUPbkj Level up your agency with Wix Studio today: https://www.wix.com/studio
(00:00) Introduction
(08:14) Engaging Creatively with Influencers
(13:51) The Importance of Authenticity in Content
(24:06) The Evolution of Influencer Trends
(30:15) Addressing Challenges
(36:32) Building Influencer Networks
(43:20) The Transition to Product-Based Ventures
(48:14) Effective Branding
(53:45) Honesty and Transparency
(01:01:01) Navigating AI's Role
(01:08:11) The Emerging Role of Creativity
(01:12:49) Future Trends in Influencer Marketing