Make Good Things Happen

Angela D'Alton and Renée Baker
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Make Good Things Happen - A podcast for makers in business. Make Good Things Happen is a podcast for makers in business hosted by the dynamic duo behind the Australian maker community Angela D'Alton and Renee Baker of D'Alton Baker Productions. Expect a relaxed, interesting and cheeky chat about the news, influences and trends that affect the community of makers in business in Australia, peppered with friendly hints and expert tips. Segments include: From scroll to cart - talking all things e-commerce from social media to your website and everything online shopping; Shit customer service - what it says on the box because nothing annoys us more; Making History (Random Stories from Projects Past) -gossip and tidbits from our rich creative portfolio archive; Gruen LITE - our thinly veiled attempt at getting the attention of our beloved ABC program whilst sharing our own commentary on media and culture and all things communications; Making Good Things Happen - stories of the positive kind, the sweet, the cute, the whimsical, the lovely, the good, the productive; Event breakdown - markets, exhibitions and more - hear our thoughts and reviews of events that matter to you; Making Headlines - news that affects you as a small creative business; Maker in Focus - interviews and case studies about Australian makers you should know about; This Week I… - a little something that we saw, read, watched, listened to or learned in the last week; From marketing and brand values to social media algorithms and design markets, maker industry experts Angela and Renée, founders of educational membership platform Make Good Things Happen bring their thoughts directly to your ears in this value-packed podcast. Website: https://www.makegoodthingshappen.com.au/podcast Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land we live and work on, that of the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past, present and emerging. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Were Free Returns Ever Really Free?

    3D AGO

    Were Free Returns Ever Really Free?

    In this episode of Make Good Things Happen, Angela and Renée unpack a shift in online retail that’s changing how makers approach e-commerce: the decline of free returns. If “free” was never really free, what does that mean for your business? Starting with a recent article on retailers moving away from free returns, our gals explore what’s driving the change and why customers are increasingly valuing smooth, reliable post-purchase experiences over cost-free convenience. They dive into the realities of shipping costs, the environmental impact of returns, and the growing importance of logistics, tracking and after-sales systems. Along the way, they discuss what this shift means for makers competing with large retailers, how returns policies can become a strategic decision rather than a default, and why reducing friction after the sale matters more than ever. We also share a round-up of upcoming markets and events across Australia, along with opportunities for makers to apply for exhibitions, grants and markets. Whether you’re looking to shop, exhibit or do a bit of research, there’s plenty happening. Segments include: From Scroll to CartEvents BreakdownMaking NewsThis Week I… We chat about: Why free returns are disappearingWhat customers actually value nowHow your returns policy impacts your bottom lineWhy a smooth post-purchase experience matters more than everUpcoming markets, events and opportunities for makers Head to the MGTH website for show notes, transcripts and links. Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we produce this podcast, that of the Wadawurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present. Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    25 min
  2. Why Your Website Matters More Than Ever

    MAR 15

    Why Your Website Matters More Than Ever

    In this episode of Make Good Things Happen, Angela and Renée return to their regular format with a fresh educational segment designed to support makers navigating a challenging business climate. How can small changes to your digital presence make the difference between being discovered or overlooked?Drawing on insights from Angela’s recent Ballarat Craft and Design Week practitioner workshop, the conversation explores common website mistakes creatives make online. From gimmicky pop-ups and poor mobile design to missing contact details and location information, they share practical guidance on building a trustworthy online presence that helps audiences connect with your work. The episode also revisits the changing landscape of online platforms. In From Scroll to Cart, the pair unpack Pinterest’s evolution from inspiration tool to AI-powered shopping platform and discuss what this shift means for artists and makers trying to share authentic work online. Finally, Renée introduces a surprisingly useful productivity tip hidden in plain sight on the iPhone: the Shortcuts app. With a few simple automations, everyday digital friction can be reduced so you can spend more time focusing on creative work. What we cover in this episode: The importance of treating your website as your professional home onlineCommon website mistakes that frustrate visitors and damage trustWhy gimmicks, pop-ups and excessive plugins can hurt usabilityHow mobile browsing has become the most important website experience to design forWhy contact details and location information matter for discovery and opportunitiesHow Pinterest is evolving into an AI-powered shopping platformThe growing presence of AI-generated imagery online and its impact on creative discoveryA simple introduction to Apple’s Shortcuts app and how automations can reduce digital friction Head to the MGTH website for show notes, transcripts and links. Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we produce this podcast, that of the Wadawurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present. Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    30 min
  3. Keeping Going When You Don’t Know What’s Next

    MAR 8

    Keeping Going When You Don’t Know What’s Next

    In this episode of Make Good Things Happen, Angela and Renée return for the first episode of Season Three with an honest conversation about where they are right now as business partners, podcast hosts and humans navigating the realities of running a creative business. How do you keep going when the path forward isn’t entirely clear?After nearly ten years in business together, Angela and Renée reflect on the pressures of sustaining a values-led business partnership while life, family and capacity shift around them. They talk candidly about the reality of running a small creative business, the importance of pausing when something no longer feels sustainable, and why honesty matters when sharing business advice. They also dive into a big topic affecting many makers right now: their evolving relationship with social media. From algorithm fatigue to the emotional toll of constant online engagement, they explore whether the platforms that once built creative communities are still serving the people who rely on them. Along the way they discuss sustainable ways of communicating with your audience, alternatives to social media marketing, and why sometimes the most honest answer in business is simply: we don’t know yet. What we cover in this episode: Returning for Season Three and reflecting on nearly ten years in business togetherWhy running a creative business partnership requires constant reassessmentThe reality of capacity shifts when life circumstances changeWhy honesty and transparency matter when mentoring other makersWhether social media still serves creative businesses the way it once didAlgorithm fatigue and the emotional toll of constant online engagementThe pressure to overshare content in order to stay visible on platformsExploring alternatives to social media marketing for makersTess McCabe’s book Self Promotion Without Social MediaHBO's The Pitt and Kitiya Palaskas' Spotlight range Head to the MGTH website for show notes, transcripts and links. Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we produce this podcast, that of the Wadawurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present. Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    32 min
  4. Reflect and Celebrate: Taking Our Own Advice

    12/21/2025

    Reflect and Celebrate: Taking Our Own Advice

    In the season 2 final of Make Good Things Happen, Angela and Renée take a pause from their usual format to do what they so often encourage makers to do: reflect on the past year and properly acknowledge what’s been achieved along the way. As the Season Two finale, this episode is about slowing down, taking stock, and recognising progress that can easily be overlooked when you’re always focused on what’s next. From launching the podcast and learning an entirely new skill set, to major professional milestones like Craft Lab 2025, the evolution into Ballarat Craft and Design Week, values-led marketing decisions, and community-first campaigns like Made Right Here, our gals look back on a big year of steady, meaningful work. They talk honestly about learning in business, choosing ethical marketing paths, investing with intention, and why slow, sustainable growth often matters more than fast momentum. Along the way, they reflect on the importance of community, collaboration, and creating space to celebrate wins before rushing into the next season. An important note: This episode was recorded prior to the tragic events in Bondi. We acknowledge the deep sadness and shock felt across the community, and we send our love, care and support to everyone affected. Our thoughts are with the victims, our Jewish friends, their families, and all those who continue to carry the weight of that day. What we cover in this episode: Why reflection and celebration are essential practices for makers in businessWhat it really took to launch and sustain the Make Good Things Happen podcast through Season TwoLearning new skills later in business and the value of proper trainingKey highlights from Craft Lab 2025 and what’s ahead for Ballarat Craft and Design Week in 2026Making ethical marketing decisions and choosing community-aligned partnershipsWhat the Made Right Here campaign revealed about proof of concept and momentumThe importance of slow, sustainable business growth over burnout-driven hustleWhy good user experience, clear communication and values still matter onlineThe return of in-person events and creating space for real conversationGratitude, perspective, and what’s coming next in 2026, including Season Three of the podcast Head to the MGTH website for show notes, transcripts and links. Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we produce this podcast, that of the Wadawurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present. Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    35 min
  5. The Quiet Shifts Shaping Maker Businesses

    12/14/2025

    The Quiet Shifts Shaping Maker Businesses

    In this episode of Make Good Things Happen, Angela and Renée reflect on shifts and trends shaping maker businesses, from changes in social media to the evolving realities of showing up online. As platforms shift, they explore what this means for makers navigating community and sustainable growth. When changes happen, how do makers adapt without losing connection in the process? From Australia’s under-16 social media restrictions to the way platforms have shifted from connection to consumption, our gals unpack what these changes reveal about the online spaces makers rely on. They discuss the loss of genuine community in social feeds, the growing dominance of advertising, and how makers can respond thoughtfully as the digital landscape continues to evolve. Along the way, they share trend insights, cultural news, planning prompts for the year ahead and a reminder that adapting with intention often matters more than reacting fast. Segments include: From Scroll to CartGruen LiteMaking NewsNow's a Good Time For...This Week I... What we cover in this episode: Australia’s under-16 social media restrictions and what they could mean for connection, community and isolationWhat this changing landscape means for makers trying to stay visible, build trust and sell onlineThoughtful shopping, including the MGTH holiday gift guide and using the Australian Makers DirectoryDiary season, planning for 2026 and the appeal of starting the year with clear systemsRenée’s podcast recommendations and the comfort of finding familiar voices and shared experiencesCreative and cultural news, including the NGV’s Westwood Kawakubo exhibitionPantone’s Colour of the Year conversation and what it signals about broader creative trendsPinterest’s 2026 trend predictions and how makers can use data to inform future workWhy January is a valuable window for planning, clearing stock and maintaining momentumA rock and roll “This Week I…” featuring Queens of the Stone Age, live. Head to the MGTH website for show notes, transcripts and links. Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we produce this podcast, that of the Wadawurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present. Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    26 min
  6. The Google Ads Nightmare Every Maker Should Hear About

    12/07/2025

    The Google Ads Nightmare Every Maker Should Hear About

    In this episode of Make Good Things Happen, Angela and Renée dive into a digital-age cautionary tale that no maker wants to wake up to, and unpack what it says about risk, trust and the shaky systems small businesses rely on. How can one hacked-ads nightmare reveal so much about the fragility of modern digital tools? From Bea Bellingham’s overnight Google Ads disaster to the $96.5 million BOM website fiasco, our ladies discuss what these tech blunders reveal about vulnerability, accountability and the realities facing makers who depend on online platforms. They explore FOMO-fuelled marketing, why content matters more than ever, and how collaboration and communication shape creative success. Segments include: From Scroll to CartGruen LiteMaking NewsThis Week I... What we cover in this episode: The Google Ads hack that drained a maker’s bank account and the limits of platform protections.Why the BOM’s multimillion-dollar website rebuild became a lesson in empathy, accessibility and user experience.How FOMO marketing drives online shopping and what eBay LIVE reveals about buyer behaviour.Why geographical indication laws are reshaping European craft identity.The Mad Men remastering fail that proves file choices and aspect ratios really do matter.A wrap of maker-community news, market applications and creative industry updates.Launching the new Ross Creek Gallery website and kicking off the Ballarat Craft and Design Week PD program. Head to the MGTH website for show notes, transcripts and links. Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we produce this podcast, that of the Wadawurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present. Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    29 min
  7. We Got Black Friday’d! What Makers Can Learn From It

    11/30/2025

    We Got Black Friday’d! What Makers Can Learn From It

    In this episode of Make Good Things Happen, Angela and Renée dig into the sting of being “Black Friday’d,” and unpack what it says about trust, loyalty and modern marketing. How can one messy discount experience reveal so much about customer confidence? From the sudden discount drop that left them “Black Friday’d” to the rise of overly personal SMS marketing, our ladies discuss what this shopping frenzy reveals about customer trust, pricing behaviour and the risks of stretching promotions too far. They explore why false urgency breaks loyalty, how ads demand community management, and what it means to stand firm in your pricing. Segments include:From Scroll to CartGruen LiteMaking NewsThis Week I...What we cover in this episode:What it means to be “Black Friday’d” and how fast trust can evaporate.Why endless discounting trains customers to doubt your pricing.The rise of SMS marketing and why it feels intrusive.How to handle negative comments on Facebook ads with professionalism and clarity.Why your product is not meant for everyone, and why that is okay.A wrap-up of maker and creative-community news, design events and industry updates. Head to the MGTH website for show notes, transcripts and links. Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we produce this podcast, that of the Wadawurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present. Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    27 min
  8. Asbestos in the Sand and Other Reasons to Shop from Makers

    11/23/2025

    Asbestos in the Sand and Other Reasons to Shop from Makers

    In this episode of Make Good Things Happen, Angela and Renée dig into the coloured sand asbestos recall, unpack what it says about supply chains and consumer trust and remind us why buying from makers matters more than ever. How can a tiny recall story reveal so much about our supply chains and safety standards? From the coloured sand asbestos recall to the realities of supply-chain blind spots, our ladies discuss what recent events reveal about safety standards, consumer trust and why choosing makers over mass-produced goods matters more than ever. Along the way they touch on consumer rights, creative community events and the quiet power of buying thoughtfully. What we cover in this episode: The coloured sand asbestos recall and what it reveals about supply chains and safety standards Why thoughtful buying matters and how to choose safer, maker-led alternatives A quick PSA on “no refund” signs and knowing your consumer rights Renée’s dispatch from the Sydney Ceramics Market and trend highlights A wrap of recent creative events, including Crafting Conversation and Made Right Here Head to the MGTH website for show notes, transcripts and links. Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we produce this podcast, that of the Wadawurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present. Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    32 min
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About

Make Good Things Happen - A podcast for makers in business. Make Good Things Happen is a podcast for makers in business hosted by the dynamic duo behind the Australian maker community Angela D'Alton and Renee Baker of D'Alton Baker Productions. Expect a relaxed, interesting and cheeky chat about the news, influences and trends that affect the community of makers in business in Australia, peppered with friendly hints and expert tips. Segments include: From scroll to cart - talking all things e-commerce from social media to your website and everything online shopping; Shit customer service - what it says on the box because nothing annoys us more; Making History (Random Stories from Projects Past) -gossip and tidbits from our rich creative portfolio archive; Gruen LITE - our thinly veiled attempt at getting the attention of our beloved ABC program whilst sharing our own commentary on media and culture and all things communications; Making Good Things Happen - stories of the positive kind, the sweet, the cute, the whimsical, the lovely, the good, the productive; Event breakdown - markets, exhibitions and more - hear our thoughts and reviews of events that matter to you; Making Headlines - news that affects you as a small creative business; Maker in Focus - interviews and case studies about Australian makers you should know about; This Week I… - a little something that we saw, read, watched, listened to or learned in the last week; From marketing and brand values to social media algorithms and design markets, maker industry experts Angela and Renée, founders of educational membership platform Make Good Things Happen bring their thoughts directly to your ears in this value-packed podcast. Website: https://www.makegoodthingshappen.com.au/podcast Instagram: @mgth.com.au Brand artwork by Mel Baxter Moonshine Madness Brand photography by Maja Baska Photography Content disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and are not being shared as facts. Guests opinions are their own and not of Make Good Things Happen. Make Good Things Happen, our podcast hosts and distributors are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land we live and work on, that of the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung People, as well as the Gayamaygal and Garigal people. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past, present and emerging. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Angela D'Alton and Renée Baker
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Make Good Things Happen
  • Show Website
    Make Good Things Happen

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