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From SXSW to CLS: Creativity That Converts

by Liv Oastler
17 December 2025
by Liv Oastler
17 December 2025

About a month ago, I had the absolute privilege of spending a few jam-packed days at SXSW Sydney. An experience that was equal parts inspiration, caffeine, and “wow, the future is happening right now.”

From powerful conversations about storytelling and trust to raw insights on creativity, community, and connection, SXSW Sydney was a living reminder that marketing, business, and humanity are all beautifully intertwined.

I left buzzing with ideas (and maybe a few too many tote bags), but more importantly, I left with clarity: the same principles that power great art, media, and connection are exactly what power great marketing.

And that’s where Creative Little Soul comes in.

Here’s what I learned and how we help you bring these lessons to life in your own business.

Flip the Script: Tell Stories That Build Trust

One of the standout sessions was “Flip the Script: How Podcasts Can Reshape the Narrative,” featuring former homicide detective Gary Jubelin and sex worker Kayla Jade. Two people using storytelling to give voice to perspectives we rarely hear.

Their message was clear: storytelling builds empathy, trust, and transformation. Whether through a podcast, post, or conversation, the stories we tell shape how people see us and what they believe.

At Creative Little Soul, we believe the same holds for your business.
Our copywriting and marketing strategy services are built around authentic storytelling. We craft messages that inform, inspire, and convert. We help you flip the script on “salesy” content and instead share stories that earn loyalty, not just attention.

Because when you speak from the heart (and with purpose), your audience listens and remembers.

Keep It Real: Build Communities, Not Just Followers

In her live SXSW Sydney show, Lucy Blakiston from Shit You Should Care About reminded us what happens when authenticity meets the internet. What started as a uni group chat became a global media brand that was built not on algorithms or ad budgets, but on realness.

Lucy’s story was a refreshing reminder that the best content connects because it’s honest, human, and consistent.

That’s exactly how we approach social media management at Creative Little Soul.
We don’t just post pretty pictures, but we build community conversations. We craft strategies, content, and engagement that grow your presence authentically while freeing you up to focus on your core business.

Our goal? To help your audience feel like they’re part of something bigger, not just spectators scrolling by.

Be Strategic, But Stay Soulful

Another highlight was Teddy Swims in Conversation, a heartfelt deep-dive into the partnership between GRAMMY-nominated artist Teddy Swims and his manager, Luke Conway.

Their story wasn’t just about fame or success, but it was about staying grounded, creative, and authentic as their career scaled globally. The key themes? Strategy, storytelling, and mutual respect.

It struck me that this balance between artistry and structure is what truly builds longevity.

At Creative Little Soul, our marketing strategy service lives at that exact intersection. We combine creative thinking with data-driven direction, crafting plans that reflect who you are and where you want to go. Every campaign is tailored, intentional, and measured, ensuring your investment drives meaningful growth.

Like Teddy and Luke’s partnership, we’re here to help you build something that lasts with heart and hustle.

Celebrate Creativity Through Experience

SXSW Sydney is more than a conference; it’s an experience. Every hallway, performance, and conversation was a reminder of how powerful shared experiences can be in shaping how people see and remember a brand.

That’s exactly what we do for our hospitality and event clients.
Whether it’s a 20,000-person festival or a cozy restaurant launch, our hospitality and event marketing solutions help you design experiences people talk about long after they’ve left. From menus to social campaigns, grant submissions to ticketing strategy,  we’re your behind-the-scenes team making sure your creativity shines and your event sells out.

Because unforgettable moments don’t happen by accident, they happen by strategy.

Growth Starts With Guidance

One of the most inspiring parts of SXSW is the sense of collaboration, how people across industries share, mentor, and lift each other up. Behind every big idea was a story of guidance, coaching, and evolution.

That’s the heart of our mentoring and business coaching service.
We empower business owners and entrepreneurs with the insights, mindset shifts, and marketing know-how to thrive. Whether you’re refining your brand, scaling your marketing, or simply trying to figure out what’s next, we’ll help you navigate it with clarity and confidence.

Because growth doesn’t happen alone, it happens with a creative little push.

SXSW Sydney reminded me that creativity, authenticity, and strategy aren’t separate; they’re soulmates.

At Creative Little Soul, we bring those same lessons into every project we touch, helping businesses tell better stories, build stronger communities, and create experiences that last.

The conference may be over, but the inspiration is just getting started.Ready to bring some SXSW-style creativity and strategy into your business?


Let’s chat about how we can make that happen.

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