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Listen "Culture Snap Ep 10: Baz Palmer Holy Grail to High Tech"
Episode Synopsis
In the final episode of Culture Snap’s first season, Keeva Stratton sits down with Baz Palmer, legendary guitarist from Hunters & Collectors and a true innovator in Australia’s music and tech scenes. From his early days as a would-be teacher to his pivotal roles in founding companies like Vampr and Weyo, Baz shares a journey that’s as much about creativity and reinvention as it is about rock and roll.
Guest: Baz Palmer (Hunters & Collectors, Vampr, Weyo)
Host: Keeva Stratton
Key Discussion Points
1. Early Life & Musical Roots
Baz’s surprising start as a trainee teacher and his quick realisation that music was his true calling.
The influence of family, mentors, and a diverse musical upbringing—from Sabbath to Coltrane.
The importance of work ethic: Baz’s father paid him to practise guitar full-time, provided he treated it like a job.
2. Band Life & Creative Chemistry
Baz’s apprenticeship in bands like the Soul Twisters and Harem Scarem, and the transition to Hunters & Collectors.
The role of creative tension and trust in making great music.
Memorable stories of on-stage camaraderie, conflict, and the unpredictable energy of live performance.
3. The Power of Audience
Reflections on how audiences shape performances, both in music and public speaking.
Anecdotes from major gigs, including the 2013 AFL Grand Final, and the cultural impact of songs like “Holy Grail”.
4. Innovation & Tech Ventures
The genesis of SoundHalo: capturing and distributing live music in real time, and the challenges of disrupting the music industry.
The evolution into augmented reality with Weyo, creating interactive experiences for brands like The Wiggles and Sesame Street.
The founding of Vampr, a “Tinder for bands,” connecting musicians globally and building a creative network beyond borders.
5. Lessons in Creativity & Collaboration
The importance of collaboration in all creative endeavours.
Insights into the entrepreneurial mindset: seeing industry pain points, adapting to new technology, and the value of timing and scale.
Reflections on regional vs. city upbringings and their influence on creative careers.
Notable Quotes
“If I was going to be a musician, I was going to do it on my own terms.”
“Innovation in itself doesn’t mean anything.”
“No matter how big someone’s ego is… they’re usually standing on the shoulders of giants.”
“The most freeing thing is to not care about other people’s opinions.”
Episode Wrap-Up
Keeva and Baz close the season with reflections on creativity, risk-taking, and the unpredictable paths that lead from rock stages to tech startups. Baz’s story is a testament to following your passion, embracing change, and always being open to the next adventure.
Guest: Baz Palmer (Hunters & Collectors, Vampr, Weyo)
Host: Keeva Stratton
Key Discussion Points
1. Early Life & Musical Roots
Baz’s surprising start as a trainee teacher and his quick realisation that music was his true calling.
The influence of family, mentors, and a diverse musical upbringing—from Sabbath to Coltrane.
The importance of work ethic: Baz’s father paid him to practise guitar full-time, provided he treated it like a job.
2. Band Life & Creative Chemistry
Baz’s apprenticeship in bands like the Soul Twisters and Harem Scarem, and the transition to Hunters & Collectors.
The role of creative tension and trust in making great music.
Memorable stories of on-stage camaraderie, conflict, and the unpredictable energy of live performance.
3. The Power of Audience
Reflections on how audiences shape performances, both in music and public speaking.
Anecdotes from major gigs, including the 2013 AFL Grand Final, and the cultural impact of songs like “Holy Grail”.
4. Innovation & Tech Ventures
The genesis of SoundHalo: capturing and distributing live music in real time, and the challenges of disrupting the music industry.
The evolution into augmented reality with Weyo, creating interactive experiences for brands like The Wiggles and Sesame Street.
The founding of Vampr, a “Tinder for bands,” connecting musicians globally and building a creative network beyond borders.
5. Lessons in Creativity & Collaboration
The importance of collaboration in all creative endeavours.
Insights into the entrepreneurial mindset: seeing industry pain points, adapting to new technology, and the value of timing and scale.
Reflections on regional vs. city upbringings and their influence on creative careers.
Notable Quotes
“If I was going to be a musician, I was going to do it on my own terms.”
“Innovation in itself doesn’t mean anything.”
“No matter how big someone’s ego is… they’re usually standing on the shoulders of giants.”
“The most freeing thing is to not care about other people’s opinions.”
Episode Wrap-Up
Keeva and Baz close the season with reflections on creativity, risk-taking, and the unpredictable paths that lead from rock stages to tech startups. Baz’s story is a testament to following your passion, embracing change, and always being open to the next adventure.
More episodes of the podcast Culture Snap
Introduction to the Culture Snap Podcast
04/09/2025
In God we trust