The Power of Creativity: A Conversation with Tim Maddren

11th March, 2025

Last week I was priviledged to be a part of the audience for BANJO - an incredible compilation of the poems and life of Banjo Patterson, set to the music of ColdPlay, AND a stunning display of the most beautiful dancing you could ever wish to see...

Sound hard to imagine - you're right - you NEED to see it.

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I thought I'd share with you a conversation with Tim about the creative work he does and how he mentors young people in the process. I hope you enjoy it.

In this episode of Gifts from the edge, we dive deep into the power of imagination, resilience, and leadership with Tim Maddren. From his childhood adventures in Australia and growing up in New Zealand to his years in Hi-5 and now as the co-founder of Got Your Back Productions, Tim shares how creativity isn’t just about talent—it’s about learning to create something from nothing.

Growing Up in a World of Imagination

Tim’s childhood in Blenheim, New Zealand, was filled with adventure. Summers were spent in remote bays, away from technology, where he and his friends had to invent ways to entertain themselves. There were no TVs, no distractions—just their imaginations.

"That ability to create something from nothing is the thing that has set me going in life and will keep me going in life," Tim shares. "If you can create in this environment, no doubt you can create in any environment."

This mindset shaped his approach to both art and business.

The Hi-5 Years: More Than Just Kids’ Entertainment

For many, Tim Maddren is best known as a former member of Hi-5, the internationally successful children’s entertainment group. Hi-5 was a full-scale production operation that involved recording albums, filming TV shows, and touring internationally. Beyond the performances, Hi-5 was deeply involved in education and philanthropy. The group worked with organizations like World Vision and the Starlight Foundation, learning firsthand about the power of entertainment to educate, inspire, and bring joy to children around the world.

This allowed for more opportunities to connect with audiences on a deeper level, shaping Tim’s understanding of how storytelling, music, and performance can be powerful tools for learning and personal growth.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode to hear Tim Maddren's journey—from his early creative adventures to his time in Hi-5 and his work with Got Your Back Productions.

Building Got Your Back Productions

After leaving Hi-5, Tim and his wife, Stephanie, founded Got Your Back Productions in Port Macquarie. Their mission? To create high-quality productions while mentoring the next generation of performers.

But their work goes beyond just training future actors and singers. At Got Your Back Junior, they focus on personal growth, confidence, and leadership—helping young people develop skills that will serve them far beyond the stage.

Defining Success Beyond the Spotlight

For Tim, success has evolved over time. It’s no longer about being the lead in a major production, which he once aspired to and achieved, but rather about creating meaningful experiences, fostering community, and mentoring the next generation of performers.

One of his most transformative experiences was working in microfinance in the Philippines. This program provided small loans to help people start businesses, lifting entire communities out of poverty. These experiences solidified James’ belief that financial resources, when used strategically, can change lives.

Key Takeaways

Creativity is a survival skill that prepares you for any future challenge by teaching you how to create from nothing. Performance goes beyond talent, requiring leadership, kindness, and confidence just as much as technical skill. True success comes from the impact you make, not just personal achievements, but the people you lift up along the way.

🎧 Learn more and listen to Tim Maddren’s journey as he shares insights on creativity, leadership, and the power of storytelling.

LISTEN & FOLLOW ON SPOTIFY

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Visit Got Your Back Productions to learn more about their work in mentoring young performers and producing world-class performances.

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