Meet The Mates - Holly Norman

Welcome back to our “Meet Our Mates” series, where we introduce you to the incredible individuals behind Hey Mate’s clinical team. This week, we’re shining the spotlight on Holly — a clinician, musician who understands the arts from every angle. From festival stages to Telehealth sessions, she brings clarity, compassion, and lived experience to the creatives she supports. We’re so lucky to have her guiding our community with both heart and rhythm as part of our Hey Mate Team.

What is your position at Hey Mate / Mate Studio?

I'm a clinician, working with clients via Telehealth.

Could you share some highlights from your creative industry experience before joining Hey Mate?

Sure! I trained as a classical musician, then dabbled in jazz. I still perform as a drummer, percussionist and singer-songwriter. I've also worked 'day jobs' in arts management for over 15 years - as a production manager, producer, stage manager and music business lecturer at festivals and organisations all over Australia.

Which aspect of your work at Hey Mate ignites your passion, and what makes it so meaningful to you?

 I think the creative industries have unique challenges in terms of maintaining wellbeing and making a living. Arts work isn't for the faint of heart; you need a strong sense of yourself and a lot of emotional intelligence to sustain a career in the arts. The industry attracts a lot of people with high empathy and sensitivity - which means our people are more likely to struggle with workplace stress, overwork, poor boundaries and so on. I've been through this cycle myself (many times!) and I'm passionate about helping others navigate these challenges.

If you could champion one change in the creative industry, what would it be and how would it make a difference?

It would be a mindset shift away from hustle culture. Our worth as creatives isn't defined by our output. It's okay to say no to opportunities. You can't pour from an empty cup.

Everyone has a story; what’s a quirky or unexpected chapter / fact from yours?

One of the best gigs I've ever done was at the Fremont Solstice Parade in Seattle. It's a clothing-optional bicycle parade which means we performed amidst hundreds of cyclist clothed only in body paint while the sun set over Elliott Bay - it was memorable!

Reflecting on the guidance you’ve received over the years, which piece of advice stands out and continues to influence you today?

There's no blueprint - do it your way.