Balanced Artist

Create like you're going to fail. Not because we want you to, but because it gets you started. Achieving goals is fun for a few weeks, but the real win is who you become in order to achieve those goals. The Beatles were just white guys attempting to do Motown. They failed to hit their original target, but what we got as a result was a unique sound that hadn't been produced before. By attempting to replicate their own version of something successful, they created an original take on an existing product.Creativity is more about the process, rather than outcome. We're not looking for what you're attempting to create, but rather what manifests from the bi-product. Let's discuss..…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

You sent in your questions on creativity and innovation and we got answers!QUESTION 1: I am a I lone wolf, do I need to collaborate? QUESTION 2: Can Creativity be learned, or am I screwed?QUESTION 3: I cant come up with new ideas, will I ever be innovative? QUESTION 4: Can you spark creativity, or is it a random and unpredictable "AHA moment" process?QUESTION 5:  Does Creativity decline with age?…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

In this episode we discuss creative agile.  A collaborative way to se a project from start to finish.I used agile methodology while working in the software world. Instead of building and testing an entire project, it's split into small iterations. The stakeholders, and the development teams take a collaborative approach, sharing ideas to build the system piece by piece. Setting time constraints on the project, but split it up into small intervals, so that we get the changes out the door to see how it works, rather than overanalyze every small detail.Creative projects work the same way, and I think artists can benefit by applying some tactical methodology to their creative process, in an effort to develop their ideas. …………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

The compound effect is a principle that small actions, when taken consistently over time, can lead to significant results. This can be applied to personal development, business, health, etc..But when it comes to creative work, Creative Compounding is the point in your creative career when results start showing up for all the previous work because of your one viral piece. In this episode, I'm going to break it down into 5 digestible chunks.…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

What is most important when achieving success in a creative career? Mindset or Skillset?While skillset represents the technical prowess and proficiency in a particular craft, mindset embodies the attitudes, beliefs, and approaches that shape the creative process. In this episode, we'll explore the dynamic relationship between mindset and skillset, and how finding the right balance can unlock new levels of creative achievement for your projects.…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

Today we sit down with Jack Cook – director of the highly anticipated directorial debut "The Private Eye", starring Matt Rife.In this episode, we discuss:-The importance of having a team, and surrounding yourself with people more talented than you-Balancing creative right brain, with business left brain-Avoid wasting your time, by only working with people with a track record-Working horizontal vs vertical. Instead of getting the biggest actors, get the best actors to elevate your project organically. -Why people invest in momentum, rather than an idea. Connect with Jack:https://www.instagram.com/jackandrewcook…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

Do you need a re-invention?Invent: To create or design something that hasn't existed before. Re-invent: creating something new, based on something that already exists. Miyamoto Musashi said: “Once you understand the way broadly, you see it in all things”.What we break down in this episode is how to take the skills and experience you already have an skill stack them to create the FUTURE you.If you have dedicated focus, 3 hours a week for 1 year, you could be top 5% in the world!…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

In this episode we sit down with actor Denzel Whitaker, starring in the new film "The Private Eye". You've also seen his work in Training Day, with Denzel Washington. Other films like "The Great Debaters" and Marvels "Black Panther.In this episode, we discuss:-Nature vs nurture when parenting young artists.-What he does BETWEEN films in order to create new opportunities.-What Denzel Washington taught him about the awards he's won and his perspective.-What he would do with 250M, and how it would affect his creativity.-How to eliminate idol time and leverage the connections and opportunities you have in the moment.Connect with Denzel:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackmouf/…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

Are you waiting until retirement to pursue your creative endeavors? Maybe you've dabbled a bit, but feel silly, because you're a mother of 2 children and should be in the carpool line at school, instead of writing songs between meetings?It's time to take your inner child on a play date.In this episode, we'll discover how to break out of your comfort zone, and change the perception of your day job, by fostering an environment where employees share outside interest with each other. …………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

I heard a statement made recently that “A great life is living up to your potential”. Which is interesting, because we all have different potential depending on what we're capable of. A great percentage of the population does not live up to their potential, because it would take them out of their comfort zone, and expose them to whatever fear has been ingrained in them since childhood.Maybe instead of all the added pressure to “chase your passion”, why not follow your curiosity instead? Let's discuss….…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

Today I try to convince you that you can amplify your happiness & wellbeing through creativity.“The object isn't to make art, it's to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable.” - Robert HenriWhile in pursuit, new ideas are coming to you on the daily. You don't need to execute all of them, but being in that flow state where you're allowing the creativity to run through you.We're designed to be comfortable, afraid of judgement, and accustomed to living a life others expected of us. But what if you exposed yourself as the talented & creative individual you are? Don't stress yourself out as a “career artist”, but soak up the same benefits of being a “lifestyle artist”. "I am interested in art as a means of living a life; not as a means of making a living.”  -Robert HenriBest case scenario, you get to travel the world chasing creative fulfillment. Worst case, you are forced to hang out and learn from people more talented than you, grow as an individual, and reach way beyond my comfort zone.…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

In this episode we have a conversation with Neil Bansil - Canadian Talent Programmer & Booker for JUST FOR LAUGHS(JFL).He sought after this position at JFL for 15 years, but every time an opportunity arose, he was either not ready or not in the right place.  Alignment was off.Neil conditioned himself for this position for over a decade, scouting talent for his own shows as producer of "The most races show on earth". Neil "created his own luck".Before JFL, he worked as real estate because it allowed him flexibility in his job, so that he can focus on his comedy career. Just like a "Balanced Artist".Comedy was the WHY he took jobs. He attached purpose to everything he did leading up to the opportunity, and now  he's more ready more than ever to make an impact in Canadian comedy.  …………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

How do you measure success? How do you know when you're enough, or you have enough? No matter what I accomplish, consume or conquer, the needle seems to keep moving. I'm on this hamster wheel of never ending conquest. Even when you do feel satisfied and fulfilled, all it takes is a glance at what Jones's have on Facebook and Instagram, to make your own situation look pathetic. Was life simpler when we lived in solitude?Is success WHAT you want to be, it's WHO you want to be?Let's discuss...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

It's human nature to want biggest and better things. But in order to achieve those things, we need to grow into the person who is ready to receive them. Most people want those things handed to them, instead of facing the challenges that may endure along the way. You asked for growth, so don't be alarmed when you experience growing pains.In this episode we also discuss the Japanese Shinto practice of "Misogi". Misogis can show you that you had this latent potential you didn't realize, and that you can go further than you ever believed. When you put yourself in a challenging environment where you have a good chance of failing, lots of fears fade and things start moving” …………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

Why are you doing what you're doing? What is the motivation? Are you creating art for the money, are you create art just to create? Are you doing it for attention? What's the deal? Tony Robbins says “Success is what the world sees. Fulfillment is what the heart feels”. You learn a lot about an artist motives based on where they put their effort. Derek Sivers says: "Do whatever interests you now, no matter how uncharacteristic. Refuse to assign yourself a purpose. There is no plot. You are not a story."We unpack a lot in this episode..…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

We always look at the artists and creators doing better than us, and assume they inherited all the luck that we're lacking...Luck will give you the opportunity, but your body of work will make your career.  Although luck plays a big role, it doesn't just land on our door steps. We have to go out and find it. We have to create consistently. Then trim the hedges to highlight our best assets.If luck hasn't hit you yet, then you're either not good enough, or not exposed enough. We can fix those.In this episode we also talk about how actress Margot Robbie from the Barbie movie got "lucky". A short, but sweet episode.…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Do you take your art too seriously? I thought making great music back in my formative years would make me more accepted. I did it for so long that I didn't know what I was trying to prove anymore. Was I still the person who love making music, or was I just trying to fulfill the rockstar fantasies I had when I was a teenager?Far too often, we let aspiration get in the way of internal motivation. You might want something because someone else has it, or it looks shiny, but if you don't really align with it, why waste your time chasing it. We don't know why we chase what we chase. But we have this internal dialogue of “if I achieve, I will be rewarded”.Let's discuss...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

There are 3 types of people. 1)People who overthink everything2) People who think nothing through. 3) Balanced Artists - the people in the middleYou've heard the expression paralysis by analysis. It's where you basically cripple yourself, because you're overthinking every single detail of the project your want to conquer. So much that it becomes overwhelming and binging Netflix feels more appealing. But what what if you took the act first, then analyzed later?Let's dive in and see how it could affect your output.…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Oprah once said everybody says they want success, but it's not success they're after, it's significance. I think that also rings true for artists, but significance is a certain type of success. Are you widely recognized among your peers? Are you renown in your industry or people you respect. Does your work genuinely make an impact? I think this is a great form of success, but it doesn't necessarily put food on your table. Your work can't just be admired, it needs to be acquired, in exchange for monetary compensation. It's like the difference between some indie film winning an Oscar, but only grossed $800 bucks, versus the latest marvel movie that would never win an Oscar, but the profits could purchase a small country. Let's discuss...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Have you ever watched someone win an award in the same field that you happen to work in? Like if you're a musician, and you see someone win a Grammy.  Or you're an author and you see a fellow writer win whatever the hell it is they win. The feeling inside of you, motivating you to want to step up so that one day you can be on that podium taking home the prize that doesn't actually mean anything.You've heard the Jim Carrey quote: “I wish everyone could be rich and famous, and get everything they ever wanted, so that they can see that it's not the answer.”Then what is the answer?Let's discuss...

Are you frustrated because your stuff isn't popping off. Nobody is engaging with the masterpieces that you're creating out of your genius skull. Are you creating stuff that is different or are you just trying meet the bench mark? Rik Rubin quoted in his latest book: "Rules direct us to average behaviors. If we're aiming to create works that are exceptional, most rules don't apply. Average is nothing to aspire to. "Ease is a greater threat to progress than hardship.  When you're going through a struggle, it's going to propel you to want to go to a better place, faster. Let's discuss...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Today we break down a quote from comedian Bill Burr. It wasn't a quote, as much as it was a 2 min story on why you can't lose chasing your dream. It was well spoken, but I want to unpack it, because while things sound dreamy at first, reality kicks in, and that's where everyone jumps ship.Steven Pressfield calls that “resistance” in the War of Art. Ryan Holiday calls that “the obstacle” in Obstacle is the Way. In this episode we'll share the audio clip where Bill talks about getting paid $8 for a gig, and being over the moon, and his girlfriend says: “I wish I had a job that I got paid $8 and came home and did a silly dance in the kitchen”. What would you do for $8 and come home and do a happy dance?Let's discuss..…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

What if you try to succeed your whole life and never make it? Will you have wasted your life? Any old billionaire ever profiled has said they would trade all their wealth to be in their 20's again. If time is more valuable than all the things you perceive celebrity status will bring you(money, love, validation), then why are we trying to change things outside of your control? Let's discuss how to optimize the things you can control right now. The goal here is to integrate art into your life to amplify your well being. …………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

In this episode we're joined by Hip-Pop group Zupa Nova. This multilateral fusion originally unified in 2012 with Rawcel (Songwriter for The Black Eyed Peas) and Davy Brown (Multi-Genre Producer/Recording Artist/Multi-Instrumentalist).We discuss:-Collaboration vs Solo artist-Surrounding  yourself with people with similar mindset-Giving purpose to your art, through charitable organizations like Ambition-Settings 2-3 year goals, and 5-10 year plansConnect with Zupa Nova:http://www.zupanovaofficial.comhttps://www.instagram.com/zupanovahttps://open.spotify.com/artist/1uTLuooVkopy7HmF7P1QVF?si=_e7TJagTS6eT1WT1g7aGmQ…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Do you need to be qualified to play the game? Do you need an education in creative work? Does studying for 7 years make you a Dr of creativity? In her book “big magic”, Elizabeth Gilbert uses the term “Creative Entitlement”. This is the belief that you're allowed to be here, have a voice and allowed to share your unique vision. In Steven Pressfield's book “Get your ass where your heart wants to be”, he discusses the need to be exposed. You need to put yourself in uncomfortable positions, and the universe will come to your rescue. Have you heard the expression “impossible has a skill set”? Creating from purpose rather than ego allows us to go outside ourselves into a flow state. In this episode we look at how Chris Rock leveraged this to create his HBO special "Bring the Pain", which is considered one of the top 5 comedy specials of all time.…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Alex Hormozi has a great quote “you don't become confident by shouting affirmations in the mirror, but by having a stack of undeniable proof that you are who you say you are. Outwork your self doubt.”Affirmations are great, but they are only step one. You actually need to implement a strategy that is going to actively bring those things into your life. To outwork your self-doubt, you just need disprove your natural instinct to give up on a consistent basis. It's our human nature to be comfortable, so it takes a special kind of character to voluntarily be uncomfortable. In this episode we'll find out unique ways in which we can outwork our self-doubt, by disproving our imposter syndrome over and over again until self-confidence takes over. …………………………………………https://www.instagram.com/balancedartist   https://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusic 

Most of the content we discuss in these episodes is with the intention of applying some of the tactics to your creative career. The feedback I've been getting lately is that listeners aren't necessarily trying to have a career in the arts, but rather include creativity in their lifestyle, to balance the some of the linear parts of their lives. This episode is a bit of a shift from “career artist” to “lifestyle artist”.…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist    

I can't believe we have made it to episode 100!I have to thank 'consistency' for this milestone.That being said, I thought it would be a perfect episode to breakdown how Seth Godin discusses consistency in his book "The Practice".It is one of the main principals, if not the most important principal of become a professional creator. Some studies have even shown consistency or persistence a more valuable quality than talent. Let's have a closer look in this episode with my friend and co-host on the Celebrity Self Help Podcast, Heather Parody.…………………………………………https://www.HeatherParady.comhttps://www.seths.bloghttps://www.instagram.com/celebselfhelphttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

When I have a creative block or busy with a bigger project, it's hard to stay consistent with releasing content, so I use this as an excuse to re-release  old work. "But my audience has seen or heard this stuff". Maybe not... Your audience is growing every day, so perhaps the new members are not familiar with your old content. For the people that have seen it, it's a chance to dazzle them again with some of your best work. When you watch a movie the first time, it may be enjoyable, but you miss some things. Watch it again 2 years later and your perspective is different.One of my biggest TikTok videos ever, is one that I re-released a year later and got 200x the amount of views and engagement it did upon first release.Let's discuss further...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Convergent thinking is the process of finding concrete and familiar solutions to problems. Artists swim in Divergent thinking pool, generating original ideas and new possibilities.Divergent thinking has a major drawback: it can lead to a lack of organization. While our brains are hardwired to make connections between ideas and explore multiple possibilities within the same thought process, this creative thinking requires a little more organization to be effective.Fortunately, convergent thinking can help us take what we learn from divergent thinking and turn loose ideas into structured, feasible plans. That's what makes you as a balanced artist a lethal weapon! Let's discuss...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

It's the beginning of the year, and we're all fired up about our New Year's resolutions. You want to step up your game, create something that really resonates with your target audience, all that stuff.It is also a time to reflect on the year that has passed, and often feel deflated because you didn't achieve what you had originally intended to do. Althought you didn't meet the goal, you still moved the needle forward.Think about your entire life up until now. The teenage version of you is significantly different than the adult version of you. This is called the sorites paradox. Your actions in the past, whether good or bad, influence your actions in the present. Let's discuss....…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Men are programmed to find value in themselves through success, money and power. It's hard to be in the moment.  If he can't sit with himself then how is he supposed to sit with his family? I have been conflicted lately about travel and parenting. This past year I think I spent more time in the air than on the ground. The kids are in school, so they couldn't really come along for the ride. But that is where my inner conflict arises. Woman deal with this during child birth. Take time off your career to raise kids. You feel guilty that you're not working on your career. You go back to work, and you feel guilty for abandoning your kids. How do you find a balance where you can optimize your time with them before they grow into gross teenagers?Let's discuss……………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Even if you don't plan to pursue your craft professionally, as long as you're creating and in pursuit or development, if fills you with a sense of purpose. Until it falls off the rails....You try everything to get back some momentum. Why does the world hate me? You complain yourself into a downward spiral. But when you complain, you make yourself the victim. You're handing your power away. Instead, take your power back, double down and achieve your way out of the hole. Let's discuss...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

We can all benefit from personal development, but what about the people who find it boring and one dimensional? Why not disguise it under a pop culture mask? If self-help is the medicine, then “Celebrity Self Help Podcast” is the spoon full of sugar to help it go down.We dive into the lives, backgrounds and careers of your favorite celebrities to uncover the secret sauce that got them to where they are today. As active practitioners, Heather and Rory are both pursuing creative careers and documenting the process, so instead of hypothetical self-help, we bring you along for the journey. Highlighting takeaways from A-listers that you can apply to your own creative career.Follow: @celebselfhelp on InstagramListen to the episodes on Apple PodcastListen to the episodes on Spotify

We know the stereotype. Jocks in high school always end up working for nerds in adult hood. Those organization skills, over preparedness, punctuality that gets us made fun of in our formative years, end up being the same soft skills that allow us to excel in the future.Obviously this is exaggerated a bit, but I do notice similar patterns among creatives. Some of the more naturally talented, right brained individuals either don't know how to promote themselves, or don't care about promoting themselves because they assume it's the 90's and someone will offer them a deal right after a show, and whisk them off into the sunset of sunshine and roses.Let's discuss.....…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

I am no stranger to limiting beliefs. I have released so much, and had it go nowhere that it is easy to get discouraged and assume that nothing will ever happen. BUT there have also been times where I didn't expect anything to happen and have been pleasantly surprised. Doors open that you didn't realize existed to begin with.Let's discuss...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist     

When they told him he'd never make it in country music because he played "piano", Phil decided to prove them wrong.  He wrote hit songs for Tim McCraw, Jo dee Messina and Colin Raye.Once he got his record deal, he released #1 songs like "just another day in paradise”, or "Six Pack Summer".Taking the long road and navigating his career one day at a time, embracing the journey and remaining authentic to his own voice. He says writing a song is like opening a vein. Revealing your inner thoughts and emotions and vulnerabilities.  "If you're going to record a song, because you think it'll be a hit, you better love it. Because you'll be singing it every night for the rest of your career..."Connect with Phil:https://www.philvassar.comhttps://www.instagram.com/philvassarhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/1XhhO2dTs2fKyhILj0aam6…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Should you shoot for the stars, or play it safe? It depends. If you're leading the football game 100 to 0, then you don't need go go for a field goal. Just have some fun running some cool passing plays. But if it's a close match, and there isn't much time left on the clock, a field goal may be the best and only way to squeeze out a win.In creative work, I don't think there is value in constantly playing it safe. If you're not pushing the boundaries, then how are you growing? Let's discuss....…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Today we talk with Author Lisa Skinner, who is a behavioral specialist in the field of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.In this episode we learn:-What are some signs of Alzheimer's disease?-Can it be prevented?-How Viagra can prevent  Alzheimer's up to 70%-How to support a family member who has been diagnosed.-Covid's effects on patients with  Alzheimer'sLisa's book is available:-Amazon-Audible-https://truthliesalzheimers.com/…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Have you heard of the term “incubation”? When I looked it up online, the first example they gave was the incubation of eggs. It's basically the time before they hatch. You can't crack the eggs early. The chicken isn't ready yet. The thought here is that we should rush things that aren't ready to be exposed. We all want to cross things off our list, and move onto the next project, but sometimes letting that idea simmer for a little longer can benefit the overall quality of the outcome. Let's discuss....…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Have you ever questioned if you're on the right path. You're headed down a road that has some benefits, but unsure if ultimately it is the best use of your time or the destination you want to end. To find out, just look at someone in that field, 20 years ahead of you. If that's not who you want to be, then you're in the wrong career. Let's discuss how to audit your current situation....…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

When you have kids, people say it's life changing, and they add so much value to your life. Then for the first several years, mostly the diaper stages, you think...this doesn't seem to have the same ring to it that everyone was talking about. When does the reward for this diaper changing and sleepless nights come?Once you realize that nobody hands you a trophy when they turn 18 and congratulate you on successfully raising an adult, you realize the reward is what you've had the opportunity to experience over the last 18 years. The good, the bad and the ugly all contribute to what got you here today. And the same is true for your creative life.  Let's discuss....…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

What is your mission? Is it to be a full time artist?If so, you need a measurable goal. Remember, when marketing yourself, the audience you perform for, isn't necessarily the audience you're selling to. Sell the benefits, not the features.  Let's discuss...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

I was grateful to be asked by my friend Heather Parady to be a guest on her podcast "create community".  She asked me to help her be funnier. I told her she's already funny, but needs to optimize the tools she already has in her comedy tool belt. Here is my discussion with Heather, and the intro is a brain dump of some things that we didn't discuss in the episode, but I though were important around this topic.We discuss tools like:Identifying your point of view and dealing with rejectionMind Mapping to find creative ideasTesting your work and delivering with confidenceLet's discuss....Connect with heather:https://www.heatherparady.com/https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/Listen to the Create Community Podcast HERE…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

The way people consume entertainment now is completely different that 20 years ago. People don't listen to full albums anymore, they listen to singles. Stand up comedy is even making a shift. Instead of sitting through an hour long Netflix special, people just watch chopped up bits on social media. Nobody likes change, but the good news is that this gives independent artists a shot to compete with the artists who previously had all the opportunities. The folks signed to record labels or comedy deals with HBO. By using a platform like TikTok or Instagram Reels, your short form content can get shared more than a major label artist or celebrity. Doing that consistently,  over time, you will build yourself a digital community of people who crave your content. Some might even refer to this digital community as your “fan base”.Let's discuss....…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

What are you trying to do with your creative career? How do you know when you've made it? Is there goal you're trying to reach? An annual income you're trying to meet? Take the entertainment industry for example, because that is my industry. Achieving a level where you can do it full time is a good goal, but once you get there, then what? Then there's rewards and accolades you want to achieve. Charts you want to climb, venues you want to play. Your fan base is never big enough. You're playing venues you never thought you'd be in, but compared to Metallica you're not a Rockstar, you're a pebble. If the career ahead of you is a never ending pursuit, then why not slow down, take it in and absorb some of it. Instead of judging other or feeling inadequate, why not identify as a learner. What did they do to get to where they are, and what do I need to do to achieve the same results.Let's discuss...…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

You've heard the expression that your income is related to the 5 people you spend the most time with. Or your environment is directly correlated to who you hang with and where you spend most of your time. Your creative career is similar. If you spend 100% of the time the same circles you've always been a part of, how are you supposed to be introduced to new ideas, perspectives you never thought possible?Let's discuss..…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Here is part 2, where we are joined by 2 of my favorite indie artists, Nicki Kris & Natalie Jean. We discuss why woman often don't support other woman, and tips for licensing your music. We also dive in to how to be more aggressive with your email follow ups, and if TikTok is needed for artists today.Natalie & Nicki are co-founders of Sisters In Music (SIM) an organization that promotes and encourages educational opportunities, collaborative musical works and performances among women to raise awareness and funding for various female focused charities.Connect with Natalie:https://www.facebook.com/NatalieJeanObsessionhttps://www.instagram.com/nataliej0819Connect with Nicki:https://www.facebook.com/NickiKrisMusichttps://www.instagram.com/nickikris/…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

In this episode we are joined by 2 of my favorite indie artists, Nicki Kris & Natalie Jean. We discuss whether to niche down into a micro genre, or try spreading ourselves across multi platforms. Creating for entertainment vs making a social impact, and balancing a busy personal life & day job with your creative career. Nicki Kris is a female singer / songwriter based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Her music has captured an international audience since the soul stylings of her debut to the Americana flavor of her follow-up EP. She's launched several electronic-influenced singles leading up to her award-winning album release, Heartbeat  in 2019. Nicki's songs have been featured in award-winning movies, TV shows, and on radio stations worldwide, and she is a feature artist on my latest single “I keep rollin”.https://www.facebook.com/NickiKrisMusichttps://www.instagram.com/nickikris/Natalie Jean is an award winning, multi-nominated singer/songwriter performer, and a Voting Member in the Recording Academy (GRAMMYS). She sings and writes for many genres, such as Jazz, Pop, R&B, Blues, World, Rock, Country, Americana, Inspirational, Adult Contemporary, Alternative, and, Dance, and sings in multiple languages: French, Spanish, English, and Haitian Creole.https://www.facebook.com/NatalieJeanObsessionhttps://www.instagram.com/nataliej0819…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

Some believe that you need to go all in on "plan A". Some want to play it safe with a "plan B". As Balanced Artists, we like to live somewhere in the middle(B+ ?!). This allows us to execute plan A from a place of creativity, rather than a place of desperation.  Let's discuss….…………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist      

I read a book recently called Primary Greatness by Stephen Covey, which encouraged this episode's discussion about how we put long term success at the mercy of short-term success. We focus more on public image and popularity(secondary greatness), rather than contribution or service(primary greatness). Short term greatness without primary greatness doesn't really work. Let's discuss……………………………………………https://www.balancedartist.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BalancedArtisthttps://www.instagram.com/rorygardinermusichttps://www.instagram.com/balancedartist