The Amani Experience Podcast

Jayemkayem discusses the importance of public relations skills, her twitch journey and an outlook on the music industry in the future.

Mr. Stretch joins us from the UK and shares his Twitch story.

Jyoti Sarda (EP 161) shares lessons learned from skiing, the fear of wasting time and why we should take more risks. Show Notes: 4:20 - Having the courage to make a dramatic pivot.  7:16 - Why people struggle to be nimble in our current environment.  9:30 - Learning how to ski. 16:07 - Stacey Abrams 18:12 - The fear of wasting time.  22:00 - Advice for people who worry about what other people think. 27:41 - Taking a pause to regroup. 33:21 - "Take more risks ... " 36:10 - "Finally having the courage and confidence to take the world on ..." 39:40 - "Surrounding myself with people who see the possibilities for me that I don't see ... " How to reach Jyoti: Website | Linkedin | Twitter | Facebook Book Recommendations: "Lead From The Outside" by Stacey Abrams Movie Recommendations And She Could Be Next

In this episode (EP 160), I review live streaming lessons learned through 2020 which I am calling "The Year of Live Streaming". Topics discussed include: Press Start and Go. Don't Wait Don't be afraid to get a merch shop live early on!  Don't Compare Your Streaming Performance To Others Themed Days work very very well Collaborate With other People Download and Store Your Sets/Episodes on a second Platform (Youtube) Spend As much time in other people's live streams as you do on your own.  Use the equipment that you already have before buying new things.  Identify different business opportunities that your stream presents to you.  Keep a schedule. Be Consistent.  Accept Feedback from your community.  Try to have as much fun as possible. 

This episode (EP 159) is brought to you by MPI Southern California (mpiscc.org). George shares advice for young filmmakers, depth in Hollywood, and his experience directing "The Hate U Give".   Show Notes: 3:25 - All My Children. 5:27 - "Instead of what is popular, let's focus on what is important ..." 6:08 - The inspiration behind producing "The Hate U Give" 8:08 - The hardest scene to direct in the movie. 12:25 - The scene at the restaurant. 17:25 - Why Hollywood lacks depth in the current times. 20:55 - Additions to one of the more impactful scenes in the book. 23:40 - "She can be both ... " 32:37 - How does George stay creatively full. 34:10 - Advice for young filmmakers and to a young George Tillman, Jr. 38:50 - Favorite Biggie & 2-Pac songs. 40:40 - Two different Hollywoods. 47:25 - What continues to inspire George.   How to reach George: Twitter  

Vince Adams [EP 158] discusses the difference between danger and fear, how he has been resourceful during the pandemic, and why virtual events are not going away. Enjoy! Show Notes: 6:52 - "I'm always about innovation!" 10:07 - The most important skills learned while live streaming.  12:16 - "Virtual is not going anywhere ... " 16:10 - Why experienced Djs are not embracing the technology to live stream.  19:25 - "Create Value" 25:04 - "I'm not scared ... " 26:03 - "Danger is real ... fear is not" 29:58 - "I can have 20 emotes ... " 36:43 - "Everyone is doing the best they can in life ... " 42:54 - Getting through the lowest point in life. 44:35 - Moms 47:59 - "If you want to keep a secret from someone, hide it in a book." 51:37 - "Create a better relationship with money ..." 58:24 - "We are products of our environment ..." 71:20 - Thoughts on Twitch.  How to reach Vince: Twitter | Twitch | Instagram | Facebook  Book Recommendations: Breaking The Habit Of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza Psycho Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz Atomic Habits by James Clear What To Say When You Talk To Yourself by Dr. Shad Helmstetter Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins  

Elaine Chaya [EP 157] joins us and discusses her Quarantine Class of 2020 project, lessons learned from her self-development quest, and doing what you want instead of what your parents want you to do. Enjoy!   Show Notes: 3:11 - "Be what you want, wear what you want ..." 6:06 - Social Media trends to keep an eye on. 10:09 - Doing what you want instead of what your parents want. 14:12 - "I'm scared that I will become irrelevant ..." 18:01 - What made me different, made me successful. 21:33 - The Coachella Meltdown 24:59 - Main lessons learned from the self-development journey. 29:38 - Photo editing tips. 30:55 - "Be confident in your decisions ... " 34:46 - "You are the star player of your own team ... " 39:00 - How podcasting has helped her brand.   How to reach Elaine: Instagram | Podcast   Book Recommendations: The Book. of Joy - Dalai Lama & Bishop Desmond Tutu

Maya [EP 156] speaks about making sure your path is your own, why we shouldn't be a victim, and the importance of resilience and dedication.  Show Notes: 2:34 - Touring Hip Hop Professional Dancer 4:43 - Resilience & dedication. "You can't plan everything ..." 7:13 - "When I was fulfilling my dream at it's highest potential and thinking about something else ... " 8:41 - "I get to work with candy all day ..." 10:05 - "Failure scares me ... " 12:05 - What is a brigadeiro dessert? 15:30 - "You can't please everyone ..." 19:31 - The dance teacher from middle school. 21:06 - How teaching shaped Maya.  24:42 - Plans for the business in the future. 25:31 - Shifting and thriving during COVID.  27:01 - "My path is my own ... " 31:18 - "Don't be a victim ... " 39:58 - 5 Things Maya wants to be known for.  How to reach Maya: Website | Instagram | Facebook  Podcast Recommendation: How I Built This - Guy Raz  

In this episode, we review the seven lessons I have learned from Livestreaming since March 2020.  Lesson 1 - Just start. Don't wait. Lesson 2 - Your technology will evolve.  Lesson 3 - Get as close to the router as possible.  Lesson 4 - Share your live streams across social media.  Lesson 5 - "The beauty is in the replay ... " Lesson 6 - Make sure to engage with your live viewers consistently.  Lesson 7 - Have fun and try not to worry about that viewer number (It's hard, I know!)

Mahoganey Jones joins us [EP 154] and discusses how she has worked on her mindset, dealing with the fear of success and how to make loving yourself a priority. Enjoy! Show Notes: 3:52 - Switching to the hospitality industry.  6:52 - Definition of eventpreneur.  9:39 - "I was producing events to pay bills ... " 10:59- Developing her speaker skills. 13:41 - The lack of diversity within the speaking circuit in the event planning world.  15:44 - Dealing with the fear of success.  18:45 - Five things to be known for.  22:30 - "I almost let somebody tell me how to define my future ... " 27:23 - Improving her mindset.  31:30 - "Keep doing what you are doing and don't stray from who you are ... " 33:00 - Make loving yourself a priority in your life.  38:06 - "Stop trying to be something you are not ... " How to reach Mahoganey: Linkedin  Book Recommendations: The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber Start With Why by Simon Sinek The Million Dollar One-Person Business by Elaine Pofledt Podcast Recommendations: How I Bult This - Guy Raz

Joshua Gillow [EP 153] talks about going two millimeters at a time, choosing comfort over pain, and why vulnerability is the ultimate strength. Enjoy the show!   Show Notes: 3:27 - Selling corn and tiger lilies as a youth. 5:41 - Mindset in tough times. 8:51 - "... the governor" 11:06 - How do you grow every day. 14:15 - "I Want To Be Remembered ... " 18:35 - Getting over the fear of being uncomfortable. 22:03 - "My only competition is yesterday ... " 27:48 - "Until you figure out what's going on in here, nothing out there changes ... " 30:50 - Definition of resilience. 36:50 - "You don't have to figure it all out ... " 40:26 - "Vulnerability is the ultimate strength ... " 42:52 - "Truth over consequence ... " 44:50 - "The best anti-depressant is exercise ... " 49:31 - "Everything you need is inside ... " 53:11 - "All storms run out of rain ... "   How to reach Joshua: Website | Instagram | Linkedin | Facebook Book Recommendations: Can't Hurt Me - David Goggins The Big Five for Life - John Strelecky Atlas Shrugged - Ayn Rand Never Split the Difference - Chris Voss      

Michelle Johnson [EP 152] shares a story of how Hurricane Katrina impacted her career, why we should make more mistakes and she talks about an interesting perspective on competition.   Show Notes: 3:09 - Going from college to the hospitality industry. 5:49 - Michelle as a DJ! 9:25 - "Turn the lights on ... " 12:04 - "I don't have any competition ... " 17:27 - A story about Timberland in New Orleans. 25:42 - "I don't listen to the noise ... " 29:28 - Not seeing what was coming towards her first company. 32:07 - Naming her company The Anchor Group 34:17 - Choosing to be on an island with someone you hate. 38:40 - Finding out she had a brother or sister at age 17. 44:37 - "See the end result ... " 47:25 - "Don't chase friends ... " 50:59 - How MPI has changed Michelle's life.   How to reach Michelle: Linkedin   Book Recommendations: Untamed - Glennon Doyle Building A StoryBrand - Donald Miller Lead With Value - Kareen Walsh Girl Stop Apologizing - Rachel Hollis

Season 4 premiere. I review ten lessons I have learned through three seasons of podcasting. Congratulations to us on three successful seasons!

John Hawley [EP 150!] talks about overcoming his fear of public speaking, what a master facilitator is, and having the courage to go out on his own.  Show Notes: 3:00 - Definition of a master facilitator.  4:05 - Assisting people who have a fear of public speaking.  7:26 - "You have to do your own thing ... " 9:56 - Having the courage to go out on your own.  12:44 - "Are you going to be #1?" 15:35 - "Make your noise sound a lot like music ... " 19:34 - Top characteristics of the best facilitators.  26:38 - John's older brother.  30:31 - Desire to collaborate with Google.  32:57 - "The things that i thought were important, were not ... the things I did not think were important, were. " 36:26 - "He creates confidence so others can build ... " How to reach John:  | Linkedin | Twitter  Book Recommendations: "Can't Hurt Me" by David Goggins

Trevor Lui talks to us about going through the pandemic as a restaurant executive, the importance of mental health, and why you either love fried chicken or you are wrong.   Show Notes: 3:57 - Trevor Lui playing soccer growing up. 8:22 - Reducing food waste in the event industry. 10:10 - Reducing food waste in the event industry. 13:01 - "You can't have a fear of failing ... " 18:01 - Moving forward in the middle of a pandemic. 24:20 - Taking time to go out his own in business. 30:32 - The mental health side of this pandemic. 34:36 - The first marriage. 38:12 - "We need our critics ... " 48:29 - "I'm organized in my own way ... " 53:06 - "I refused to respect money at that age ... " 55:33 - "You either love fried chicken or you are wrong ... "   How to reach Trevor: Linkedin | Instagram | Twitter   Book Recommendations: The Art of War by Sun Tzu Shoe Dog by Phil Knight Double Happiness - Trevor Lui

Duane Draughon (EP 148) discusses the importance of getting rid of limiting beliefs, why we should be fearless and how he almost gave up on his business. Enjoy! Show Notes: 4:12 - Mowing lawns as a kid.  10:12 - Running a six-million dollar operation and not being able to be the face of the company.  12:33 - Egbert Brown 14:56 - "I gave up on my business ... " 18:48 - Helping people who have previously been in the system. 24:55 - Josh Gillow 26:59 - Walking on fire.  30:27 - Developing the resilience.  36:00 - "Don't ever be afraid of anything ... " 40:33 - Meditation.  44:09 - "Keep your word ..." How to reach Duane: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter  Book Recommendations: The Big Five for Life by John Strelecky Born A Crime by Trevor Noah Never Split The Difference by Chris Voss

Julie Broad [EP 147] talks about why writing a book is better than a degree, how the missing piece is always action, and shares some pertinent advice on whether or not writing a book is a good idea.  Show Notes: 4:24 - Paying for a year of university through stock trading.  6:58 - Developing a passion for writing at a young age.  8:56 - Why people are afraid to niche down.  12:25 - Editing the book. The process.  19:29 - Moving home at age 31.  20:46 - Mark Ford 23:21 - "I love books ... " 24:11 - Why writing a book is better than getting a degree.  27:17 - "Decide and go ... " 33:10 - "The people who are criticizing you are never the ones making things happen ... " 35:35 - Why so many people want to write a book, yet so few people actually write a book.  38:15 - "The book might be about you, but it's not for you ... " 42:40 - Helping writers who get stuck in the middle of the writing process.  45:44 - "The missing piece is always action ... " 50:30 - Julie takes Amani through a future book analysis exercise.  How to reach Julie: Website | Youtube | Linkedin  Book Recommendations: DJs Mean Business - Amani Roberts The War of Art - Steven Pressfield Pitch Anything - Oren Klaff

Heather Mason [EP 146] why strategy is most important with regards to events, surviving a stroke at age 40, and why an abundance mindset and niche focus is needed.  Show Notes: 4:33 - What inspired Heather to major in journalism and marketing.  5:27 - The five people who changed Heather's life.  7:15 - The Chronicles of Narnia. 11:28 - The lesson of Kodak, marketing and fear.  14:00 - Leaving Charles Schwab with $1400 in the bank.  15:38 - Heather's definition of fear.  18:16 - "Logistics are not where events are, it's in the strategy ..." 23:46 - The Surefire Girls Conference. 27:06 - Abundance and niche focus.  30:38 - Why Heather is excited about what is going on in the event industry.  36:08 - Having a stroke at age 40.  41:50 - Improving writing skills.  42:53 - "You can't move faster than life is going to let you ..." How to reach Heather: Website | Linkedin  Book Recommendations: The Popcorn Report - Faith Popcorn The Tipping Point - Malcolm Gladwell

This episode (EP 145) we highlight seven under the radar books that you should read. Check them out and share your thoughts on each book with me. Enjoy the episode.   Show Notes: 1:54 - Bird by Bird - Anne Lamott. -Clip of Anne's Ted Talk is here.   4:24 - Influencer - Brittany Hennessy -Clip of Brittany's interview is here.   7:19 - The Sun Does Shine - Anthony Ray Hinton -Clip of the trailer for the book is here.   10:02 - Fear Is My Homeboy - Judi Holler -Judi's Graduation talk to CSUF's EHM Program is here.   16:00 - Overcoming Underearning by Barbara Stanny -Clip of talk by Barbara is here.   19:31 - Powerful Teaching - Pooja K. Agarwal, Ph.D. & Patrice Bain -Clip of Pooja describing Retrieval Practice is here.   23:30 - DJs Mean Business - Amani Roberts -Clip of Amani's virtual book launch is here.

Courtney Stanley [EP 144) discusses speaking up consistently, goals of being more creative, and why saying yes to opportunities is the best way to getting started. Enjoy!   Show Notes: 3:20 - Why Courtney changed her major four times in college. 6:08 - Motivational speakers that Courtney looks up to. 10:46 - "Saying yes to opportunities is the best way to get started ... " 14:00 - Why Courtney chose 2020 as the year to go full-time in her business. 19:11 - "I love being uncomfortable ... " 24:10 - "Speaker evaluation forms make me sweat ... " 27:04 - Tips for people who want to improve on putting themselves first. 33:08 - Getting let go from the first job. 37:30 - "If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change ... " (Wayne Dyer) 40:10 - "Tapping more into my creative side ... " 41:49 - "Be humble!" 48:23 - "Not everyone is going to be on your side ... " 51:27 - The MPI Chairman's Award. How to reach Courtney: Website | Linkedin | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Book Recommendations: Daring Greatly - Brené Brown Polishing Our Pear of Greatest Price - Deb Stanley

Megan Sanchez (EP 143) talks about how we should not let the "no's" stop us, current thoughts on loneliness, and not getting distracted by our "shoulds".  Show Notes: 4:08 - "Passion picked me ... " 4:56 - Megan's definition of burnout.  8:01 - How people get distracted by "our shoulds".  11:11 - Getting through imposter syndrome.  14:52 - "I feel scared when I feel like I'm all alone ... " / Fighting through loneliness 19:44 - Not letting the "no's" stop her.  24:55 - "The best relationships are a balance of giving and receiving."  29:10 - "Just stay flexible ..." 30:25 - Helping people learn how to let go.  34:04 - Why habits are so hard to change.  How to reach Megan: Website | Facebook | Linkedin  Book recommendations: The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan Holliday Ego Is The Enemy by Ryan Holliday

Melissa Majors joins us [EP 142] and shares why loneliness can be more lethal than cigarettes, how life is not a dress rehearsal, and the beauty of walking in your calling.  Show Notes: 4:24 - Going from Columbus to Dallas 5:18 - Where Melissa's passion for lawn mowing comes from? (She still cuts the lawn!)  8:18 - "We have to balance it with a good business sense ..." 11:13 - Overcoming the fear of going out on her own.  13:00 -  Most valuable lessons learned from a bad leader.  15:01 - "I'm walking in my calling ... " 20:32 - Common characteristics of the best leaders and learners.  24:14 - "Mary Jane" by Rick James 25:40 - How loneliness can affect your decisions. (It's the equivalent of smoking 16 cigarettes a day).  31:05 - Avoiding the comparison trap.  31:49 - The loss of her brother.  40:09 - "I'm a risk-taker ... " 42:20 - "Life is not a dress rehearsal ... " 46:07 - Melissa's definition of fear.  49:18 - Self-care tips.  How to reach Melissa: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Linkedin  Book Recommendations: Ready to Rise by Jo Saxton DJs Mean Business by Amani Roberts Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss Braving The Wilderness by Brene Brown The Bible  Podcast Recommendations: Unlocking Us by Brene Brown

Debbie and Ben Conroy join us  [EP 141] and discuss standing out in a crowded space of creatives, getting past the fear of not succeeding, and why they want to be around other champions. Enjoy! Show Notes: 4:13 - What was the inspiration for the shift to woodworking.  7:31 - Using social media to spread the word.  10:15 - "Don't be afraid to fail ... " 14:55 - Why they love woodworking.  17:15 - "Not being recognized in a crowded space of creatives ... " 18:36 - How both Debbie & Ben are fighting through the fear of not succeeding.  25:00 - Losing Debbie's dad. "From the darkness, we saw the light ... " 34:58 - "I need a new tool ... " 35:57 - "Be around champions ... " 38:44 - "Don't sweat the small stuff... " How to reach Debbie & Ben: Website | Instagram | Facebook  Book Recommendations: "Talking to Strangers" by Malcolm Gladwell Podcast Recommendations: Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend  Armchair Expert 

Nicole Funicelli aka Nicci [EP 140] shares how she stays inspired, her unique and amazing practice routing, and why we must be in a consistent spirit of collaboration.  Show Notes: 3:25 - Whitney Houston. 8:17 - Getting taken out of school to go singing at 11-years old.  11:10 - The art of collaboration. 15:11 - Managing writing and avoiding burnout.  19:59 - Advice to young songwriters. Getting through the fear.  28:41 - Handing criticism from legitimate sources.  30:58 - "When you are in pain, you have to share it with someone ... " 34:50 - Growing your resilience muscle.  37:30 - Writing a great pop song.  39:34 - "Nothing ever goes according to plan ... " 43:25 - "Vibe is everything ... " 44:20 - Nicole's practice routine.  How to reach Nicole: Spotify | Instagram | Facebook  Book Recommendations: Speak With Distinction by Edith Skinner All You Need To Know About The Music Business by Donald Passman The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

Jeff Haynes [EP 139] discusses the benefits of cutting the cord sooner than you are ready, failing big or winning big, and the continuous benefit of having patience. Show Notes: 3:39 - Favorite area to live in (Dallas, Austin, Los Angeles or Phoenix) 6:05 - Staying motivated and adjusting in our changing environment.  7:14 - The three conditions we are currently living in.  11:52 - When Jeff cut the cord.  13:59 - "Cut the cord sooner than you are comfortable with ... " 23:34 - Human to human and smaller events.  30:59 - Companies who pulled out of South By Southwest. 38:47 - "Fail big or win big ... " 47:24 - "If time and money can fix it, it's not a real problem ... " 49:29 - "I only see the good in people ... " 55:04 - "Patience and enjoy the ride ... " How to reach Jeff: Website | Linkedin 

Toni Curry [EP 138] discusses being the first African-American Miss Alabama, the fear of playing small and why we should take time to be proud of ourselves.   Show Notes: 5:26 - The first African-American woman to win Miss Alabama. 9:18 - Structure and being nimble. 11:10 - The meaning of Bundini Brown 16:04 - Why we focus on failures more than accomplishments. 17:29 - The inspiration behind writing "My Hype Book". 29:02 - "The presence of humility should not mean the absence of personal accolades ... " 31:38 - The fear of playing small and advice to people who are playing small. 38:55 - Dr. Septo 44:22 - "If you do 100 more, we will get lobster for dinner ... " 47:59 - "Let yourself off the hook quicker ... " 52:57 - "Be selfish with yourself ... " How to reach Toni: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Linkedin   Book Recommendations: "My Hype Book" by Toni Purry "Start With Why" by Simon Sinek The Bible "Good to Great" by Jim Collins "Originals" by Adam Grant "Quit Playing Small" by Ahyiana Angel   Podcast Recommendations: Switch, Pivot or Quit by Ahyiana Angel

Melody Hammer [EP 137] from Loud Lacquer joins us and discusses how she tamed her sharp elbows, what it takes to succeed in the influencer space and how she has created a cutting edge beauty company.   Show Notes: 4:56 - What characteristics make up a good influencer. 7:03 - The inspiration behind the name Loud Lacquer. 11:42 - Current colors that move Melody. 15:52 - "The ideas and opportunities are endless ... " 17:44 - 'Mean Girls' 19:46 - How to continue to fill up her creative cup. 23:56 - "Sharp Elbows ... " 30:31 - Tips for people who worry about what other people think about them. 33:50 - The silver lining of what we are going through at the moment. 38:32 - The impact of running and meditation in Melody's life.   How to reach Melody: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest   Book Recommendations: The One Page Marketing Plan by Allan Dib Talking To Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger When Life Gives You Lululemons by Lauren Weisberger

Baily Hancock [EP 136] shares some excellent networking tips, why we should all focus on collaboration and she discusses all of the various pivots she has made in life.  Show Notes: 4:36 - Voted Miss SRHS in high school. 7:58 - Looking at living in LA the wrong way initially.  9:46 - "I turn on light switches for people ... " 15:06 - "My This + Your That = Our Magic" 18:35 - Definition of collaboration 25:20 - "If you are not on Linkedin ... " 26:26 - How to curate your community.  36:25 - Lessons learned from the collapse of 2008.  42:13 - The summer of 2018. 45:34 - "People can't help you if they don't know you need help ... " 49:41 - "Nothing for nothing ... " 57:30 - "It's almost never about me ... " 63:55 - The impact of 'War of Art' on Baily.  66:44 - "Leave a little room for serendipity ... " How to reach Baily: Website | Linkedin | Instagram | Facebook  Book Recommendations: "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield "Big Magic" by Elizabeth Gilbert "Untamed" by Glennon Doyle

DJ Mark Stylz aka Mark Pacheco [EP 135] stops by and chats about how he started his DJ career 35+ years ago, how he got through some dark times and why your network is your net worth.   Show Notes: 3:24 - The 7th-grade dance when the amp blew 45 minutes into the gig. 6:31 - What happened after graduating from Loyola Marymount University. 10:33 - The movie "Teen Wolf". 13:02 - Las Vegas. 17:20 - The digital advancements in the DJ world. 23:34 - "The tarp on the turntables ... " 31:25 - The dark times. 33:40 - "You can't plan anything ... " 38:27 - "In the sound, I can always find my way ... " 42:31 - "I want to be better at taking risks ... " 44:52 - "I grew up hip hop ... " 48:51 - "Focus on this DJing son ... " 53:23 - "Your network is your net worth ... " 57:04 - "Don't take yourself too seriously ... " 58:57 - Advice to people who are interested in learning how to DJ ... "Do you ..."   How to reach Mark: Instagram | Twitter   Book Recommendation: "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie

In this episode (EP 134), I share seven books you should read and include clips from the authors. Enjoy! Show Notes: #1 - The Artist Way by Julia Cameron  | Speech by Julia #2 - Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert |   Interview Clip #3 - The Power of Purpose by Les Brown |  Clip from book #4 - The War of Art by Steven Pressfield  |  Interview Clip #5 - The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz  |  Interview Clip #6 - Mindset by Carol Dweck |  Interview Clip #7 - Grit by Angela Duckworth  |  Interview Clip

Kit Rich (EP 133) shares why there is no fast track, valuable advice Kesha shared with her and what "a little bit of the left" means to her!   Show Notes: 4:12 - Writing a love story in the LA Times. 6:45 - "A little bit to the left ... " 12:45 - Definition of "higher thoughts". 13:46 - "There is no fast track ... " 17:05 - Definition of resilience. 21:05 - "The thing that scares me most is not hitting my potential ... " 23:43 - Giving away her intellectual property without knowing. 25:57 - Discovering your worth. 30:59 - Oprah 34:02 - "Get better at being easier on myself ..." 36:10 - "Give myself permission to do what is in my heart ... " 39:04 - Advice from Kesha.   How to reach Kit: Website | Instagram | Youtube | Facebook   Book Recommendations: "Calling In The One" by Katherine Woodward Thomas "Wishes Fulfilled" by Wayne Dyer

Kimberli Hudson [EP 132) discusses starting her first company at the age of 17, what "progress is better than perfection" and how we can become less burned out. Enjoy! Show Notes: 3:32 - Kimberli's first business at age 17.  6:17 - Most valuable lessons learned from starting 13 companies.  7:50 - Why people don't trust their intuition.  13:23 - Under the radar self-care options.  17:24 - What happened when Kimberli started her blog.  23:16 - Losing both parents and a child.  26:45 - Being a part of the "scar clan" 29:53 - "I'm still willing to love ... " 30:56 - "Progress not perfection ... " 33:27 - Perfection is a myth.  37:40 - Kimberli's new book.  39:36 - How can we become less burned out.  44:32 - "You are enough, just as you are ... " How to reach Kimberli: Website | Linkedin | Instagram | Facebook Book Recommendations: The Soul of Money by Lynn Twist Women Who Run With The Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estes

Dr. Steve Ralph [EP 131] shares with us why a "pause practice" is crucial to the well being of our creativity, how he balances being a professor and a CEO, and why you should try workshops you never would consider before.  Show Notes: 5:38 - Becoming a professor at Pepperdine and Steve's favorite part of being a professor.  8:23 - The EPIC Impact Summit 10:50 - Balancing teaching in Malbu, California and living in Colorado. 12:59 - "Go to conferences you have never been before ... " 13:22 - Definition of leadership & creativity.  15:57 - "They know how to pause ... " 24:52 - "Everyone has their own story ... " 25:40 - Resilience.  28:00 - The importance of being present with the people you love.  32:15 - Response to the thoughts that people can only do one thing as a creative.  34:54 - "It's going to be ok ... each part has it's place ..." 39:40 - "Stay the course ... " How to reach Steve: Website | Linkedin  Book Recommendations: "Innovators DNA" by Jeff Dyer, Hal Gregersen and Clayton M. Christensen "The Element" - Sir Ken Robinson and Lou Aronica

Jon Armstrong (EP 130) discusses how he is always learning, what his music career taught him about business and why "the path is the path". Show Notes: 4:30 - Pursuing his masters and getting signed to MCA Records.  12:04 - Valuable lessons learned while being in a band. 15:40 - "If I am doing something and feeling a little uncomfortable, I'm probably in the right spot ... " 18:10 - Jon's perspective on the 10,000 hour theory. 20:15 - A message to people who think they can only be an expert in one category.  30:40 - A lab procedure that did not go as planned.  37:02 - How to handle the "bomb-throwers".  39:38 - The importance of having a team in business and personal life.  43:40 - "The worst type of planning you can do is crisis planning ... " 48:58 - "The path is the path ... "  51:25 - "The chance to fail is always going to be there ... " 56:23 - Thoughts on Ozzy Osbourne.  How to reach Jon: Website | Linkedin  Book Recommendations: "Designing Tube Preamps for Guitar and Bass" by Merlin Blencowe

Kasey Blaustein [EP 129] discusses how a call from the Golden Globes changed her life, not buying into the critics and the beauty of coloring all day. Enjoy! Show Notes: 3:50 - Favorite authors growing up.  6:32 - Getting a call from the Golden Globes.  9:10 - "I'm very happy ... content with today and excited for growth tomorrow ..." 13:34 - Kasey's family's reaction to going all-in on her business.  14:10 - "I color all day ... " 17:44 - Different ways Kasey is kind to herself.  22:21 - "Don't buy it ... " 23:30 - Discovering mindfulness and yoga.  25:42 - Five years later.  28:24 - "I would like to be better at numbers ... " 29:18 - Knowing and sticking to your worth.  31:14 - "Don't take yourself so seriously ... " How to reach Kasey: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Linkedin  Book Recommendations: "His Dark Materials" by Phillip Pullman "Three Women" by Lisa Taddeo "Washington Black" by Esi Edugyan Miscellaneous: MARC Class at UCLA Extension (Mindfulness)

Rajiv Satyal [EP 128] shares some phenomenal stories about coming up in the comedy world, why it is so difficult for people to finish things and what Eva Longoria said to him after one of his shows. Enjoy! Show Notes: 4:14 - "The Catcher In The Rye" 6:10 - It's not easy as it seems.  7:27 - Go Bananas Comedy Club. 9:16 - Staying disciplined with writing.  10:50 - Eva Longoria liked Rajiv's show.  14:23 - Reading a room in comedy.  17:06 - Advice to young comedians.  18:56 - "That which is most personal is most general ... " 22:40 - "I wish I had more haters ... " 25:40 - "When you are smart, you can do anything ... " 28:52 - Roger Fishman from CAA.  33:10 - Andre Agassi  39:33 - "You can be everything, just not everything at once ... " 41:22 - Why is it so difficult for people to finish things.  45:22 - "I want to make as many people laugh and think as I can ... " How to reach Rajiv: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube | Facebook  Book Recommendations: "The Catcher In The Rye" by J.D. Salinger "Who is Michael Ovitz" by Michael Ovitz "Talking to Strangers" by Malcolm Gladwell "Sapiens" by Yuval Noah Harari "I Cannot Accept Not Trying" by Michael Jordan & Mark Vancil "On Writing" by Stephen King "Open" by Andre Agassi 

Kristen Richards (EP 127) talks about investigating all red flags, how she is currently dealing with the fear of success and why we can't control everything. Enjoy! Show Notes: 5:47 - How Kristen found her way to Marriott. 9:18 - How did woodworking come into Kristen's life.  12:15 - What is a street builder? 17:14 - "Create something that people want to see that they have never seen before ... " 21:50 - "I just need my shop time ... " 25:25 - The fear of success.  33:25 - The power of journaling.  36:28 - Advice to people who are on the cusp of separating.  41:18 - "Investigate all red flags ... " 42:52 - Advice to females who want to follow in Kristen's footsteps.  46:23 - "I can't control everything ... " 52:52 - "What people tell you and what people do ... " How to reach Kristen: Website | Instagram | Pinterest  Book Recommendations: Codependent No More by Melody Beattie

Kay Lawal Muhammad discusses the purpose of being fearless, loving yourself and why we cannot give up.  Show Notes: 4:10 - The Thunder Thigh Revue 6:26 - The genesis of Wombwork Productions. 12:30 - Her last addiction.  13:25 - "I can help open up other people ... " 17:10 - Learning to love yourself. 18:59 - "Be fearless ... " 24:18 - "I have loved this since I was a little girl ... " 28:58 - How is Wombwork different from other non-profits.  33:25 - "The deepest criticisms can bring about a moment of growth ... " 39:22 - Family - "Strong and fragile ... " 41:20 - "It's ok to trip ... just get up ... " 43:05 - Fasting. 46:40 - "Love like you just don't care ... never give up ... " How to reach Kay: Website | Instagram | Facebook  Book Recommendations: Beloved by Toni Morrison Between The World And Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Hicham Hajji, Director of the film "Redemption Day", shares how he put all his chips on the table and risked everything to direct his movie and also recount numerous stories from his career. Enjoy! Show Notes: 4:33 - What the movie "The Shining" means to Hicham. 7:29 - Celine Dion's music video.  10:20 - Getting the courage to go all in on his film directing.  12:33 - "Be honest with yourself ... " 14:40 - Summary of the movie "Redemption Day" 21:24 - Advice from Nancy Foy. 25:00 - "A passport full of stamps is better than a house ... " 29:45 - Don't stop and listen to every dog that barks.  32:45 - The next movie will be a musical comedy in the EDM world.  35:42 - Guitar lessons.  37:48 - "Stop what you are doing and follow your passion ... " 42:17 - The importance of "Redemption Day" for the Moroccan film community.  45:28 - Advice from Mario Kassar.  Book Recommendations: Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashley Vance Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari  

We review the best of The Amani Experience Podcast in 2019. We hear from Judi Holler, KJ Rose, Jen Boschma, Puno Puno, Shinah Chang, Adam Gubman and Laura Powers. Enjoy! 1:05 - Judi Holler 4:11 - KJ Rose 7:36 - Jen Boschma 13:03 - Puno Puno 15:32 - Shinah Chang 18:52 - Adam Gubman 22:10 - Laura Powers  

Gary Ware [EP 123] talks about his experience in the improv world, why space and rest is important for creatives and how we should start thinking - "What is the best that can happen?" Show Notes: 4:58 - Wanting to be a music teacher.  10:27 - "There comes a point when this is not the place for you ... " 13:29 - How improv has changed Gary's life.  19:05 - "No mistakes, only gifts ... " 21:15 - "Creative professionals need rest ... need space ... " 24:23 - Convincing companies that play is important.  29:35 - "Your heart is like a GPS ... " 36:08 - Einstein and the patent office.  44:15 - "Instead of getting furious, get curious ... " 48:12 - The love for Super Mario Bros 3 51:20 - 6th-grade band teacher, Mr. Evans.  54:07 - "It's not about the work ... " 60:22 - "What is the best that can happen?" 64:56 - "Put one foot in front of the other ... " How to reach Gary: Website | Instagram | Linkedin | Facebook  Book Recommendations: Play by Dr. Stuart Brown & Christopher Vaughan Chief Joy Officer by Richard Sheridan I Can't Make This Up: Life Lessons by Kevin Hart Creativity Inc by Ed Catmull & Amy Wallace SuperBetter by Jane McGonigal

Kira Lingman [EP 122] talks about her love for blues music, gives advice to people who are too old/young to learn bass and shares why good art comes from the dark times. Enjoy! Show Notes: 4:34 - Where and when Kira's desire to play music came from.  6:34 - Elmore James & Muddy Waters. 8:42 - Ori from Gotham Guitars.  10:22 - What inspired Kira to go full-time with her music.  14:20 - The name "The Hollow Legs". 17:44 - Dream collaborations. 20:50 - How Kira stays creatively full.  25:26 - Advice for people who feel they are too old to learn guitar.  30:18 - "Art comes from the dark times ... " 34:03 - The business aspect of the industry.  36:15 - "Don't be fearful ... " 37:18 - Conquering fears.  46:10 - Favorite song to cover.  47:10 - The key to making a memorable song.  How to reach Kira: Website | Instagram | Instagram | Facebook | Spotify  New Album (Amazon Link) Book Recommendations: "Becoming" by Michelle Obama

Monica Kang [EP 121] discusses the scarcity mindset, getting through a serious bout of depression and why we need more playtime in our lives! Enjoy. Show Notes: 5:45 - Monica's definition of creativity.  8:20 - Why creativity is key to personal and professional development.  13:55 - How to get over the scarcity mindset.  20:33 - Advice for people who feel stuck.  32:12 - "Freak out less, live more ... " 35:44 - Working through a serious bout of depression. 42:35 - Fictional characters who inspired Monica.  48:56 - "It's ok to be heartbroken about certain things ... " 52:50 - Playtime! 59:57 - "Find people who ... " How to reach Monica: Website | Instagram | Linkedin | Twitter  Book Recommendations: Originals by Adam Grant Mindset by Carol Dweck Rethink Creativity by Monica Kang The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg 1984 - George Orwell TV Show Recommendations: The Good Place  One Piece 

Shanna Lee [EP 120] discusses how she left a lucrative real estate business to coach and mentor other creatives, keeping fear in check and as a bonus, Shanna gives me a live reading! Enjoy. Show Notes: 5:00 - Becoming a very successful real estate professional. 8:35 - What inspired Shanna to shift her focus and start a new business. 13:15 - "None of that is true and real ... " 15:46 - "Fear is only as big as you think it is ... " 25:01 - Delegating and scaling. 29:55 - Attracting opposing energy. 34:03 - "I stopped blaming other people ... " 36:05 - Why the people who are closest to us don't support us. 43:06 - Be more present. 46:16 - "I help people live healthy, authentic and awakened lives..." 49:46 - Why the love for 'The Artist Way'. 51:30 - A live reading of Amani. How to reach Shanna: Website | Instagram | Podcast Book Recommendations: "The Soul Frequency" by Shanna Lee "Many Lives, Many Masters" by Brian L. Weiss "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coehlo "The Prophet" by Kahlil Gibran "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron  

Christiane Michaelis [EP 119] talks about never being too old to be creative, Harry Potter and how to grow your creativity muscle. Enjoy!   Show Notes: 3:40 - Two things Christiane misses the most about Germany. 5:52 - The transition from tenure track teaching to her creativity business. 8:13 - Where the name "Dirty Easel" comes from. 10:53 - "50% of the people in the world feel they are not creative..." 12:46 - Growing your "creativity muscle" ... 21:09 - A classic scene from Harry Potter. 26:41 - "Opening a business is like opening a big bag of failures ... " 33:04 - "Easy for me to jump and take a leap when my mind is made up ... " 39:14 - People who say they are too old to learn new skills. 44:15 - "We need to be able to drop everything and follow the call of the moment ..."   How to reach Christiane: Website | Twitter | Linkedin | Facebook | Instagram   Book Recommendations: The Uninhabitable Earth by David Wallace Wells Creativity Inc. by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace

Azul Terronez (EP 118) shares some wise thoughts on writing, why it is all creatives responsibility to take risks and what he misses most about the classroom.  Show Notes:  3:53 - Not chasing likes on social media and downloads for podcast.  7:47 - What Azul misses about the classroom.  9:10 - What inspired Azul to be a writing coach.  12:54 - 81% of people have a book inside of them, only 3% of people write it.  15:11 - "We have a responsibility to take risks ... " 18:57 - The risk that had the most impact on Azul's life.  22:35 - "I was afraid I had nothing to say ... " 31:08 - "Other people will deal with haters, you don't have to ... " 33:53 - What people did when Azul left his prominent educational career.  36:10 - The writing coach wants to be better at writing. 38:31 - "Courage is the most depleted resource that writers have ... " 41:14 - "When you least expect it, that's when you are who you really are ... " How to reach Azul: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Linkedin | TED TALK  Book Recommendations: The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott On Writing by Stephen King The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Daring Greatly by Brene Brown Podcast Recommendation: Born to Write Podcast 

Tessa Young [EP 117] discusses lessons learned in her 20's, the benefits of a good hobby and why we should do all of the things. Enjoy! Show Notes: 3:45 - Valuable lessons learned while owning Grey Matter. 5:25 - The Wherehouse. 8:42 - "Creative professionals need to learn how to be business professionals." 10:18 - Making mixtapes back in the day.  12:58 - "You need to have a say ... " 14:49 - Wishing that she started her DJ career earlier.  16:30 - "Commitment & persistence ..." 18:45 - Advice to young up and coming DJs. 20:07 - Lessons learned in her 20's.  22:35 - The benefits of a good hobby.  25:34 - "Showing up on time ... " 28:26 - "Do all of the things ... " 30:42 - Maintaining self-worth.  How to reach Tessa: Website | Instagram | Prism DJs | Facebook | Linkedin  Book Recommendations: The Four Agreements - Don Miguel Ruiz Never Split The Difference - Chris Voss & Tahl Raz

Jonathan Spangler [EP 116] introduces his new invention (a guitar that folds) as he works on his mission to unleash the mobile musician. He discusses grit, solving the friction in your life and how 900 crunches in the morning help him get his day started.  3:20 - What about intellectual law interested Jonathan.  5:42 - Jonathan's two go-to songs on the guitar.  6:37 - "Study the Friction In Your Life ... solve for it..." 9:27 - What is Ciari Guitars? 10:51 - Handling skepticism from traditional guitar players. 16:35 - Definition of grit.  20:44 - "There is no perfect time and no perfect person ... " 24:10 - Music being taken out of schools.  35:06 - Time management and sleep.  35:40 -"Be more self-confident... " 39:31 - "Unleashing the mobile musician ... " 40:14 - 900 crunches a day in 15 minutes! 45:00 - Verbal/Visual demonstration of the Ciari guitar.  51:05 - Where the name Ciari comes from. How to reach Jonathan: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Linkedin Book Recommendations: Play It Loud by Brad Tolinski and Alan di Perna Mindset by Carl Dweck David & Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell Blood and Thunder by Hampton Sides

Dayna Solomon [EP 115] shares an impressive morning routine, the key to staying balanced as a full-time DJ and how she has been able to remain positive amidst many storms. Enjoy!   Show Notes: 5:37 - Why did Dayna major in Mass Communications. 11:23 - The first concert Dayna attended.  13:13 - Marine Biology as a second career.  15:39 - Attracting a strong support group. 18:22 - DJ'ing on a cruise ship.  23:09 - How Dayna avoids the comparison trap.  28:24 - "Just Another Day" by Jon Secada 32:30 - Staying balanced.  38:42 - "Remaining positive through the storms ..." 40:01 - Dayna's morning routine.  45:10 - Sleeping tips.  How to reach Dayna: Website | Instagram | Facebook   Book Recommendations: "The Subtle Art of Not" by Mark Manson Essentialism by Greg McKeown Sleep Smarter by Shawn Stevenson, Sara Gottfried   App Recommendations: Shine App  

Ross Simmonds [EP 114] shares timely content distribution tactics, why you should stay away from the comparison game and when it the right time to walk away from something or somebody. Enjoy! Show Notes: 4:34 - Shy Ross. 7:15 - Selling do-rags in high school. 10:08 - "Don't play the game of comparison ... " 12:55 - Advice for people who want to start a side hustle. 18:18 - "I stay in it so I can talk about what is relevant today ... " 20:42 - Medium and Reddit. 34:35 - Content trends to focus on.  36:40 - Advice for people who are scared to put themselves out there.  39:06 - Know when to walk away from people.  43:49 - "Find your allies and embrace your allies ... " 45:56 - Innovators in hip hop today.  How to reach Ross: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Linkedin  Book Recommendations: The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber How  Will You Measure Your Life? by Clayton Christensen

Van Lai Dumone (EP 113) shares why she says yes to many opportunities and figures it out later, how we don't need permission and discusses the fact that we are all creative. Show Notes: 3:41 - Benefits of having her MBA in her career now. 6:10 - "Make where you are, where you are supposed to be ... " 9:12 - Part Type A Businesswoman / Part Bohemian Hippie 12:22 - Sticking to your value.  16:10 - "We are all creative whether you believe it or not ... " 17:28 - "I'm just going to say yes and figure it out ... " 20:11 - Creative chaos.  23:46 - "Build relationships instead of pitching right away ... " 29:16 - "Less stubborn and more patient ... " 31:12 - "Be uniquely me ... " 36:06 - "No one is ever going to give you permission ..." How to reach Van: Website | Instagram | Linkedin | Facebook Book Recommendations: One Small Step Can Change Your Life - Robert Maurer Big Magic - Elizabeth Gilbert Podcast Recommendation: Magic Lessons - Elizabeth Gilbert's