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97 episodes with blookah
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DTW43 TRAX 0:00 Mr. Bill - Pleaser Seeker 2:45 Dozier - Bloom 5:30 Cnopes - Changer 9:15 Carbin & Typhon - Cold Case 14:30 NotLo - Catnip 16:15 CharlestheFirst - Meadows 18:45 Saturna - Leaving 21:30 SuperAve. - Creep 24:00 Comisar - Only You 27:15 Saturna - Call To The Unknown 30:30 Kotek & Holly - Paradigm 34:00 Lowcation - Divide 37:00 5AM - Forge 40:45 Dark Velvet - MIDDLE FINGAH 44:15 Kendrick Lamar - Alright (Grayskale & JamL bootleg) 48:30 Tripp St. - Optimist 51:00 Dozier - Spark 55:00 Pretty Lights - Color Of My Soul 1:00:30 L*o*J - Live It Up 1:03:45 Saturna - It Wanders 1:07:00 smol & Josh Teed - Aurora 1:11:00 INZO, Blookah, Align - It Goes In Waves 1:13:15 Kashmerik - Smoke Sesh Soundcloud Playlist with all tracks from this mix: https://soundcloud.com/kashmerik/sets/43a1/s-Yku2KJnymB4?si=569b1d4729724bdf88053e5b84e4eb0d&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing Previous Downtempo Wubs Mixes can be heard here: https://soundcloud.com/kashmerik/sets/downtempo-wubs Other DJ Mixes: https://soundcloud.com/kashmerik/sets/dj-mixes Original Music: https://soundcloud.com/kashmerik/sets/original-music
Episode 162 features the incredibly talented DJ/Producer Blookah and I am so glad we got to do this one in person. Nick was in town from Iowa and we had a blast getting his full story
I have a VERY Special episode for you all featuring one of my favorite DJ/Producers in the game - ALIGN You might remember I had ALIGN on back in July of 2019 but since then a LOT has happened for him - I wanted to get him back on the show and catch up on new music and what's he's got cookin for 2021. In 148 we discussed: -2020 thoughts: ALIGN was on his way to have a massive 2020 filled with a tour, his first solo headline, and so much more. Fortunately, he never lost his spirit and continued to produce and push the envelope to grow his brand -His recent discography: All things considered, 2020 was a great year for ALIGN and his music. He took it to the next level and released incredible tracks like "Second Thoughts" with Becca Kruger, "Reflections" with Jenni Potts, and "It Goes In Waves" with Inzo & Blookah. He JUST released a new track today called "On The Edge" - he SNAPPED once again. -Future plans and new music: I was lucky enough to hear some of his unreleased music before our interview... he's leveling up y'all and it's some of his best music yet! James has an extremely optimistic outlook on the current state of the industry and is hopeful he can play some shows for us all very soon. With millions of streams to his name and an ever-growing following of dedicated fans, there's no doubt that the future is very bright for ALIGN. Thank you for coming on my friend, always a blast chatting with you! linktr.ee/sherminthebooth
Future/Sound with CUSCINO is a weekly, nationally-syndicated radio mixshow produced, hosted and curated by iTunes-charting DJ and music producer CUSCINO. The weekly radio show features a continuous mix of progressive trap, FutureTrap, FutureBass and urban/hiphop artists exploring new sonic ground, challenging sonic boundaries, and creating new movements in sound across the globe.Known as a tastemaker, SoCal's CUSCINO takes listeners on an hour-long musical journey each week through the freshest selections and newest releases from bleeding-edge bass-centric artists, producers and DJs worldwide like Carnage, RL Grime, NGHTMRE, UZ, Noise Cans, Yellow Claw and many more.Not one for genre boundaries, CUSCINO shows his growing listener base that the lines between the origins of hip-hop and today's trap & futureBass are even more blurry than we think.Learn more about the show, what FM stations it is currently aired on, and how to become an affiliate station here.This Week's Playlist:INZO x Blookah x Align - It Goes In Waves SlYder & Garry Ocean - Be Your Light / Simplify. Matt Baer & Gracie Van Brunt - Tunnel Vision / Simplify. JBP - Don't Let Me Go / Tribal Trap The Dual Personality & MURANA - Love Is / Simplify. BramLohues - Dark Side / Chase the Sound Deafadil - Hexaflex Andrew Nagy - Love Me Now / Future Bass XotiX - Got 2 Feel Crankdat - Falling (Sunshine Remix) / SILENCE! Records TwoMuch - Cold Blood / Simplify. EMILIAN WONK - TUTANKAMON Morillo - The Calling / Hybrid Trap Kumarion - Want It (FMJ Remix) Merplexit - Take Me / Future Bass XO MANSHN - Justice / Simplify. Kz Beats - Nostalgia / ONLY TRAP Sefa Taskin & Can Baond - Where Are You Going / Simplify. Future Black - One Time / High Caliber Records KRVKEN - Drip / High Caliber Records FutureSoundRadio.com Connect with CUSCINO at:Twitter.com | Instagram (@ThatCuscinoSound) | YouTube | Soundcloud | FacebookWant to become an affiliate station for Future/Sound? Contact Keith at FutureSound@radio-linx.com or call 480.993.3150 for details
Future/Sound with CUSCINO is a weekly, nationally-syndicated radio mixshow produced, hosted and curated by iTunes-charting DJ and music producer CUSCINO. The weekly radio show features a continuous mix of progressive trap, FutureTrap, FutureBass and urban/hiphop artists exploring new sonic ground, challenging sonic boundaries, and creating new movements in sound across the globe.Known as a tastemaker, SoCal's CUSCINO takes listeners on an hour-long musical journey each week through the freshest selections and newest releases from bleeding-edge bass-centric artists, producers and DJs worldwide like Carnage, RL Grime, NGHTMRE, UZ, Noise Cans, Yellow Claw and many more.Not one for genre boundaries, CUSCINO shows his growing listener base that the lines between the origins of hip-hop and today's trap & futureBass are even more blurry than we think.Learn more about the show, what FM stations it is currently aired on, and how to become an affiliate station here.This Week's Playlist:INZO x Blookah x Align - It Goes In Waves SlYder & Garry Ocean - Be Your Light / Simplify. Matt Baer & Gracie Van Brunt - Tunnel Vision / Simplify. JBP - Don't Let Me Go / Tribal Trap The Dual Personality & MURANA - Love Is / Simplify. BramLohues - Dark Side / Chase the Sound Deafadil - Hexaflex Andrew Nagy - Love Me Now / Future Bass XotiX - Got 2 Feel Crankdat - Falling (Sunshine Remix) / SILENCE! Records TwoMuch - Cold Blood / Simplify. EMILIAN WONK - TUTANKAMON Morillo - The Calling / Hybrid Trap Kumarion - Want It (FMJ Remix) Merplexit - Take Me / Future Bass XO MANSHN - Justice / Simplify. Kz Beats - Nostalgia / ONLY TRAP Sefa Taskin & Can Baond - Where Are You Going / Simplify. Future Black - One Time / High Caliber Records KRVKEN - Drip / High Caliber Records FutureSoundRadio.com Connect with CUSCINO at:Twitter.com | Instagram (@ThatCuscinoSound) | YouTube | Soundcloud | FacebookWant to become an affiliate station for Future/Sound? Contact Keith at FutureSound@radio-linx.com or call 480.993.3150 for details
Future/Sound with CUSCINO is a weekly, nationally-syndicated radio mixshow produced, hosted and curated by iTunes-charting DJ and music producer CUSCINO. The weekly radio show features a continuous mix of progressive trap, FutureTrap, FutureBass and urban/hiphop artists exploring new sonic ground, challenging sonic boundaries, and creating new movements in sound across the globe.Known as a tastemaker, SoCal’s CUSCINO takes listeners on an hour-long musical journey each week through the freshest selections and newest releases from bleeding-edge bass-centric artists, producers and DJs worldwide like Carnage, RL Grime, NGHTMRE, UZ, Noise Cans, Yellow Claw and many more.Not one for genre boundaries, CUSCINO shows his growing listener base that the lines between the origins of hip-hop and today’s trap & futureBass are even more blurry than we think.Learn more about the show, what FM stations it is currently aired on, and how to become an affiliate station here.This Week’s Playlist:INZO x Blookah x Align - It Goes In Waves SlYder & Garry Ocean - Be Your Light / Simplify. Matt Baer & Gracie Van Brunt - Tunnel Vision / Simplify. JBP - Don't Let Me Go / Tribal Trap The Dual Personality & MURANA - Love Is / Simplify. BramLohues - Dark Side / Chase the Sound Deafadil - Hexaflex Andrew Nagy - Love Me Now / Future Bass XotiX - Got 2 Feel Crankdat - Falling (Sunshine Remix) / SILENCE! Records TwoMuch - Cold Blood / Simplify. EMILIAN WONK - TUTANKAMON Morillo - The Calling / Hybrid Trap Kumarion - Want It (FMJ Remix) Merplexit - Take Me / Future Bass XO MANSHN - Justice / Simplify. Kz Beats - Nostalgia / ONLY TRAP Sefa Taskin & Can Baond - Where Are You Going / Simplify. Future Black - One Time / High Caliber Records KRVKEN - Drip / High Caliber Records FutureSoundRadio.com Connect with CUSCINO at:Twitter.com | Instagram (@ThatCuscinoSound) | YouTube | Soundcloud | FacebookWant to become an affiliate station for Future/Sound? Contact Keith at FutureSound@radio-linx.com or call 480.993.3150 for details
Future/Sound with CUSCINO is a weekly, nationally-syndicated radio mixshow produced, hosted and curated by iTunes-charting DJ and music producer CUSCINO. The weekly radio show features a continuous mix of progressive trap, FutureTrap, FutureBass and urban/hiphop artists exploring new sonic ground, challenging sonic boundaries, and creating new movements in sound across the globe.Known as a tastemaker, SoCal’s CUSCINO takes listeners on an hour-long musical journey each week through the freshest selections and newest releases from bleeding-edge bass-centric artists, producers and DJs worldwide like Carnage, RL Grime, NGHTMRE, UZ, Noise Cans, Yellow Claw and many more.Not one for genre boundaries, CUSCINO shows his growing listener base that the lines between the origins of hip-hop and today’s trap & futureBass are even more blurry than we think.Learn more about the show, what FM stations it is currently aired on, and how to become an affiliate station here.This Week’s Playlist:INZO x Blookah x Align - It Goes In Waves SlYder & Garry Ocean - Be Your Light / Simplify. Matt Baer & Gracie Van Brunt - Tunnel Vision / Simplify. JBP - Don't Let Me Go / Tribal Trap The Dual Personality & MURANA - Love Is / Simplify. BramLohues - Dark Side / Chase the Sound Deafadil - Hexaflex Andrew Nagy - Love Me Now / Future Bass XotiX - Got 2 Feel Crankdat - Falling (Sunshine Remix) / SILENCE! Records TwoMuch - Cold Blood / Simplify. EMILIAN WONK - TUTANKAMON Morillo - The Calling / Hybrid Trap Kumarion - Want It (FMJ Remix) Merplexit - Take Me / Future Bass XO MANSHN - Justice / Simplify. Kz Beats - Nostalgia / ONLY TRAP Sefa Taskin & Can Baond - Where Are You Going / Simplify. Future Black - One Time / High Caliber Records KRVKEN - Drip / High Caliber Records FutureSoundRadio.com Connect with CUSCINO at:Twitter.com | Instagram (@ThatCuscinoSound) | YouTube | Soundcloud | FacebookWant to become an affiliate station for Future/Sound? Contact Keith at FutureSound@radio-linx.com or call 480.993.3150 for details
www.facebook.com/deadbeats www.instagram.com/deadbeats www.twitter.com/deadbeats www.twitch.tv/deadbeats_music www.deadbeatsofficial.com BINKS x Bro Safari - Deliverance BINKS x Bro Safari - Ignition BINKS x Bro Safari - Static BINKS x Bro Safari - Revival pluko - redux (w_ Chopsoe) Hidden Face - Alone INZO, Blookah, Align - It Goes In Waves Will Clarke & MK - My Church FreeFall, Savannah Low - Ms. Behave (Late Night Drive Mix) FreeFall, Savannah Low - Ms. Behave FreeFall, MC Dino - Get It Duran Duran - The Chauffeur PEEKABOO - Swingin Far Out - Focus (feat. Heather Sommer) ilo ilo - Misha Valentino Khan - Deathproof Holly - MISSU SQWAD - U Dont Know Steff Da Campo x Lost Capital - Struggle (feat. A.D.O.R.) Crooked Colours - Love Language (SNBRN Remix) Volkoder, Sam Supplier - Tornado Cookie Monsta - THEM Lucii, Point Blank- WONKY pronouncedyea, Mondo Mondo - Say Akeos - Squiggle The Lines Zeds Dead x Dion Timmer - Rescue (ft. Delaney Jane) Kayzo, Pixel Terror - Blindside Louis The Child, Whethan - Takeoff Louis The Child - hi
Meg Lewis on How to Thrive by Being Yourself in Your Creative WorkMeg Lewis is a rad freelance brand designer, motivating mentor, creative cheerleader, and wicked dancer who injects fun into whatever she touches out of Minneapolis, MN.I respect and admire the impact she’s making on the world through her books, videos, workshops, and talks titled Full Time You...and a new workshop called Find Your Personal Style.Today, Meg and I peel back the layers on the topics of your journey of self-discovery, using fear as fuel, finding your superpowers, and more!Stick around to the end to find out how you can win a Digital Version of the Full Time You Self-Discovery Workbook and Video Series!View the full show notes: https://www.perspective-collective.com/166CONNECT WITH MEG► Instagram https://www.instagram.com/darngooood/?hl=en► Website https://darngood.co/► Twitter https://twitter.com/darngoooodFULL TIME YOU WEBSITEhttps://www.fulltimeyou.co/LISTEN TO MEG’S PODCASTS | Dribbble Overtime | Sit There & Do Nothing► https://dribbble.com/overtime► https://sitthereanddonothing.com/-DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE GUIDE TO SIDE HUSTLE FREEDOM6 Resources designed to help you create a killer side hustle and elevate your brand outside your day job: http://sidehustlefreedomguide.com/-PURCHASE THE SIDE HUSTLER’S HANDBOOK PDF COURSEHere’s the proven blueprint that’ll help you gain clarity, confidence, and a mental edge to unlock your biggest side hustling breakthrough: http://sidehustlershandbook.com/-BECOME LISTENER OF THE WEEK Become a future Listener of the Week by Subscribing and leaving a Rating & Review on iTunes here: http://bit.ly/SubscribetoPodcast-GET THE BEST DEALS ON THE BEST DESIGN RESOURCES (Affiliates) Retro Supply ► Use SCOTTY20 to get 20% OFF high-quality AI, PS, Procreate & Affinity resources: http://bit.ly/RetroSupplyScotty Design Cuts ► Get your FREE Ever-Expanding design resources bundle pack: www.perspectivebundle.com-JOIN THE PRIVATE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR CREATORS Get around like-minded creatives all over the world sharing their work, resources, tips while providing feedback and encouragement to take your side hustle to the next level: http://bit.ly/P-CFacebook-STAY CONNECTEDInstagram ► http://bit.ly/IG_PRSPCTV_CLLCTVPodcast Instagram ► http://bit.ly/IG_PerspectivePodcastTikTok ► https://bit.ly/PCTikTokPinterest ► http://bit.ly/P-CPinterestTwitter ► http://bit.ly/P-CTwitter-CREDITS Music ► Blookah (https://soundcloud.com/blookah)Executive Assistant ► Paige Garland (https://www.instagram.com/jpaigegarland/)Photo & Video Specialist ► Colton Bachar (https://www.instagram.com/wrktocreate)Animation Specialist ► Greg D'Amico (https://www.instagram.com/gmdamico)
In-Q on Inquiring Within - Working on Yourself Means Working on Your ArtHave you ever been so passionate about something that no type of struggle, rock bottom, or gutter can keep you from pursuing it?That’s how it played out for today’s special guest, Adam Schmalholz aka In-Q, a national award-winning poet, spoken word juggernaut, storytelling savant, and multi-platinum songwriter for artists like Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus, Mike Posner, and Foster the People.I’ve witnessed the profound impact his stories, poems, and even witty humor can make on us hungry humans who desire to create change...especially on someone like you.I wanna see your notes on this one as In-Q goes deep on: celebrating your vulnerability, operating from excitement versus fear, and creating for glory over impact.-CONNECT WITH IN-QInstagram ► https://www.instagram.com/inqlife/?hl=enWeb ► https://in-q.com/Shows ► https://love.consciouscityguide.com/inqBUY HIS BOOKAmazon ► https://amzn.to/2WctJe3-DOWNLOAD THE SIDE HUSTLER’S HANDBOOK PDF COURSEHere’s the proven blueprint that’ll help you gain clarity, confidence, and a mental edge to unlock your biggest side hustling breakthrough: http://bit.ly/SHHBLearnMore-DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE SIDE HUSTLER’S WAR CHEST6 Resources designed to help you create a killer side hustle and elevate your brand outside your day job: http://bit.ly/SideHustlersWarChest-BECOME LISTENER OF THE WEEK Become a future Listener of the Week by Subscribing and leaving a Rating & Review on iTunes here: http://bit.ly/SubscribetoPodcast-JOIN THE PRIVATE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR CREATORS Get around like-minded creatives all over the world sharing their work, resources, tips while providing feedback and encouragement to take your side hustle to the next level: http://bit.ly/P-CFacebook- GET THE BEST DEALS ON THE BEST DESIGN RESOURCES (Affiliates) Retro Supply ► Use SCOTTY20 to get 20% OFF high-quality AI, PS, Procreate & Affinity resources: http://bit.ly/RetroSupplyScotty Design Cuts ► Get your FREE Ever-Expanding design resources bundle pack: www.perspectivebundle.com-STAY CONNECTEDInstagram ► http://bit.ly/IG_PRSPCTV_CLLCTVPodcast Instagram ► http://bit.ly/IG_PerspectivePodcastPinterest ► http://bit.ly/P-CPinterestTwitter ► http://bit.ly/P-CTwitter-CREDITS Music ► Blookah (https://soundcloud.com/blookah)Executive Assistant ► Paige Garland (https://www.instagram.com/jpaigegarland/)Photo & Video Specialist ► Colton Bachar (https://www.instagram.com/wrktocreate)Animation Specialist ► Greg D'Amico (https://www.instagram.com/gmdamico)
The Secret Sauce Blender | Making the Perfect Personal Pan PizzaImagine you’re baking a pizza...of course, what a Scotty thing to say, right?Except in this scenario, the same crust, cheese, and toppings are provided to you and everyone else.What’s going to make your pizza truly stand out from the noise is the sauce you make for the pizza.What’s the secret to making the secret sauce that’ll keep people craving for yours while others seem to get lost in the shuffle?It's a personalized dash, smidgen, and a pinch of ingredients that makes you, YOUnique.You combine all these ingredients up in a blender...or maybe a food processor...and voilà! Here's your secret sauce that'll make your pizza shine.Anyone can try to mimic the pizza you bake, but no one can rip your secret sauce!In our creative world, we pretty much all have access to similar tools, mediums, and distribution channels to get our work out there. However, the way we rise above the noise is how we show up and pour ourselves into our work.This isn't a new concept as people have been talking about this for a long time now. Someone like Lisa Congdon calls this your Artistic Voice, thought others may call it something else.Finding your secret sauce is my cheesy spin on what I call your Sweet Spot in your creative grind.Today, I want to do a little overview of the three main ingredients that I feel make up your truly YOUnique secret sauce (I'm sure this will evolve over time).There are action steps baked within each segment with an intended goal. They'll help you understand how your own ingredients will make your secret sauce, and how you can leverage them within your personal brand and the work you show.Breaking Down the Ingredients for Your Secret SauceWhen I jump on coaching calls, I guide each student through the process of finding their secret sauce.Knowing your secret sauce brings clarity, confidence, conviction, and purpose when pursuing your creative grind.It's easier said than done, but that's the beauty of the messy, ever-evolving creative process: you have to dig deep to know which ingredients you even have in your personal pantry.Now that we've added a little context to it, let's start breaking down the 3 main types of ingredients you're baking with.1. Experiences & StoriesI mention this often, but I've learned from first-hand experience that your story is your most powerful asset.I shared my backstory with Diane Gibbs back in 2015 when I was just getting started with my blog that no one read.She ran with it and not only provided me with my first podcast interview on her Design Recharge Show, but she also landed me my first speaking gig at AIGA Mobile Flourish Conference in Alabama.It totally caught me off guard and jump-started my early side hustle days.For the longest time, I felt I didn't have anything to share or that anyone would care. But when I shared my story of being bullied, dealing with depression, anxiety, comparison, imposter syndrome, etc., it let other people know they weren't alone.It became a permission slip for them to share their stories. It connected us because they saw something similar in themselves even if the plot and details weren't the same.The shit you've been through is real. You went through it for a reason, and the adversity you overcame could be a powerful example to someone else so they triumph through the same shit storm.No one can replicate your story. In my opinion, it's THE KEY INGREDIENT in your secret sauce.Action StepIt takes some time, but start jotting down your story and past experiences that have helped mold you into the person you've become today.The better you can tell it, the better it can connect with someone.You may not think people will care, but trust me, someone out there needs to hear it.2. Skills & StrengthsThere are certain things you're naturally good at that seem to be difficult for others (how many times have you heard, "I couldn't even draw a stick figure"?).There are skills you've obtained by spending hours on end studying, researching, and practicing (10,000 hours by Malcom Glidewell anyone?).There are things you had to learn, due to the circumstances you grew up, in order to thrive or (let alone) survive.All of these skills and strengths become art-illery in your arsenal to equip you for your creative grind.When you combine these skills with your story and the following ingredients, you're baking up a killer pizza that's sure to satisfy a gaggle of hungry creatives.Action StepStart a list of any type of skills or strengths you developed over the years. (e.g., painting, speaking, strange fact retainment, storytelling, metaphors, rapping, wood widdling, pet whispering, etc.)Now start seeing if there is any potential overlap with your skills that could develop something unique and different when put together. (e.g., Lindsey Stirling playing the violin while dancing)3. Core Identity: Interests/Passions, Beliefs, ValuesThere's a lot of unique ingredients within this that can make this exercise complex and a bit confusing (but fun as well when you find your mojo).Work with too many ingredients, and they begin fighting each other when you bake and serve your personal pan pizza to the world.However, when you're able to narrow down these ingredients to a select handful of "buckets," it'll make the sauce you bring to the table (social media, website, keynotes, etc.) more digestible, palatable, and easier for one to sink their teeth into.I originally heard of this concept from Jenna Kutcher. She talks about defining your buckets of interests (up to 5) that you can navigate through as well as overlap.A lot of my creative friends do this: more specifically Liz Gray, Dina Rodriguez, and Zulfa of The Cosmic Feminist.By defining your buckets, you're essentially narrowing your focus (niching down) into what you want to be known for.You're sending a beacon to potential fans and clients that this is either for you or not. As Seth Godin says in This is Marketing, you and your work aren't for everyone—and that's a good thing!I like to imagine this: we're products on an end cap in a highly trafficked store.Our job is to design and define our label to the world, which sets expectations (we don't want to make people guess if our product is for them or not).We can narrow down our buckets of interests into the following categories. We'd ideally pick 1 to 5 to add to our secret sauce.InterestsI feel something you're interested in could also be something you're passionate about, but they could also be separate.Interests could be some type of person, place, or thing (a noun for you smart folks out there) that piques your curiosity, fascinates you, you want to learn more about, etc. (e.g., folklore, history of alchemy, astrology, adult coloring books, sudoku, etc.)Your current or future interests could convert into a passion that plays a key role in your secret sauce.PassionsPinpointing a passion should be pretty simple by answering a few questions:What lights you up to the point where you lost track of time doing it?What keeps you up at night because it injects your mind with a dose of joy and excitement?What do you love doing that you can't help but talk about it?If you had spare time, what's the one thing you'd no doubt be doing?BeliefsYou have to believe in something. Placing your faith, trust, or confidence in something sets the foundation for how you show up each day.It's something that you accept to be true and that influences your values and your morals. (e.g., religion, pro/anti-vaccines, pro/anti-abortion, etc.)ValuesValues are rules, standards, and principles that influence our behavior and character—they often stem from the belief systems.Many brands, businesses, and people have their core values that set the tone for how they show up and treat other people (inclusivity, hard work, equality, honesty, etc.).Action StepTake some time to jot down some answers in each of these categories. Locate areas of overlap or how some stem from others. Select 1–5 traits within these buckets that you feel make up the Core Identity ingredient you want to showcase in your secret sauce.My Personal Core Ingredient ExampleHere are the buckets I play in with my brand (some overlap and can be utilized as a strength/skill):Interests: Pizza and Outer Space (honorable mentions would be black ink tattoos, sports, fitness, cats, coffee, horror movies, and Game of Thrones)Passions: Coaching (empowering/educating creatives) and DrawingValues: Inclusivity and PositivityIf you were to read my Instagram bio or scroll through my feed, my Core Identity buckets would be pretty evident.If you visited Liz Gray's, Dina Rodriguez, or Zulfa's accounts, you'd easily be able to decipher the label they share with the world and what to expect when following them.A Taste Test: Putting it All TogetherFirst off, creating an award-winning secret sauce is impossible to master overnight (just look at Colonel Sanders of KFC and how long it took for his finger-lickin' chicken to pop off).Finding your secret sauce takes time (I'm over 5.5 years into my side hustle, and I feel I'm just now finding my secret formula...for this season).Perfecting your secret sauce is an endless process. You're constantly growing and evolving with new life experiences that'll shape your Core Identity ingredient.It's hard to thrive in your creative grind when you're trying to replicate someone else's secret sauce.Have some fun with the process and follow the action steps today to start developing your own award-winning secret sauce.Keep baking up pizzas to share with the world and tweak your ingredients over time.The more you're vibing to the personal pan pizza you're baking up, the right people will too.ShownotesJoin the Coaching Program A-List WaitlistDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week: heatherslettering_USAPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
Hellcats on Building Your Brand and Growing Your Audience Before Slanging MerchIt seems everyone and their grandma wants to start a clothing line or slang merch these days (I say this because I’m guilty of both).I get it, you want to see your work tangibly exist and find its way into the little nooks and crannies of this planet.It’s dope to manifest your idea in your noggin’ to something you can physically touch. However, when you’re just starting off, you gotta keep your expectations in check, as finding success in these realms takes far more work and time than you realize.Everyone wants the end results, but they don’t have the patience nor grit to put in the grind over time to tap into that success.If you’re a long-time listener, you know I’ll never sugar coat shit here. I don’t believe in fluff or telling you what I think you want to hear.You can’t just show up and put something into this world and expect people to buy it.Trust me, I’ve been there and have learned plenty of hard lessons.I spent 4 years building a clothing brand outside of college with my homie Dustin McLaughin aka DMAC aka Dusty Dink grassroots-style. We didn’t gain serious traction until year three.Sadly, long-term success wasn’t in the cards for us, but I learned a lot—it’s what spawned Perspective-Collective..Then two years into Perspective-Collective, I started slanging products on my own. I thought, because I had an Instagram audience of over 10k, that slanging 300 5x7” Change Your Perspective custom-lettered letterpress prints for less than $10 would be a breeze.I tied a meaningful story to it and built a whole launch around it including a dope, inspirational video DMac created for me...I’m still sitting on just under 100 of those left, and the majority of them I’ve gifted away to people.Selling your shit is hard work. It’s not impossible, but I feel there are solid guidelines and phases to work through in order to get to a point where people care enough to buy.Today’s guests have been in this creation game slanging their own knick-knacks and dope little trinkets for a hot minute now. They know how much time goes into gaining traction and the effort behind the scenes of running a business when everyone else just sees the fun of designing and prototyping through social media.I’m talking about my family over at Hellcats: a goods, accessories, and apparel brand ran by power duo Britt Reagan and hubby Clark Orr.All of their products are designed and packaged in-house in their Winter Park, FL. studio. In fact, they MAKE many of their products in their studio by their own damn hands and then sell wholesale to their hungry clients or online and at events to drooling creatives like you and me.If you struggle with building a cohesive brand or want to get started in the merch game, take notes as Hellcats goes deep into:How to inject cohesiveness and alignment in your brandBlending your interests, experiences, and skills togetherGrowing an audience before slanging merchShowing yourself in your workSupporting the homies, thriving under pressure, promoting yourself, pizza, and moreThis episode isn’t going to tell you what you want to hear but what you need to hear to tap into that long-term success. Nothing happens overnight so use this as fuel for your longevity.ShownotesConnect with Hellcats: Instagram | Website | ShopUse PRSPCTV and save $25 off your Crop Conference TicketDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week: JoshCrist_USAPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
Iron Bean Coffee Company on Creating Raging Fans Around Your PassionI’m big on connecting the dots, so I can understand how my past experiences influence my current actions, beliefs, and mindsets.If you know me by now, you know how open I am about growing up severely tormented and bullied. In fact, I had bullies all the way throughout college.Being bullied made me crave acceptance, which I thought for a long time came in the form of popularity. I now understand the acceptance I craved comes in the form of community.Being bullied was a blessing in disguise because it’s the catalyst for my strong beliefs in inclusivity, connection, positivity, and empowerment.It’s why I created the FREE Perspective-Collective private Facebook Community where isolated creatives all over the world can tap into a like-minded tribe of people who think differently and want more out of life.It's why I coached football in the past, which evolved into coaching creatives today on how to build fulfilling and profitable side hustles.Community is everything to me. That's why I'm trying to build through my podcast and brand—a place where people feel welcomed and inspired.At the end of the day, it’s about the bigger picture. We’re just small cogs working in a scheme that’s so much bigger than ourselves.Today’s guest is two people who understand the importance of community because they’ve built a thriving, raving, and raging fan base around their biggest passion: coffee.I’m talking about Fred and Chanell Dedrick of Iron Bean Coffee Company in Ohio.They’re a premium small-batch, roast-to-order, veteran-owned coffee company. They import their high-quality coffee beans directly from Colombia, Brazil, Uganda, Honduras, Peru, Ethiopia, Indonesia, & other far-off lands. Then, they personally roast every one of their kick-ass coffees to be shipped directly to you.Not to mention they crush it in the merch department because “selling out” is pretty much the expectation whenever there is a new merch drop.The beauty of this all is that they do this as a freakin’ side hustle, which is why they’re on the show.If you’re a side hustling dream chaser, buckle in and take notes as Team Iron Bean and I chat about:Dreaming big but taking massive actionBuilding their die-hard communityWinning over your customers (and keep them coming back)Aligning passions and interests to make your secret sauceServing your audience, no complaining, brewing it forward, and so much moreI’m honored to bring this change-of-pace interview because I know their story will significantly parallel your creative grind. Plus these are two entertaining hard-working hustlers who have an awesome story I am stoked to share.We also drop a promo code in the outro to for you to get some Iron Bean Coffee in your life. Stay tuned!ShownotesConnect with Iron Bean Coffee: Instagram | Website | ShopUse PRSPCTV and save $25 off your Crop Conference TicketDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week: kickingtreetops of USAPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
The Phases of Your Creative Side Hustle...in My OpinionI want to preface this preface of today’s interview: I’m speaking solely from experience here on my philosophy on the phases of your side hustle.I think, early on in your hustle—once you truly accept you’re a creative and you’re figuring out what direction to go—that experimentation and trying new things is important. I think of this as Phase 1, and I was totally there. In fact, I played in this Phase for like 4 years, until I reached what I feel is Phase 2.Phase 2: you start to figure out what is and what isn’t working. I call this the "sweet spot secret sauce" that overlaps your greatest passion/interests with your greatest strengths. You start to narrow down and go deeper down this rabbit hole and connecting with yourself and your potential audience/clients on a deeper level. You start to really understand yourself and what these hungry and connected humans want/need and how you could potentially provide that solution...that’s where Phase 3 starts to come in.Phase 3, to me, is when you add the next ingredient to the secret sauce of the Sweet Spot: the market. You’ve now combined something you’re passionate about with something you’re good at, so now you need to pinpoint where you’re able to provide a valuable solution to that perfect follower or client. To me, this is where the magic happens: your ambitious side hustle pursuits start to really gain traction and shape into the possibility of something more.I think Phase 4 is something I’m on the cusp of, but I don’t truly know what it looks like yet. However, I'm definitely thriving in my secret sauce sweet spot and finding new ingredients to add to the mix to help scale what I’m doing and go deeper.Narrowing Your Focus By Niching DownI guess this philosophy I’m speaking toward all started with experimenting, but now I've narrowed my focus. I not only listened to my gut, but I also soaked up outside perspectives and advice how I could steer my ship in a more strategic direction that still aligned with the Phase 2 of my greatest strengths and passions.I continued to narrow my focus by saying no to things that didn’t align with where I wanted to go.The narrowing of my focus is what we like to call niching down ("nitching" or "neeching," based on however you’d like to pronounce it).I was one who refused to niche, yet wondered why I always felt like I wasn’t making the progress I wanted...even though I had been doing Perspective-Collective for a few years.However, as I started to gain more clarity and confidence in the direction I wanted to go, the more powerful niching down became. During this season, I can safely say I’m a Side Hustle Coach who helps creatives build fulfilling and profitable side hustles outside their day job.This is my niche during this season, and I embrace it and realize this isn’t necessarily forever...and that’s the key to today’s episode.The Marketing Guru for CreativesToday’s guest is someone who truly showed me the power of why the riches are in the niches and to embrace the discomfort that came with it.I’m talking about my brother from another marketing mother, Tom Ross, CEO of Design Cuts, Face of the Honest Entrepreneur, Co-Host of The Honest Designers Podcast, and a new podcast he has in the works with Michael Janda.He has progressively niched down over the years and has built successful companies left and right, but now focuses his attention on helping creatives like you and I are with marketing to blow up our side hustle pursuits.TAKE NOTES ON THIS SHIT because Tom and I go deep on the topic of niching down and more specifically cover:Why niching down isn’t a life sentenceWhy you should be niching down and whenHow to niche down and for how long to test the watersObjections to niching (you’ll love these)Standing out, serving your following, growing an engaged audience, plus so much moreI’m hoping you find a golden nugget in here you can immediately apply to your creative grind ASAP, so you get one step further in whatever phase you’re currently in.ShownotesConnect with Tom Ross: Instagram | Website | PatreonListen to The Honest Entrepreneur ShowListen to The Honest Designers ShowAccess Tom's Guide to Niching DownUse PRSPCTV and save $25 off your Crop Conference TicketDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week: finletter_USAPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
Dina Rodriguez on How to Build a Thriving Community Around Your ArtI don’t care what anyone says, but every one of us, whether we know it or not, is creating a personal brand.Every interaction we have, every post we publish, and every action we take begins to design what we show the world and the people we are trying to repel or attract to our tribe.When you’re self-aware of this, you can use it to your advantage and be more specific and strategic about creating and speaking to the things that you hold highest in your belief system and interests.In our creative community, one of the most self-aware people I know who shows up as their truest self online and in-person, is my new friend Dina Rodriguez who slays under the name Letter Shoppe.Dina creates art that supports mental health, body positivity, and cannabis culture. In the process, she's created an insanely supportive and engaged community.Yes, she’s a talented artist, but she’s an even wittier and savvier marketer who knows how to give her audience what they need while remaining true to her core identity and treating her work like play.She has a thriving merch business, a poppin’ Patreon tribe, and enough pep and energy to power up 5 power plants.Did I mention she’s the brains behind that rapidly growing @womenofillustration account spotlighting the insanely talented women in our creative community?Ya, you’re going to want to take notes on this one because Dina drops mad insight on:Building a community around your workLocking down buckets of interests and values for your brandCreating a successful merch businessMaking work that’s relatable/shareablePromoting yourself, customer psychology, revenue streams, pizza, weed, and everything in betweenToday’s episode is going to empower and challenge you to analyze how you’re showing up each day and the message you want to put into this world.As always, keep an open mind and act on anything that inspires you today. Let’s go.Please share this one with your friends and family if you found value in it.Are You Seeking Clarity & Community? Check out The Side Hustler's Coaching ProgramIf you want that extra level of clarity, community, and accountability develop a process that helps you win with your work, sign up for the Side Hustler's Coaching Program A-List waitlist now for January's relaunch.ShownotesConnect with Dina: Instagram | Website | Patreon | ShopFollow Women of Illustration on InstagramJoin the Coaching Program A-List WaitlistDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week: BrittHoffman from USAPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
Lisa Congdon on Standing Out, Imposter Syndrome, & Your Artistic VoiceAs creatives, why do we make things so hard on ourselves?Why do we stand in our own way and block ourselves from chasing what we really want?It’s like we’ve been given the keys to the Ferrari, but we talk ourselves out of turning on the ignition and pressing the gas to go (I realize new Ferraris most likely have a push to start button, but let’s pretend anyway.)We are the Ferrari, and the key is something we all have deep inside of us. We already possess the tool within us, which we’ll talk about today, we need to thrive. Yet, we let inner and external forces influence us to play it safe and live a "comfortable life," even though there’s another muffled inner voice that yearns to do more.Let’s unmuffle and empower that voice...our artistic voice, that is.My new friend today is someone who was a late bloomer to the game but has used that as her advantage.I’m talking about the profound illustrator, author, and speaker, Lisa Congdon. She whips up whimsical and vibrant art for top tier brands like Crate and Barrel, Facebook, Sonos, Lululemon, and more from her stomping grounds of Portland, OR.Sure, she wins awards and crushes work for big-time names, but the two things I admire the most are:how she speaks on topics that are aligned to her values and belief systemshow she shows up for the creative community and empowers people like you and me to tap into our potential.Relax and take notes as Lisa is going to unload some serious knowledge on you like:How your age and past experiences are your superpowers, not detrimentsTactics for overcoming imposter syndromeThe magic of pursuing your interestsKeys for standing outFinding your artistic voice, consistency, UFOs, pizza, and moreToday’s episode is a permission slip to stop playing it small with your creative pursuits and uncomfortably step into your next version of creative genius.Oh ya! Stick around in the outro to find out how you can win a copy of Lisa’s latest book: Finding Your Artistic Voice.P.S. It’s a good one.Please share this one with your friends and family if you found value in it.Are You Seeking Clarity & Community? Check out The Side Hustler's Coaching ProgramIf you want that extra level of clarity, community, and accountability develop a process that helps you win with your work, sign up for the Side Hustler's Coaching Program A-List waitlist now for January's relaunch.ShownotesConnect with Lisa: Instagram | Website|Shop | PinterestBuy her latest book: Finding Your Artistic VoiceJoin the Coaching Program A-List WaitlistDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week: rybvinbv_phillipinesPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
A Christmas That Changed My LifeI remember it like it was yesterday—two years ago to this date on Christmas Morning 2017. Emily and I had just gotten back from Christmas at my parents, and we were opening our stockings (and giving stockings to our cats Lucy and Flora, of course).She had been acting weird all morning and even left early to go to Walgreens for a “last-minute stocking stuffer.”After we finished exchanging our stockings, she awkwardly said, “We need to talk.”That’s never been a good conversation starter, so I had a million negative scenarios running through my head.That’s when she told me, “I’m pregnant, hope you’re not mad…”I was stunned, shocked, and awed. Of course, I wasn’t mad, I was thrilled!We both started crying. Little did the cats know that they weren’t going to be the only babies in the house anymore.Then it happened...After the shock wore off, I was immediately flooded with fear.How will I provide for this human, as we barely make enough to get by?I’m so immature...how will I be able to keep this baby alive?!Will I even be a good dad?The other thought that crept into my mind: “Will I have to give up my side hustle of Perspective-Collective? Is my dream over now?”Fast forward two years and here we are with this Little Pizza Roll being promoted to Big Brother in May 2020. Clearly, the dream is still well alive and thriving more than ever, more on that in the big announcement portion at the end.Yes, having a kid has radically changed my life and my priorities. Every decision I make now affects a tiny human, so I had to become a better decision-maker.The birth of Little Scotty is not only the best thing that’s ever happened in my life, but it's also the best thing that’s happened for my side hustle business.I've had this idea for a while now and sat down with Emily around Thanksgiving to have her weigh in her opinion.Together, we compiled 4 Significant Lessons our Little Scotty has taught us over the past two years.Yes, this is what he has taught us, but I believe the lessons here will dramatically impact and inspire a change to how you show up for yourself and others through your side hustle.1. Be Relentlessly FearlessMy son is barely scared of anything, not even the dark. If there's something he wants to do, like being a Dare-Devil and standing up on the narrow seat of his Paw Patrol Fire Truck, then he's going to do it (you should note that I place pillows and blankets all around him as a safety net mind you).He fails and falls countless times in his ventures to conquer something. He cries, lets us kiss it boo-boos and I give him the whole "Figure it out, you got this!" pep talk and smack him on his cute little bottom and send him off. Then he's right back at it recalculating his approach until he locks it down.It's so incredible to see that big shit grin he has on his face as to say "Look at me ma-ma and da-da. I did it!"Seeing him master a mini-mountain makes me think about you and me and our creative pursuits.We let negative emotions of fear, doubt, and comparison hold us back from conquering something that truly excites us like: sharing our work, making a YouTube Channel, starting a podcast, etc.Instead, imagine if we channeled our inner toddler who isn't affected by these restraining feelings and relentlessly chased the things we wanted?What kind of breakthroughs could you see yourself having?Little Scotty has reaffirmed an important lesson that failure is a key ingredient for triumph.2. Enjoy the Little Things + Celebrate Smalls WinsStraight up, we're spoiled and take things for granted ALL THE TIME (this includes me).We expect convenience and things to go our way.We lose sight of how blessed we are and neglect when the smallest amount of good fortune crosses our path.My son doesn't operate this way and I hope this perspective he's given me is something I can instill back into him as he gets older.The smallest things in life, like giving him the choice between two flavors of puffs (Blueberry or Strawberry), makes him light up with an enthusiastic chuckle while clapping his hands.He also shows me how much joy can be sparked from the smallest wins (like tossing consecutive wooden blocks into a container at the end of the night while I scream "Kobe") to the biggest wins (like learning to crawl DOWN steps because crawling up was too easy).He challenges me to notice and appreciate every little bit of good that flows through my day because I'm so fortunate to live the life I'm living and do the work that I love doing.There's magic in the little moments and small wins that your side hustle pursuits produce. These need to be acknowledged because progress is progress.3. Stay Curious & Stay LearningWhile he loves the toys we get him, our Stinky Boy is more captivated by how ordinary items around our house function.This kid will spend hours closing cupboard doors (ones we specifically don't lock), taking lids on and off mason jars, trying to flush the toilet poking my belly button to see what it does.He's so freaking curious and is obsessed with learning.I love watching his tongue hang out as I envision those little gears turning in his mind as he attempts to figure out the world each day.Now, think about how crucial education or the lack of has been to get you to where you are today?Over the past 5.5 years of building Perspective-Collective, I can proudly say that I've been self-taught in everything I took initiative to learn: social media, hand-lettering fundamentals, email marketing, copywriting, audio/podcasting, etc.I didn't have to learn these things, I chose to learn them as I saw the growth and opportunities they yielded.Knowledge is power and the more we strive to learn, the more value we can create for people which puts us in a position to thrive in what we do.If something piques your curiosity, invest in yourself by taking the time to learn it and see where it leads you.4. Play Hard"This is the real secret of life—to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now. And instead of calling it work, realize it is play." - Alan Watts.When this Little Ham Sammich plays, he plays hard to the point where nothing around him exists as he's lost down the rabbit hole of his imagination (unless he's wrestling his da-da of course).This dude gets so lost in his play that he gets a wee bit frustrated when you snap him out of it to change him, make him dinner, or give him a bath—rightfully so!How often do you get lost in play—or is the work you force yourself to do even play at all?Watching my son play triggers this new filter that's been blooming in me. As I take the next steps in my business in 2020, anything that doesn't fit into the play category is something I should eliminate or delegate if I have the means.I'm so grateful to have tapped into sources of play like creating, podcasting, and coaching. I play hard and get lost in the sauce for hours and the best thing about it all is the relationships I get to build when I leverage these skills I've learned.Finding things that interest you is a good place to start if there's something you want to pursue but don't know the first steps to take.I think I'm finally starting to see what Alan Watts is referring to in his quote because when I play hard in my business, it never feels like I'm working at all.Honorable Mention: Farts are Funny / Don't Take Life Too SeriouslyHere's a quick one Emily and I both agreed on that may be the most important lesson yet.Little Dougie Fresh AKA Trey Money affirmed our beliefs that farts are funny because man, does he sure does laugh and looks our way when he breaks a little toot.At the end of the day, my wife and I are still little kids at heart and will forever laugh at a fart.His precious reactions to his little gusts of wind remind me to not take shit so seriously all the time. Literally, and figuratively and you shouldn't either!Big AnnouncementThe Biggest Blessing in DisguiseRemember when I said the announcement of Little Scotty's birth instilled fear in me that my days of hustling on the side were over?Boy was I wrong.Instead, it set me on a laser-focused trajectory to where a potentially devastating crisis has turned into a life-changing opportunity.This is the first time I'm able to publicly talk about this and it builds off of episode 149 that I recorded November 1st about Winning the War Inside Your Head.In this episode, I talked about how crazy life has been between finding out we were expecting late September, to launching the Coaching Program and doing my first Live Podcast in the same week, to then scrambling to find a new home to expand into before the holidays.It was a challenging, but exciting season we were entering into and while chaotic, things were moving oddly smooth for how fast things progressed...or so we thought.A few days later, November 4th to be exact (which is a week after we closed on our new home that doubled our mortgage), I was sitting in my day job cubicle when HR came to my desk and asked to speak to me.They strolled me down the hallway and sat me down with the President of our business. They informed me that Corporate was doing widespread budget cuts due to sales being down and wanted to get ahead of the 2020 forecast which wasn't promising.With that being said, they proceeded to eliminate our entire marketing department out of nowhere. No sign, no warning at all.It was a complete shock to myself, and even more so to my pregnant wife.So much for a safe job right?I spent the first two hours in panic mode because I was terrified I was about to lose the house we just closed on, hence why I couldn't talk about it until after we moved in on December 13th.Despite being overwhelmed with negative emotions and thoughts, after those first two hours of panic, I went to work.Massive Action + Fear & Scarcity MindsetThe more time I spent worrying and playing the victim, the quicker the window of opportunity would close.I needed to take massive action so I immediately started making calls to all my friends in the creative industry THAT I BUILT RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE PAST 5.5 YEARS (relationships are everything).In my mind, I felt step 1 was to redo my resume and create a web UIUX based portfolio to land a good-paying "safe" job to get us a steady income to get by for at least a year or two to pay off our debt goals. After that, I'd ideally be able to take the risk and make the leap to full-time.My first call after being laid off was with Peter Deltondo of Unfold and wizard behind Creative South's web user experience.This dude didn't tell me what I wanted to hear, but what I needed to hear and it was a huge perspective shift.He made me realize how much my current decisions on how to move forward were based on fear and scarcity. My heart and gut weren't into web design and writing a resume for it sucked the joy from me.He made me realize what I was truly passionate about (and good at) was lettering, illustration, and branding—you know, THE WORK I'VE BEEN SHOWING OVER THE YEARS, not the UIUX related shit I did at the day job!He was the first to tell me "Maybe this is the sign you need to do your thing full-time. You haven't been building this for over five years for nothing!"Meh...scarcity mindset and the fear of failure were still top of mind so I immediately dismissed it. I thought to myself, "This would be awesome, but you don't understand the position I'm in and the risk that puts on my family?!"However, my convo with Peter helped me know the type of work I wanted to show in my new portfolio I was building from scratch. I also knew that my targets were set on applying at some type of agency for remote work that could help me brush shoulders with big names to boost my portfolio.So there I was, call after call with friends on getting advice/guidance/direction and it kept circling back to the eerily repetitive answer of "This is a sign, do your thing full-time."It wasn't until I spent countless sleepless nights and multiple panic attacks that I brought this internal turmoil to my wife.I explain that logic is telling me I need to apply for some type of agency job to get us a steady paycheck so we can cover our family expenses, maternity, and still hit our debt pay-off goal.However, my gut and heart just weren't in it when I attempted to write my resume. It just felt "off" and it was stressing me out. Going full-time was what I always wanted, but the main thing holding me back the fear of not only failing myself but failing her and our kiddos.Surprisingly, she legit recited the same unprompted answer as everyone else I had a call with which totally caught me off guard.She agreed with them and instilled the confidence and affirmation I needed that me being laid off was the best thing that's ever happened to me.She said, "If it doesn't work out, the worst thing that'll happen is that you have to get another job."Boom. Sold. Let's Go.A Sign & Shove From the UniverseMe getting laid off out of nowhere was the universe shoving me into action before I felt I was ready (opposed to my original plan of leaping on my own terms a year or two later).While it's terrifying to say, on January 10th, 2020 (aka when my severance package runs out), I'll officially be making the leap to full-time coaching and freelance.It's an emotional trip for me to see all these years of treating my side hustle like it was a full-time business finally come to fruition.I always said if I had an extra 40 hours back in my life, I'd be able to do so many more things and make an even bigger impact. It's funny because the Universe was listening and it always gives me the gift I needed but often disguised behind the mask of adversity.The best thing about this that makes me so fucking proud is that I've blazed my own path and did things my way.All these lessons my son taught me the past two years have played such a significant role in leading me to this opportunity. My hope is that these four little lessons of be relentlessly fearless, enjoy the little things, stay curious and stay learning, and play hard can play a significant role in helping you take the next step in your creative grind in 2020.Let's climb some new mountains together and celebrate the little milestone along the way. Eventually, we'll get to appreciate the view at the top and start the process all over again.
Stay In Your Own Lane & Create Your Own WaveIt’s so easy to get wrapped up in what other people are doing or to give into the temptation to jump on the latest trend.One of the hardest things to do as a creative is to go with your gut and pursue work that’s true to you.I like to call this staying in your own lane instead of swerving into someone else’s and riding their wave.I feel this is self-mastery at it’s finest, and it’s not something you can attain overnight. It takes years and tons of hard-learned lessons to get to the point where you’re self-aware of the artistic voice blooming inside of you and pouring that onto your canvas.I’m five and a half years deep, and I’m just now feeling like I’m finding my artistic voice. I'm using this voice to construct the lane I want to navigate for the next 20 years.This show exists to challenge and empower you to find your own groove over time.Today’s episode, I’m bringing back my mentor and one of the people I look up to the most in this creative sport.The King of Crunk FridayI’m talking about Mr. Crunk Friday himself, Jason Craig, aka @jasonthe29th on IG.What I admire so much about this dude is that he stays in his lane and owns it. Matter of fact, he embraces and thrives within it, and it’s inspiring how he truly navigates his own creative realm.He’s a Southern gentleman with a Midwestern work ethic crushing the full-time art and design game in Augusta, GA.When he’s not winning awards, speaking on big stages, or being involved in the creative community, he’s helping guide people like I am through these rocky terrains to get to the green pastures on the other side through witty analogies and Level 62 wizard-like advice.Take notes, strap in and get familiar with this fine fellow as Jason and I peel back the layers on:Not carrying last week’s stress into this week’s successFinding what works for you and pursuing what feels like playDoing more of what you like and feels goodEstablishing rhythms, routines, and patternsMaking your own plate at buffets, creative outlets, full-time freelance, and flash sheetsWe overcome a lot of technical difficulties to drop this fire on you, and I have no doubt there’s a nugget tucked away that you can apply to your creative grind.Please share this one with your friends and family if you found value in it.Are You Seeking Clarity & Community? Check out The Side Hustler's Coaching ProgramIf you want that extra level of clarity, community, and accountability develop a process that helps you win with your work, sign up for the Side Hustler's Coaching Program A-List waitlist now for January's relaunch.ShownotesConnect with Jason: Instagram | Website | Dribbble|Shop| LinkedInJoin the Coaching Program A-List WaitlistDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week: michaelayarbs_USAPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
Winning the War in Your HeadWith tomorrow being Thanksgiving here in the States, I wanted to take a second to just say thank you for giving the show a chance and sticking with me as the show evolves.There’s a lot of creativity-based podcasts, resources, and content out there...I know my style and approach aren’t for everyone, and that’s totally okay! Just know it means the world to me that you vibe out and tune in to what I’m building out of my little home studio.I try to create fuel for you when, in reality, you are the fuel that drives me to keep showing up and pouring my soul into this—especially during the craziest season of my life, which I’ll touch on later in this minisode.So thank you, from the bottom of my pizza-loving heart. Thank you for giving me a chance and growing with me as I try to blaze my own little trail on this earth’s surface and tap into my unique purpose.With that being said, today's episode is a shorter one that I know will hit home if you deal with the same inner critic and negative self-talk like I do.In order to win the war that wages daily between your ears and design the life you want to live, my goal for this episode is to get you to:think biggerbelieve in your abilitieschange the way you think and speak to yourselfShownotesJoin the Coaching Program A-List WaitlistDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week: zahouse_USAPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
Football Coach to Creative CoachThis one is special today, and it's the longest episode I’ve ever published but for a good reason.If you’ve followed my story, you know I have a background in coaching football.I reluctantly started my coaching journey in college after playing two years and then blowing out my back twice at Wartburg College in Cedar Falls, IA. Even though I was bitter, I stayed on the team and became a student coach so I could be a part of something bigger than myself.Once I graduated, I volunteered for three years coaching Varsity Wide Receivers at my Alma Mater West High in Waterloo, IA.From there, I was a personal trainer for about two years at a local Snap Fitness.Behind the scenes, I was always doing some type of side hustle, like creating t-shirts, logos, and tattoo designs...but nothing ever seemed to stick.The coaching side wasn’t paying the bills, and the art side wasn’t gaining any traction and was more depressing than anything.It felt impossible to connect coaching with creativity, but that’s what I attempted to do with my Instagram in 2014 and then my blog in June 2015.All of it paved the path to becoming a Creative Coach early this year and starting up the Side Hustler’s Coaching Program this past September.The Power of Accountability & CommunityIn this program, I selected 10 creatives out of an application pool to go deep on a passion project for three months. They're going to create a body of work they can, not only be proud of, but can leverage moving forward.People on the outside of this Group Accountability Mastermind setting only see them evolving their craft and skills.This program is more than that—it’s a breeding ground for cultivating relationships, building confidence, overcoming comparison, mastering time management, developing strategies, routines, and more.There’s the War Room, which is our daily hub to keep each other accountable.Every first and third Thursday are group Accountability Calls.Every second and fourth Thursday we have Hot Seat Calls. This is where everyone gets a turn to share their biggest breakthrough or struggle for that week while the rest of the family listens and takes notes.Today’s episode is a recorded hot seat call.There’s no fancy mics and no planned agenda.Just 9 vulnerable and hungry creatives (minus the homie Andrew Pethoud on this one) making time to meet outside of jobs and families to grow and work together toward taking the next step on their creative grinds.If you’re feeling stuck and isolated trying to figure out your own next steps to take, I know you’re going to find a ton of valuable takeaways tucked in this one.If you feel like this is something you want you to be a part of, sign up for the coaching A-List Waitlist for updates as Round 2 of the Side Hustler’s Coaching Program starts Jan 13–April 5th.ShownotesConnect with the program students:Rob AlmeidaNina DeuterioJeffy ThomasTeana HalfordSavannah SolisKevin CathcartShane RobertsAndrew PethoudKristin RiveraBen VanSledrightJoin the Coaching Program A-List WaitlistDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week:_jennofeve_USAPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
Tinlun Studio on Leveraging Failure & Passion Projects to Thrive & SurviveSo many people love pizza but hate the crust. I’m here to tell ya you gotta learn to love the crust.The first few bites of a slice of pizza are when you’re high on life and things seem to be working in your favor. The crust is the low moments of adversity and failure.You can’t have pizza without the crust, and you can't appreciate the highs without the lows.The crusty times test our character and mold us into the next version of ourselves. It’s up to us on how we respond, so we can evolve into the version of who we want to be.Someone who’s dealt with waves of crust and always comes back bigger and better than ever is my homie Terence Tang of Tinlun Studio, aka The Tenacious Turnip aka Tinman the Terrific.Terence and I go back a for a few years now, and I’ve seen his lowest moments set him up for something great each time he responds with a positive attitude.He’s one of the best humans I know, and his story is sure to inspire you to love and use your crust as part of your story to inspire others as well.Terence is a full-time freelance lettering muralist making moves out of Houston, TX, and empowers humans to be a little bit nicer through his Human Kind initiative.He’s also a low key wizard in calligraphy and photography and has a sneaker collection that is certainly bigger than the Kardashian sisterhood’s shoe collection combined.In today’s episode, Terence and I go deep on:Using failure to fuel your next movesLeveraging passion projects to attract future workShowing yourself in your work by picking buckets for your brandCreating your own merchSteering parked cars, taking action, NBA logos, beards, and moreIf you feel lost, stuck, and caught up in your own crust, this episode will push you to take some serious action.ShownotesConnect with Terence: Instagram | WebsiteDownload your FREE Side Hustler's War ChestGet your FREE audiobook download from AudibleJoin our Private Global Facebook Community of CreatorsListener of the Week: _drewsomethingushudto_USAPodcast Editor: Aine BrennanShownotes Editor: Paige GarlandVideo Editor: Colton BacharPodcast music: Blookah—Want to Support the Show?Become a backer on PatreonLeave an Apple Podcast Rating and ReviewShare the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast InstagramSubscribe via your favorite podcast player:Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Play MusicOvercast
Side Hustler’s Series Part 4 of 4: 6 Ways to Carve Out Time to Grind & Execute Outside Your Day Job A PROVEN SYSTEM FOR KNOCKING SHIT OUT EACH DAY Hands down, the #1 thing creatives like you tell me you struggle with the most? Finding time to grind on your side hustle. I’m hella qualified to talk on this topic because I’ve gotten pretty damn good at: carving out pockets of time in my day to knock out my top priorities that align with my main goal/vision. In five years, I’ve been able to build Perspective-Collective, freelance, and handle a weekly podcast all outside of my full-time job. Not to mention, I’m a husband and father to the dopest little dude this side of the Mississippi. This shit isn’t easy, and I’m not trying to brag. I’m just trying to convince you that if I can do it, anyone can. If finding time to grind is one of your biggest pain points, I feel the following system can improve your productivity immediately. Note: I also have this available as a guide in the Side Hustler’s War Chest. In case you missed that, you can download it here. #1. Take One Bite at a Time It’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough when you see someone else crushing it. Often, our ambition is larger than our reality, and we feel we have to eat the full pizza in one bite. While it’s great you want to start a weekly podcast, vlog, and newsletter all at once, biting off more than you can chew can set yourself up for failure if you: Attempt to do all of this outside a day job Have family responsibilities Don’t have a defined process built into your routine I started posting consistent drawings on Instagram in the spring of 2014. I then took on weekly blogging in June 2015, then added a newsletter in October 2015. I began the weekly podcast in August 2016. In between, I’d sprinkle in some freelancing, public speaking, teaching workshops, and selling products. There’s no way in hell I’d still be trucking along had I attempted to do all of this right from the jump. I suggest taking things slow and steady, as we’re looking to accomplish long-term consistency. Start with one bite at a time by setting ambitious (yet realistic) expectations and taking action. Once you lock down your process, take a bigger bite by slowly baking the next thing into your routine. #2. Plan Your Attack I’m discovering the most successful people I look up to don’t roll out of bed and shit productivity—they schedule their success. When I stopped winging it and planned my daily attack, it made decision-making so much easier. Here’s how I plan my attack: 1. MAKE A WEEKLY TASK LIST ON SUNDAY You can list these by hand or with digital apps like Wunderlist, Notion, or Evernote. Update your list accordingly as things pop up during the week Carry over the remaining tasks from the previous week. 2. PRIORITIZE THEM WITH MY CREATIVE GRIND (ABC) SYSTEM* List up to 7 tasks per each letter (7 days in a week = 1 task a day) A1-A7: High Priority Tasks to Attack that move the needle forward B1-B7: Medium Priority Tasks that are cooking on the Back Burner -C1-C7 Low Priority Tasks that would be Cool to get done or should be delegated D: Insignificant Tasks should be Destroyed *Those in my coaching program get to be the first guinea pigs for a basic and more advanced version of my Creative Grind System. 3. PLAN YOUR FOLLOWING DAY’S TASKS Here’s a quick glimpse of how I list my next day’s attack: Each night, I plan out the next day’s blocks of time I have to grind (morning, lunch, breaks, evenings) I’ll create fields for tasks A1-A3, B1, and C1 I’ll then pluck from the top weekly tasks list and plug them into the designated fields When you knock out your A1 task, cross it off your daily attack and weekly list. Then proceed to A2 and A3. Sometimes, you may only have a small window of time so knocking out the B1 task makes sense. Only knock out the C task if you get through all A and B tasks for that day. THE GOAL The goal is to knock out and cross off AT LEAST one A task a day. Crossing that A task off your list becomes a productivity habit-forming addiction! Depending on your schedule and goals, tweak this and find what works for you! #3. Eat the Worm I’m a night owl by default, but waking up early and eating the worm has been the catalyst for the growth of my side hustle. There are three reasons why mornings are my jam: It creates more time to grind: It prioritizes my dream first I put a large dent in my A1 task before going to the day job For me, productivity lies in doing the most important task first—the one that will scale my business. These big tasks typically require the most willpower. Oddly enough, the most important tasks that move my business forward and require the most willpower have nothing to do with drawing—they have everything to do with writing. Writing is the backbone to my side hustle. I write practically every day with the podcast, the coaching program, workshops, speeches, Instagram captions, product details, landing pages, email campaigns, etc. Working a day job and opening myself up to the world’s distractions takes a massive toll on my willpower. There’s no way I have the focus or desire to do my best writing after I clock out from work or after I put my son to bed. Getting up early and eating the worm sucked in the beginning and still sucks today. I had to adjust by using the hack of getting up 10-20 minutes earlier each week. This significantly helped me adjust instead of making the switch from 6:30 am to 4:30 am. This is an example of a bite-sized change mentioned in #1. Grinding before the world wakes up provides the best focus for me, and maybe it could for you. To get the results you’ve never had, you have do something you’ve never done. I’ve made hard changes in my routine to chase that productivity-high. It gets easier to adjust when you begin to see the progress. I realize there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to this, as everyone’s schedules and responsibilities are different. Start by determining when you have the most willpower in the day. Then carve out time and act on your A1 task. #4. Play UNO Playing Uno ties into #2 and is my way of saying “focus on doing one thing each day that will help get you the best results.” Looking at that massive to-do list can be overwhelming. It’s hard to know where to start, so you become paralyzed from taking action. This is why we take that weekly task list and prioritize it to create a plan of attack. Focusing on the one thing you planned the night before (the A1 task) makes the game winnable and easier to manage. Note: to reiterate #2, when you knocked out the A1 task for the day, you then shift your target to A2. It’s hard not to feel accomplished and experience progress when you knock the main thing off your list each day. You and momentum become best friends when you optimize your system for maximum badassery. #5. Eliminate Distractions It’s so easy for us to get distracted because we’ve become glued to our phones, computers, smartwatches, and TVs. We’re “too connected” and don’t want to miss out on anything and everything. I’ve had to discipline myself to eliminate distractions. When it’s grind time, I have to prepare my environment so I can get into the zone. KILL SOCIAL MEDIA NOTIFICATIONS For me, I kill all notifications on my phone except for texts and calls in case of an emergency. I personally have a strong belief that you do not need social media notifications on your phone. That shit will distract you from keeping the main thing the main thing. USE DND MODE I always have Do Not Disturb Mode set on my phone from 9 PM–6 AM, so nothing distracts me before bed until after I eat the worm and play Uno. I’ll even turn on DND Mode when I need to practice a speech, record the podcast, or get lost in a drawing. SET APP LIMITS & NOTIFICATIONS On iOS, you can set App Limits to put time constraint reminders on apps you tend to overuse. You can also enable notifications to let you know how much screen time you’ve been using to keep yourself in check. OPTIMIZE YOUR ENVIRONMENT For me, having a clean desk/office, closing the door, and having one screen on for willpower tasks like writing helps me find my zone. As much as I love my cats, having them crawl all over me and knocking shit over on my desk while I work is a no-go. Overall, protect and value the time you’ve carved out for yourself to grind—no one else will do that for you. #6. Say NO, so You Can Say YES Your secret weapon for creating more time is a muscle you don’t flex often enough. You gotta learn how to say NO, NOPE, and NAH, I’M GOOD. If you constantly use the excuse of “I never have time,” it’s times to switch your language to “I haven’t made it a priority.” I should know because this excuse was my default for everything. Any margin of time I had got filled up because I was a professional over-committer who didn’t understand the power of saying NO. Of course, you can’t make something a priority because you said YES to something else when you should’ve said NO! It’s really simple: saying YES fills your time and saying NO creates more time for what’s most important. THE HELL YES FILTER Create a filter for yourself—if an opportunity comes your way, and it’s not an instant HELL YES that aligns with your main vision, then it’s an immediate HELL NO. THE HELL NO LIST Another step to help you frame your Hell-Yes filter is by creating a list of No’s and Hell-No’s. That way, you have set guidelines to stick to when decent opportunities come knocking. This filter and list will clamp down on letting people and stupid, non-essential tasks steal your time. Take Yourself Seriously Everyone has what it takes to execute their side hustle outside their day job. The problem is that people struggle to grind on their side hustle because they lack a system and some discipline. Regardless if you’re a night owl or early bird, make notes of these ideas—I know they can help you see results ASAP. It all boils down to—how badly do you want it? Are you ready to take yourself and your work seriously? Need Some Extra Help? Check out The Side Hustler's Coaching Program If you're finding that you want some extra hand-holding and accountability to take the next step, sign up for the Side Hustler's Coaching Program now to join the waitlist for September 16th's launch week. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes The Happy Ever Crafter TV Episode James Victore's Episode Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: bhhhgr of USA Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Side Hustler's Series Part 3 of 4: 5 Killer Tips for Managing Your Side Hustle to Maximize Results Back in May, I had the chance to jump on an episode of The Happy Ever Crafter TV with the calligraphy queen, Becca Courtice. I came prepared with some notes to help her niche calligraphy and lettering audience to get the most out of their side hustles. What kind of a jerk would I be if I didn't go more in-depth and share it with you? Regardless if you do calligraphy, lettering, knitting, underwater basket weaving, etc., there is something in this episode that can help you take your side hustle to the next level. Today, I'm giving you 5 Killer Tips for Managing Your Side Hustle to Maximize Results. Prepare to take some notes! Hopefully, there's a missing piece here that gets you one step closer to putting your peculiar yet promising puzzle together. 1. Have a Plan & Show Up with Intention How comfortably can you answer the following questions with conviction? What do you want to accomplish in life and why? Who do you want to become and why? Who do you want to serve/make an impact on and why? Figuring out the answers requires a lot of time, soul searching, and uncomfortable dialogue in your head. Once you're able to tap into that vision, reverse engineer that dream so you can pinpoint the steps you need to take. From here, you're able to layout short-term and long-term S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-Bound) goals that align with the vision. A goal without a plan is just a wish, so knowing what you want and developing a gameplan are crucial. When you know what you want and have outlined your steps, there's less room for guessing on what you should be working on each day. Having a plan makes it much easier to attack the top task that moves you closer to your goal each day. Note: If you lack a plan or system for making time to work on your side hustle, you're going to love next week's part 3 episode. I'm giving you 6 Ways to Carve Out Time to Grind & Execute Outside Your Day Job. 2. Be Consistent My favorite quote about consistency comes from Sean McCabe (Seanwes). "Nobody notices announcements, people notice consistency. It's time for a hard dose of reality and some tough love. There's no way you should be complaining about the promise of your side hustle when you've only: been doing it for a few weeks to a few months invested an hour or two a week posted a few times on social media here and there and told a few friends People won't notice shit until you consistently stay in front of them and make it crystal clear what you're doing. You have to remind people that you exist, and you do this with—you guessed it—a plan. One of the best ways to do this is to lock down a systemic routine of when you'll create and when you'll post. Frequency I recommend sharing AT LEAST once a week, as we tend to be creatures of weekly cycles (e.g. weekly episodes of our favorite TV shows or Monday Night Football). Daily output is going to get your faster results, of course. This isn't realistic for many people and can easily lead to burnout. Weekly is a manageable output that anyone can figure out. Start with something small and add more to your plate as you build it into your routine. Duration If this is something you're good at and it lights you up, I feel a minimum of six months of pursuing it with maximum effort is the least you can do. I'd highly recommend pushing it easily to 1-2 years if it's bringing you any of the 9 benefits I mentioned in last week's episode. It took me in the 1-2 year range to really start finding my footing. Currently, my fifth year is when I'm really finding my stride. It. Takes. Time. It's not always about reaching the most people in the beginning, but the right people slowly over the years. 3. Be Persistent I wanted this one to rhyme with Be Consistent because I like to have a good time and unwind with a rhyme outside design. News Flash: it's not easy pursuing something that's important to you—it's a straight-up rollercoaster ride, as you're being tested at every turn. You're going to experience plenty of shitty moments along your creative grind. There will be plenty of people that will attempt to rain on your parade. You gotta keep pushing to bathe in those sunny days when you've tapped into your creatively-fulfilled zone. I don't' have enough fingers or toes to count how many battles of self-doubt, depressed funks, haters, financial emergencies, etc. I've faced when pursuing my side hustle. I do know that every shit storm I've weathered has made me stronger. Every time you get knocked down, it's your responsibility to get back up and keep swinging. It's called responsibility because you have the ability to respond. Each time you get back up, you're adding a new bruise or scar that you can add to the "hard lessons learned jar" and use it as fuel. As cliche as it sounds...if it was easy, everyone would do it. It's not easy, but gritting it out because it's important to you will always be worth it. Don't find yourself on your death bed wondering, "What would life look like had I gotten back up to fight another day?" 4. Stop Trying to Be Pizza What fun would this be if I didn't include something pizza-related? My life motto has become, "You can't make everyone happy, you're not pizza." It's my filter that I run everything through when I show up each day. It's insanely hard to gain traction when you feel you have to reach every human in every pocket of the planet when you hit publish. The harder you try to reach the masses, the harder it is to land on that one soul who needs what you have to offer. Attempting to please everyone usually means you're riding the fence and playing it safe. You're scared to have a strong opinion, as it could drive someone away. James Victore on episode 117 would call this being "Oatmeal." Don't be Oatmeal. All it takes is one person at a time to attract that like-minded tribe of freaks who vibe to your flavor of weird. Instead of going for width, go for depth. Embrace who you are, share what's true to yourself, and keep the perfect person in mind when you hit publish (even if it's yourself). More importantly, disregard the thoughts and opinions of the haters. What you put into the world wasn't meant for them anyways. 5. Find Your Secret Sauce What's the secret sauce, and how do you make it? The starting base to your secret sauce: find the overlap of your greatest strength and greatest passion. This is called your sweet spot, and it's something I learned from Ken Coleman of The Entreleadership Podcast. You're going to have a hard time finding success with your side hustle if it's: something you're good at but don't enjoy something you love doing, but you suck ass at it doing The quick way to go about this is to make two-circle Venn Diagram. Strengths On the left, list your strengths. These could be things you can naturally thrive in that others find difficult. It could be skills you've acquired for hours you've spent learning a trade or craft. Taking a StrengthsFinder2.0 test can help you peel back another layer and reveal some deeper answers. Passions On the right, list your passions—the things that light you up and leave you feeling fulfilled. These are the things you zone out and lose track of time doing. It could be the thing that keeps you up at night because your mind is bursting with ideas. At the same time, it could be the thing that gets you jazzed to get out of bed each day. Bonus Points: ask friends and family to list out what they feel your greatest strengths and passions are so you can locate patterns. Secret Ingredient #3 It takes some time and a lot of experimentation to find your secret sauce, but once you do, you can add in the third and final ingredient. That third ingredient is your market. I'm talking about your target audience or perfect follower that your sweet spot provides value or a solution to. Now that's a whole other can of worms, but hopefully, it has you thinking of the value you bring to the table with your secret sauce. Note: I highly recommend Seth Godin's book This is Marketing to go deeper on this topic. Get his audiobook for FREE here. Putting it All Together It's easier said than done, but implementing these tips into your side hustle is no doubt going to help you maximize your efforts and see results. Yes, everything starts with a plan. However, practicing self-discipline, having some grit, and understanding the value you provide is crucial for taking your side hustle to the next level. That's all a part of the process, but the energy and effort is worth it once you find your stride. Need Some Extra Help? Check out The Side Hustler's Coaching Program If you're finding that you want some extra hand-holding and accountability to take the next step, sign up for the Side Hustler's Coaching Program now to join the waitlist for September 16th's launch week. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes The Happy Ever Crafter TV Episode James Victore's Episode Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: bhhhgr of USA Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Side Hustler's Series Part 2 of 4: 9 Benefits of Side Hustling The Dream You've Been Sold Most likely, you’re a listener/reader for two reasons: You’re ready to transform your hobbies into a side hustle You’re ready to take your current side hustle to the next level If so, you've tuned into the right place. I focus on the side hustle part because hustlin' is a habit, and it's all I know. Not everyone is fortunate enough to do their own thing full-time right out of the gates. In fact, I'd say the majority of people don't go this route. You were sold the dream of the traditional route of getting student loans to fund college, so you can land a good job. You then get married, get a mortgage, have kids, and do the same routine day-in and day-out. The goal is to pay your dues at your day job to help someone else’s dream come true in hopes of retiring around sixty. Supposedly, that's when your life begins? If you're like me, you've realized this isn't your dream at all. Something deep inside you craves to go against the grain and blaze your own path. I've had this internal craving since college where I was creating tattoos, logos, etc. to pay for video games and 30 packs of Busch Light. This craving has only grown stronger as I've spent over five years building Perspective-Collective outside my day job. Trust me when I say I've invested thousands of hours and two power plants worth of energy into finding ways to transform my hobbies into a monetized side hustle/side business—all outside a day job. I’ve figured out what works through A TON of trial and error (extra emphasis on the error part). No doubt, it's been a lot of work to navigate this ship to where it's sailing today. Regardless of the storms and choppy waters I've dealt with along the way, every ounce of effort I've invested in my dream has been worth it. Pursue Your Gift & Make an Impact If you’re not fully convinced nor confident that you’re ready to invest in the long haul, I have 9 super-convincing benefits of side hustling to share with ya. Before I begin, I feel it's important to note that there's nothing wrong with having a day job. You may have landed one that you love and have no desire to do your own thing full-time. That's totally cool! You also may be in a position where you'll be in your day job for a while due to personal situations like mine. That's cool too! This episode is solely fuel for satisfying that inner craving to do more with your gift. That's it! Without further ado, the following benefits are based on my experience, as well as anecdotal evidence from my juggernaut creative friends and podcast guests. #1. Find Your Purpose This is #1 for a reason because I know what it's like to feel like you have nothing to offer the world. If you go to bed each night without something to look forward to, something is wrong. It’s time to change that with a side hustle that feels like play. I'm jazzed to get up each day because of my side hustle of helping other creatives build their killer side hustles. I look forward to putting in the work and reapings these 9 benefits that come with it. Life is dull and unfulfilling when you lack a purpose—side hustles can change that. #2. Cultivate Killer Relationships You may have heard the phrases, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” or “Your network = your net worth.” I believe both of these are 100% true. I also believe in the quote from Jim Rhome, “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Relationships are everything. Your side hustle can help connect you with like-minded people who have similar goals, work ethics, and values. Two things to keep top of mind: Always focus on giving more than you take Create as many win-win scenarios as possible for both parties You’ll be surprised by the genuine and abundant friendships you’ll build through your side hustle over time. #3. Attract a Tribe of Like-Minded Freaks "Embracing your weird" seems to be the storyline of 2019 and I'm all for it—the weirder the better. Starting a side hustle or a passion project allows you to go deep on things that interest YOU. It's a playground to experiment and embrace the YOU in YOU-nique. Chances are you're not alone—your weird quirks and qualms are most certainly shared by other weirdos. When you publicly share and own your YOU-niquness, you increase the odds of attracting a like-minded tribe of freaks who vibe to your unique flavor of weird. Then you circle back to Benefit #2 and cultivate killer relationships—it's a win-win. #4. Add New Skills to Your Arsenal This one is obvious but important to stress. My side hustle has allowed me to learn skills that I’ve been able to leverage for raises at work, charge more in freelance, and attract more opportunities. Pursuing Perspective-Collective has taught me how to: become a better artist/designer advance my lettering/illustration skills market myself on social media grow my email list improve my writing through blogging edit audio and video through the podcast manage projects and my personal time attract an audience and community pitch, price, and present my ideas communicate and delegate I could keep going, but you get the picture. Whatever you want to learn, you can create a passion project around it. #5. Build Confidence & Overcome Fear I had little to no confidence in myself or my abilities for about the first 24-25 years of my life...until I started Perspective-Collective. I was able to find my groove when I shared my work consistently on Instagram. Facing the things I feared the most—like sharing my work, speaking in public, asking for what I wanted in life, or saying NO to people—has resulted in some incredible breakthroughs in my creative career. Leaning into this fear has helped me unlock confidence in my purpose, my creative abilities, and my mission. Side hustling builds confidence when you're persistently getting uncomfortable. Period. #6. Turn Your Work into Play Hobbies are fun and having fun = play. There are no set-in-stone requirements that you have to turn that hobby into a side hustle, especially if your play begins to feel like work. If your side hustle isn’t fun, it’s just another soul-sucking job. Keep your inner creative child alive and enjoy the messy process. However, when your work becomes play, your potential is unlimited. The passion and fun will fuel you during the low moments. #7. Make an Impact I used to chase the glory: more money, more followers, more engagement, etc. However, when I focused on serving people and the impact I had on them, I found a lot of these manifest as a byproduct. Creating for impact means contributing to something bigger than yourself—the greater whole. Making an impact leaves a legacy far after I'm buried six feet deep. I’m hoping the podcast and the Side Hustler's Coaching Program are things my son can be proud of and people can find value in for years to come. #8. Generate Extra Income Who doesn’t love to make a little extra money on the side? For me, money isn't the focus anymore, it's become a byproduct of Benefit #7 and serving people like you. I've learned that money and opportunities will come your way when you're ready and prepared for them. Here are multiple ways you can make supplemental income with your side hustle: freelancing, slanging merch, creating digital products, consulting, coaching, teaching, influencer marketing, social media marketing, content creation, affiliates, etc. For me, I’ve done a little bit of everything. The extra income I've generated over the years has helped me pay off credit cards, put a down payment on my wife's whip, cover emergency medical expenses, take vacations, donate to charities like Inch x Inch, and even buy special gifts for the lovely lady in my life. Even if extra income isn’t your intent with your side hustle, just know there's a good chance you could probably monetize what you’re doing. #9. Win Your Freedom Again, maybe you’re not looking to take your side hustle full-time, and that’s totally okay. I know tons of powerhouse creatives who still hold down a day job like Brian Steely and Nick Slater. If you're like me, you eventually strive to do your thing full-time. I have a game plan to get there, but I'm still a few years away from taking that leap. However, I’ve seen how side hustles and passion projects has unlocked financial and time freedom for my friends like Pandr Design, Lauren Hom, Musketon, and Elizabeth Gray of The Grayter Good. When they started to take their side hustle more seriously, they were able to evolve them into lucrative creative careers. Why can’t this be you and me too? Share Your Gift with the World Maybe you're ready to transform your hobby to a side hustle. Maybe you're ready to take your side hustle to the next level? Whatever it is, I hope you see the crazy benefits a side hustle can yield when you tap into your gifts and share it with the world. So what if you have a day job? Don't let that hold you back from building a side hustle. Leverage your day job to fuel your dream job, and have some fun in the process! Need Some Extra Help? Check out The Side Hustler's Coaching Program If you're finding that you want some extra hand-holding and accountability to take the next step, sign up for the Side Hustler's Coaching Program now to join the waitlist for September 16th's launch week. Shownotes Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: Jasmine Designs of Australia Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Side Hustler's Series Part 1 of 4: 3 Levels to Find Your Wolf Pack Humble Side Hustle Beginnings “Be strong enough to stand alone, smart enough to know when you need help, and brave enough to ask for it.” — Ziad K. Abdelnour I've been side hustling for a hot minute now. One of my bigger side hustles was right out of college when a buddy and I started a clothing brand called Daydreamin' Clothing Incorporated. We quickly changed it to Company because we were far from a corporation, but it just sounded cool. Well, before lettering was a thing on Instagram, I was making hand-lettered logos and graphics for our brand back in 2010. We started off with our logo on a few shitty Gildan logo tees, then ordered some business cards through Vista Print and called ourselves a business. While our original launch was hot garbage, I'm proud of it because we were young dreamers taking big action. Those first few logo tees evolved into more complex designs as we filed an LLC. Two years into it, we were sponsoring rappers, skaters, motocross bikers, and local "influencers." Three years into it, we were hosting events at clubs, doing pop-ups shops, and getting in brick and mortar and online stores like Kazbah. We were making shit happen and figuring it out along the way. My partner was the point-of-contact string-puller, accountant, and fulfillment manager. I was obviously the artist, designer, and the marketing/promo lead. We balanced each other out well and brought in help for extra support. In our fourth year, we were getting serious and ready to elevate our product offerings. We lined up a huge investor and locked down a warehouse for creating custom threads and patterns for whatever we could scheme up. This was the turning point—it became a shit or get off the pot kind of thing. The Banana Split My partner was all-in and ready to quit his job to pursue this. I was in the middle of changing day jobs, had a new mortgage, and was sitting on a pile of private student loan debt. I wasn't as eager to take the risk and wanted to keep doing this as my secondary "full-time" side hustle. Things went sour when we discussed splitting shares of the company if we went with the investor. We didn't see eye-to-eye on percentages and my partner felt like he could make this dream happen on his own. We ended up making like a banana and split. That's when I started Perspective-Collective in 2014. I had made up my mind I was going solo, and I thought I didn't need anyone's help to get to where I wanted to be in life. I spent the first year obsessively learning hand-lettering and posting daily on Instagram. I slowly began developing my style, finding my voice, and growing an audience. I hit a wall the second year. I felt called to do more than just share pretty polished Instagram posts. However, I was trapped in my little Cedar Falls, Iowa, bubble and had no idea what the next step was. I felt so isolated and stuck, but the cure was doing something radical to rattle my comfort cage. Rattling the Comfort Cage I found the Creative South Conference through Instagram and made a decision I was going to find a way to attend. After my successful proposal to my day job, I flew to Columbus, GA, for a life-changing experience in April 2015. This conference allowed me to attach myself to people doing things I didn't know were possible. It revealed the next steps and provided answers to questions I didn't even know I was seeking. Most importantly, it showed me the power of getting around like-minded people who knew more than I did. This is the power of community. I went home on fire and immediately joined the Seanwes community. They welcomed me with open arms at the conference and eliminated the feeling of isolation. It was a pricey investment, but definitely worth it in the grand scheme of things. Find Your Wolf Pack From there, I joined an accountability group for the next level of connection. Along the way, I would pick up mentors like Jason Craig and Brian Manley, who took me under their wing in regards to public speaking. Every year, my side hustle evolved as I added something new to the tool belt. Drawing turned into blogging. Blogging turned into speaking. Speaking turned into a podcast. Somewhere in between, I started teaching workshops and selling products. Doing all of this outside my day job has helped me build my own community. It's put me in a position where I can pursue coaching other creatives to build something of their own outside their day jobs. The point I want to make? None of this would have happened if I thought I had all the answers and had been too prideful to ask for help. I've had help at each step along the way. Yes, sometimes, you have to to be the lone wolf and make mistakes in order to learn and push forward. In my experience, seeking out a wolf pack and asking for help allows you to bypass obstacles and get on the fast track for growth much quicker than being a lone wolf. Wolves survive and thrive by being in packs. If you're tired of feeling stuck and isolated on an island, I have a few levels for finding your wolf pack. Level 1: Find Community Finding community was the spark I needed to get off my island. Going to a conference—where I didn't know a soul—and leaving with people I considered family changed the game. I can't stress enough how important it is to get around like-minded people who are doing or strive to do the same thing you're trying to accomplish. Finding a community doesn't have to revolve around money. If you can't afford a conference or an online "gated" community, don't sweat it. There are free communities on Facebook, Slack, Instagram DM Groups, Online Forums, etc. that you can start with. In fact, it's the main reason I created The Perspective-Collective FREE private group. I want hungry side hustlers like you to be able to access like-minded creatives across the world sharing feedback, resources, and encouragement. This could be a great wolf pack to start with and we'd love to have ya. Level 2: Join/Create an Accountability Group Once you join a community and start building a rapport with people, you'll notice there are certain individuals whom you most vibe with. These are perfect candidates to start an accountability group with. Think of this as your tightest homies in the wolf pack. You guys form your own mini wolf pack. When I was in the Seanwes group back in 2015-2016, I had a lot in common with people like Colin Tierney, Eric Friedensohn, and Terence Tang. We were all lettering artists who focused on kicking out content, producing products, and growing an audience. We formed a little accountability Slack group where we'd do weekly Google Hangouts. This consisted of sharing: weekly progress updates short-term and long-term goals big wins areas for improvement things we could use some extra accountability on We slowly expanded our circle with more unique and like-minded people. Our group is still going and growing, and it's like a family reunion when we link up at conferences. Level 3A: Join a Mastermind If you've outgrown what your community and accountability group can offer, a Mastermind could be what you're looking for. It's typically an exclusive niche group of high-performers in the same focus as you. You'll usually need an invite or have to pay to become a member. For example, someone like Lewis Howes has a gated community called the Inner Circle. If you want more access to him, extra accountability, and greater exposure to people who are doing what you do but at a higher level, you could pay and apply to join his Mastermind. This isn't always the case though. If you and a few from your accountability group are all hyper-growing in the same direction, you could evolve and create a tight-knit Mastermind that's laser-focused on helping each other scale your businesses. However, sometimes you may want something more intimate, hands-on, and more direct to someone. You just may need a coach or a mentor, which is where I am today. Level 3B: Hire a Coach or Mentor There's a bit of a difference between coaching and mentorship. Coaching is more of a short-term structured relationship while a mentor is a long-term relationship that could expand from coaching. Hand Holding & Holding Feet In 2019, getting a coach has single-handedly elevated my side hustle business to the next level. Back in episode 101 last year in October, I talked about how my gut was telling me to take my business and podcast in a different direction. I knew I was ready to niche down and make a bigger impact in a focused direction, but I wasn't sure which steps to take. In February this year, I was fortunate enough to link up with Tom Ross, CEO of Design Cuts. In May, I started meeting with Hand Lettering Educator and Coach, Mye De Leon. Both immediately started helping me shape the bigger picture and held my feet to the fire to take action. I was stumbling in the right direction on my own, but progress was slow. However, getting help from coaches helped me gain clarity and traction quickly on this new path. These two have already accomplished what I strive to do and have helped others achieve similar results. I desperately needed them to hold my hand and teach me the ropes. Tom helped me embrace my identity as the Side Hustle Guy and how to communicate it to others. He also helped me build the Side Hustler's War Chest and explode my email list in the first month. Mye De Leon has been teaching me email marketing, copywriting, and setting up this 3-month Side Hustler's Coaching Program. Both have played pivotal roles in helping me lay the new foundation of Perspective-Collective moving forward. Not going to lie, coaching and mentors are an investment. However, you're able to easily get your ROI plus more if you find the right fit and apply yourself. The Biggest Names You Look Up to Invested in Help The people you see making the biggest waves in the creative industry have all sought out help one way or another. The following friends of the podcast are making huge waves. However, investing in business coaches or creative mentors sparked their breakthroughs. Read through their testimonials to see how a coach helped guide them to success. Pandr Design Co. After the first few months of starting our business, we knew we didn't know how to run it, what to charge, or how to get clients. Investing in a coach was the best choice we made for our business. The first 6 months we had an hour-long call every week, and the last 6 months we had an hour-long call once a month. Working with our coach helped us set bigger goals, get consistent clients coming in, have a pricing structure, etc. It built the foundation for the 6-figure business we run today. Lisa Quine I was just starting to think about life as a full-time freelancer. I knew nothing about running a business, so I knew I would need to do something to educate myself. I hired a coach running a summer special for two 1-hour phone calls for $500. She helped me get my thoughts aligned, pushing out the negative ones, and making sure my thoughts were on things like my goal, salary, marketing, etc. After our coaching sessions, she’s also hired me for 3 mural projects and gives me great exposure across Cleveland. Mye De Leon My progress was slow. I wanted to move forward faster and leverage the knowledge of someone who’s been in the trenches and can teach me how I can reach my goals sooner. I found community first and then was recommended the right coach. We met twice a month and regularly chatted via Slack. Coaching helped me massively increase my email list, where I was able to pre-sell my course for $17k. I recommend getting a coach because it helps you achieve clarity and focus and gets you to where you want to go faster. Tom Ross I had grown a large audience on my old design blog, but it was very disengaged and felt hollow. I was relying on advertising income and felt like I hadn’t built something truly long-term and meaningful. Meeting with my mentor once a week led to the biggest win of gaining clarity. I dropped all the annoying ads. I focused on engagement over vanity metrics. Truth be told, success came further down the line, in the form of my current company Design Cuts and my personal brand. But none of this could have happened without getting that earlier foundational clarity. Accelerate Your Growth & Provide Clarity To summarize, being the lone wolf is hard. It's a lot easier to survive and thrive when a wolf pack of like-minded savage beasts has your back. It's doable, but side-hustling solo is hard. Attaching yourself to a community, accountability group, mastermind, coach and/or mentor will accelerate your growth and provide clarity. Don't be too proud to admit that you don't have it all figured out. The answer is always no if you don't ask for help! Having people help wall you through the forest is way quicker than blindly stumbling through it on your own. Get off your isolated island and find your wolf pack. Need Some Extra Help? Check out The Side Hustler's Coaching Program If you're finding that you want some extra hand-holding and accountability to take the next step, sign up for the Side Hustler's Coaching Program now to join the waitlist for September 16th's launch week. Shownotes Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: dontreallycare of USA Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Josh Horton on Creative Works & the Power of Community I want to start this one off with a quote from Jim Rhone: “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Trying to make it big by doing it on your own is hard. It’s easy to burn out and feel like you don’t have anyone in your corner during hard times. I tried doing it solo and shouldering the load by myself. It led to a lot of creative funks and wasted time. The people I did surround myself with couldn’t provide me any value or insight, so I continued to blindly try to find my path. I know I preach this often, but finding a creative community has been one of the biggest keys to my creative transformation. I wouldn’t have become the “side hustle pizza podcast guy” if I continued to pretend that I could figure it out on my own. Going to conferences is what opened my eyes to the power of relationships. They gave me a glimpse of my future potential and allowed me to attach myself to people who were doing what I strived to accomplish. Community is everything, and today’s guest is someone who’s building community and providing transformative experiences for creatives like you and me day-in and day-out. Today, I share the story of my buddy Josh Horton, and no, not the professional juggler. This Josh is the mastermind behind the conference, events, and workshops hosted by Creative Works, rooted in Memphis, TN. Josh and the Creative Works team bring in some of the biggest names in the world to help inspire, connect, and empower our creative community. He’s assembled an Avengers: End Game-like cast of juggernaut speakers and workshop leaders like Lisa Congdon, Lincoln Design Co., Adé Hogue, and Ty Mattson (to name a few). Plus, you know by now that your boy is doing a Live Podcast, and I’m bringing on the stage some past friends of the podcast. I’m talking about Maggie Enterrios of Little Patterns and Rogie King of Superteamdeluxe and Dribbble. It’s going to be an entertaining and value-packed session I can assure you that. This is close to selling out, so snag your conference ticket and workshop tickets over at Conference.CreativeWorks.co. Today however, Josh and I go deep on: Realizing the value of your work Finding your why and doing your thing for the right reasons Not running away and embracing who you are Contributing to something bigger than yourself The hottest BBQ and pizza spots in Memphis plus more If you feel like you’re isolated on an island and are seeking a community to get involved in, this episode was made for you. Shownotes Connect with Josh Horton: Instagram Connect with Creative Works Conference: Website | Instagram See the lineup and buy your Creative Works Ticket here Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: cali girl in georgia from USA Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Ruben Rojas on Murals, Creating for Impact, & Avoiding Mediocrity Our lives are like a book. It’s a story comprised of chapters strung together which reach a conclusion. Thankfully, we’re the authors of our own story. We call the shots on how the next chapter will be written and how our story will end. When a chapter doesn’t fit the bigger picture that you see for yourself, you have the ability to recreate and reinvent yourself to change the plot of your story. Today’s guest was an all-star in the real estate and then the financial world. He’s experienced rock bottom and bankruptcy when the stock market crashed, which caused him to reinvent himself multiple times to get to where he is today. I’m talking about the newest homie in the Perspective Podcast family, Ruben Rojas. He's a lifestyle artist/muralist, activist, speaker, and creative jock (it’s always nice to find more of these rare hybrids) who's making plays in sunny California. Ruben’s mission is to create global change and to empower communities through the lens of love. He does this through his Non-Profit Beautify Earth which strives to be The Cure for Sad Walls. In today’s episode, Ruben dishes out wisdom nuggets on: Reinventing yourself and creating for a bigger purpose Investing time in yourself, your craft, and business Not living in the in-between worlds of mediocrity Showing up as your true self online and offline His tips, tricks, and process for paint murals, and more If you’re stuck in life and need some inspiration for writing your next chapter, then this episode with Ruben will no doubt empower you. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Ruben Rojas: Website | Instagram | Shop Beautify Earth Non Profit: Website | Instagram Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: decentdesigner usa Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Celebrate All Life's W's, Whether Big or Small Imagine you just watched your favorite sports team win a championship or witnessed a Golden Buzzer performance of a lifetime on The Voice. Wouldn't it be weird as hell if they didn't celebrate that accomplishment? Now, think of this on a smaller scale—like getting a small $.50 raise or landing your first online sale. Isn't that something worth recognizing too? You'd think that having any type of win, whether small or big, would be cause for some type of celebration. However, when you're wired like I am, a lot of these small wins gets shoved to the side because there are bigger mountains to climb. If you listened to last week's part one of this two-part episode series, you know the blessing and the curse that comes with being a mountain climber. It's great to constantly chase becoming the best version of yourself, but at the same time, you can't lose sight of life in between the mountains. Part two of this Climbing Mountains & Popping Bottles series is all about celebrating W's (wins), no matter how big or small they are. The L's From Not Acknowledging W's I've mentioned this in the past, but back in April 2016, I had a life-changing speaking opportunity at Creative South Conference. It was the second talk I had ever given—opening for a Draplin keynote in front of a packed Springer Opera House of around 800 creative souls. This was by far the biggest thing I've ever done. I came prepared and absolutely crushed it, which resulted in an overwhelming standing ovation. I proceeded to go backstage, take a shot of Jameson to calm my nerves, then party the last night away. I'm bringing this up because this talk exploded my creative career —yet I can barely remember it. My biggest regret is failing to make time to be alone and reflect on it. Instead, I spent the next day hungover on my flight home working on an online presentation I was giving later that week. While my full talk is on my YouTube Channel, I've still never been able to fully recreate that moment to soak up and appreciate. Avoiding the L's This is the driving catalyst for why I'm writing this today. The message I'm trying to hammer in your head? You gotta pop bottles and acknowledge when good shit happens in your life. From my experience, when you constantly ignore when things go right in your life, you make it easier to get wrapped up in negativity when taking an L (loss). Not acknowledging wins: leads to burnout because nothing is ever good enough increases the odds of falling victim to comparison strengthens the inner critic's voice Let's pivot into how we can avoid these atrocious, negative scenarios with two simple yet effective action steps. 2 Ways to Celebrate W's Action Step #1: Acknowledge Them (duh) This is pretty self-explanatory, and I assume you saw this coming. Popping bottles is just a fancy metaphor for celebrating wins. Celebrating wins is just a more extravagant word for acknowledging the good things in your life. If you're not going to figuratively or literally pop bottles to celebrate, the least you could do is acknowledge those good things. From now on, it doesn't matter if I crush another speaking gig, celebrate a podcast download milestone, or pay off a small debt, all scenarios get acknowledged and/or celebrated by some form of: ordering pizza or having a glass of wine with my wife (not so much these days with my low carb, intermittent fasting lifestyle) doing a stupid ass little dance with my son Little Scotty the Third writing down at least one thing I'm grateful for each day in my Creative Grind planner sharing the win with my family in The Perspective-Collective Private Facebook Group texting my parents/best friends or posting it in my Slack Mastermind Group giving myself the day off to reflect or unplug (need to implement this one more) Yes, all of these are minor things and most don't require any form of blowing cheddar. More importantly, they allow me to press pause, appreciate the moment, and celebrate with other people. Acknowledging W's helps you time stamp these milestones in your noggin, so you can easily go back and relive that moment. THE CHALLENGE: Recognize your top win of the day by using one of my tactics or coming up with your own. Bonus points for taking a screenshot and sharing with me on your Instagram Stories. Action Step #2. Hoard Your Victories This tactic has been a lifesaver for me! Some brief context: around the end of 2017, I was starting to slip into a depressed funk. People were posting their Instagram Top 9's, and it felt like everyone: created doper work than I did accomplished bigger goals than I did made more money than I did lived a bigger, more perfect life than I did The inner critic was beating me down and convincing me that I was a worthless turd. The thing that snapped me back to reality was a little something I started doing at the beginning of February that year called Hoarding My Victories. I had recently pulled myself out of another depressed funk, which you can hear all about back in episode 25: Dealing With Creative Funks & Feeling Invisible. I don't know what inspired me to do this, but I started a little running tasklist in my Wunderlist App called Good Things in 2017. I wrote any type of positive thing that happened to me in this list. Most of my accomplishments were small like speaking to my mom's small women's group on "How to be Resourceful & Exercise At Home When You're Over the Age of 50." Other things I listed were huge—like selling out 400 Deneen Pottery UFO Cat mugs in under 25 minutes. Looking back on this list of accomplishments snapped me out of my funk. Hoarding my victories showed me that I did a lot of cool shit that year I should be proud of. It also reminded me I'm running my own race at my own pace like as mentioned back in episode 132. I've since revisited and marked wins from 2016 to and kept this hoarding momentum going in 2018 and 2019. Be a Wannabe Champagne Papi To summarize this series, life is short. Be ambitious, never settle, and squeeze as much juice out of your limited existence as you can. At the same time, don't be afraid to be a wannabe Champagne Papi and pop a bottle or two in between climbing those mountains. Celebrate and hoard those W's. A win's a win and deserves to be acknowledged. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: decentdesigner usa Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
The Blessing & Curse of the Mountain Climbing "What's Next" Mentality Back in episode 56, my brother Tony Diaz of Industry Print Shop shared his inspiring story of how he went from being a punk rocker in a band on the Warped Tour to starting one of the most successful print shops in the U.S. He talked about his mentality of "climbing mountains." Whenever he accomplished his main mission, he immediately set his sights on an even bigger target. Ya, it was cool that he accomplished something like being on the Warped Tour, but what's next? You know the phrase, "There are two sides to every coin?" To me, to be able to climb mountains and relentlessly pursue the next big accomplishment is no doubt a blessing. At the same time, it's a curse. The Blessing The mountain-climbing business is a blessing as it enables you to: Tap into your potential. Cultivate a killer work ethic. Not gonna lie, I naturally gravitate towards people who operate in this fashion and love to observe them. I've learned that these mountain climbers never settle—they're hungry, focused, inspired, and always pursuing the next peak to tame. They see the world through a different lens. Their pupils are glued straight ahead and upward. There's no time to break their gaze by looking down or behind them. Like a kid driven to dig out the prize buried in the bottom of a 90's cereal box, nothing will distract them from getting that prize. Does this sound like you or anyone you know? How to Know if You're a Mountain Climber Checklist You're a mountain climber if you: realize that life is short and you have to take matters into your own hands. have accepted that no one is going to deliver your dream to your front door like a fresh and hot pizza from your favorite local joint. welcome adversity and use failure as your fuel. aren't afraid to kick your own ass and show up when it's not convenient. Doesn't this sound like a fucking glorious modern-day creative Chuck Norris lifestyle? How could this mindset be any other than a blessing? If you haven't guessed it by now, I'm a mountain climber. Trust me when I say this roundhouse kick approach to your creative grind comes with a cost. The Curse Seduced by "Success" & Blinded by Comparison I transformed into a mountain climber when I got a little taste of what I thought was "success" back around 2013/2014. I became tunnel-visioned and borderline-obsessed with my side hustle when: My artwork started gaining traction on Instagram. Internet people started following my art and sending me praise. People started to pay me for my work. I'd get asked to speak or teach at big creative conferences. While cool shit was happening in my life, the comparison trap made it impossible to appreciate any progress I made during my climb. I was convinced that I had gotten such a late start to the game compared to my creative peers and idols. This eliminated my need to live in the moment and soak up wins, whether big or small. What was the point when someone else had more followers, bigger clients, or bigger keynotes on bigger stages? I couldn't appreciate what I had or was doing because I needed more—I was too focused on "what's next." I thought being obsessive about climbing bigger and better mountains was the key to surpassing all these people. The "Hustle Culture" Syndrome Another downside to this "what's next" mentality is becoming jaded by the "Hustle Culture." You begin to believe that you have burn the candle at both ends to advance. To ascend and dominate the next mountain, you sign your permission slip to lose sleep by working early and grinding hard late into the night. You tell yourself it's okay to eat shitty for convenience, skip the gym, and blow off people (even loved ones) because you begin to think these things are distractions. Next thing you know: you're burnt out, feeling like shit, have zero energy, and have no support. Working Smarter + Self-Awareness = Smart Hustle By all means, work your ass off. Don't let anyone tell you can't climb a mountain, as I'm all about going against the grain and making shit happen for yourself. However, I've learned this lesson the hard way. I've gone through burnout, ruined relationships, and hating the way I felt when looking in the mirror. Five years into my side hustle, I'm still a constant work-in-progress. My failures have taught me that there can be a beautiful balance of working hard and not working at all. "Cool" vs. "Not Cool" To find this beautiful balance, I think it's important to establish "cool" vs. "not cool" scenarios. Hitting a big milestone is "cool", but's it's more "cool" to have people in your corner to celebrate with (more on that in part two of this series). I understand that, once in a while, you may have to do an all-nighter to hit a deadline...but accepting this as the norm is "not cool." What's "cool" is getting sleep, taking care of your mental, physical, and even spiritual being to have the energy to work smarter, not harder. What's "not cool" is digging yourself an early grave because you work non-stop with no light at the end of the tunnel. What's "cool" is learning how to take breaks, delegating the non-essential, disconnecting, and having hobbies that let you recharge and refuel your inspiration tank. If you're a mountain climber like me, these "cool" areas tend to be our biggest struggles. This is why I've been implementing a week off from the podcast every seven weeks, so I can inject reoccurring lights at the end of the tunnel. I'm still early into this, but it's already helped immensely. I'm not feeling as overwhelmed, and I give myself a well-deserved day off. Be Cooler Than Chuck Norris Yes, Chuck Norris is cool. He has his own genre of jokes, and even though the dude is almost 80, he can still kick almost anyone's ass. However, what's cooler than being a modern-day creative Chuck Norris is kicking ass on your creative grind while still being able to see the bigger picture: the importance of health and relationships. What I'm really trying to say is, when you're climbing mountains, don't forget to look down and live in the in-between moments. Don't let life pass you by because you're too focused on "what's next." You can have your cake and eat it too with some "Smart Hustle." Stick with me as Part 2 is all about popping bottles and learning how to celebrate all W's, big and small. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: decentdesigner usa Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Lauren Dickens on Blazing Your Own Successful Path & Fighting Burnout Two things we all deal with as we relentlessly pursue "success" in our creative grinds? The comparison trap and burnout. Often, one fuels the other and vice versa. You compare your work and consistency to those who seem to be doing more, and it's all-too-easy to burn yourself out. Or you get burnt out because you're not living the curated life people seem to be living on your phone. Those are just a few examples, but I'm sure you could think of 50 more scenarios off the top of your dome in less than a minute. That's because we all struggle with these dilemmas. I personally feel it's because many of us, including myself, haven't defined success for ourselves. We're wrapped up in what success is for others. Today's guest, ever since she was a curious young girl trying to figure out her place in the world, has been blazing her own path and defining what success means for her. I'm talking about my talented friend Lauren Dickens. She is the All-Star of Type, the MVP of Branding, and the reigning Player of the Year when it comes to Illustrations. She slays work from her home court of Austin, Texas, for some of the biggest brands in the world like Facebook, Target, and SXSW (to name a few). Today "El Dick" and I go deep on: Tips and process for client relationships, pitching, and presenting How constraints breed creativity with your work How to defined your own success How to light your spark when you're burnt out Typography, the NBA, chickens with old lady names, and more. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Lauren Dickens: Website | Instagram | Dribbble | Twitter Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: decentdesigner usa Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Pretty Useful Co. on Taking Action & Protecting Your Time I've learned that people trying to work a side hustle struggle with two things: getting started and valuing their time. Getting started can be paralyzing. If you don't have a plan, strategy, or ability to show up regardless of what people will think, it’s practically impossible to take action. When you don't value your time, it's hard to know when to say no, when to charge more, or when to create boundaries. I personally believe you won't succeed in transforming your hobbies into a monetized side hustle or business without cultivating these two skills. Cultivating those two skills will no doubt help you fail faster, overcome adversity, and maximize your progress. Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, Allie and Clare of Pretty Useful Co. crush these two areas in their personal lives and side hustles. They make clever goods for fun people that are...pretty useful (like their notorious pin keeper). They've turned a passion project into a monetized side-business, and I feel their experience and knowledge will definitely help you figure out your next step in your creative grind—whether you pursue merch or not. Today, Pretty Useful Co. and I talk about: Protecting your time Taking action, which leads to inspiration/motivation Starting your own merch business Setting boundaries for yourself Corgis, Vendors, Processes, Pizza, and more Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Pretty Useful Co: Website | Instagram Download your FREE Side Hustler’s War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: decentdesigner usa Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Brooke Robinson of Goodtype on Connecting with Yourself to Find Your Art "Some things are better off not being spread too thin: you and peanut butter." I couldn't find the owner of this quote, but it definitely hit home as someone who loves peanut butter and piles too many things on my plate. We love to be busy—at least I do. Often, when we're busy, we focus on the wrong things and tend to fall short of the essentials like self-care. It's important to unplug and connect with ourselves. Doing so not only helps us become more self-aware and grow, but it spills over into our creative grind and business pursuits. Today's guest is someone who knows how to unplug and squeeze the most juice out of life. She's also a spark plug for thousands of people by providing them confidence, connection, and community. I'm talking about my good friend Brooke Robinson, the wizard pulling the strings behind the giant lettering Instagram account and global community Goodtype. Brooke has an inspiring story: she stayed at a day job too long and then made the leap to take Goodtype full-time. She does this all while still making time for murals, travel, relationships, and mental/physical fitness. In today's episode, Brook dishes out sage wisdom on: Dealing with the curve balls in life Taking care of yourself physically and mentally Connecting with yourself to find your art Standing out and getting your work featured on Goodtype Pizza, meditation, the outdoors, and more. She's also doing a killer fundraiser through Goodtype for the Flatwater Foundation to raise money for mental health support for individuals or families dealing with cancer. She goes more in-depth in the episode, but if you want to learn and support, the link is in the show notes. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Goodtype: Website | Instagram Connect with Brooke: Website | Instagram Support the Goodtype Strength in Letters fundraiser Learn more about the Flatwater Foundation Download your FREE Side Hustler's War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: MarcusAncel of USA Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Musketon on Passion Projects, Pushing Your Limits, & Adobe Illustrator Often, as creatives, we take things too seriously and forget why we got started doing this in the first place. We get obsessed with social vanity metrics to fuel our worth. Our happiness is often gauged by analytics and performance. At the end of the day, we can’t lose sight of how much fun it is doing work that lights us up. We can still keep that artistic play and curiosity at the core, but implement some strategy behind it when hitting publish. As my friend Michael Fugoso AKA The Fugstrator says, “Think like an artist, but execute like a designer.” Today’s guest is someone who uses passion projects to push his limits and attract new work. He treats his work like play, which leads to working with massive brands like Nike, Hypebeast, Mazda, MTV, and Coca-Cola. I’m talking about Bert Dries, a guru when it comes to all things Vector and Adobe Illustrator. Today, Bert and I cover topics like: Getting to where he is today Challenging yourself and pushing your limits The importance of intention + concepts + context Investing in yourself and passion projects His biggest tips and plugins for Adobe Illustrator plus more He’s also an open book and loves to share what he knows, which is why I want to hype his Skillshare class he recently came out with—his process of how to Design with Textures in Illustrator. If you’re needing a little extra fire to push yourself and your work to the next level, then this ‘sode with Musketon was made for you. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Bert Dries of Musketon: Instagram | Website | Behance | Dribbble Get 2 months of Skillshare free by signing up for his Working with Textures Class Astute Plugins for Adobe Illustrator Download your FREE Side Hustler's War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: blahblah0747 usa Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
The Motto: You Got This If you happen to stick around to the end of each episode, you know I sign off with "Keep showing up, keep putting in the work, and keep creating—you got this." This phrase originated from having internal dialogues in my head—and I promise you I'm not crazy. It's no secret that I'm a big believer in affirmations and positive self-talk. The inner critic in me is alive and well, and I have to do my part each day to shout over its negative and draining influence. If you're like me, you struggle with the comparison trap. There's always someone who has what you desire: a better financial situation, more followers, killer clientele, better physical appearance, etc. Operating from this mindset of lack—instead of abundance—can really fuck you up. Comparison has robbed me of so much joy in my life and has severely damaged my confidence on multiple occasions. "You got this" is the motto. It's my battle cry to fight back and keep pushing forward along my creative path. It's the motto I need to get back up to the plate each day and keep swinging after striking out. Ritual Fuel Once I began tapping into my potential around the age of 24 through 26, "You got this" became my pre-game ritual before any feat that required a little bit of courage. It's become my fuel before or during events like: rec league basketball games a heavy set or an intense cardio session in the gym before speeches or workshops sending a proposal to a client heading into a full plate of work at the day job throwing the first paint down on a mural when my wife went into labor and the early days of being a dad In the beginning, it didn't have a profound impact on me. However, when I continued to drill it in my head, my brain believed it more and more. I'm to the point, where these words not only ground me, but they empower me and give me confidence that I'll figure it out just like I always do. You're Not a Worthless Turd I drop this at the end of each episode in hopes of empowering you and lighting you up with a dose of inspiration. It's hard to do this shit on our own; sometimes we need to know we have someone else in our corner rooting for us and coaching us to become our best selves. That's why I do the podcast, and that's the person I want to be—the one in your corner when the comparison trap is getting the best of you. I want to drill this in your head so you can use it as fuel to drown out the inner critic who's trying to convince you that you're a worthless turd. You're not a worthless turd. You're a priceless gem in the shape of a glorious slice of pizza, and you were meant to do incredible things. It's hard to discover your worth if you don't show up and dig deep to reveal your potential gifts. Keep digging deep, and don't be afraid to shower yourself with positive self-talk. Who cares if people think you're crazy? Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Download your FREE Side Hustler's War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: nachorev from Argentina Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Ben Johnston on Murals 101 & Creating Good Work That Makes an Impact Have you ever had one of those jaw-dropping moments mid-scroll on social media because someone’s work was so incredible and unique? Those are the people to watch closely. They are the ones who are raising the bar and pushing everyone industry to up their game. I originally picked my jaw up off the floor a few years back when our guest’s work showed up on my Instagram feed. I find myself constantly prepared to hold my jaw in place when he drops something new. I’m talking about my homie Ben Johnston who’s a Goliath of painting murals and canvases or designing branding and installations. His mind-bending experiments speak volumes as big brands like Nike, Google, Toronto Raptors, and Aston Martin have come knocking on his door for his one-of-a-kind services. Today, Ben and I chop it up over: Painting Murals 101: tips, process, materials, and pricing Being confident vs. being a dick Having fun while creating work that makes an impact Attracting work by posting your work on all social platforms Pizza, UFOs, graffiti, and more If you’re looking to get started with murals or need a fire lit under your ass to push your work to the next level, then Ben has you covered in this episode. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Ben Johnston: Instagram | Website Download your FREE Side Hustler's War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: marqc usa Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Chasing What You Want & Growing an Online Empire with Elizabeth Gray If your social media game is boring, and your audience growth and engagement is basically non-existent...then we have on the perfect guest for you. We have the insanely talented, introverted, cat-and-coffee loving lettering queen Elizabeth Gray of @TheGrayterGood on the show today to share her story. She’ll also blow your mind with her unique approach to building her online empire with a following of approximately 150k when this was recorded. Today Elizabeth and I break down: Her 3 tips for growing an engaged online audience Building a theme centered around 5 buckets of interests Setting expectations Chasing what you want in life Pizza, process, cats, and more If you’re ready to dig deep into embracing and showing your true self in your work to attract like-minded souls in your tribe, then this episode was put into the universe for you. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Elizabeth Gray: Instagram | Online Shop Watch Elizabeth's and I IGTV session from March Instagram Apps: Unfold for Stories | WordSwag Download your FREE Side Hustler's War Chest Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Listener of the Week: antifiretts Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Mye De Leon on Knowing Who Your Audience is & How to Serve Them I respect those who use adversity to fuel their relentless grind. I respect hustlers—but I’m even more captivated by those who work smarter, not harder. I respect those who put family and serving others above all else because they understand breakthroughs, money, and opportunities will eventually come their way. Someone who I really respect is today’s guest who falls in each of these buckets: Mye De Leon, a lettering artist, designer, and online marketing wizard. She’s the author of Mastering Hand Lettering and professor of the FREE COURSE Styling the Alphabet, where she teaches you the ABC’s of hand lettering, so you can monetize your craft. Today, Mye and I cover: Her inspiring story and the adversity her family has overcome Putting in the work and honing your craft Valuing your time so you know when to say yes Online digital marketing Pizza, pens, process, and more! This episode is sure to get you fired up to start taking yourself, your craft, and your side hustle more seriously! Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Mye De Leon: Instagram | Website Purchase Mye’s Book: Mastering Hand Lettering Take Mye’s Free Course: Start Your Own Creative Business with Hand-Lettering Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Subscribe to the weekly P-C Newsletter Listener of the Week: zacksutt usa Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — WANT TO SUPPORT THE SHOW? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Jon Contino on How to Produce Good Work by Being Yourself When you’re on your creative grind, it’s important to get your hands dirty, make mistakes, and get lost in your work. This helps you develop your style, find your voice, and carve your niche. That, in turn, attracts commissions and people to your artistic mission and vision. Jon Contino is someone who’s been doing cool shit before it was cool and unapologetically pours themselves into their work. Jon’s a designer, letterer, illustrator, and branding sorcerer hailing from New York who conjures up dope work for massive brands like Nike, Coca-Cola, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and AT&T through his Contino Studio Agency. Today, Jon and I peel back the layers of: What branding is and isn’t His illustration process and humbling backstory Creating good work that’s true to yourself Being a design sponge outside of the internet Turning flaws into strengths and more If you need a boost to go the extra mile in showing your true self in your work, then this episode was made for you. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Jon Contino: Instagram | Website Purchase Jon Contino's book Listen to the Nose Know's Podcast Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Subscribe to the weekly P-C Newsletter Listener of the Week: BlaBla from Canada Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Use Competition to Your Advantage Aristotle said, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” We, as a creative community, can accomplish some incredible things when we teach, collaborate, and encourage each other rather than bullying, undermining, and tearing people down. Back in episode 104, I strongly voice my opinion on creative copy cats and stress the importance of creating your own waves. However, at the end of the day, we're all recycling the ideas that came before we did. We can never claim we are the true OG's of making dope shit in whatever style or medium we work in because someone has dipped their toes in it well before we did. Instead of publicly attacking someone and sending your social mobs to do your justice, use competition as fuel to motivate you to constantly step up your game and evolve. Doing this not only raises the bar, but it pushes our whole industry forward. When get so focused on what everyone else is doing and how it can affect us, we undermine our own potential. In my mind, there's enough room at the table for everyone to eat and thrive. Step Back & See the Bigger Picture Micro vs Macro MICRO good: taking care of your overall well-being in the grand scheme of things good: living in the moment good: appreciating wins whether small or big bad: feeling like you're the center of the universe bad: feeling like you're the only one dealing with hard times MACRO good: understanding you're a speck of dust in an infinite universe good: having perspective and empathy to put yourself in other's shoes good: taking care of yourself to help you help others bad: being so worried about everyone else that you forget to take care of yourself bad: being so focused on the big picture that you're paralyzed to act in the now It's like working on a mural—you're up close and obsessed with all the tiny minor details. Yet, when you step back, you begin to see the bigger picture of what you're creating. The step back allows you to let go of the tiny details and focus on the whole sum. Short Game vs Long Game Short Game: You have to operate in the micro every day by keeping your head down and playing the short game. It's a day-by-day grind, no doubt about it. Long Game: At the same time, you have to be able to look up and see what lies ahead of you from a macro perspective. That's where a vision and goals can guide you to play the long game at the same time. Create for Impact My goal is to create waves that have an effect far after my finite time on this planet expires. I define impact as anything that allows someone listening to tap into their potential and use their gift to impact others. I admit, chasing the glory and praise gives you a pretty wicked high. At the same time, though, it can become toxic and hella exhausting. Since I've made this mental shift to chase the impact in October 2018, the fulfillment I get far outweighs the features, likes, comments, or new followers. I'd rather get one DM telling me how the podcast rekindled their love for creating and helped them hit publish. That shit is dope. So I ask you: how can you play the micro short game while keeping in mind the macro long game for impact? Here are a few scenarios to noodle on: If you're an aspiring artist, how can the work you create add a little pep in someone's step who happens to browse upon your Instagram profile? If you're a freelancer, how can you work towards a future of freelance where the brands you work with are making an impact on the greater good (e.g. creating work for charities or non-profits)? If you're a brand, how can you create campaigns and collaborate with individuals that speak out against issues like social injustice (e.g Nike and Colin Kaepernick)? Other Ways to Make an Impact and Build Community: collaborate encourage teach share openly buy your friends' shit stick up for each other call out people's bullshit stand for something and use your voice Be a Small Part of Something Bigger Than Yourself Life is pretty rad when you're surrounded by people who are aligned to your beliefs and have your back. Creating for impact takes one person at a time, and anyone can do it. You don't need the largest audience or resume to contribute to the bigger cause. By all means, you're important. Take care of your well-being to be an example of others to do the same. However, at the end of the day, it's bigger than you in the grand scheme of life. Be a small part of something bigger than yourself. Shownotes Episode 104: Don't Die A Creative Copycat Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Subscribe to the weekly P-C Newsletter Listener of the Week: MonGE from Egypt Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Executive Assistant: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Tom Ross Design Cuts CEO on Growing a Tribe & Boosting Engagement I thrive when I’m able to engage with other creatives, and I pride myself in building my brand and reputation around serving others. I really vibe to others who approach life and their business in the same way—which is why today’s guest is hella special and a perfect fit for what I want to share with you. Today we have on Tom Ross, CEO of Design Cuts, Co-Host of the Honest Designers Podcast, and the zero bullshit content creator machine with his personal brand The Honest Entrepreneur Show. He's an expert in the online marketing space when it comes to email list growth, website strategy, brand messaging, as well as an expert in growing an audience and boosting engagement. I've mentioned he's been consulting me with a lot of these, too, as I elevate my brand and business in 2019. Get your note-taking utensils armed and ready because Tom’s gonna school you in: Removing the sleaziness from marketing yourself Growing a loyal tribe by listening and serving Being authentic and treating people like their more than numbers Holistic tips and clutch hacks for boosting engagement This episode will no doubt position you to take your brand and side hustle to the next level now and into the future. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Tom Ross: Design Cuts | The Honest Designers Show | The Honest Entrepreneur Show Sign up and download your FREE Ever Expanding Design Cuts Bundle Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Subscribe to the weekly P-C Newsletter Listener of the Week: EzgiPlatin from Turkey Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
The 3 Causes of Self-Doubt = "I'm Not Enough" "Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will." -Suzy Kazzem The following concept is from a talk Lewis Howes gave at his Summit of Greatness last October 2018. He mentioned that the 3 causes of self-doubt that hold us back from starting and chasing our creative dreams fall into these buckets of fear: Fear of Failure Fear of Judgment Fear of Success Imagine a 3-ring Venn diagram with each fear located in a circle. At the overlapping center is the feeling of "I'm not enough." In today's episode, I'm giving you 3 reasons to overcome your fear of getting started now, so that your future self will thank you. Avoid the 'What Ifs' On Your Deathbed In the book The Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing by Bonnie Ware, the number one regret from those on their deathbed was, "I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me." Bonnie states, “This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled. Most people had not honored even a half of their dreams and had to die knowing that it was due to choices they had made or not made. Health brings a freedom very few realize until they no longer have it." Final thoughts: Don't let the thoughts and influences of family, friends, or acquaintances deter you from pursuing your calling—don't settle for an average life! Don't ignore the omens and signs—the more of them you ignore, the less they'll come your way; and you'll give up on your dream You'll Regret Not Starting Sooner Avoid the trap of tomorrow, I'll start this when I: have the time have the energy have the resources hit this age land this job etc. My Biggest Regrets My biggest regrets have never been, "Damn, I never should've attempted that." My biggest regrets have always been, "Damn, I wish I would've started doing that sooner." E.g., sharing my work, blogging, podcasting, video, investing TIME and EFFORT into myself and my dream Every new start is a humble beginning Take Action Action leads to failure, which is necessary for growth. Don't Rob Yourself and Others of Your Gift "The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away." - William Shakespeare or Picasso (nobody knows) We all have untapped creative potential, and it's our duty to spend our days trying to discover it so we can share with others When you don't seek out your gift, you rob your current and future self of purpose, fulfillment, happiness, and value you can bring to others Action Step: Attack Fear "Do what you fear, and fear disappears." - David Joseph Schwartz What is the one thing that's holding you back from chasing your creative dreams? By the end of the day of when you first hear this episode, I challenge you to get uncomfortable and take that first step toward attacking that fear. This could be having that hard conversation with a loved one about your dream, sharing your work on social media for the first time, or signing up for that workout class. Whatever it is, take action and don't fall into the trap of tomorrow. Don't go to your deathbed regretting the action you never took. You deserve to be happy. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Lewis Howes Summit of Greatness 2019 The Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing by Bonnie Ware Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Subscribe to the weekly P-C Newsletter Listener of the Week: Lime_Biscuit from USA Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah Previous episode references on overcoming fear https://perspective-collective.com/89/ https://perspective-collective.com/facing-your-fears-the-reasons-youre-scared-to-start/ https://perspective-collective.com/46/ — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Dangerous Ideas & Living Boldly with James Victore Today, we have on a special guest who epitomizes everything I stand for: serving and empowering creatives while putting my unique work and message into the world. I’m talking about James Victore who’s been kicking ass and taking names from his pocket of the planet in Texas. He’s won an Emmy, been featured in the Museum of Modern Art multiple times, and has received a ton of accolades as an artist and designer. However, his biggest impact, in my opinion, is his role teaching us to live a bold life as creatives. He’s got a killer podcast called Dangerous Ideas on Patreon and Youtube that’s sure to light a fire under your ass. He’s also one of the Keynotes at CROP Conference coming up on April 18-19 in Baton Rouge, so snag your tickets ASAP and use promo code PIZZA at checkout to have a chance to win a free Pop-Up Crop ticket. Buckle in as James as I charge head first into rough-terrain topics like: Having dangerous ideas to avoid being oatmeal Using Pain, Failure, & Adversity as your teachers Getting uncomfortable and not living on default mode How your quality of life is based on attitude and perspective How creating for yourself can have meaning to others Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, I need your help spreading it! Please, share a screenshot or video of the episode you're listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with James Victore: Website | Instagram Support and Watch his Dangerous Ideas Podcast: Patreon | YouTube Buy James' Latest Book: Feck Perfuction: Dangerous Ideas on the Business of Life Get your Crop Ticket by using Promo Code PIZZA at Checkout and watch James Victore's Keynote! Get your FREE audiobook download from Audible Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Subscribe to the weekly P-C Newsletter Listener of the Week: Oliv3r1 from USA Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Video Editor: Colton Bachar Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Little Patterns on Niching Down, Pricing, Contracts, & Licensing Our incredibly talented guest today is Maggie Enterrios of Little Patterns. She’s an illustrator, packaging expert, and author of both the Nature Observer Journal and Gather Foraging Journal. Her incredibly-detailed style has landed her clients like Apple, Instagram, and the Chicago White Sox. Soon, she's gonna drop a project with Champagne Pappi...listen to the end, or Google it if you don’t know who that is! While her work is out of this world, I most admire her business chops and willingness to share her knowledge. Today, Maggie doesn’t hold back as we go deep into: Pricing your work for small brands and agencies and pitching The importance of contracts and breaking down licensing How to be more confident and take yourself seriously Defining your label instead of letting others define it for you Double-fisting canned wine and LaCroix’s, pizza, ghosts and more! Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed and found this episode value, we need your help spreading it. Take a screenshot of the podcast episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Maggie of Little Patterns: Website | Instagram | Behance Book Recommendations: Graphic Artists Guild Handbook: Pricing & Ethical Guidelines Little Patterns Guided Journals: Nature Observer | Gather Article: Illustration Licensing Explained - For The Small Business Owner & Marketer Article: Types of Illustration Licensing Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Subscribe to the weekly P-C Newsletter Listener of the Week: riveting and revolting... from Austria Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
Attracting Life-Changing Opportunities with Scott Biersack Today's guest has done work for juggernauts like Target, Netflix, Starbucks, Adobe, and Facebook to name a few—and he’s only 25 (but remember, we’re all on our own paths now, so kill the comparison). I’m talking about my brother, Scott Biersack aka Youbringfire, on social media. He’s a legend-in-the-making with his style, craft, and creativity; but what I admire the most is the attitude and self-awareness that he approaches life with. It’s truly inspiring and makes you think of the bigger picture. In today’s episode, Scott and I talk about: How his 365 lettering passion project jump-started his career How burnout and rock bottom were necessary obstacles that led to positive change The importance of your mental and physical well-being The Law of Attraction and changing the lens in which you see in the world His favorite video games, typefaces, and of course, pizza Overall, we get stupid deep and transparent in today’s conversation about things like pricing and life. Scott doesn’t hold back, and I think you’re really going to appreciate it like I did. Enjoy This Episode? If you enjoyed this episode, let me know what you think. Take a screenshot of the podcast episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. — Shownotes Connect with Scott: Website | Instagram | Dribbble Podcast supported by Patreon Backer Iron Bean Coffee Company Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Subscribe to the weekly P-C Newsletter Listener of the Week: Merzevelli (USA) Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
People Appreciate Being Appreciated I used to be the kind of person who was always waiting for good things to happen to me. I used to be the kind of person who was always waiting for good things to happen to me. It felt like the world was against because it felt like the ball never bounced my way. I expected these things, but I damn sure didn’t deserve them with how I selfishly acted. What I learned over the years is you have to play aggressively instead of sitting passively on the bench and not getting into the game—the game of love (lol jk)...but seriously. Secret Audience Building Tip: Be Proactive (not the acne medicine) ACTION STEP #1: 5 x 5 Engagement Challenge For the next 5 days, slide into 5 people’s DM’s or comment on a post of theirs to show them some love and appreciation or tell them how their work has made an impact on you. ACTION STEP #2: Show Some Love Instagram Challenge #showsomelove2019 Create a piece with your own rendition of Show Some Love and tag your top 1-3 creators on Instagram. Use #showsomelove2019 and tag me on my PerspectiveCollective or Perspective Podcast IG to make sure I see it. I’ll be re-sharing my favorites on my stories for the first week. Enjoy This Episode? Let me know what you think. Take a screenshot of the podcast episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Book Recommendation: 5 Love Languages Podcast supported by Patreon Backer Iron Bean Coffee Company Join our Private Global Facebook Community of Creators Subscribe to the weekly P-C Newsletter Listener of the Week: zsofiavera (France) Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
This episode is brought to you by Crop Conference Crop is a 2-day celebration of creativity, community and inspiration April 18th & 19th in Baton Rouge, LA. Register today before it sells out and use Promo Code PIZZA at checkout to be entered to win a FREE ticket to their PopUp Crop Fall event! Check out the full lineup at Cropcons.com Why Concept is King if You Want to Stand Out with Joshua Ariza of Chomp Brand LISTENERS OF THIS EPISODE GET 15% OFF CHOMP MERCH BY USING PROMO CODE PERSPECTIVE at Chompbrand.com. Back in episode 104 titled Don’t Die a Creative Copy Cat, we talk about stealing waves, riding waves, and making waves of your own. Not stealing waves is a given. Riding waves is a little more tricky, especially when you’re starting off. Then you have the wave-making mavericks in the game. These are the creatives who tenaciously find ways to be different, even if it means going against the grain. They take risks. They expect failure and welcome it with open arms. Most importantly, they bet on them themselves, take initiative, and make things happen. One of the biggest wave makers I’ve gotten to know in 2018 is Joshua Ariza who works full-time freelancing with the biggest brands in the world like Facebook, Nike, Red Bull, Disney, Star Wars, and Taco Bell. That’s pretty rad and all, but you have a legend in the making when you realized he's rocking his surf/skate apparel brand Chomp and while making time to be a family man and taking care of his earthly being and health. Josh and I talk about: Growing a profitable apparel brand Taking risks and betting on yourself Using failure as a tool instead of an excuse How concept is king and the importance of standing out than riding trends Using outreach to create your own opportunities Enjoy This Episode? Let me know what you think. Take a screenshot of the podcast episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram at @prspctv_cllctv and @perspectivepodcast—and let’s connect. Shownotes Connect with Joshua Ariza: Website | Instagram | Twitter Connect with and support Chomp Brand: Website | Instagram Episode reference: PP104 Don't Die a Creative Copy Cat Podcast supported by Patreon Backer Iron Bean Coffee Company Listener of the Week: anitakwiecien (UK) Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
This episode is brought to you by Crop Conference Crop is a 2-day celebration of creativity, community and inspiration April 18th & 19th in Baton Rouge, LA. Register today before it sells out and use Promo Code PIZZA at checkout to be entered to win a FREE ticket to their PopUp Crop Fall event! Check out the full lineup at Cropcons.com Keeping Your Head Up and Handling It with Adé Hogue Social media has trained us to compare our lives to others and try to "catch up" with others. In reality, we’re running our own race. The path we’re on is our own. The highlights and successes come from the hard work we put in. The adversity we overcome propels us forward and allows us to grow. In this race, you’ll be presented with opportunities, obstacles, and risk; they all require you to act in the moment, but that’s life, right? As Tupac said, “Keep your head up and handle it.” Queue today’s guest: Chicago-based art director, designer & letterer, Adé Hogue. Adé’s worked with brands like Under Armour, Nike, Mercedes-Benz, and The Obama Foundation (to name a few) in his short tenure of full-time freelancing. He’s a wizard when it comes to experimenting with different mediums like flowers, utilizing natural light in his photography, and utilizing his style and voice to make an impact. Today, Adé and I talk about: Transitioning into full-time freelance and the lows that come with the highs Highlighting black lettering artists Acting in the moment instead of living with regret Bouncing back from adversity and finding the silver lining Side projects, pizza, and running (because they’re all related, right?) Whether you’re a runner or not, this episode with Adé will have ideas running through your head! Enjoy This Episode? Let me know what you think. Take a screenshot of the podcast episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram @perspectivepodcast and @prspctv_cllctv —and let’s connect. For the full shownotes, visit Perspective-Collective.com/112 Shownotes Connect with Adé Hogue: Website | Instagram Black Lettering Artists to follow: Cymone Wilder | Hust Wilson | Vocal Type Co. People of Craftsmanship by Tim Goodman & Amélie Lamont Listener of the Week: i.am.mky Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Subscribe & Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review to become a future Listener of the Week Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
This episode is brought to you by Crop Conference Crop is a 2-day celebration of creativity, community and inspiration April 18th & 19th in Baton Rouge, LA. Register today before it sells out and use Promo Code PIZZA at checkout to be entered to win a FREE ticket to their PopUp Crop Fall event! Check out the full lineup at Cropcons.com How to Pay Your Dues to Get Paid with BenRealVsWorld of BWNC Why do we wait for others to believe in us before we believe in ourselves? You can’t sit around waiting for someone to give you the green light to make things happen. You have to roll with your gut and act on your intuition. Queue today's guest Ben Hagarty, AKA benrealvsworld. It’s easy to pick your jaw off the floor when you see the work he does and the clients he has. However, I’ve been in the backseat watching this dude put in non-stop work creating content since the beginning of YouTube. In today’s episode, Ben and I talk about: Chasing down and living his dream in LA Organically growing a Facebook Community to over 4k loyal creators Creating content on tour for global superstars -Paying your dues to gain leverage and credibility Most importantly, we’re putting Casey’s General Store Pizza on the map again Enjoy This Episode? Let me know what you think by sharing a video or photo of you sippin' coffee and listening to this episode and share with me on Instagram @perspectivepodcast. Shownotes Follow BenRealvsWorld: Instagram | Youtube Join the BWNC Facebook Community Listen to the BWNC Podcast Listener of the Week: Speeze1 Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Podcast music: Blookah Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Subscribe via your favorite podcast player Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
This episode is brought to you by Crop Conference Crop is a 2-day celebration of creativity, community and inspiration April 18th & 19th in Baton Rouge, LA. Register today before it sells out and use Promo Code PIZZA at checkout to be entered to win a FREE ticket to their PopUp Crop Fall event! Check out the full lineup at Cropcons.com Growing an Audience & Profitable Side Hustle with Becca Courtice of The Happy Ever Crafter Many of us have this creative side hustle dream we’d love to live out, but the biggest thing holding us back is ourselves. Queue tdoday's guest: Becca Courtice, who runs TheHappyEverCrafter and makes shit look pretty all the way from Ottawa, Canada. She truly inspires me as I see her operate her online business, as she puts her entire focus on becoming a master of her craft and then serves her audience by teaching them want they want to know. Today we talk about: Growing an online tribe and listening to your audience Making time to grind outside a day job and build a profitable business Scheduling your success and showing up with intention The importance of routines, meditation, and your physical and mental health Plus tons of tips for best use of brushes and markers I have no doubt this one will encourage you show up with intention and take that next step in your creative grind. Enjoy This Episode? Let me know what you think. Take a screenshot of the podcast episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram @perspectivepodcast and @prspctv_cllctv or Twitter—and let’s connect. For the full shownotes, visit Perspective-Collective.com/110 Shownotes Follow Becca: Instagram | Website | Private Facebook Group Join The Perspective-Collective Private Facebook Group family and connect with like-minded creatives Podcast support by Iron Bean Coffee Co. Listener of the Week: kitsunyume Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Crypto Donation Support Bitcoin: 1j5vE64PWgkJHGnGSrAiJK82bnfn7fBgu Ethereum: 0xFf60588C873E34235dE371450d58129d8d7cAC16 Litecoin: LerTFZfvtW4iH7qJM8vSE9mkdQA24yKmB6 Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
This episode is brought to you by Crop Conference Crop is a 2-day celebration of creativity, community and inspiration April 18th & 19th in Baton Rouge, LA. Register today before it sells out and use Promo Code PIZZA at checkout to be entered to win a FREE ticket to their PopUp Crop Fall event! Check out the full lineup at Cropcons.com 5 Enlightening Lessons in 2018 to Help You Dominate 2019 2018 was the biggest, most memorable, and most profitable year in the books yet. I've failed a lot. I've learned a lot. I know there is a ton of room from improvement, which excites me. That's why, today, I've reflected on the year and want to share the top five most enlightening lessons learned from 2018 to help you dominate your next chapter in 2019. In 2019, I want you thinking bigger, sharpening your focus and intent, and believing in yourself and your work. Enjoy This Episode? Let me know what you think. Take a screenshot of the podcast episode you’re listening to and tag me on Instagram @perspectivepodcast and @prspctv_cllctv or Twitter—and let’s connect. Shownotes Join the Private Facebook Group family and connect with like-minded creatives PP 101: Born for Greatness Listener of the Week: Miriambos_ Podcast Editor: Aine Brennan Shownotes Editor: Paige Garland Podcast music: Blookah — Want to Support the Show? Become a backer on Patreon Leave an Apple Podcast Rating and Review Share the show on social media or follow the Perspective Podcast Instagram Crypto Donation Support Bitcoin: 1j5vE64PWgkJHGnGSrAiJK82bnfn7fBgu Ethereum: 0xFf60588C873E34235dE371450d58129d8d7cAC16 Litecoin: LerTFZfvtW4iH7qJM8vSE9mkdQA24yKmB6 Subscribe via your favorite podcast player: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play Music Overcast
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