Podcasts about creatives

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kurt Farquhar. Television & Film Composer, Founder of Fall Crop Productions and True Music ProNotable Credits: The King of Queens, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Being Mary Jane, The Proud Family, The Neighborhood, Black LightningAwards: 10 BMI AwardsTenure: 38+ years in television Purpose of the Interview The purpose of this interview is to educate and inspire creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals about longevity, adaptability, and wealth-building behind the scenes. Kurt Farquhar’s journey highlights how sustainable success comes from mastery of craft, relationship-building, and treating creativity as a business—not chasing visibility or fame. Rushion McDonald uses Kurt’s career as a blueprint for: Building mailbox money through residuals Staying relevant across decades of industry change Monetizing intellectual property Leveraging relationships to sustain opportunity Core Themes Discussed Longevity vs. “getting on” Behind-the-scenes success Residual income (“mailbox money”) Adaptability in changing industries Creative originality Relationship capital Diversifying income through ownership Treating art like a business Key Takeaways 1. Staying In Is Harder Than Getting In While many focus on breaking into the industry, Kurt emphasizes that lasting success requires constant reinvention. “The continuing it for the 30-plus years has been way harder than the getting in in the first.” Insight: Longevity requires discipline, humility, and evolution. 2. Behind-the-Scenes Roles Can Be More Sustainable Kurt chose composing over performing, allowing him to age into his career rather than age out of it. “In television and film… all I’ve got to say is John Williams is in his 90s and still composing.” Insight: Choose lanes that allow long-term relevance and recurring income. 3. Residual Income Is Real Wealth Rushion and Kurt discuss “mailbox money”—recurring payments from past work. “If you just had the mailbox money for King of Queens, you’d be fine.” Insight: True financial freedom comes from owning work that keeps paying. 4. Adaptability Is Non‑Negotiable Kurt has survived massive industry shifts—from analog tape to digital production—by embracing change. “Sustain that good idea, change it, polish it up, and mold it for the changing times.” Insight: Talent without adaptability becomes obsolete. 5. Originality Comes From Listening, Not Forcing a Style Kurt avoids creative stagnation by serving the story, not his ego. “I don’t come in every day trying to force the singular style I’ve done for 38 years.” Insight: Longevity depends on collaboration and humility. 6. Relationships Are Career Currency Kurt credits long-term success to consistently showing up for people—before they’re powerful. “If you only call someone once you read they’ve got something coming up, it’s already too late.” Insight: Relationships built without agenda produce lasting opportunity. 7. Saying “Yes” Creates Opportunity Kurt embraces what he calls the power of yes. “I figure I can say yes more than you and end up making more and doing better.” Insight: Opportunity favors those who remain open, prepared, and professional. 8. Ownership Multiplies Creativity Into Business Kurt built True Music Pro, a licensing library used across major networks and streaming platforms. “I realized companies were licensing more of my music than I was… so I built my own library.” Insight: Ownership turns talent into scalable income. Notable Quotes “The journey to stay in is harder than the journey to get in.” “Treat it like a business and it might treat you in kind.” “I do my job, I do it the best I can, and I move on to the next one.” “Character is character. Relationships matter.” “That success doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with care.” Overall Impact of the Interview This interview serves as a masterclass on creative longevity and wealth-building without celebrity dependency. Kurt Farquhar’s story reframes success as: Consistent excellence Relationship stewardship Business ownership Adaptability across generations It is especially powerful for: Creatives seeking sustainable careers Entrepreneurs building IP-based businesses Professionals navigating long-term relevance Anyone pursuing “quiet wealth” over public fame #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kurt Farquhar. Television & Film Composer, Founder of Fall Crop Productions and True Music ProNotable Credits: The King of Queens, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Being Mary Jane, The Proud Family, The Neighborhood, Black LightningAwards: 10 BMI AwardsTenure: 38+ years in television Purpose of the Interview The purpose of this interview is to educate and inspire creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals about longevity, adaptability, and wealth-building behind the scenes. Kurt Farquhar’s journey highlights how sustainable success comes from mastery of craft, relationship-building, and treating creativity as a business—not chasing visibility or fame. Rushion McDonald uses Kurt’s career as a blueprint for: Building mailbox money through residuals Staying relevant across decades of industry change Monetizing intellectual property Leveraging relationships to sustain opportunity Core Themes Discussed Longevity vs. “getting on” Behind-the-scenes success Residual income (“mailbox money”) Adaptability in changing industries Creative originality Relationship capital Diversifying income through ownership Treating art like a business Key Takeaways 1. Staying In Is Harder Than Getting In While many focus on breaking into the industry, Kurt emphasizes that lasting success requires constant reinvention. “The continuing it for the 30-plus years has been way harder than the getting in in the first.” Insight: Longevity requires discipline, humility, and evolution. 2. Behind-the-Scenes Roles Can Be More Sustainable Kurt chose composing over performing, allowing him to age into his career rather than age out of it. “In television and film… all I’ve got to say is John Williams is in his 90s and still composing.” Insight: Choose lanes that allow long-term relevance and recurring income. 3. Residual Income Is Real Wealth Rushion and Kurt discuss “mailbox money”—recurring payments from past work. “If you just had the mailbox money for King of Queens, you’d be fine.” Insight: True financial freedom comes from owning work that keeps paying. 4. Adaptability Is Non‑Negotiable Kurt has survived massive industry shifts—from analog tape to digital production—by embracing change. “Sustain that good idea, change it, polish it up, and mold it for the changing times.” Insight: Talent without adaptability becomes obsolete. 5. Originality Comes From Listening, Not Forcing a Style Kurt avoids creative stagnation by serving the story, not his ego. “I don’t come in every day trying to force the singular style I’ve done for 38 years.” Insight: Longevity depends on collaboration and humility. 6. Relationships Are Career Currency Kurt credits long-term success to consistently showing up for people—before they’re powerful. “If you only call someone once you read they’ve got something coming up, it’s already too late.” Insight: Relationships built without agenda produce lasting opportunity. 7. Saying “Yes” Creates Opportunity Kurt embraces what he calls the power of yes. “I figure I can say yes more than you and end up making more and doing better.” Insight: Opportunity favors those who remain open, prepared, and professional. 8. Ownership Multiplies Creativity Into Business Kurt built True Music Pro, a licensing library used across major networks and streaming platforms. “I realized companies were licensing more of my music than I was… so I built my own library.” Insight: Ownership turns talent into scalable income. Notable Quotes “The journey to stay in is harder than the journey to get in.” “Treat it like a business and it might treat you in kind.” “I do my job, I do it the best I can, and I move on to the next one.” “Character is character. Relationships matter.” “That success doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with care.” Overall Impact of the Interview This interview serves as a masterclass on creative longevity and wealth-building without celebrity dependency. Kurt Farquhar’s story reframes success as: Consistent excellence Relationship stewardship Business ownership Adaptability across generations It is especially powerful for: Creatives seeking sustainable careers Entrepreneurs building IP-based businesses Professionals navigating long-term relevance Anyone pursuing “quiet wealth” over public fame #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring podcast, I sit down with my friend returning guest Camila Lacques-Zapién, a coach who supports academics, creatives, professionals, and leaders. Together, we explore what compassionate accountability really means and why so many first-generation, BIPOC, and community-centered individuals have learned to associate accountability with pressure, shame, or overwork instead of care and self-trust. Drawing from our coaching experiences, we discuss how creating supportive and relational spaces can help people reconnect with their values, honor their capacity, and reach their goals more sustainably. Throughout our conversation, we examine how accountability can be rooted in consent, self-awareness, and compassion rather than external expectations. We discuss common barriers that keep people feeling stuck, including burnout, fear, guilt, shame, and limited capacity, while also exploring how coaching creates space for reflection, creativity, and more grounded decision-making. Whether you're navigating graduate school, building a creative practice, leading others, or pursuing your next professional goal, this episode offers a framework for moving forward in a way that honors both your humanity and your aspirations. In this episode, you will learn: How to redefine accountability as a practice grounded in consent, self-trust, and compassion. Why separating your identity from your work can reduce shame and increase clarity. How to identify the underlying reasons you feel stuck before trying to push through. Why honoring your capacity can strengthen long-term progress and follow-through. How coaching creates space to reflect, build self-trust, and make values-aligned decisions. Work with me If you're looking for personalized support and sustainable strategies to help you navigate graduate school, your career, or a major project, I'd love to support you through coaching: https://gradschoolfemtoring.com/coaching/ Connect with today's guest Camila Lacques-Zapién's website: https://alacamila.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ala__camila/ Free resource Download your Grad School Femtoring Resource Kit: https://gradschoolfemtoring.com/kit/ Explore more Listen to more episodes on Sustainable Productivity Strategies: https://gradschoolfemtoring.com/podcast_catergory/sustainable-productivity-strategies/ Support the podcast with a one-time or monthly donation: https://donate.stripe.com/bJedR8dGRcs6ewGdwq38401 Access transcripts and additional resources: https://gradschoolfemtoring.com/podcast/ Audio and transcript edited by Yessi Sanchez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yessisanchez/ This podcast is a proud member of the Genuina Media network. The Grad School Femtoring Podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy or other professional services. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Radical Radiance podcast, Lisa Allen and host Rebecca George explore confidence, self-leadership, and the importance of faith in overcoming fear. They discuss Lisa's new book, ⁠Your Confidence Compass⁠, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and a mindset rooted in God's truth. They also touch on the significance of longing in both relational and vocational contexts, encouraging listeners to find their identity in Christ as they pursue confidence in their lives. Sponsors:Ever AJ: If your quiet time often feels rushed or scattered, Ever AJ might be just what you need. They design beautiful, functional pieces, like thoughtfully made Bible cases that hold everything in one place, so you can sit down, open up, and actually be present. Check out Ever AJ here!Christian Standard Bible: With Father's Day coming up, I've been thinking about the men who've shaped me, leading with quiet faith, steady presence, and wisdom. If you're looking for a meaningful gift that points him back to truth, I love the Father's Day Gift Guide from Christian Standard Bible. Whether it's a Bible he'll read every morning or something to deepen his study, these are gifts that go beyond the moment and anchor his faith for the long haul. Check out the CSB Father's Day Gift Guide here!Live Oak Integrative Health: If you've been quietly carrying the weight of wanting to grow your family, you're not alone. Rebecca Belch at Live Oak Integrative Health walks alongside women through fertility challenges with a root-cause approach, looking at gut health, nutrition, and overall wellness to help your body support a healthy pregnancy. She's seen so many encouraging stories, including women who've gotten pregnant after finally getting the right support. If you've been looking for answers or just a place to start, this could be a beautiful next step. Learn more at liveoakintegrativehealth.com/radianceLinks:Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4 Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6 Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67 Books:You're Not Too Late: Trusting God's Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3kDo the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpMBefore Dawn: Knowing God's Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv 

June Stratton is an American representational figurative painter known for her work capturing the human form with clarity, discipline, and emotional depth.  In this episode of the AART Podcast,  Chris speaks with June Stratton about her career in figurative painting, her studio practice, and how she approaches realism in contemporary art.This conversation covers:How June Stratton became a figurative artistHer approach to painting the human figure and working from observationThe role of light, composition, and gesture in representational artBalancing technical precision with intuition in paintingWhat it takes to sustain a career as a contemporary realist painterChris' signature unscripted, intimate interview style allows  Stratton to go beyond technique and talk about the mindset behind her work—how she sees, thinks, and builds a painting over time. If you're interested in figurative painting, representational art, portrait painting, or the creative process of contemporary artists, this episode offers a clear and practical insight into how one artist approaches her craft.June's links:Website: junestratton.comInstagram: instagram.com/june_stratton/Facebook: facebook.com/JuneStrattonStudio/June's Female artists: Nadine Robbins Marilyn Minter April Gornik Vija Celmins Julie Heffernan Mae Read Mia Bergeron Pamela Wilson Katherine Sandoz Annie Lebowitz Dorielle Caimi Rebecca Leveille Guay Megan LangeDinner Party Guests: Benjamin Franklin Dolly Parton Mary Munter Hedy Lamar Jack White Paitti Smith John MuirKeywordsJune Stratton, figurative painting, representational art, realism painting, contemporary realist artist, portrait painting, human figure drawing, painting process, studio practice artist, American painter interview, AART podcast, Chris Stafford, Women Unscripted podcast network, art podcast, how to paint people, observational painting, fine art interview, contemporary figurative art, artist career insightsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.A Hollowell Studios ProductionInstagram: @theaartpodcast Email: theaartpodcast@gmail.com© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell StudiosAll Rights Reserved

Recorded: Tuesday, 23rd of June, 2026Location: Melbourne, AustraliaBuy Me A Coffee:buymeacoffee.com/joshlynott

Lorin spoke with the creatives of indie TV series "Everyone is Doing Great," currently streaming on Netflix. Listen to multi-hyphenated creators and stars Stephen Colletti and James Lafferty, executive producer and director Michelle Lang, and season two composer and actor Michael Grubbs.#ATXTVFestival #TV #AStreamableLife #EveryoneisDoingGreat

What happens when someone who grew up in the Lucasfilm Games golden era decides that today's AI tools are failing creatives? Mike Levine has spent more than 30 years building at the intersection of games, XR, VFX, and interactive storytelling—and his verdict is clear: the current AI stack is a fragmented, overcomplicated mess that turns directors into prompt engineers.Mike started as a tester at Lucasfilm Games (later LucasArts), working his way into the art department on titles like Sam & Max and The Dig before helping ship live-action Star Wars games such as Rebel Assault and Jedi Knight II. He later built rotoscoping tools used across the VFX industry, collaborated with ILM and Pixar, experimented with mobile AR games for Hasbro and HoloLens, and dipped into crypto gaming—before finally co-founding MovieFlow (now FilmSpark), an AI-native production platform designed so that filmmakers, agencies, and showrunners can move from script to screen without needing a computer science degree.The AI XR news you should know: Apple taps Google Gemini to power Siri, acknowledging that building world-class LLMs in-house makes little financial sense. Meta cuts 10% of Reality Labs, right-sizing its VR bets while pivoting toward wearables. Xreal raises another $100M amid questions about Chinese state influence and data flows. Higgs Field lands $80M at a $1.3B valuation for AI cinematography tools that many filmmakers still find unreliable. Wikipedia signs licensing deals with major AI companies after years of being scraped for free. OpenAI invests $252M in Sam Altman–backed Merge Labs, raising fresh conflict-of-interest questions.Key Moments Timestamps:[00:23:02] From Boston journalist-to-be to accidental hire at Lucasfilm Games[00:26:24] The “test pit” culture at Lucas and how Nintendo experience got Mike in the door[00:28:45] Moving into the art department, learning Photoshop from early legends, and shipping Sam & Max[00:31:15] Live-action Star Wars games: Rebel Assault, Jedi Knight II, and convincing George Lucas[00:34:38] Visiting Pixar with new VFX tools and recognizing the same creative “magic” as LucasArts[00:36:24] Doug Trumbull's influence on Mike's sense of cinematic possibility and immersion[00:43:27] The urinal meeting at Magic Leap and what early spatial computing got right (and wrong)[00:49:00] Why most AI tools are “dark ages” for filmmakers: node graphs, 10+ subscriptions, no story view[00:51:00] Building MovieFlow/FilmSpark: story-first, timeline-based AI production for long-form and vertical shows[00:53:00] The Neighborhood Podcast: a 90-second vertical murder mystery as proof-of-concept for AI-native seriesWhen humans can generate shots, scenes, and even entire episodes in minutes, the bottleneck shifts from production to vision. Mike argues that the winning AI tools will be the ones that let directors see their whole story, maintain continuity, and iterate fast—without ever feeling like they left the edit bay for a dev console. His vertical drama collaboration with Charlie, The Neighborhood Podcast, is an early look at what happens when narrative craft meets AI-native pipelines instead of fighting them.This episode is brought to you by Zapar creators of Mattercraft—the leading visual development environment for building immersive 3D web experiences. Build smarter at mattercraft.io.Watch the full episode on YouTube and subscribe to the AI XR Podcast for weekly conversations with the people building the future of AI, XR, and interactive media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S7, EP 208Special Guest: Mike PecciJoin us tonight at the Chaos Table and listen in on our conversation with award winning Director, filmmaker, writer and visual storyteller Mike Pecci.Mike is known for blending horror, science fiction, and emotionally grounded genre filmmaking with striking cinematic imagery. Classically trained in silent film directing and cinematography in New York, Pecci built his career directing commercials, music videos, and branded content before emerging as one of the most distinctive voices in independent horror cinema. His work combines old school visual storytelling with modern cinematic intensity, drawing inspiration from filmmakers like John Carpenter, Steven Spielberg, Alfred Hitchcock, and Andrei Tarkovsky.Pecci first gained major attention with his viral science fiction horror short film 12 Kilometers, a Lovecraftian nightmare inspired by the real life Kola Superdeep Borehole. The film became a cult phenomenon online, praised for its atmosphere, practical effects, sound design, and cinematic ambition. The film generated a massive grassroots following through an unconventional “you need the director's permission to watch it” release campaign, helping it spread virally throughout the horror community. Critics described the film as “what if David Lynch directed The Thing,” while audiences praised its haunting tone and immersive visual style. Since the release of 12 Kilometers, Pecci's films have screened at major genre and independent film festivals around the world, including the FilmQuest, where his short film Come Home earned him the award for Best Director. His experimental horror fashion film Metanoia, starring David Dastmalchian, received multiple festival nominations including Best Cinematography and Best Macro Short at FilmQuest, as well as nominations at the London Fashion Film Festival. Outside of narrative filmmaking, Pecci has directed over 30 music videos and commercial campaigns for artists and brands including Killswitch Engage, Meshuggah, Czarface, Bose, Fujifilm, Leica, and Samuel Adams. Pecci is also the creator and host of the long running filmmaking podcast In Love with the Process, where he interviews some of the industry's top cinematographers, directors, editors, and artists about the realities of the creative process. The show has become a respected platform within the filmmaking community for its honest conversations about art, struggle, obsession, and storytelling.Known for his visceral visual language, love of practical filmmaking, and emotionally driven horror, Mike Pecci continues to push genre storytelling into bold and unexpected territory. His work has earned a passionate cult following among filmmakers and horror fans alike, establishing him as one of the most exciting emerging voices in modern genre cinema.Mike's Links -Website - http://mikepecci.com/Podcast - http://inlovewiththeprocess.com/IG- https://www.instagram.com/mikepecci/This is a shareable podcast where a group of creatives join together to  document their creative voiceover & on-camera journeys in real time. We hope this podcast creates inspiration, stirs up a few ah-ha moments or maybe brings to the surface a feeling of "you're not alone" while navigating the creative process. Either way, we are glad you are here.  Oh, and we also pull into our conversations at the chaos table industry professionals along with other fellow actors, to share their stories, experiences and knowledge - so we can all connect, share, learn, grow and expand together.  This podcast is for entertainment and not educational purposes!  Enjoy and thank you for listening to our Creative Chaos! *Have a creative story or journey to share, we'd love to hear it - email us at chaoskeepers411@gmail.com or jozlynrocki@gmail.com Follow all the Chaos - YT - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChG0fKKBt2QNplJowSaKU6wFB - https://www.facebook.com/keepingupwithchaospodcastIG - https://www.instagram.com/keeping_up_with_chaos/

This week, Amy Smilovic, founder and creative director of Tibi, returns to speak with Who What Wear Editor in Chief Kat Collings about her new book, Almost Reckless. The last time Smilovic joined the pod in 2024, she gave us a guide to her design philosophy: creative pragmatism. This time, she's here to share the "almost reckless" framework that helped her uncover creative pragmatism and how you can use this framework for your own creative pursuits. They discuss everything from how to make sense of your current closet to taking fashion risks that pay off, and Smilovic gives us a BTS look at her design process at Tibi. Plus, learn how to make the most of your suitcase space when packing.  Watch this episode ⁠⁠here on our new YouTube channel⁠⁠, and be sure to subscribe! Listen to Smilovic's previous episode here! 

This week, Amy Smilovic, founder and creative director of Tibi, returns to speak with Who What Wear Editor in Chief Kat Collings about her new book, Almost Reckless. The last time Smilovic joined the pod in 2024, she gave us a guide to her design philosophy: creative pragmatism. This time, she's here to share the "almost reckless" framework that helped her uncover creative pragmatism and how you can use this framework for your own creative pursuits. They discuss everything from how to make sense of your current closet to taking fashion risks that pay off, and Smilovic gives us a BTS look at her design process at Tibi. Plus, learn how to make the most of your suitcase space when packing.  Watch this episode ⁠⁠here on our new YouTube channel⁠⁠, and be sure to subscribe! Listen to Smilovic's previous episode here!

In this episode, Niki Hardy shares her journey through doubt, faith, and trusting God's timing, especially during life's uncertainties and suffering. She discusses her new book 'God Can We Chat?' and offers insights on how to grow closer to God amid doubt and disappointment. Keywords:faith, doubt, trusting God, spiritual journey, God's character, suffering, hope, prayer, Christian life, spiritual growthKey Topics:Journey with doubt and faithTrusting God's character and sovereigntyPractical ways to stay connected with God during doubtReflections on God's unchanging natureThe importance of honesty in prayer and relationship with God00:00 Introduction to Radical Radiance Podcast09:52 The Journey of Doubt and Faith16:27 Trusting God in Uncertain Times22:13 The Crossroads of Faith and Doubt28:23 The Role of Suffering in Transformation34:07 Closing Thoughts and Reflections36:52 OutroSponsors:Ever AJ: If your quiet time often feels rushed or scattered, Ever AJ might be just what you need. They design beautiful, functional pieces, like thoughtfully made Bible cases that hold everything in one place, so you can sit down, open up, and actually be present. Check out Ever AJ here!Christian Standard Bible: With Father's Day coming up, I've been thinking about the men who've shaped me, leading with quiet faith, steady presence, and wisdom. If you're looking for a meaningful gift that points him back to truth, I love the Father's Day Gift Guide from Christian Standard Bible. Whether it's a Bible he'll read every morning or something to deepen his study, these are gifts that go beyond the moment and anchor his faith for the long haul. Check out the CSB Father's Day Gift Guide here!Live Oak Integrative Health: If you've been quietly carrying the weight of wanting to grow your family, you're not alone. Rebecca Belch at Live Oak Integrative Health walks alongside women through fertility challenges with a root-cause approach, looking at gut health, nutrition, and overall wellness to help your body support a healthy pregnancy. She's seen so many encouraging stories, including women who've gotten pregnant after finally getting the right support. If you've been looking for answers or just a place to start, this could be a beautiful next step. Learn more at liveoakintegrativehealth.com/radianceLinks:Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4 Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6 Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67 Books:You're Not Too Late: Trusting God's Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3kDo the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpMBefore Dawn: Knowing God's Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv 

The District Creatives Radio Show is a 30-minute program featuring interviews highlighting the work of millennials/young adult creatives in the city. The focus of the content is arts, entertainment, and the creative economy. “The District Creatives Radio Show” provides a platform for creatives to share the work and content they provide in this city and for the city. Hosted by District creative, Savvy Cherise, the show will create a dialogue around the joys and pains of pursuing your passion, resources for District creatives, and balancing your passion project with your paycheck. These discussions will not only highlight current creatives but also guide the next wave of creatives in the District of Columbia.

Accidents happen. Some are worse than others. For a creative, a total computer crash is not great—especially when under a heavy deadline. Scott & A talk about how we dealt with it during the final weeks of Scott's active deadline for SLAY. What plans and procedures did we already have in place that let us keep writing? What did we miss that hurt us? What should you do to protect your priceless work? Pro tip: no matter how you back up — be sure to back up. Even just a flash drive separate from your computer can help.  — Slices is created by Scott Sigler and A B Kovacs — Produced by Steve Riekeberg — Production Assistance by Allie Press — Copyright 2026 by Empty Set Entertainment  Never give up, never surrender And never spill coffee on your laptop if you can help it. If you do take that spill, tell us all about it using GoDaddy Promo Code CJCFOSSIG3 to get you ninety-nine percent off your first year of a new domain. That's a lot of coffee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kurt Farquhar. Television & Film Composer, Founder of Fall Crop Productions and True Music ProNotable Credits: The King of Queens, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Being Mary Jane, The Proud Family, The Neighborhood, Black LightningAwards: 10 BMI AwardsTenure: 38+ years in television Purpose of the Interview The purpose of this interview is to educate and inspire creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals about longevity, adaptability, and wealth-building behind the scenes. Kurt Farquhar’s journey highlights how sustainable success comes from mastery of craft, relationship-building, and treating creativity as a business—not chasing visibility or fame. Rushion McDonald uses Kurt’s career as a blueprint for: Building mailbox money through residuals Staying relevant across decades of industry change Monetizing intellectual property Leveraging relationships to sustain opportunity Core Themes Discussed Longevity vs. “getting on” Behind-the-scenes success Residual income (“mailbox money”) Adaptability in changing industries Creative originality Relationship capital Diversifying income through ownership Treating art like a business Key Takeaways 1. Staying In Is Harder Than Getting In While many focus on breaking into the industry, Kurt emphasizes that lasting success requires constant reinvention. “The continuing it for the 30-plus years has been way harder than the getting in in the first.” Insight: Longevity requires discipline, humility, and evolution. 2. Behind-the-Scenes Roles Can Be More Sustainable Kurt chose composing over performing, allowing him to age into his career rather than age out of it. “In television and film… all I’ve got to say is John Williams is in his 90s and still composing.” Insight: Choose lanes that allow long-term relevance and recurring income. 3. Residual Income Is Real Wealth Rushion and Kurt discuss “mailbox money”—recurring payments from past work. “If you just had the mailbox money for King of Queens, you’d be fine.” Insight: True financial freedom comes from owning work that keeps paying. 4. Adaptability Is Non‑Negotiable Kurt has survived massive industry shifts—from analog tape to digital production—by embracing change. “Sustain that good idea, change it, polish it up, and mold it for the changing times.” Insight: Talent without adaptability becomes obsolete. 5. Originality Comes From Listening, Not Forcing a Style Kurt avoids creative stagnation by serving the story, not his ego. “I don’t come in every day trying to force the singular style I’ve done for 38 years.” Insight: Longevity depends on collaboration and humility. 6. Relationships Are Career Currency Kurt credits long-term success to consistently showing up for people—before they’re powerful. “If you only call someone once you read they’ve got something coming up, it’s already too late.” Insight: Relationships built without agenda produce lasting opportunity. 7. Saying “Yes” Creates Opportunity Kurt embraces what he calls the power of yes. “I figure I can say yes more than you and end up making more and doing better.” Insight: Opportunity favors those who remain open, prepared, and professional. 8. Ownership Multiplies Creativity Into Business Kurt built True Music Pro, a licensing library used across major networks and streaming platforms. “I realized companies were licensing more of my music than I was… so I built my own library.” Insight: Ownership turns talent into scalable income. Notable Quotes “The journey to stay in is harder than the journey to get in.” “Treat it like a business and it might treat you in kind.” “I do my job, I do it the best I can, and I move on to the next one.” “Character is character. Relationships matter.” “That success doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with care.” Overall Impact of the Interview This interview serves as a masterclass on creative longevity and wealth-building without celebrity dependency. Kurt Farquhar’s story reframes success as: Consistent excellence Relationship stewardship Business ownership Adaptability across generations It is especially powerful for: Creatives seeking sustainable careers Entrepreneurs building IP-based businesses Professionals navigating long-term relevance Anyone pursuing “quiet wealth” over public fame #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kurt Farquhar. Television & Film Composer, Founder of Fall Crop Productions and True Music ProNotable Credits: The King of Queens, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Being Mary Jane, The Proud Family, The Neighborhood, Black LightningAwards: 10 BMI AwardsTenure: 38+ years in television Purpose of the Interview The purpose of this interview is to educate and inspire creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals about longevity, adaptability, and wealth-building behind the scenes. Kurt Farquhar’s journey highlights how sustainable success comes from mastery of craft, relationship-building, and treating creativity as a business—not chasing visibility or fame. Rushion McDonald uses Kurt’s career as a blueprint for: Building mailbox money through residuals Staying relevant across decades of industry change Monetizing intellectual property Leveraging relationships to sustain opportunity Core Themes Discussed Longevity vs. “getting on” Behind-the-scenes success Residual income (“mailbox money”) Adaptability in changing industries Creative originality Relationship capital Diversifying income through ownership Treating art like a business Key Takeaways 1. Staying In Is Harder Than Getting In While many focus on breaking into the industry, Kurt emphasizes that lasting success requires constant reinvention. “The continuing it for the 30-plus years has been way harder than the getting in in the first.” Insight: Longevity requires discipline, humility, and evolution. 2. Behind-the-Scenes Roles Can Be More Sustainable Kurt chose composing over performing, allowing him to age into his career rather than age out of it. “In television and film… all I’ve got to say is John Williams is in his 90s and still composing.” Insight: Choose lanes that allow long-term relevance and recurring income. 3. Residual Income Is Real Wealth Rushion and Kurt discuss “mailbox money”—recurring payments from past work. “If you just had the mailbox money for King of Queens, you’d be fine.” Insight: True financial freedom comes from owning work that keeps paying. 4. Adaptability Is Non‑Negotiable Kurt has survived massive industry shifts—from analog tape to digital production—by embracing change. “Sustain that good idea, change it, polish it up, and mold it for the changing times.” Insight: Talent without adaptability becomes obsolete. 5. Originality Comes From Listening, Not Forcing a Style Kurt avoids creative stagnation by serving the story, not his ego. “I don’t come in every day trying to force the singular style I’ve done for 38 years.” Insight: Longevity depends on collaboration and humility. 6. Relationships Are Career Currency Kurt credits long-term success to consistently showing up for people—before they’re powerful. “If you only call someone once you read they’ve got something coming up, it’s already too late.” Insight: Relationships built without agenda produce lasting opportunity. 7. Saying “Yes” Creates Opportunity Kurt embraces what he calls the power of yes. “I figure I can say yes more than you and end up making more and doing better.” Insight: Opportunity favors those who remain open, prepared, and professional. 8. Ownership Multiplies Creativity Into Business Kurt built True Music Pro, a licensing library used across major networks and streaming platforms. “I realized companies were licensing more of my music than I was… so I built my own library.” Insight: Ownership turns talent into scalable income. Notable Quotes “The journey to stay in is harder than the journey to get in.” “Treat it like a business and it might treat you in kind.” “I do my job, I do it the best I can, and I move on to the next one.” “Character is character. Relationships matter.” “That success doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with care.” Overall Impact of the Interview This interview serves as a masterclass on creative longevity and wealth-building without celebrity dependency. Kurt Farquhar’s story reframes success as: Consistent excellence Relationship stewardship Business ownership Adaptability across generations It is especially powerful for: Creatives seeking sustainable careers Entrepreneurs building IP-based businesses Professionals navigating long-term relevance Anyone pursuing “quiet wealth” over public fame #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kurt Farquhar. Television & Film Composer, Founder of Fall Crop Productions and True Music ProNotable Credits: The King of Queens, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Being Mary Jane, The Proud Family, The Neighborhood, Black LightningAwards: 10 BMI AwardsTenure: 38+ years in television Purpose of the Interview The purpose of this interview is to educate and inspire creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals about longevity, adaptability, and wealth-building behind the scenes. Kurt Farquhar’s journey highlights how sustainable success comes from mastery of craft, relationship-building, and treating creativity as a business—not chasing visibility or fame. Rushion McDonald uses Kurt’s career as a blueprint for: Building mailbox money through residuals Staying relevant across decades of industry change Monetizing intellectual property Leveraging relationships to sustain opportunity Core Themes Discussed Longevity vs. “getting on” Behind-the-scenes success Residual income (“mailbox money”) Adaptability in changing industries Creative originality Relationship capital Diversifying income through ownership Treating art like a business Key Takeaways 1. Staying In Is Harder Than Getting In While many focus on breaking into the industry, Kurt emphasizes that lasting success requires constant reinvention. “The continuing it for the 30-plus years has been way harder than the getting in in the first.” Insight: Longevity requires discipline, humility, and evolution. 2. Behind-the-Scenes Roles Can Be More Sustainable Kurt chose composing over performing, allowing him to age into his career rather than age out of it. “In television and film… all I’ve got to say is John Williams is in his 90s and still composing.” Insight: Choose lanes that allow long-term relevance and recurring income. 3. Residual Income Is Real Wealth Rushion and Kurt discuss “mailbox money”—recurring payments from past work. “If you just had the mailbox money for King of Queens, you’d be fine.” Insight: True financial freedom comes from owning work that keeps paying. 4. Adaptability Is Non‑Negotiable Kurt has survived massive industry shifts—from analog tape to digital production—by embracing change. “Sustain that good idea, change it, polish it up, and mold it for the changing times.” Insight: Talent without adaptability becomes obsolete. 5. Originality Comes From Listening, Not Forcing a Style Kurt avoids creative stagnation by serving the story, not his ego. “I don’t come in every day trying to force the singular style I’ve done for 38 years.” Insight: Longevity depends on collaboration and humility. 6. Relationships Are Career Currency Kurt credits long-term success to consistently showing up for people—before they’re powerful. “If you only call someone once you read they’ve got something coming up, it’s already too late.” Insight: Relationships built without agenda produce lasting opportunity. 7. Saying “Yes” Creates Opportunity Kurt embraces what he calls the power of yes. “I figure I can say yes more than you and end up making more and doing better.” Insight: Opportunity favors those who remain open, prepared, and professional. 8. Ownership Multiplies Creativity Into Business Kurt built True Music Pro, a licensing library used across major networks and streaming platforms. “I realized companies were licensing more of my music than I was… so I built my own library.” Insight: Ownership turns talent into scalable income. Notable Quotes “The journey to stay in is harder than the journey to get in.” “Treat it like a business and it might treat you in kind.” “I do my job, I do it the best I can, and I move on to the next one.” “Character is character. Relationships matter.” “That success doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with care.” Overall Impact of the Interview This interview serves as a masterclass on creative longevity and wealth-building without celebrity dependency. Kurt Farquhar’s story reframes success as: Consistent excellence Relationship stewardship Business ownership Adaptability across generations It is especially powerful for: Creatives seeking sustainable careers Entrepreneurs building IP-based businesses Professionals navigating long-term relevance Anyone pursuing “quiet wealth” over public fame #SHMS #STRAW #BEST #AMISee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know the Declaration of Independence contains a racial slur? When Rebecca Nagle learned that “merciless Indian savages” were a main grievance of America's founders it changed her perspective on history. The Cherokee journalist tells Rosanna how her search for an Indigenous telling of America's history created the backbone of a new podcast, First America. And, filmmaker Brad Munoa – a member of the Pachanga band – zooms into what we currently call California to tell a more complete story of that territory in his 10-part docuseries, People of the West. As America prepares to celebrate 250 years as a nation, we hear from Indigenous scholars and creators on the true story of America told through an Indigenous lens.

For years, Kim Robinson worked on the brand side, helping major companies connect with artists and creatives. Eventually, he decided he'd rather be working for the artists themselves. So he launched 3pts, a company that helps creatives handle the business side of their careers—everything from pricing and marketing to partnerships and strategy—so they can spend more time focused on the work they love.The first challenge, Kim says, is convincing artists that thinking about money and business doesn't somehow compromise their creativity. The second is helping them understand that even the most gifted creatives still need a framework for pricing, positioning, and building sustainable careers. In our conversation, Kim explains why so many artists struggle with the entrepreneurial side of their work, what brands often misunderstand about creative talent, and why he eventually realized he had more in common with his clients than he expected.

Creatives Are Created by the Creator with Arkeli Johnson is an inspiring conversation about creativity, worship, and partnering with the Holy Spirit. Together, they explore the responsibility of creatives to steward their gifts with integrity, give God the glory, and resist the temptation to seek recognition for themselves. Whether you're a musician, artist, entrepreneur, or creator of any kind, this episode will encourage you to create from a place of surrender, purpose, and devotion to the One who created you.

AI creatives just hit a new level and the most surprising convert is Playrix. After years of holding back, they've gone all-in on AI across Township, Gardenscapes, and Homescapes. Matej, Jakub, Felix (and Freddie the robot) review 100+ AI creatives to figure out what's actually working right now.The episode is a guided tour through the current AI creative landscape: AppQuantum's Golden Goblins running AI influencers from a creative team scaling toward 100 people, Playrix's full-AI pivot with the recurring "there are no ads in Township" concept (and Felix's repeated insistence that ads are coming anyway), the "getting slapped" husband concept that has spread across the entire 4X category in a single month, freezing-families intros rendered at near-Pixar quality, the pajama guy who quietly took over Last War / Dark War creatives, and the broader collapse of creative production timelines from a week to a single day. It's the clearest snapshot yet of how fast AI creative production is moving — and how quickly a single winning concept now propagates across an entire genre.The throughline: this isn't about whether AI creatives work anymore. It's about who's iterating fastest.━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━⏱️ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Cold open — Freddie the robot judges the AI creatives02:30 AppQuantum's Golden Goblins and the 100-person creative team04:00 Century portfolio downscaling AI (and near-Pixar quality)07:30 Playrix goes full AI across all three games08:00 "There are no ads in Township" — the recurring concept16:30 Freezing Families gets the full AI intro treatment22:20 The "getting slapped" concept takes over all of Forex33:30 Top Heroes, anime quality, and where this is heading━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━-PVX Partners offers non-dilutive funding for game developers.Go to: https://pvxpartners.com/They can help you access the most effective form of growth capital once you have the metrics to back it.- Scale fast- Keep your shares- Drawdown only as needed- Have PvX take downside risk alongside you+ Work with a team entirely made up of ex-gaming operators and investors---------------------------------------For an ever-growing number of game developers, this means that now is the perfect time to invest in monetizing direct-to-consumer at scale.Our sponsor FastSpring:Has delivered D2C at scale for over 20 yearsThey power top mobile publishers around the worldLaunch a new webstore, replace an existing D2C vendor, or add a redundant D2C vendor at fastspring.gg.---------------------------------------This is no BS gaming podcast 2.5 gamers session. Sharing actionable insights, dropping knowledge from our day-to-day User Acquisition, Game Design, and Ad monetization jobs. We are definitely not discussing the latest industry news, but having so much fun! Let's not forget this is a 4 a.m. conference discussion vibe, so let's not take it too seriously.Panelists: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jakub Remia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠r,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Felix Braberg, Matej Lancaric⁠Join our slack channel here: https://join.slack.com/t/two-and-half-gamers/shared_invite/zt-3bckldvr8-8PXvzciMWdheOzED9hq0SA---------------------------------------Matej LancaricUser Acquisition & Creatives Consultant⁠https://lancaric.meFelix BrabergAd monetization consultant⁠https://www.felixbraberg.comJakub RemiarGame design consultant⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakubremiar---------------------------------------Please share the podcast with your industry friends, dogs & cats. Especially cats! They love it!Hit the Subscribe button on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple!Please share feedback and comments - matej@lancaric.me---------------------------------------If you are interested in getting UA tips every week on Monday, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lancaric.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & sign up for the Brutally Honest newsletter by Matej Lancaric

Too many photographers and creatives believe the only way to make more money is to raise their rates. But the reality is that many are already providing valuable services they simply aren't charging for. In this episode, I break down seven overlooked revenue opportunities that can increase profitability while delivering even more value to your clients. From equipment rental fees and digital file storage to behind-the-scenes content, additional revisions, and retouching beyond scope, these are services clients often request, expect, or benefit from, yet many creatives include them at no additional charge. The goal isn't to nickel-and-dime your clients. It's to build a sustainable business by pricing your work according to the true value you provide. If you're tired of doing more work without seeing more revenue, this episode will help you rethink what belongs in your pricing structure. Learn more at jamespatrick.com Instagram: @jpatrickphoto Substack: jamespatrickphotography.substack.com

In this episode of The Agency Rocket Show, Liz Hunt sits down with Arjan Visser for a deep conversation about creative leadership, vulnerability, burnout, and the growing tension between management systems and human creativity. The conversation also explores Liz's upcoming book, The 9 Types of Creatives, including the “Visionary” archetype, a creative profile centered around high-level thinking, leadership, innovation, and future-focused vision. Together, they discuss: Why traditional management structures often fail creative teams The importance of relational safety in leadership How insecurity impacts both creatives and managers Recognizing patterns in creative personalities and teams The tension between predictability and innovation Why leaders need peer groups outside their organization The danger of self-sacrifice in leadership How creative archetypes can become tools for understanding instead of labels This episode is for agency owners, creative leaders, entrepreneurs, managers, and anyone trying to build healthier, more human-centered teams.   Interested in learning more about future-focused leadership and identity-driven strategy?  Check out LEAD THE FUTURE: 7 Steps to Expand your Identity, Strategic Foresight, and Vision by Arjan Visser on Amazon   Connect with Arjan Visser on LinkedIn 

I am a big believer in the power of "side quests" . Over the years, my own side projects have transformed into vital parts of my business and completely changed my career trajectory . In this episode, I am joined by Mélanie Johnsson, a creative director, illustrator, and designer who is equally obsessed with the magic of the side quest. We dive into how these personal projects have brought her new clients, created a vibrant community, and allowed her to push her creative boundaries without the constraints of client briefs. Whether you are considering launching a magazine, a community challenge, or an exhibition, Mélanie's proactive attitude will empower you to stop waiting for opportunities and start creating them yourself . Thanks to Ivy  Malik for sponsoring this episode.  If you wanna learn how to co-create a sale so it doesn't feel like selling head to lizmosley.net/ivy and watch the free training video.  Key Takeaways Proactive Career Growth: Side quests allow you to create the exact type of work you want to be hired for, effectively controlling your own professional narrative and journey. Creative Freedom and Values: Personal projects provide a space to align purely with your own vision and values, which is essential for preventing creative stagnation. Building Community and Authority: Projects like the "Pattern Challenge" or the "Mimi" platform establish you as an expert and build lasting associations in the minds of potential clients. The "Art Director" Mindset: Transitioning to broader titles like Art Director or Creative Director allows you to sell your "brain" and problem-solving skills rather than just a specific technical output. Overcoming Loneliness: Creative communities and in-person meetups serve as a vital antidote to the isolation of freelance life, offering validation and shared support. Episode Highlights 01:50: Mélanie's background growing up in a creative family and her initial "rebellion" against design . 13:10: The creation of Spellbound magazine and the joy of self-publishing. 14:15: How the "Pattern Challenge" transitioned from an Instagram prompt to a charitable physical product. 20:45: Proving creativity: How a client relationship led to 3D rendering and product design. 26:15: The logistical challenges and dreams of building a physical creative studio. 36:10: Rebranding and the power of solving visual problems through a "Creative Director" lens. About the Guest Mélanie Johnsson is a French Art Director, Designer, and Illustrator based in the UK . She works with brands across various industries, from skincare to editorial, and is the founder of the Mimi platform for creatives. Website: https://www.melaniejohnsson.com/ Instagram: @melanie.johnsson Mimi for Creatives: @mimi.for.creatives Mentioned in the Episode Spellbound Magazine: Melanie's self-published creative magazine. #thepatternchallengebymel: A long-running creative community challenge on Instagram.   End Credits I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft lucylucraft.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

#350: In this episode, I'm sitting down with journalist, podcast host, and founder Gia Peppers to explore what it really means to shine—not from a place of performance, but from alignment.Because many of us have confused visibility with validation. We thought shining meant being seen, being chosen, being applauded.But what happens when the applause fades… or never comes?Gia takes us through her journey, from chasing the “dream opportunity” that was supposed to change everything, to having it fall apart in a way that forced her to confront herself, her faith, and what she actually wanted.We talk about the quiet work. The healing work. The kind of work that doesn't trend, doesn't go viral but changes everything.This conversation is about redefining success, releasing timelines, and learning how to show up fully—without needing permission, validation, or a co-sign.It's about shifting from “Who's shining a light on me?” to “What's shining through me?”And once you feel that shift… you can't unsee it.This episode is for you if…You've ever felt like you did everything “right”… and it still didn't work outYou're tired of performing your life instead of actually living itYou're in a season of healing, but questioning if it's workingYou're learning how to release timelines and trust divine timingYou're redefining what success looks like for youYou've outgrown validation, but are still figuring out what replaces itYou feel pulled in multiple directions and want to explore more than one version of yourselfYou're navigating comparison, social media fatigue, or creative burnoutYou're ready to take up space without shrinking, apologizing, or dimming your lightEpisode Links:Follow Gia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giapeppers/Subscribe to Gia's podcast, Healed Girl Era: https://lnkfi.re/healedgirlrerapodJoin the Creatives of Faith Community: https://www.creativesoffaith.com/Sponsors:Nebula: Go to Nebula: Spiritual Guidance Space https://nebulaapp.onelink.me/AaEA/j53blqjz and get 3 minutes for free to chat with 3 psychics matched to you.Cotton: Cotton is The Fabric of Our Lives. Learn more at TheFabricofOurLives.comIM8: IM8's Daily Ultimate Essentials replaces 16 supplements in one single drink. Go to IM8health.com/lucky and use code LUCKY for a free welcome kit, five free travel sachets, plus 10% off your order.Monarch Money: Monarch is the personal finance app that tracks everything — accounts, investments, savings goals, and spending. Get your first year of Monarch Core for half off at monarch.com using promo code LUCKY.ButcherBox: As an exclusive offer, new listeners get their choice of free Sirloin Tips, Ground Beef, or Chicken Wings in every box for life, plus $20 off when you go to ButcherBox.com/lucky.One Skin: Get 15% off OneSkin with the code LUCKY at https://www.oneskin.co/LUCKY #oneskinpodKeep in Touch with Les:Ready to apply what you hear? Subscribe to the She's So Lucky Newsletter to get weekly episode guides and journal prompts: https://shessolucky.kit.com/newsletterSubscribe to The Lucky Playbook on Substack: https://lesalfred.substack.com/Follow Les on IG @lesalfredFollow She's So Lucky on IG @shessoluckypodFollow Les on TikTok @theluckylesFollow She's So Lucky on TikTokVisit our website at shessoluckypodcast.comThis episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Erin Warren and Rebecca George explore the biblical concept of turning from idolatry to surrender, emphasizing recognizing idols in our lives, understanding God's sovereignty, and practical steps to shift our focus back to Him. Keywords:idolatry, surrender, biblical truth, sanctification, God's sovereignty, Christian living, spiritual growthKey Topics:Understanding idolatry in modern lifeThe process of sanctification and spiritual growthRecognizing and confronting personal idolsThe importance of God's character in overcoming idolsPractical steps to shift focus from idols to GodChapters00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation04:18 Idolatry and Surrender: A Biblical Perspective07:22 Understanding Idolatry in Modern Life13:49 Navigating Longing and Waiting20:21 The Role of Community in Spiritual Growth24:16 Viewing God Through Our Circumstances30:03 The Radiance of Jesus and Our Response32:55 OutroSponsors:Ever AJ: If your quiet time often feels rushed or scattered, Ever AJ might be just what you need. They design beautiful, functional pieces, like thoughtfully made Bible cases that hold everything in one place, so you can sit down, open up, and actually be present. Check out Ever AJ here!Christian Standard Bible: With Father's Day coming up, I've been thinking about the men who've shaped me, leading with quiet faith, steady presence, and wisdom. If you're looking for a meaningful gift that points him back to truth, I love the Father's Day Gift Guide from Christian Standard Bible. Whether it's a Bible he'll read every morning or something to deepen his study, these are gifts that go beyond the moment and anchor his faith for the long haul. Check out the CSB Father's Day Gift Guide here!Live Oak Integrative Health: If you've been quietly carrying the weight of wanting to grow your family, you're not alone. Rebecca Belch at Live Oak Integrative Health walks alongside women through fertility challenges with a root-cause approach, looking at gut health, nutrition, and overall wellness to help your body support a healthy pregnancy. She's seen so many encouraging stories, including women who've gotten pregnant after finally getting the right support. If you've been looking for answers or just a place to start, this could be a beautiful next step. Learn more at liveoakintegrativehealth.com/radianceLinks:Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4 Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6 Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67 Books:You're Not Too Late: Trusting God's Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3kDo the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpMBefore Dawn: Knowing God's Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv 

Want to submit an episode topic request? Text 'em here!You are carrying pressure God never asked you to carry.So many Christian entrepreneurs are exhausted, overwhelmed, anxious about money, obsessed with results, and questioning whether they're even cut out for business.But what if the problem isn't your strategy?What if the problem is that you've taken responsibility for something that was never supposed to be yours in the first place?In this episode, we're talking about the difference between God's role and your role in business.Because God is responsible for the outcome.You are responsible for the stewardship.When we confuse those two roles, we create stress, burnout, insecurity, comparison, and disappointment that God never intended for us to carry.We'll break down:• Why trying to control business results creates anxiety and overwhelm• What stewardship actually looks like as a Christian entrepreneur• The biblical mindset shift that can change how you approach growth, sales, and success• How to stop obsessing over outcomes and start partnering with God more effectivelyIf you've been feeling discouraged because your business isn't growing as quickly as you'd hoped, this episode is for you.God never called you to produce the outcome. He called you to faithfully steward the vessel.Now it's time to get back in your lane and trust Him in HIS role in your business. Want more? Join our community and be surrounded by other Christian Entrepreneurs (and me as your coach) to help you plant kingdom seeds online and make sales this very month...the biblical way! https://community.calledcreator.com/checkout/called-creator-circle-founding-memberHope to see you inside. Subscribe to the channel for more videos like this in the meantime! Prefer Video? Get the full podcast video experience on YouTube RIGHT HERE!

Wellington has been through a tough few years. In this quick bite, Yu Mei founder Jessie Wong reflects on Wellington's unique creative identity, the world-class talent emerging from the capital, and why creativity is a cultural and economic asset. This clip is from our previous episode 'Yu Mei founder on Wellington’s creative future' Shared Lunch is brought to you by Sharesies Limited (NZ) in New Zealand. Information provided is general only and current at the time it’s provided. Appearance on Shared Lunch is not an endorsement by Sharesies of the views of the presenters, guests, or the entities they represent. Their views are their own. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A very SPONTANEOUS yet feel good episode featuring me, my sister, and my sister's friend experiencing new creative people

In this episode, Christy is breaking down why creatives lose deals to cheaper, closer, or more experienced competitors - and the exact middle funnel strategy that flips that around, even when you're the most expensive option in the room.Most photographers, filmmakers, content creators, and social media managers focus almost entirely on portfolio content and conversion content. What gets skipped is the middle: the content that makes someone actually like you. And without that, even a warm inquiry turns cold the second they see your price.Christy uses a story from her stay at the Montage in Laguna Beach to unpack why luxury brands are actually the most personal brands - and how that applies directly to your marketing. The Marriott is polished and professional. The Montage knows your name. That difference is what gets clients to choose you over someone cheaper, more convenient, or more local.She also walks through the Identity Pillar Framework she teaches inside the Creativ Rise Mastermind: three specific content pillars that build the know, like, and trust factor your funnel is missing.Here's what's covered:Why the "like" factor is the most skipped piece of the marketing funnelWhat luxury brands do differently (and how to apply it to your creative business)The Identity Pillar Framework and how to pick your three pillarsWhat identity matching is and why it closes deals at higher price pointsWhere to start sharing your pillars without overhauling your whole content strategyStart building the middle of your funnel and the right clients will start choosing you - even when you're not the cheapest, closest, or most experienced option.P.S. If you want to build the full funnel that closes clients at higher prices, get on the waitlist for the next round of the 6 Week Creativ Rise Mastermind at www.creativrise.com.FREE TOOLS & TRAININGS→ Pricing Calculator: https://www.creativrise.com/pricingcalculator→ Pitching Masterclass Course: https://www.creativrise.com/pitchingmasterclass→ Sales Call Formula Course: https://www.creativrise.com/offers/RM2ZPtZx/checkout→ Productivity Course: https://www.creativrise.com/productivity→ Money Management Training: https://www.creativrise.com/moneytraining→ Fix Your Inquiry Form: https://www.creativrise.com/inquiryformLISTEN & SUBSCRIBE→ Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/creativrise→ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/creativriseFOLLOW ALONG→ Instagram: @creativrise | @joeyspeers | @christyjspeers

In this episode, we talk about creative energy, burnout, routines, self-preservation, and what it takes to build a sustainable creative life.We explore why burnout is not always caused by doing too much. Sometimes it comes from working against your own rhythms, ignoring your needs, fighting your process, or trying to create in conditions that make you feel unsafe, depleted or disconnected from yourself. We talk about front-loading creative work, trusting low-energy days, mean inner critics, sensory needs, routines, and the real strange niche conditions that allow us to make art.This is an episode for anyone who has ever felt embarrassed by the amount of structure, comfort, quiet, routine, coffee, sleep, water, lighting, solitude or control they need in order to function.Order Amie's book We Need Your Art: https://www.amiemcnee.com/order-we-need-your-art-book-amie-mcneeRead Amie's Substack: https://substack.com/@amiemcnee

Want to submit an episode topic request? Text 'em here!You keep telling yourself it's not the right time.You need a better strategy.More clarity.More confidence.More money.More certainty.And maybe some of those things are true.But what if the real reason you haven't started, launched, pivoted, posted consistently, or taken the next step God is calling you toward isn't wisdom at all?What if it's fear?In this episode, we're having an honest conversation about one of the most dangerous traps Christian entrepreneurs fall into: disguising fear as wisdom.We'll unpack:• Why "it's not the right time" is often fear wearing a spiritual mask• How comfort zones convince you something is "out of alignment"• The hidden fear behind "I don't have the capacity"• How to discern the difference between true wisdom and self-protection• Why delayed obedience keeps delaying the future God is trying to lead you intoThis isn't about shame. It's about awareness.Because many times the biggest thing standing between you and the business, impact, and calling God has for you isn't lack of knowledge...It's the fear you've learned to justify.If you're a Christian entrepreneur trying to build a business God's way, this episode will challenge you, encourage you, and help you take your next faithful step forward.

Sponsored by ⁠⁠Littlebird⁠⁠. Free trial plus $20 off your first month of Littlebird Plus at ⁠⁠⁠wisesquirrels.com/littlebird⁠⁠⁠. Littlebird is an AI assistant that already knows your work, so you can draft, plan, and stay on top of everything without having to catch it up on context. Have you tried ⁠⁠⁠⁠ACORN⁠⁠⁠⁠ yet? It's your one-stop solution to many of the challenges you might be facing. Try it for free at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://wisesquirrels.com/acorn⁠⁠⁠⁠

Leaders Who Create Belonging: Join Jason Squires as he sits down with worship pastor and songwriter Trent Smith to talk about what it means to create spaces where people truly belong. From songwriting rooms to worship teams, Trent shares how great leaders move beyond performance and intentionally build cultures where creatives feel seen, valued, and safe enough to bring their full selves to the table. We talk about collaboration, humility, creative trust, and why belonging may be one of the most important ingredients for healthy creativity. If you're a leader, creative, songwriter, or someone trying to build meaningful community, this conversation will encourage you to lead with both excellence and humanity.

Join Rebecca George and Asheritah Ciuciu as they explore biblical joy, trusting God's timing, and practical rhythms to delight in Jesus amidst life's seasons of waiting, despair, and burnout.Keywords:biblical joy, trusting God's timing, delighting in Jesus, spiritual rhythms, hope in despair, joy in suffering, God's delight, spiritual growth, Christian life, faith journeyKey topics:Biblical definition of joy versus worldly happinessThe role of delight and leaning into God's presencePractical rhythms for experiencing joy dailyGod's delight in His creation and in usThe journey from despair to joy through God's workChapters00:00 Introduction to Joy and Despair08:12 The Nature of Biblical Joy12:46 Delighting in Jesus18:12 Finding Joy in Everyday Life22:38 The Journey of Writing and Personal Growth26:30 The Power of Community and Healing32:22 Cultivating Wonder: A Path to Joy37:11 Radiance in Christ: The Joy of His PresenceSponsors:Ever AJ: If your quiet time often feels rushed or scattered, Ever AJ might be just what you need. They design beautiful, functional pieces, like thoughtfully made Bible cases that hold everything in one place, so you can sit down, open up, and actually be present. Check out Ever AJ here!Christian Standard Bible: With Father's Day coming up, I've been thinking about the men who've shaped me, leading with quiet faith, steady presence, and wisdom. If you're looking for a meaningful gift that points him back to truth, I love the Father's Day Gift Guide from Christian Standard Bible. Whether it's a Bible he'll read every morning or something to deepen his study, these are gifts that go beyond the moment and anchor his faith for the long haul. Check out the CSB Father's Day Gift Guide here!Live Oak Integrative Health: If you've been quietly carrying the weight of wanting to grow your family, you're not alone. Rebecca Belch at Live Oak Integrative Health walks alongside women through fertility challenges with a root-cause approach, looking at gut health, nutrition, and overall wellness to help your body support a healthy pregnancy. She's seen so many encouraging stories, including women who've gotten pregnant after finally getting the right support. If you've been looking for answers or just a place to start, this could be a beautiful next step. Learn more at liveoakintegrativehealth.com/radianceLinks:Speaking: https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking Creative Business Coaching: https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching Camp for Creatives: https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4 Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6 Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67 Books:You're Not Too Late: Trusting God's Timing in a Hurry-Up World: https://amzn.to/44omO3kDo the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl: https://amzn.to/43IaFpMBefore Dawn: Knowing God's Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life: https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv 

Join the team in this episode as we dive into Zoe Thorogood's compelling graphic novel 'The Impending Blindness of Billy Scott,' delving into themes of art, resilience, and self-discovery through the journey of a young artist facing impending blindness.  By far, one of our most compelling and interesting reads, and with special guest - the OG, Snoop Lynch. As always, we carry ourselves through the episode with our favorite book-worthy spirits, and we discuss some additional bits and pieces here and there, including AI, games, and our usual randomness. So, sit back, grab your drink, relax, and enjoy our little, drunk, ranked, chaotic book club. Remember, subscribers (and voters for any of the active battles) are auto-enrolled in our new monthly raffle, where you can win studio merch, books, comics, games, and more. As always, if it can be read, it can be reviewed, and it can be done so with a fancy spirit at hand! Cheers!   Studio: 0-0-8 Studios - https://0-0-8studios.com/ https://linktr.ee/Zero0Eight Other:   #podcast   #podcasts   #podcasting   #comics   #artist   #writing   #reviews   #comicreviews   #comicreview    #booklover   #bookreview   #booktok  #books   #artwork   #art   #podcastlife  #drunkreaction  #readingcommunity  #funny  #indieauthors  #bookrecommendations #actioon #adventure #drinks 

Nervous system regulation is something I only became aware of a few years ago. And since then, I've been working on healing after years of feeling like I was stuck in fight or flight. (I'm not an expert, so this episode is only focused on sharing my experience with nervous system regulation & somatics. Please see a professional if you need help!) ---------- - Click here for ways to work with me + a free character profile template: https://linktr.ee/katiewolfwrites   - The last Tuesday of the month is a Q&A episode! Submit your questions for me HERE and I'll answer them on the podcast.  - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiewolfwrites - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiewolfwrites   - Amazon storefront: https://a.co/d/06jPxsxW and ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/shop/katiewolfwrites  

This is a juicy conversation with somatic educator Aimee Takaya to explore Hanna Somatics, a neuromuscular reeducation method for releasing unconscious muscle tension stored from life experiences. Aimee shares her journey from chronic pain as a Bikram yoga teacher to discovering a radically gentler approach to healing, and why she believes somatic modalities are meant to work together like ingredients in a recipe, rather than one-size-fits-all. We dig into the danger of dogma in healing spaces, and why integrating multiple somatic modalities leads to deeper transformation.In this episode, we explore why authentic healing requires embracing the full spectrum of human experience, the messy, the ugly, and the uncomfortable, rather than bypassing it.Learn more about Aimee and her upcoming retreats:Aimee Takaya is a Certified Hanna Somatic Educator, Somatic Yoga Teacher, Podcaster and Transformation Facilitator. She has been professionally teaching movement and working with a wide range of bodies and challenges for over 14 years. She loves to help you connect your body and ALL its messages in new and empowering ways.Aimee knows from personal experience the power of compassionate somatic practice to heal from chronic pain and adverse life experiences. She works with clients in person, in the Western New York area, as well as internationally through zoom. She also creates somatic, bodywork-based retreats where you can deepen your self-trust & connection to truly let go of what binds you.Learn more at www.freeyoursoma.comJune Retreat in Hesperia https://www.freeyoursoma.com/fysadvancedOctober Retreat in Joshua Treehttps://www.freeyoursoma.com/flowjt26Follow Aimee on Instagram: @aimeetakayaListen to the Free Your Soma Podcast: https://www.freeyoursoma.com/podcastWant to create a unique and thriving career as a Somatic Practitioner? This is what we empower leaders, healers, and creatives to do in The Healing Embodied Practitioner Training Program: www.healingembodied.com/get-certifiedBook your free Career Vision Call here: Career Vision CallAdditional Resources for Therapists, Healers, Coaches, and Creative Entrepreneurs:Free Resource Library for Therapists, Healers, and Creatives: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/library-signupFree Facebook Community for creatives, helpers, and healers who want to lead from embodiment and wholeness: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embodiedleaderparadigmLearn more and/or apply for our year-long, internationally accredited somatic certification program and purpose-led career mentorship: www.healingembodied.com/get-certifiedLearn more about our flagship group program for leaders, healers, and creatives who want to make a positive impact through the work they do: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/embodied-leader-mastermindLearn more about our 6-month community experience for somatic healing: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/wholly-humanAdditional Resources for those who want to embody more love, trust, and wholeness in their lives and relationships:Want to be a client of Healing Embodied? Book a free 30 minute Clarity Call with a member of our team, and learn how we can support you in creating more trust, love, and joy in your life: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/applyOur Relationship Anxiety Resource Shop (mediations, masterclasses, courses): https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/shopGet on our email list for updates, podcast episode announcements, discounts, and more: https://healingembodied.kartra.com/page/sign-upCheck out all the ways we can support you here: www.healingembodied.com/healwithus

ON THIS WEEKS EPISODE OF WHO IS KYLE GRAHAM? PODCAST. I WILL BE DISCUSSING WHY EVERYONE GETS UPSET ABOUT HAVING DIFFERENT OPINIONS. KEVIN HART DEFENDS HIMSELF & TONY HINCHCLIFFE AFTER BACKLASH TO GEORGE FLOYD JOKE AT THE ROAST, DAME DASH ANNOUNCES NEW DASH RECORDS VENTURE FOR ARTIST & CREATIVES. JIM JONES CHALLENGES CAM'RON TO VERZUZ IN HARLEM, BYRON ALLEN CLOSES BUZZFEED AQUISITION & NAS ADMITS TO FEELING DISAPPOINTED IN HIS 2018 COLLAB ALBUM WITH KANYE WEST!ENJOY!

ON THIS WEEKS EPISODE OF WHO IS KYLE GRAHAM? PODCAST. I WILL BE DISCUSSING WHY EVERYONE GETS UPSET ABOUT HAVING DIFFERENT OPINIONS. KEVIN HART DEFENDS HIMSELF & TONY HINCHCLIFFE AFTER BACKLASH TO GEORGE FLOYD JOKE AT THE ROAST, DAME DASH ANNOUNCES NEW DASH RECORDS VENTURE FOR ARTIST & CREATIVES. JIM JONES CHALLENGES CAM'RON TO VERZUZ IN HARLEM, BYRON ALLEN CLOSES BUZZFEED AQUISITION & NAS ADMITS TO FEELING DISAPPOINTED IN HIS 2018 COLLAB ALBUM WITH KANYE WEST!ENJOY!

Want to submit an episode topic request? Text 'em here!Hi my friend

In this episode of the Radical Radiance Podcast, host Rebecca George is joined by Rebecca Belch to share her journey from traditional medicine to functional health, emphasizing the importance of gut health, stress management, and personalized care in women's health. Discover practical tips for advocating for your health, understanding hormonal balance, and the power of foundational habits.Key TopicsGut health and its impact on overall wellnessStress and its role in hormonal imbalancePersonalized approaches in functional medicineChapters00:00 Introduction to Radical Radiance Podcast00:36 Rebecca Belch's Journey to Functional Medicine03:16 Common Health Issues in Women05:53 The Importance of Foundational Health Practices08:30 Intermittent Fasting: Pros and Cons13:21 Functional Medicine Approach to Health15:05 Cultural Norms vs. Health Realities17:05 The Impact of Gut Health on Overall Well-being19:44 Advocating for Yourself in Healthcare21:20 Working with Live Oak Integrative Health26:35 Simple Steps to Improve Health28:12 Finding Radiance in ChristWebsite - https://liveoakintegrativehealth.com/radianceSponsors:Christian Theology Handbook: You can check out the CSB Christian Theology Handbook by⁠ ⁠clicking here.⁠⁠Life Counsel Bible: You can check out the CSB Life Counsel Bible by⁠ ⁠clicking here.⁠⁠Previnex: Check out Sleep Health PLUS and get 15% (code REBECCA15) off your first order by clicking here.Live Oak Integrative Health: If you're ready to feel like yourself again, head to⁠ ⁠liveoakintegrativehealth.com/radiance⁠⁠ to learn more, receive a discount on service packages, and get started with Live Oak Integrative Health today.Comfy Earrings: If you're tired of earrings that look good but don't feel good, you have to try Comfy Earrings.⁠ ⁠Check them out here!⁠⁠Links:Speaking:⁠ ⁠https://www.radicalradiance.live/speaking⁠⁠ Creative Business Coaching:⁠ ⁠https://www.radicalradiance.live/coaching⁠⁠ Camp for Creatives:⁠ ⁠https://www.radicalradiance.live/campforcreatives⁠⁠ Listen to Radical Radiance on Apple Podcasts:⁠ ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-radiance/id1484726102?uo=4⁠⁠ Listen to Radical Radiance on Spotify:⁠ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/55N56VtU6q33ztgJNw7oTX?si=29648982bc91475f⁠⁠ Take the FREE Waiting Personality Quiz:⁠ ⁠https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/676d5c2884dd1e00159563f6⁠⁠ Take the Why Are You Stuck in Your Calling? Quiz:⁠ ⁠https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/657326e6544f610014b40b67⁠⁠ Books:You're Not Too Late: Trusting God's Timing in a Hurry-Up World:⁠ ⁠https://amzn.to/44omO3k⁠⁠Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl:⁠ ⁠https://amzn.to/43IaFpM⁠⁠ Before Dawn: Knowing God's Presence in the Dark Seasons of Life:⁠ ⁠https://amzn.to/4pdsZjv⁠⁠

What if your creative process could feel more magical and a lot less overwhelming?We're sharing the low effort rituals that help us move through writer's block, self-doubt, and creative burnout while writing our books. From library writing dates and airport inspiration to tarot spreads, Reiki, simmer pots, creativity candles, and “little bags of rocks,” we're diving into the spiritual practices that keep us connected to creativity and flow.We also talk about the reality of the writing process, the difference between structured and intuitive creativity, and why there's no “right” way to create. Whether you're writing a book, making art, building a business, or simply trying to reconnect with your creativity, this episode is packed with practical and magical inspiration for your next creative season.Order Molly's book Mundane Magic A Lazy Witch's Guide to Hacking Your Brain, Building a Daily Practice, and Getting Stuff DoneJoin our Patreon for bonus episodes, magical downloads, and unhinged side quests: https://www.patreon.com/demystifymagic

In this compelling episode, host Chris Stafford welcomes German cinematographer Bebe Dierken for an intimate and revealing conversation about the art and emotional power of visual storytelling. Known for Dangerous Truth, Sexy Beast, Midas Man, Bridgerton with her distinctive visual language and ability to translate narrative into striking imagery, Bebe Dierken has built a career behind the camera shaping stories through light, composition, and movement. In this episode, she shares her journey into cinematography, the creative influences that shaped her eye, and the challenges and rewards of working in a field where technical precision meets artistic instinct.Through Chris Stafford's signature unscripted and deeply personal interview style, Bebe opens up about the realities of working on set, collaborating with directors, and finding her voice as a cinematographer in a competitive global industry. The conversation explores how she approaches why cinematography is as much about emotion as it is about technique. Bebe reflects on the evolving role of cinematographers today and the importance of authenticity, perspective, and creative courage in her work.As part of the Women Unscripted podcast network, this episode continues the tradition of elevating the voices of women in the arts through honest, insightful, and deeply human conversations. Chris Stafford's ability to create a trusted space allows guests like Bebe Dierken to share not just their professional journey, but the personal experiences that inform their artistry. Whether you are a filmmaker, artist, or simply fascinated by the power of cinema, this episode offers inspiration, insight, and a deeper appreciation for the visual storytelling that shapes the way we see the world.Bebe's links: https://www.bebedierken.com/https://www.instagram.com/bebedierken/https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1029068/Favorite female artists: Nancy Schreiber, Amy Vincent.Dinner party guests: Tom Ford,  Kevin de lay Noy, Madonna, John Kevin Gibb, Neill deGrass Tyson, 

How can you supercharge your creativity in an age when AI is reshaping everything — including how we write, edit, and market our books? What does it look like to use AI as a genuine creative partner rather than a shortcut? And could professional speaking become an income stream that complements your writing career? With James Taylor. In the intro, Audible's new royalty model; New royalty model details [ACX; Kindlepreneur]; Public Speaking for Authors, Creatives and other Introverts; Why Indie Authors Should Ignore the Market's Mood and Focus on their Mission [Self-Publishing with ALLi]; Lichfield Cathedral; This podcast is sponsored by Kobo Writing Life, which helps authors self-publish and reach readers in global markets through the Kobo eco-system. You can also subscribe to the Kobo Writing Life podcast for interviews with successful indie authors. This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn James Taylor is a nonfiction author, professional speaker, podcaster, and entrepreneur who helps people unlock their creative potential. He hosts the SuperCreativity Podcast and his latest book is SuperCreativity: Augmenting Human Creativity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below. Show Notes How to define creativity and why it's becoming the most valuable skill in the age of AI The five stages of the creative process — and the stage most people skip Three types of creative purpose: play, self-expression, and legacy How James used multiple AI tools alongside human collaborators to write, edit, and market SuperCreativity Bulk book sales, industry-specific editions, and revenue models for nonfiction author-speakers Practical tips for authors who want to break into professional keynote speaking You can find James at JamesTaylor.me. Transcript of the interview with James Taylor Jo: James Taylor is a nonfiction author, professional speaker, podcaster, and entrepreneur who helps people unlock their creative potential. He hosts the SuperCreativity Podcast and his latest book is SuperCreativity: Augmenting Human Creativity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. Welcome to the show, James. James: Well, thank you for having me as a guest. I'm looking forward to this conversation today. Jo: It's going to be really good. First up— Tell us a bit more about you and how you got into writing and publishing. James: Well, today I'm a professional keynote speaker, so I deliver about fifty to a hundred keynotes per year in twenty-five-plus countries. Primarily I speak on creativity, innovation, and artificial intelligence. Go back into my deepest, darkest history—I actually used to manage rock stars. That was my old job. I used to be in the music industry for many, many years. I worked with members of The Rolling Stones, and for our listeners in the UK, I managed bands like Deacon Blue. Then I went to the dark side. In 2010, I moved to California to work in Silicon Valley, to work in the world of tech. That got me involved in artificial intelligence. Right about 2017, I was speaking at an event in San Francisco and someone came up to me and said, “You realise you could probably speak for a living, you could do this for a living.” So I thought, well, how does that work? And he told me. Then I embarked on the career that I have today, which is primarily as a speaker, with writing now coming a bit more to the fore. Jo: Wow, I remember Deacon Blue. James: Yes. Jo: “Dignity.” That's crazy. Very, very cool backstory there, but we'll come back to the career side of things. Let's get into super creativity, because my listeners are certainly creatives. Most of the listeners will have a book either on the way or they might even have lots of books. So we all do want to be super creative. How do you define creativity, and why is it important to keep focusing on this even if we do identify that way? James: For me, creativity is about bringing new ideas to the mind. Innovation is about bringing new ideas to the world, but without creativity, there is no innovation. So creativity is really the engine of innovation. Whether that is designing new products, new services, or creating new works of art and new books. The reason that creativity is becoming more important is because of what we're seeing right now in terms of artificial intelligence. AI is going to replace a lot of the non-creative tasks that we currently do in our jobs. If you look at things like the World Economic Forum, there was recently a study with a thousand global business leaders, and work from companies like LinkedIn—they all highlight that creativity is going to be one of the foremost important soft skills for this new future. So creativity, strangely, will actually become more important, not less important, as we go ahead. That's the creativity side. Probably for many of the listeners here, they'll consider themselves to be creative. That is not the norm. As I mentioned, I speak in about twenty-five countries a year, and if I ask the audiences—primarily corporate audiences—to put their hands up if they consider themselves to be creative, only between ten to forty per cent of the audience will raise their hands. So part of my job is to show them why they are more creative than they think they are and why we're all born with this creative potential. Then moving into the super creativity side, it's really to show them how they can augment that creativity by collaborating more deeply with other people or machines—things like artificial intelligence. So SuperCreativity, the book that I've written and the speeches I give on it, is really about how we can augment our individual creativity by collaborating more deeply with other people or artificial intelligence. For me, that's been the thing I've been fascinated by for the past few years, and probably for many of our listeners who are now using AI in their writing, their researching, and their marketing of their books, they're probably getting into this space as well. I really wanted to dive into that—both the collaboration with other people and with machines and AI. Jo: In terms of the super creativity then, do you have any practices or ideas? Before we get into collaboration, many of us authors work alone—and of course we can come back to the AI stuff in a minute—but in terms of super creativity, are there ways that we can even supercharge what we do already? Then, of course there are people listening who might not feel creative. So give us a few tips on how we can potentially change our mindset or become even more creative. James: In the book I talk about what I call the eight Ps of super creativity, which are purpose, personality, practice, people, process, place, product, and persuasion. Persuasion is really the marketing piece at the end. Probably the one that could be most useful to many listeners today is the practice piece—the practice or the process side of things. For many of us, what that usually consists of is just having some type of daily creative practice. Different people do it in different ways. Many of your listeners will know the works of people like Julia Cameron—the morning pages style of having some type of daily practice. Other people do it in slightly different ways. The process bit is really interesting. I talk about this creative process that we all have, and I talk about these five stages of the creative process. The first stage, let's say if we're writing a book, is really that preparation stage. That is usually the stage where we are trying to absorb as much information as possible about the thing that we're going to be writing about. The topic, if it's nonfiction, or going to the places, visiting the scenes that we're going to set certain things within for the book. So that preparation stage is really about absorbing as much information as possible from the outside. It's not going to look very creative. We're just absorbing at that stage. Now the mistake that a lot of people tend to make is they immediately try to jump from that preparation stage to looking to generate ideas. But what all the studies show us is we should spend a little bit of time in what we call the incubation stage. This is where it's often very useful if we've done some research, that we put things to one side for a little while, maybe a few weeks, move on to another project, think about something completely different. Your brain will continue to work in the background. Your unconscious brain will work on that content you've been absorbing. Then what often happens as a result of that is we come to this third stage, which is that insight stage—that aha moment. That happens for various different reasons and you can seed that in slightly different ways so you're more likely to get inspiration in your day-to-day work. Then as we know—as you are a writer of many, many books—many people think, “Well, that's it. I've done it. The idea for that book or that chapter has come to me.” That is really just the first five per cent of the process. The next stage is where we look at all the different ideas we have and decide which ones we want to pursue, which ones are going to make the grade. This is what we call the evaluation stage. Once we've done that, we move to that final stage, which is the elaboration stage. If it's a startup, this is when you're building your minimum viable product. As a writer, this is where you're actually doing the work, putting those words out onto the page. It's a very iterative process, so it's not necessarily linear. You'll go back and forth. Even as you're getting input from readers and audiences in that last stage, that is then giving you the material to move back to the preparation stage and think, “Oh, I wonder if this next book in this series, maybe I go in a slightly different direction with this character.” So each of those different stages, you can do different things to increase your levels of creativity. Jo: I love all of that, but can we go back to purpose? Because you mentioned that as one of the Ps and I think this is something that a lot of us need. As we are recording this in April 2026, the world is an interesting place. There are lots of things going on that have people worried. Well, we are not talking about politics, but I think one of the things that people struggle with is, what's the point in writing this story, for example, or what's the point in trying to get my words out there when things are difficult? I feel like coming back to purpose is perhaps the thing that helps people even take it into the process as you were talking about. And then of course, just from a practical angle— Is purpose about making money or reaching people? So maybe you could talk about the purpose side of things. James: Yes. So I talk about three different purposes, and it's not that there's just one that predominates, but usually there's one that maybe predominates on different projects. The first one is creativity as play. It's what we're basically, as humans, hardwired to do—this instinctive joy that we get just for creating for its own sake. There's nothing that really sits beyond that. We just have fun. We find pleasure in creating something. That could be a musician creating a piece of music, a sculptor creating a sculpture, an entrepreneur creating a new business or product or service. There's just this sense of play. One of the things I talk about in the book is this idea of being childlike, not childish. If you look at children, you see this very instinctively. If you see a three-year-old or a five-year-old, you give them some crayons and they will just naturally create. That's part of who they are and it's pretty abstract. Then what happens is they go to school and they're taught useful conventions—”this is how you should do it.” You even see their work start to change. You start to see them move from abstract paintings to more formal structures. Then you get your peer group, then you go to college or university and the world of work, and you're taught all these useful conventions. That's fine, but as adults, it is our responsibility to become what we call post-conventional, where we see these conventions as a useful signpost but we're willing to challenge them. We're willing to have a playfulness in what we do. So the first one is just this hardwired thing—creativity as play. The second one, and this is maybe for a lot of your listeners the reason that they are writers, is self-expression. It's a way of placing something out into the world. I was actually just in France recently, and I was talking to a young visual artist, a painter from Hungary, and she had to go up and give a speech. She really hated doing it. She was having to talk about her work and she was really uncomfortable. I could see the discomfort and my heart went out for her, because that is not the way she primarily expresses herself. She expresses herself through her art form, which is painting. For many of us, we might struggle to get on a stage, but we can express ourselves in the written word. We have something we want to say, a position we want to have, and we want to express that and get that out into the world. The final one is just this idea of legacy. That is not going to be for everyone. I can tell you, for me personally, legacy is not the reason that I write and do a lot of the stuff that I do. Maybe that changes—maybe as we get a bit older, we want to leave a body of work. So those are the three main purposes that we tend to see. Then you mentioned the financial side of what we do as well. This starts to come into that self-expression, because we need to be able to get people to buy our books or download our books and read our books in order to give us the ability to write new works and create new things. The financial side is an important component of it, but it is not the only one. I think there's a great question any writer should ask themselves. One of the first questions that I asked myself as a relatively new nonfiction writer is: why am I writing this book? What is the purpose of this book? For me, primarily it is a form of self-expression, and then you have to go, “Well, that's fine, but I also need it to have some type of financial basis for it.” It doesn't need to be the main driver of my income, but I need to have some type of revenue model. I'm happy to talk about revenue models, because probably the type of revenue model that I have as a writer is going to be different from other listeners. I tend to focus more on bulk selling of books rather than individual selling of books. Jo: Yes, I definitely want to come back to revenue models and business, but a few other things first. I want to circle back to collaboration, because I've certainly co-written with some humans, and I know a lot of listeners either have co-written or collaborated with other humans—and some of it works and some of it doesn't. You have some great information on human-plus-human creativity and collaboration. So maybe you could give us some tips on how we can be more effective collaborators with other humans. James: So there's a whole section about this idea of creative pairs. Often if you look at great creative work or innovative companies, very often when you strip it all back, you'll find at the core lots and lots of creative pairings. That is usually two different but complementary personalities who are willing to develop and challenge and improve each other's ideas. We think of Jobs and Wozniak in the world of business, or Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger. For authors, often that relationship is the work with their editor. There was a documentary I saw—I think it was a New Yorker documentary that came out a while ago—talking with a writer of history books about his relationship with his editor. It was a really beautiful relationship. These were two very different personalities, but what worked was the fact that they were different. A core component of having these creative pairings is a sense of trust—or what some people today would call psychological safety—that you are willing to challenge someone's ideas, but in a space of trust. The Germans have a great phrase for it. In English it translates as “someone to steal horses with,” which I love. Hopefully our listeners have that person where you can go to them and say, “I had this idea for a book or a chapter or a character,” and that person is a “yes, and.” Like, “Yes, and have you thought about doing it this way?” or “What would happen if you did this?” They stress test your ideas. They make your ideas better. For many of us, maybe it's our husbands or wives, our partners. Some of us are lucky enough to have editors. When I started rewriting this latest book, I actually had someone like that—a human, not an AI—that I worked with, especially on taking all these random thoughts and ideas I've been expressing in keynotes and putting them into more of a book form. The format and the structures that we use for telling stories in a speech are quite different from the structure that we would use for a nonfiction book. I didn't have as much experience there, so I wanted someone who could say, “Have you thought about structuring it this way?” or “This is a great story arc you might want to think about.” So I don't know, for you, who is your creative pairing? Who is your “someone to steal horses with”? Jo: Well, it's funny. I really think since the arrival of Claude Opus 4.6, it is absolutely Claude. James: Yes, yes. Jo: All the way. I mean, so we could come onto that next in terms of how AI has changed, because I do still work with a professional editor for both fiction and nonfiction, but it is very much in the “make my finished work better” stage. It is not in the exploratory phase. I find particularly the latest reasoning models to just be fantastic at this. And my Claude is not sycophantic. The Opus 4.6—I'm sure you've been using it too—it just doesn't behave in the way that a lot of people think these AIs did. They did behave like that, and now it's changed. So let's talk about that. What are your thoughts on collaborating more effectively with AI tools, especially as they become more and more powerful? As we record this, Claude Mythos has not come out, but it's certainly rumoured to arrive. I'm pretty excited. James: So because I've been doing this AI thing for a little while, it's given me the ability to experiment with things—the early versions of what many people are using today. I'll give you an example. Even before I started writing the book, I decided to write a book proposal. Even though I could pretty much sense I wanted to independently publish this book through my own publishing company, I thought it's a good practice to put it down into a proposal form, even though I don't go to a traditional publisher or a hybrid publisher. One of the things I did within that was get a sense of who my ideal readers are. I used a very early version—this was a few years ago—of an IBM AI tool, creating what we call a psychometric map of my ideal reader. This basically tells me, over about seventy-two different factors, how this person thinks, how they feel, what their value system is, very broadly for my ideal reader. I pulled in different sources. I knew the kind of magazines and books they were reading and what their general worldview was. So I created this—going one step beyond just creating your ideal reader to really understanding their psychometrics. I do this in my keynotes too. Before I ever give a keynote or an important pitch or a presentation, I use AI to analyse the psychometrics of the audience I'm going to be speaking to. This might tell me, for example, this audience values humour a little bit more, or this audience values a bit more practicality so they want actionable next steps, or this audience is going to be a little bit authority-challenging so they're going to push back. So even in those very early stages, just starting to think about the book—who was I writing this book for, what was the purpose of the book—I was using AI to understand the psychometrics of my absolutely perfect, ideal reader. I gave her a name. It was a female reader. There was someone similar to her that I already knew. Probably for some of your listeners, they do this instinctively anyway. They maybe have a person or a few different people they think of in their head. Then from that stage, because I've been delivering lots and lots of keynotes—and this may be an important distinction in the way that I have decided to write books as opposed to how other people write books—my family were all jazz musicians. The difference between a rock musician or a pop musician and a jazz musician is this: a rock or pop musician will go into the studio, create this opus, this work, and then tour that for the next two years. A jazz musician, on the other hand, goes out and performs the songs and the things from the album that they're eventually going to create hundreds of times, thousands of times, to find out what works with audiences, and then they go into the studio and record the stuff that works best. So I created a book more like a jazz musician. I'd delivered keynote versions of the book hundreds of times before I ever decided to actually write the book. So it had been stress-tested with real people to a certain extent. Then, getting into it, I thought—well, what works as a keynote is not necessarily going to work as a structure for a book. So what I did was start using ChatGPT models at that point to think about the structural edit of the book. What was the structure going to be? What was great is you can basically feed it every single keynote you've given over the years, all the notes, everything you've done, and it could start to give me something to riff with and really get into thinking about how I was going to create this. I was using it a little like that creative pairing we spoke about earlier. Then once I'd done that—so I've now got an idea of a structural edit essentially—I then go back and speak to some humans about it. “What do you think about this?” “What do you think about that?” And try some things out over dinner conversations. “I'm thinking about doing this—what do you think?” Then once I did that, I just did the thing that I really didn't want to do, but I guess you absolutely have to do: sit in a seat for multiple weeks and just get that crappy first draft done. That was just me writing, from my voice, in my way of doing things. Every so often I would use an AI to research a particular thing, but I didn't want to slow down the pace too much. I was focused on getting that word count done. Once I had the first draft, I then brought the AI back in. In this case, I was still using OpenAI at this stage, to act more like an editor. To tell me what was weak about the book. At this point I was starting to give it the overall framing. What was weak, what chapters needed to be improved. I then went back, started reworking each of the chapters, and worked chapter by chapter using that AI as a sparring partner. But once again, the AI is not really writing my words for me. It's maybe saying, “This part could be said better. You might want to think about doing it this way,” or “You are missing a really powerful case study or example here,” or at the very end of each chapter, I have actionable next steps, and “You're missing some things here.” So I've gone through that entire process of writing, and now I'm essentially at the second draft. At this point, what I'm doing is using another AI tool—Claude, in this case—to have a different perspective on it. I gave it the work. I mentioned a couple of editors that I really respect and different writers I respect and said, “I'm going to create a virtual beta readers group. Give me feedback on this now.” For someone that's listening to this, and we're recording this in April 2026, here's some good news for you. There are now a bunch of tools out there that use AI swarms, as we call them. You can basically feed it your book and it will create synthetic readers—thousands and thousands of synthetic readers that read your kind of style of book—and it will then give you feedback from these synthetic readers. Essentially, I was just doing an early version of that. So I got the feedback from the synthetic readers, the AI readers, and then reworked a little bit. Some of the stuff I just decided not to do because it didn't align with what I was trying to say in the book. Then the next stage was I had a beta reader group of about thirty human beta readers—my ideal readers. I sent the book to them, they gave me feedback. I then used AI to give me an overview report of all their feedback, and then I was able to go back into reworking the book. That's still really just draft three of the book, not the final book at this stage. But just to give everyone a sense of opening up the process: you could see how the human and machine were working together. Jo: Yes, I love that. I also often say to people who are speakers first that you can, if you have recordings of your talks or if you use your slide decks to record them as MP3s and then just use that transcript as the basis of a draft. Obviously it's not the book or a chapter, but it can actually preserve your voice—your speaking voice—which I think can be really effective for speakers. I like your multi-step process there. And then of course, if you have audience avatars in AI, that can help you design your book marketing. So take this into book marketing and how you're doing that. James: So I still decided to go old school with a human editor—a book editor that someone had recommended to me. I used that human book editor just to go through the book. At that point we're talking about style, some stylistic things that we wanted to do, and they can pick up other things as well. So I've got that book, and then I'm obviously starting to use AI to understand what tags, what kind of copy do I want to have in terms of putting it onto Amazon, putting it onto IngramSpark, and all these other platforms I want to put it out into. I'm using Claude here in particular—and with Claude, you have something called Cowork. It wasn't quite fully happening at that point, but there were early versions of it and Claude Code—to almost start working with and creating a virtual marketing team. I give it the book and then they could start thinking about: what is the marketing strategy for this book? What does the campaign look like? What are the things that we need to do? That was then starting to break it down. We're now three months out or so before the book is due to get released, and I'm starting to deploy that particular campaign. So for example, I'm on a podcast right now, and we try different versions. We have a human going out and reaching out to potential shows for me to be a guest on, but I also have an agent. There's also one going out and finding and researching podcasts and reaching out to those podcast hosts to have me as a potential guest. So they're doing some of the tactical work there at the same time. One mistake I made—and I don't know if you've experienced this as well—if I was to go back, one thing I would do differently is this: I decided to record the audiobook version after the physical book was already committed and ready to go out. Jo: Mm-hmm. James: And I noticed so many small errors or things I would change after having spent two days in a studio recording the voice for the entire book—changes I would have made. This is something other people did ask me: why are you not using ElevenLabs or an AI clone of your voice to read the script? There are some things I feel quite personal about, and my voice is one of those things. As a professional keynote speaker, I decided I wanted to keep that and have it in there. So it's going to be different for everyone which things they decide to offload to AI, which things they decide to give to a human member of their team, and what they decide to keep to themselves. Jo: Yes, I mean, I human-record my nonfiction, but I have an AI voice clone with ElevenLabs for my fiction now. But obviously, for people listening, you can't put an ElevenLabs voice-cloned audiobook on Audible, and a lot of your sales will be on Audible, especially for a book like this. So I think that's also important. I agree with you on doing the audio edit. There's always things you want to change. But as you mentioned, you're self-publishing this, so you can just go in and change your files. James: Yes, and that was the other reason, and this was part of the marketing—now we're moving into the marketing and the business model behind the book. For me, the book doesn't have to be a financial driver in its own sense. The way that I sell books, and usually people like myself—professional speakers—is we bulk sell books to our clients. Let's say I'm speaking at four different events this month. Each has about a thousand people at them. Those organisers will buy, say, a thousand copies of the book. So at the end of that month, you might have sold four thousand copies—not individual copies. Anything that sells on Amazon or in other places is almost like a positioning piece. Obviously you want people to buy the book and learn things from the book, but in terms of the distribution model, it's slightly different because I'm primarily selling through bulk sales. Now, here's a little twist you can do on this, and this is a decision I made even before we released this version of the book. I speak to lots of different industries. There was a speaker and author—I've forgotten his name now, I think he was from Florida—and what he decided to do was to write a slightly different version of his main book every year, but for a different industry. So what this allows him to do is, let's say in my case, I'm doing a version of the SuperCreativity book just for legal professionals because I speak to a lot of law firms and legal groups. I've already started working on a version of the book which is a little bit more attuned to that audience. As a speaker, it allows me to go to all these law firms and legal associations and bar associations and say, “Hey, I've just written the book on creativity and artificial intelligence for the legal industry.” That makes you a very bookable proposition for a client. And then obviously you can sell books from that as well. And that's before we get into the foreign language versions. That's just a model that happens to work pretty well for my part of the industry, but obviously it's going to be very different for other types of authors. Jo: No, I think that's great. For nonfiction authors, as you say, there are different revenue models. Your income, I guess, would be what, eighty, ninety per cent speaking revenue? Or do you have other things as well? James: Yes, primarily it's the keynote speaking, and anything that comes from the back of that. Sometimes it's boardroom advisory work that I do as well. But primarily it's the speaking side. So really the book is just the simplest form to get my ideas out and the most affordable form. Jo: Mm-hmm. James: Because the other thing is, you want as many people getting your ideas as possible, and there is no better, more affordable way of getting someone's ideas out there than in the form of a book. I think it's just the most unbelievable transmitter of knowledge—a book. That's why I love to write the book as well. A lot of my friends say, “Listen, books are old hat. You don't need to do a book any more. You can do these other things, other forms, online courses.” I've done lots of online courses in the past and membership sites and all those things, but there's just something that is great about a book—to be able to summarise your ideas at a particular point in time. It's also a great transmitter of value to other people. And it is affordable. Any book, someone can download a book on Audible or wherever they want—that's just an affordable way of absorbing that content. Jo: Yes. Well, of course we are all fans of books here. I do speak—I don't tend to do keynote speaking. I do more content speaking at conferences. For people listening, keynote speaking is where you tend to get the higher revenue. So if people listening have books already—let's say they have nonfiction books or even fiction books that could be turned somehow into different topics—if people want to get booked for speaking gigs, preferably ones that pay— How would you recommend authors think about moving into speaking if that's something they want to do? James: So obviously it's much easier for nonfiction authors to do that. I mean, I'll give you an example. I was speaking at an event last week in New York for L'Oréal, the hair care and cosmetics company. They had six different speakers. One of them was a speaker on macroeconomics and geopolitics. Another was an expert on communications. Another was an expert on AI. Another was an expert on storytelling. So you have to think: does my topic have value for that type of audience—that corporate audience? An easy way of finding that is if you just go onto any of the speaker bureau websites, type in “speaker bureaus,” look for the speaker bureaus, and then type in your topic area—emotional intelligence or whatever the topic area is—and look at the other speakers. See if there is obviously a number of speakers talking on this area. Importantly, look at how busy they are and look at their fee levels as well. I did an online summit a few years ago called the International Speakers Summit, where I interviewed a hundred and fifty of the world's best professional keynote speakers. I interviewed Sally Hogshead, who's an author and a speaker, and she said to me, “James, you're going out speaking about creativity, but if you just twisted it a little bit and spoke more in terms of innovation rather than creativity, you would earn an extra five thousand dollars per keynote.” So creativity and innovation—an extra five thousand dollars. That's just a simple thing that, as you get to understand the industry, you learn. Then once you do that, it's like any business—you have to treat it like a business, obviously. What makes someone a great storyteller on stages is not the same as what makes a great storyteller on the written word. So depending on where you're at, you might need certain training and skills development. If you are listening to this from America, there are things like the National Speakers Association, the NSA. If you're living in the UK, the Professional Speakers Association. These are great ways just to develop your skill set and learn from other professional speakers. Here's the good news, I didn't know anything about professional speaking until 2017–18, and it was only from having a conversation with someone who said, “Listen, you have some original thoughts. You can get paid to speak about this on stage.” Then I spent the next year really researching and understanding and looking at how to do it and creating a minimum viable product—a speech—that was a very short period of time, a year. Most of the listeners here have gone through that process of writing a book, which takes many, many months. So you have the stamina to do this type of work. You just need to find out where you fit. I thought I was going to be a speaker in marketing. I thought that was going to be my thing. And it turns out that's not what the market wanted from me. They wanted me to talk about creativity and artificial intelligence. So you have to listen to the market, like you have to listen to your readers. Jo: Yes, I think that's really interesting. I was also a member of the PSA here, and I learned in Australia with the NSAA as it was. James: Yes. Jo: And that thing about who you speak to—I mainly speak to author conferences, who, I just want to be frank, don't pay very well, if at all. So exactly what you said there— If you want to be a highly paid speaker, you have to pick the audience who's going to pay, as well as a topic that works with them. It is a very different thing to writing a book, I think. James: It is a different model. This is what was interesting when I interviewed those hundred and fifty professional speakers—the thing that came back loud and clear is there is a model to suit everyone. Jo: Mm. James: So the model that works for me—getting paid high fees to go and travel around the world, speaking on stages to primarily corporate audiences—that is not the only model. There is another model, which is called the “sell from the stage” model, where you maybe don't get paid anything to go and speak on the stage, or very little, but what you're doing is you're selling your consulting, your online course, your books, your other products from the back of the stage. That's another model as well. I have friends who have young families and they are writers and they don't want to schlep on planes like I do. I know one speaker in particular who never leaves his own city. He is a very successful professional speaker. He happens to live in Orlando, Florida, which is one of the busiest cities for conferences. So literally, he's home with his kids every night. He gets to do all this cool stuff he wants. He never has to step on a plane if he doesn't want to. That just shows you the range. I remember I once interviewed a person whose title was a Buddhist monk, French speaker, and author. He figured out he could live very affordably by living in Thailand. So he lives in Thailand for part of the year and he's very into meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and writing. He figured out he only had to give two keynotes per year to pay for his entire lifestyle. That was it. So that gives him a lot of freedom. He does those two corporate keynotes a year and for the rest of the year he's doing his yoga, his meditation, his writing, and surfboarding, whatever he's into as well. So you can see there's a whole range of different ways you can design that life. Jo: Yes, we talk a lot about definition of success and it's great to hear those different examples. So before we finish up, I just want to come back to your journey into the writing side, into books and self-publishing. We all understand, me and the listeners, how hard it is to write a book and also to market a book, but we've got the bug. So we wonder: how much have you got the bug? Do you plan on doing more writing, more books, or do you still want to lean more heavily into speaking? James: Primarily the income for me will still come from speaking. I remember listening to Elizabeth Gilbert once when she talked about her writing. She said she always wanted to have other things, so she never had to push onto her writing that it had to be the income stream for her. If it was successful, great, that's fantastic. So I have a little bit of a similar view to that. In terms of my own writing, I've got about five different nonfiction book ideas I'm now looking at. Some of them relate to speeches that I already do. Some don't. I'm looking at different versions of the SuperCreativity book, so there'll be other versions coming out—different industries, different languages. That gives you a few years of work. The other side that I want to develop is the fiction writing side. I'm already starting to work on a fiction book at the moment—a little bit like this idea of one for them, one for me. Jo: Mm-hmm. James: So one for them is for the corporate audience, that world that I live in, and the other one is for me, for my own creativity. My hope—and I don't know, maybe we need to speak in a year's time when I've written and published it—is that by doing the fiction side, it will make me a better storyteller on stages as well for my corporate audience. It will help me understand story arcs, slightly different ways of expressing stories, building emotion, building the anti-hero characters within a book, for example. So I'm hoping that they both feed off each other. But we will see. Jo: Yes, we will. All the best with that. So where can people find you and your books and everything you do online? James: The easiest place to go is JamesTaylor.me, and you can find the book, which is called SuperCreativity, there. Or just go to wherever you buy your books—your local independent bookstore—and get a copy of SuperCreativity. The audiobook may already be out by the time you're listening to this as well. If you want to learn a little bit more, we also have a podcast called the SuperCreativity Podcast, where I interview lots of wonderful guests talking about this area of super creativity. Jo: Well, thanks so much for your time, James. That was brilliant. James: Thank you, Joanna. Thanks for having me as a guest on the show.The post SuperCreativity And KeyNote Speaking With A Non-Fiction Book With James Taylor first appeared on The Creative Penn.