Afleveringen
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What if your biggest creative block isn't talent, opportunity, or resources, but the fear of being fully seen?
Brian Perry's journey is a testament to transformation, moving from struggling with depression and feeling like an outsider to becoming a communication coach, singer, and songwriter. Through his music and coaching, he's found a way to bridge creativity and personal growth, while helping others do the same.
His path wasn't linear. Critical moments, personal setbacks, and the constant tension between art and business shaped a powerful philosophy:
"The value of creating is its own unreasonable reward."
Brian now shares the hard-earned lessons that helped him find his true voice and how you can embrace yours.
Creativity as a Sacred SpaceFor Brian, music was more than a hobby; it was a lifeline. It provided a way to process emotions, connect with others, and build the foundation of his coaching practice.
"I just picked up a guitar and started writing songs."
"It was like going home."
This act of creation became more than self-expression; it transformed into a tool for service, helping others find clarity and meaning in their own stories.
Actionable Insight: Treat creativity as a sacred space, not just a means to an end. Protect your creative time without the pressure of monetization.
Bonus: Spend 10 minutes journaling about why you create. What draws you to your art?
Creativity, Courage, and Finding Your True VoiceBrian believes the most impactful creativity emerges from a place of truth. The more personal the work, the more universal it becomes.
"Authenticity is being you unabashedly, unapologetically."
By embracing his unique path, including neurodiversity, he discovered that discomfort is part of the process. Creativity is about navigating uncertainty and reframing setbacks as integral parts of the journey.
Actionable Insight: Instead of trying to fit into an existing mold, lean into what makes you different. That's your greatest asset.
Bonus: Identify one aspect of your creative process that feels uniquely you and amplify it.
Balancing Art and Business Without Losing Your SoulThe intersection of creativity and business is complex. Many artists fear selling their work might compromise their integrity.
Brian's perspective? Stop trying to sell. Focus on serving.
When creating with the intent to serve, marketing becomes about connection rather than pushing a product.
Actionable Insight: Shift your mindset from selling to serving. Who benefits from your work? How can you show up for them?
Bonus: Write down three ways your creative work has positively impacted someone else.
Creating Space for Quiet ReflectionIn a noisy world, Brian emphasizes the importance of stillness. Your deepest yearnings are directing you toward your greatest joys, but only if you take the time to listen.
"Create room for quiet. Our deepest yearnings are guiding us."
In moments of uncertainty, instead of forcing answers, allow yourself the space to hear them.
Actionable Insight: Make space for creative silence. Whether it's meditation, long walks, or simply stepping away from distractions, quiet moments allow your best ideas to emerge.
Bonus: Try a "silent session"â30 minutes of intentional quiet before diving into your creative work.
Key TakeawaysCreativity should be nurtured, not pressured to generate income.Courage and self-expression lead to deeper connections.Your unique path is your greatest assetâembrace it.Serve through your art instead of... -
What if the secret to building a successful multimedia company wasnât just talent, but persistence and collaborative storytelling?
Armani Salado and Eric Martinez started Forbidden Origins as a childhood passion project. Through sci-fi storytelling, collaboration, and strategic brand-building, they transformed it into a growing multimedia company spanning books, comics, and potential animated adaptations of The Old Universe.
But success didnât happen overnight. Years of indie publishing, creative entrepreneurship, and relentless dedicationâwhile juggling full-time jobsâtaught them invaluable lessons about creative control, audience growth, and turning passion into a business.
Now, theyâre sharing the wins, struggles, and key insights that helped them build Forbidden Origins from the ground up.
From Passion Project to Growing BusinessWhat started as two friends creating stories has turned into a full-fledged multimedia venture. Their first book series, The Old Universe, explores themes of father-son relationships while setting the foundation for an expanding storytelling universe.
At one point, they realized they had so much content. Then they went viral for the first time and thought, "Letâs just see what happens!"
That moment wasnât luckâit was the result of years of creative work, strategic marketing, and a willingness to take risks.
Actionable Insight: Start with a clear vision but stay adaptable. Consistency over time builds momentum in creative businesses.
Bonus: Spend 10 minutes today identifying a small, consistent habit that can push your creative project forward.
The Power of Creative Control in Indie PublishingBy choosing self-publishing, they maintained complete creative control over their stories and business decisions. They built their own platform, ensuring that contributing writers receive 100% of their royalties while fostering a collaborative creative environment.
"Those writers get paid 100% for their work." Theyâve made it a priority to create an âofficial lookâ while keeping full ownership of the creative process.
Actionable Insight: Creative control means more responsibility. Identify one area where you can take full ownership of your creative work.
Bonus: Research an indie creator who successfully built their audience through strategic engagement.
Building a Brand & Expanding an AudienceSuccess isnât just about creatingâitâs about getting seen. Through targeted social media strategies, understanding algorithms, and consistent engagement, Forbidden Origins steadily grew its fanbase.
"Brand recognition is key!" It takes strategy and investmentâ"You got to spend money to make money!"
That investmentâwhether in marketing, design, or community-buildingâhelped them gain visibility and traction.
Actionable Insight: Your audience wonât find you unless you put yourself out there. Post consistently and track what resonates.
Bonus: Set a goal to engage with 10 potential audience members this week across different platforms.
Balancing Day Jobs and Passion ProjectsTurning a creative dream into a sustainable business requires sacrifice. The team behind Forbidden Origins juggles full-time jobs while dedicating every spare moment to growing their vision, proving that creative entrepreneurship is a long-term game.
"Itâs a long-ass marathon, not a sprint." Building something meaningful takes time and certain sacrifices.
From late nights to reinvesting earnings back into the business, success is built on delayed...
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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What if the secret to unlocking your best creative work wasnât more discipline but more play?
Melissa Dinwiddie started her creative journey as a calligrapher and ketubah artist. But she didnât stop there. By following her curiosity and embracing play, she unlocked new creative paths that she never saw coming. Now, as a corporate creativity consultant, she helps others break free from perfectionism and create with confidence.
With years of experience in creativity training, Melissa helps individuals and teams rediscover the power of play to overcome perfectionism, spark innovation, and build a sustainable creative practice.
Rediscovering Play in CreativityAfter a 15-year creative hiatus, Melissa reignited her artistic spark while planning her wedding. She realized that creativity thrives in a playful, low-pressure environment.
Actionable Insight: If perfectionism is holding you back, set aside time for low-stakes creative play. Focus on the process, not the outcome.
Bonus: Work on a five-minute improvisational exercise today. Try something like doodling, free-writing, or playing with a new artistic medium.
Creative Confidence in Corporate SpacesMelissa didnât just reclaim her creativity. She built a business around helping others do the same. She now works with corporate teams to integrate play, improvisation, and communication techniques to build an environment for innovation.
Actionable Insight: Creativity isnât just for artists. Identify one way you can introduce more curiosity or experimentation into your daily work.
Bonus: Research one company known for its creativity and innovation. What strategies do they use that you could apply in your own practice?
Overcoming Perfectionism & Creative BlocksWhen confronting a blank slate, making a mark, any mark, can be the hardest step. Melissaâs philosophy, The Creative Sandbox Way, encourages exploration over perfection. This method helps creatives and professionals alike break free from creative paralysis.
Actionable Insight: Set up a dedicated âsacred creative timeâ each week where the goal is to create without judgment or expectation.
Bonus: Make a list of your top three creative roadblocks and brainstorm one playful way to challenge each one.
The Intersection of Art, Business & Self-ExpressionMelissaâs work bridges the gap between art and business. She's proven that creative expression can be personally fulfilling AND professionally valuable. Whether youâre an artist, entrepreneur, or corporate leader, embracing your unique strengths is the key to standing out.
Actionable Insight: What creative strengths do you overlook because they come easily to you? Leverage them instead of dismissing them.
Bonus: Write down one way you can turn a perceived weakness into a creative advantage.
Key Takeaways:â Play is essential for sustained creativity.
â Perfectionism kills innovation. Embrace exploration instead.
â Creativity is a business asset, not just a personal practice.
â Willpower isnât the answer. Structured play is.
â Your unique strengths are what make your work stand out.
Transform Your Creative Barriers into BreakthroughsAs Melissa reminds us, the journey to uncovering your creative power is through play, curiosity, and the courage to defy perfectionism.
Want to transform your creative blocks into stepping stones.
Visit TheStandoutCreatives.com to book...
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What does it take to stand out as a creative in a rapidly evolving digital world? For filmmaker and creative entrepreneur Kenny Tjay, success has come from constant experimentation, embracing technology, and treating creativity like a business. From his early days in wedding photography to building a digital media brand, Kenny has navigated industry shifts with adaptability and strategic thinking.
In this episode, we dive into the intersection of creativity, AI, and the mindset shift needed to thrive in todayâs competitive landscape.
Finding the Right Creative PathHow do you know when itâs time to make a change in your creative career? For Kenny, shifting from photography to video production in 2013 was a game-changer. By leveraging Yelp for advertising, he built a thriving business and discovered the power of strategic marketing.
Actionable Insight: If youâre feeling stuck, experiment with a new creative format or platform and see how it feels.
Bonus: Identify one area of your creative work that you want to change and outline three small steps to test it.
Use AI to Increase EfficiencyAI is reshaping the creative industry by enhancing efficiency and idea generation. But it also raises questions about originality, sustainability, and the future of creative work. Kenny shares how AI has transformed his workflow and why creatives must learn to work with technology, not against it.
Actionable Insight: Identify one AI tool that could streamline your creative process and test it for a week.
Bonus: Research the energy impact of AI tools in your industry and explore ways to balance efficiency with sustainability.
Standing Out in a Crowded MarketWhat separates thriving creatives from those struggling to get noticed? Quality, presentation, and strategy. Kenny emphasizes the importance of professionalism in your work. Whether it's your website, portfolio, or client interactions, small details can make a huge difference in perception.
Actionable Insight: Look at all elements of your online presence (website, social media, portfolio). Does it communicate professionalism and clarity?
Bonus: Find three standout creatives in your field and analyze what makes their branding and presentation exceptional.
Creativity as a Strategic Business ApproachKennyâs biggest lesson? Creativity alone isnât enough. Success comes from understanding marketing, pricing, and building relationships. You also need to stop treating your work as a hobby and approach it like a real business.
Actionable Insight: Shift your mindset from "I make art" to "I run a creative business." Whatâs one habit you can change to reflect that shift?
Bonus: Write a one-sentence statement defining what your creative business offers and who it helps.
Key Takeaways:â Experimentation creates new opportunities
â Learn how to use AI wisely
â Professional presentation sets you apart
â Success requires a business mindset
â Adaptability is key to long-term growth
Build a Thriving Creative BusinessWant to stand out, adapt to the evolving creative landscape, and turn your creativity into a sustainable business? Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com to take the next step.
đ I keep these sessions limited so I can give each person my full attentionâso donât wait too long!
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Feeling unseen? Struggling to stand out without burning out? Youâre not alone.
In this episode, Iâm sharing The Standout Creatives Manifestoâa call to artists, writers, and indie creators who refuse to follow the crowd. This isnât just a poem. Itâs a rallying cry.
Listen in and if it sparks a fire in you, let's connect.
Explore Creativity Parties, tune into The Standout Creatives Podcast, and all my projects at StandoutCreativeBusiness.com.
You donât have to do this out alone. Letâs build something that stands outâtogether.
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What transforms a creative passion into a sustainable career? For surface pattern designer Lizzie Clark, the journey started with a love for collage and evolved into a thriving business in licensing and textile design. With years of experience navigating the creative industry, Lizzie has built a business that blends artistry with strategyâproving that with the right approach, creativity can be both fulfilling and financially sustainable.
From Passion to Profit: Making Art Work for YouWhen does hobby art become a viable business? For Lizzie, the breakthrough came by reimagining her collage work as repeating patterns, ultimately finding her niche in surface pattern design.
Actionable Insight: Look at your current creative work through an entrepreneurial lens. Could your existing art live in multiple formats or markets?
Bonus: Research three brands or retailers that license artwork similar to your style and explore their submission guidelines.
Find Creative Freedom Through DiversificationBuilding a sustainable creative career isn't just about creating multiple income streamsâit's about creative autonomy. Lizzie has strategically built her career by exploring various artistic opportunities and revenue channels.
Actionable Insight: Brainstorm potential ways to sell your creative work. What unexplored avenues might complement your current practice?
Bonus: Identify one new revenue stream (such as licensing, teaching, or collaborations) and outline three steps to start testing it.
Overcome Creative Blocks & BurnoutCreative roadblocks are universal. Lizzieâs approach involves strategic disengagement, seeking inspiration in unexpected places, and maintaining artistic flexibility.
Actionable Insight: Recognize when you need a creative reset. Design personal strategies for reconnection and inspiration.
Bonus: Create a "creativity restoration" toolkit with five things that help you rechargeâwhether itâs a playlist, nature walks, or a different artistic medium.
How to Navigate Copyright, Art Theft, and AIOur digital world is changing rapidly so it's essential to understand intellectual property. Lizzie shares pragmatic insights about protecting her creative work in a complex and evolving landscape.
Actionable Insight: Proactively research and implement digital protection strategies for your work.
Bonus: Learn about one legal tool (like watermarks or copyright registration) that can help protect your art.
Align Your Art & Business with PurposeUnderstanding what motivates you creatively provides a lot of clarity. Lizzie emphasizes aligning your business practices with your artistic values.
Actionable Insight: Talk about the deeper purpose behind your creative practice.
Bonus: Write a one-sentence mission statement that captures why you create and share it with your audience.
Key Takeaways:â Creative careers evolve through adaptability
â Diversification enables artistic freedom
â Strategic breaks prevent creative exhaustion
â Intellectual property protection is essential
â Authentic motivation sustains creative work
Turn Your Creativity into a Thriving BusinessWant to make your art work for you? Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com to take the next step.
đ Note: I keep these sessions limited so I can give each person my full attentionâso...
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I'm really excited to take you on a journey into the world of storytelling with someone who understands that great writing isn't just about plot, it's about connection. Meet Douglas Weissman, a travel writer and novelist who's turning personal experiences into compelling stories.
But his story? It's not just about writing books. Itâs about crafting experiences that stay with readers long after theyâve turned the last page.
From Ordinary Moments to Narrative GoldWhat if our most powerful stories are hiding in the moments we overlook? Douglas believes your life is a treasure trove of storytelling potential. From a random conversation with a stranger to a missed train, every moment has the potential to inspire extraordinary stories.
Actionable Tip: Start a story collection journal. For the next week, write down one unexpected moment each day. What made it unique? What emotions did it stir?
Bonus: Choose one of these moments and write a 500-word scene exploring its emotional core. Don't worry about perfection. Just dive in and see what emerges.
Breaking Free from Creative ParalysisMost writers get stuck because they're chasing some mythical "perfect story." Instead of waiting for the right moment, Doug embraces the messy, real, and raw. Your first draft doesn't need to be a masterpiece. It needs to be honest.
Actionable Tip: Set a timer for 20 minutes. Write without stopping, without editing. Let your story spill out onto the page in its most raw form.
Bonus: Read your unedited writing out loud. What surprises you? What feels most authentic?
Navigating the Small Press LandscapeThe publishing world isn't just about big publishers. Douglas has carved a path through small presses that celebrate unique voices. These publishers aren't looking for cookie-cutter booksâthey're looking for stories with heart.
Actionable Tip: Research three small presses in your genre. What makes them different? How do they support emerging writers?
Bonus: Reach out to one small press. Ask a genuine question about their publishing approach. Build a relationship, not just a submission strategy.
Writing in the Age of AI: Staying HumanAI can generate text, but it can't generate soul. Douglas sees AI as a tool, not a replacement. Your lived experiences and unique perspective are what make stories shine.
Actionable Tip: Use AI for brainstorming, but write your actual story in your voice. Compare the AI-generated ideas with your authentic story.
Bonus: Write a scene both with AI and on your own. Which feels more alive?
The Vulnerability AdvantageDon't be afraid to share your most vulnerable moments. They're the ones that connect most deeply with readers and make the best stories.
Actionable Tip: Write about a moment you've been hesitant to explore. What makes it uncomfortable? What does it reveal?
Bonus: Share this writing with a trusted friend and ask for input. Sometimes an outside perspective helps us see our story's true power.
Marketing Your Work Without Selling Your SoulDouglas believes in building genuine connections to sell his books. Your marketing should feel like an invitation to connect, not a sales pitch.
Actionable Tip: Instead of just sharing links to your book on your newsletter, share your writing journey. What's happening behind the scenes?
Bonus: Host a small online writing workshop or class. Give value before asking for anything in return.
Key Takeaways:Your life experiences are your greatest storytelling resourceEmbrace imperfection in your writing processSmall presses can be... -
Meet Russell Nohelty, the self-publishing maverick who's cracked the code to turning creative passion into a sustainable writing career. With nearly a million dollars raised through crowdfunding and a proven track record of breaking through the noise, Russell offers a step-by-step roadmap to help authors transform their writing from a side hustle into a thriving business.
Conquer PerfectionismWhy Imperfect Writing Wins Every Time
Perfectionism can be a creativity killer. Russellâs game-changing approach? Treat your first draft as raw material, not your masterpiece. Perfectionism becomes your superpower when combined with radical self-compassion and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Actionable Tip: This week, aim for messy but meaningful progress: draft 1,000 words in one sitting without editing.
Bonus: Pick one chapter you've been stuck on and finish it within the next week, imperfections and all.
Build Your CommunityHow to Network Like a Pro
Self-publishing doesnât mean going it alone. Russell emphasizes the power of building a community of fellow writers, beta readers, and a supportive network that amplifies your reach and credibility.
Actionable Tip: Join one writing group or online community specific to your genre. Contribute meaningful feedback to at least three other authors this month to build genuine connections.
Bonus: Propose a cross-promotion with an author in your niche. Think joint newsletter or shared promotional event.
Amplify Your Unique VoiceThe Secret Weapon for Self-Published Success
In a sea of endless books, your unique voice is your greatest asset. Whether you write niche sci-fi, unconventional memoirs, or genre-bending fiction, your perspective will attract dedicated readers.
Actionable Tip: Identify the three most unique elements of your writing style or story that set you apart in your genre.
Bonus: Share a provocative social media post showcasing your unique angle. Invite readers to engage with your storyâs world.
Monetize Your WritingEarn More While Staying True to Your Vision
Authors have more monetization options than ever before. Russellâs approach focuses on creating multiple revenue streams. Having multiple revenue streams allows you to support your creative vision, not compromise it.
Actionable Tip: Audit your existing work. Could you bundle books, offer special editions, or create bonus content for your readers?
Bonus: Develop one additional product related to your book: a workbook, online course, or exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
Share Your Authentic StoryBuild Reader Trust by Sharing Your Journey
Your most vulnerable stories are often your most powerful. Being transparent about your writing journey can forge deep connections with readers.
Actionable Tip: Share one behind-the-scenes moment from your writing process. It can be a challenge, breakthrough, personal struggle, or something similar.
Bonus: Create content that showcases your authenticity. Share your inspirations, writing rituals, or the spark behind your story.
Key Takeaways:Embrace imperfection as part of the creative process.Build a supportive community around your writing.Leverage your unique voice as a marketing tool.Create multiple revenue streams from your writing.Connect authentically with your readers.
Your Career Transformation Starts... -
The following is a narrative essay I wrote after my conversation with Bridget Baker.
Fitting in was my survival strategyâuntil I realized it was suffocating my creative potential.
In high school, I could morph myself into any group. In college, I went to parties even though I hated big groups of people. As an adult, I put on a "professional" face even when all I want to do is have fun.
I thought, If I can just be smooth enough, normal enough, I'll finally belong.
Spoiler: It never worked.
The Moment of InsightDuring a conversation with my friend Bridget Bakerâa former professional dancer turned branding expertâshe said something that hit me hard: What if the parts of your story you're afraid to share are actually your greatest creative asset?
I've often thought about how to share my moments of failure without people thinking "He has no idea what he's talking about. Why should I listen to him?" But what I realized when talking to Bridget was, we are not our failures.
Failures are just a part of our journey. They can make us stronger if we lean into the lessons they are trying to teach us.
The Unexpected Power of Your "Too Much"Let's talk about those moments you've labeled as "too much."
For me, it was improv. I love improv. It taught me so much about creativity, problem-solving, and staying present. But for the longest time, I kept that part of me under wraps. I worried people wouldn't take me seriously. I thought they'd hear "improviser" and assume, Oh, he's just a guy who makes jokes.
Then I said, "Eff it. Who cares if people think it's weird?"
When I started sharing lessons I learned from improv, something magical happened. My audience loved it. People who had never done improv said things like, "Wow, I could never do that!" It struck a chord because it wasn't just about improvâit was about creative courage.
The Vulnerability AdvantageA few years ago, I was working on multiple projects to help artists market their work. I poured my heart into itâhundreds of blog posts, nearly 100 podcast episodes, hours of connecting with my audience.
When I finally offered my services, I was met with crickets. Not a single reply or hint of interest.
It was devastating. I had done everything the "experts" said: build trust, provide value, connect authentically. But nothing worked.
So, I took a break. I let go of the dream for years, feeling like I had failed.
Fast forward to now: I've returned to this work with fresh energy and a deeper understanding of what creatives like you need. And you know what? That failure wasn't the end of my story. It was the middle.
Sharing this with you isn't easy. But I've learned that the more open and honest we are, the more deeply we connect with our audience. People lean in when they see themselves in your story.
Turning Your Quirks into Your Brand's SuperpowerHere's your challenge:
List three ways you're different (not "wrong").Identify one story you've been afraid to tell.Create one offer that reflects your entire, messy journey.
The Wild Truth About AuthenticityI used to think being a fan of anime, superheroes, or cartoons made me weird. When I was younger, everyone watched cartoons. But as we got older, I'd hear things like, "Eww, you still watch that?"
So I hid those parts of me. I didn't tell people I watched Dragon Ball Z every afternoon. I kept quiet about the mini blogs I built for South Park and Rurouni Kenshin.
It wasn't until years later that I realized how mainstream those interests had become. There were conventions, toy shops, and even streaming platforms dedicated to anime.
The lesson? It doesn't matter if...
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Iâm thrilled to introduce you to someone whoâs redefining the way we think about storytelling, marketing, and connection. Meet Vince Warnockâa neuromarketing expert, 11-time bestselling author, and creative business coach. His story? Itâs a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of authentic relationships.
From Adversity to InnovationLetâs start with something Vince knows deeply: How the hardest moments in your life can become the foundation for your greatest strengths. Vinceâs journey, shaped by a challenging childhood, is a masterclass in turning adversity into opportunity. He shows us that every experienceâno matter how difficultâcan fuel your creativity and business growth.
Actionable Tip: Reflect on a tough moment in your life and how itâs shaped your unique perspective. How can you use that insight to serve your audience better?
Bonus: Create a âstory mapâ of your life. Divide it into challenges, turning points, and triumphs. Use this as the basis for your content or brand narrative.
Your Story is Your SuperpowerVince believes your authentic story is your most valuable asset in business. Itâs not about looking perfectâitâs about showing up as yourself and building trust through vulnerability.
Your audience connects with the real you, not a polished facade.Sharing your struggles creates a bridge of trust that no marketing hack can replicate.Actionable Tip: Think of a time when you faced a challenge in your business, but it led to a breakthrough. Share that experience in a quick, unscripted video or voice note. The raw, realness is what will resonate most.
Bonus: Create a "vulnerability post" on your social media or blog. Share a moment when things didnât go according to plan but how it shaped who you are today. Invite your audience to share their stories too, creating a space for connection.
The Creative EdgeCreativity isnât just about your art or productâitâs how you approach your entire business. Vince reveals how innovation can help you stand out:
Embrace new tools like AI to free up time for your creative work.Experiment with unconventional strategies to find what feels true to you.Actionable Tip: Pick one task that drains your energy and explore a tech solution to automate it.
Bonus: Use the extra time to brainstorm a bold, creative idea that excites youâand take one small step toward making it happen.
Relationships Over TransactionsVince reminds us that success isnât about playing the numbers gameâitâs about building genuine relationships. By focusing on adding value and being authentic, you open the door to unexpected opportunities.
Actionable Tip: Instead of focusing on what you can sell, reach out to someone in your network with an offer of supportâwhether itâs advice, resources, or just a kind word. The goal is to serve, not sell.
Bonus: Organize a small virtual gathering or group discussion where people can share their challenges and victories. Make it less about promoting your work and more about connecting on a human level.
Key Takeaways:Your past is an asset. Every challenge and triumph can shape your brand and connect you with your audience.Vulnerability is a strength. Share the imperfect parts of your storyâtheyâre what make you relatable.Creativity extends beyond your craft. Innovate in all areas of your business.Relationships matter.... -
Iâm really excited to take you on a journey into the world of authentic branding with someone whoâs done it in the most unexpected way. Meet Bridget Baker a former professional ballet dancer whoâs now flipping the script on branding and storytelling. Her story? Itâs not just inspiring. Itâs a game changer for anyone looking to share their unique perspective while staying true to themselves.
From Center Stage to Centering Your NarrativeNow, letâs talk about something that might feel a little uncomfortable at first: What if the quirks and odd moments you try to hide are actually your greatest asset? Bridget believes your branding should be a dance, and the steps you take, however unconventional, are what will make you stand out. Those moments in your life? Thatâs the heart of your story.
Actionable Tip: Start small. Take a moment to reflect on your own journey. Are there parts of it youâve been avoiding, fearing they might not âfitâ with the brand youâre trying to create? Those might be the moments that resonate most with the people who truly get you.Bonus: Write down one personal storyâsomething youâve never shared before. It might feel vulnerable, but consider how that story could connect with your audience, even if you donât see how just yet. This could be the bridge to people who really understand your message.
Breaking Free from Creative ConformityIf youâve ever felt like you donât belong in the mainstream or traditional marketing world, Bridgetâs got your back. Most creatives fall into the trap of trying to look like everyone else, but Bridgetâs advice is clear: Your differences arenât a flaw, theyâre your superpower. Your unique story doesnât need to fit into a mold, and it sure doesnât need to apologize for being different. Your story is the melody, and the world needs to hear it.
Actionable Tip: Grab a notebook and jot down three ways your background makes you different. Be specific. These are the things you donât want to hide anymore.Bonus: Write a brand statement that feels like you, not what you think you should be. Make it bold, honest, and unapologetic. And above all, make it realâthe worldâs tired of âpolishedâ and wants to hear you.
Redefining Your Creative ValueItâs time to face the hard truth: if youâve been underpricing your services or products, youâre not doing your talents justice. Bridgetâs approach challenges creatives to see that everything in their journey, every skill, every lesson learned, is valuable. Your past and your experience are what give you the authority to charge what youâre truly worth.
Actionable Tip: Take a deep dive into your own skills and experiences. What unique value do you bring to the table? How do those talents serve your audience in a way no one else can?Bonus: Create a âpremiumâ offering that reflects the richness of your expertise. Itâs not just about asking for more moneyâitâs about showing people just how much depth you bring to the table. Think about how to package your knowledge in a way that makes your audience see its true worth.
The Vulnerability AdvantageOkay, hereâs the kicker: your vulnerability is your secret weapon. The stories youâre afraid to share, the ones where you feel imperfect or misunderstood, are often the very stories that create powerful connections with your audience. Youâre not alone in your fears, and your audience will feel your authenticity when you let down the walls.
Actionable Tip: Think about one moment from your creative journey thatâs tough to share but feels like an... -
Ghostwriting might sound mysterious, but after talking with Kent on The Standout Creatives, itâs clear: ghostwriting is one of the most human ways to inspire and connect.
Here are the 3 biggest insights from our conversation that can help your creative business thrive:
1. Your Story is Your Superpower
Your story isnât just nice-to-haveâitâs the reason people will trust and choose YOU. When you share your journey, you create emotional connections that no marketing hack can replicate.
âĄïž Action Step: Map out a few key life or business moments. Pick one and share it with your audience this week.
2. Networking is About Real Connection
Itâs not about knowing everyoneâitâs about showing up for the people who matter most. A thoughtful gesture, like a handwritten note, can open doors you didnât even know existed.
âĄïž Action Step: Reach out to one person you admire in your network. Be specific about why their work matters to you.
3. Growth Comes From Staying Curious, Not Perfect
Creativity isnât about getting it right the first time. Itâs about learning, adapting, and growing through the process. Curiosity is your edge.
âĄïž Action Step: Set aside 30 minutes to explore a book, podcast, or course that inspires you to think differently.
âš If you found any of these insights helpful, I highly recommend checking out the interview I had with Kent Sanders. It really was a great conversation.
đ Are you an author, writer, or creative business owner who wants help standing out, or need support for your next book or product launch? Letâs chat. Visit The Standout Creatives to book a spot. But heads up, spots are limited, so grab yours while you can!
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Starting small doesnât mean thinking small. In this episode of The Standout Creatives, Iâll show you how launching with a small, engaged audience can be your secret weapon for creative business success. Whether youâre working on your first course, digital product, or any big idea, this approach will set you up for growth without the stress of trying to âgo bigâ too soon.
Hereâs what youâll learn:
The Myth of âGo Big or Go Homeâ: Why starting small can actually lead to success.The Power of Early Supporters: How to attract the right people who will champion your work and become your first superfans.Small Wins, Big Momentum: Real-world examples of creatives who turned small audiences into thriving businesses.Your Action Plan: A simple, repeatable process for launching small while building confidence and connection.You donât need a massive following to create something amazing. You just need to take the first stepâand Iâll help you make it happen.
Who This Episode is ForCreative entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed by the idea of launching to a small audience.Digital product and course creators who have a small but passionate fan base.Anyone whoâs tired of chasing vanity metrics and ready to focus on authentic, meaningful results.
Key Takeaways:Start small, think big: The most successful launches often come from starting with the resources and audience you have now.Engage early fans: Focus on people who already know, like, and trust your workâtheyâll be the foundation for your future growth.Momentum matters: Celebrate the small wins because theyâre the stepping stones to your standout business.
Resources & Next Steps:đĄ Schedule a free standout business discovery call: Letâs brainstorm how you can take your first small step toward a standout creative business.âïž Grab your copy of We Are All Creative: Fuel your inspiration with 52 quotes and prompts designed for creative entrepreneurs.đ§ Subscribe to The Standout Creatives podcast: Donât miss future episodes filled with actionable tips to grow your creative business without sacrificing your sanity.
Final Thought:Big success doesnât require a big start. It just needs a small, intentional step forwardâand the right people to walk alongside you. Ready to take yours?
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Ghostwriting might seem like a secretive craft, but itâs anything but. Kent Sanders breaks it down: this isnât about hiding in the shadowsâitâs about creating stories that genuinely connect. As the founder of Inkwell Ghostwriting, Kent has helped entrepreneurs and leaders bring their journeys to life in ways that inspire and resonate.
If your story isnât reaching people, whatâs getting lost in translation? Is it the message? The delivery? Or maybe, itâs just missing that human touch.
Your story is the bridge between you and your audience. If you fail to connect, youâre not just missing an opportunityâyouâre letting relationships, impact, and trust slip through your fingers. But the good news? When you get storytelling right, it transforms everything.
In this episode, Kent takes us on his journey from college professor to ghostwriting powerhouse, revealing how storytelling goes way beyond just putting words on a page. Itâs about digging deep, building connection, and translating someoneâs vision into a narrative that lands exactly the way they dreamed it would.
Three Big Takeaways and Actionable Steps1. The Power of Understanding: Get Inside Their Story
Ghostwriting (or any kind of storytelling) isnât about slapping words togetherâitâs about understanding the person behind the story. Youâre not just writing; youâre capturing their essence.
Actionable Tip: Ask deeper questions before starting a project. Not just, âWhatâs the story you want to tell?â but, âWhy does this matter to you?â and âWhat do you want your audience to feel?âBonus: Try mapping out key moments of your journey to see the bigger picture. This "story map" becomes your roadmap for building a narrative that sticks.2. Real Connections Beat Surface-Level Networking Every Time
Networking is about relationships, not resumes. Forget the business cards and LinkedIn requests. Itâs the small, thoughtful gestures that build trust and open doors you didnât even know existed.
Actionable Tip: This week, send a quick, personal note to someone you admireâa handwritten letter, a voice memo, or a thoughtful email. Be specific about what you love about their work.Bonus: Make a habit of checking in with your network regularlyâespecially when youâre not asking for anything. Think of it as planting seeds for future growth.3. Stay Curious, Stay Open, Stay Moving
The creative journey isnât about perfectionâitâs about progress. Every failure is a chance to refine your craft. The most successful creatives? Theyâre the ones who embrace learning, even when itâs uncomfortable.
Actionable Tip: Set aside 30 minutes this week to dive into something newâa book, podcast, or course that challenges how you think.Bonus: Reflect on a recent mistake. Write down what it taught you and how youâre using that lesson to grow.Kent Sanders reminds us that storytelling isnât just a skillâitâs a superpower. Done right, it can transform your business, strengthen your relationships, and amplify your impact. The question is: Are you ready to take your story to the next level?
Need Help with Your Creative Business?
If youâre a creative entrepreneur ready to make your business stand out, visit The Standout Creatives. Whether you're launching your next book, podcast, course, or digital product, Iâd love to help you turn your vision into something extraordinary.
Spots are limited, so if youâre ready to chat about your next big idea, donât waitâsign up
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Big news: the podcast is back, and itâs got a whole new look, name, and purpose. After taking a much-needed break, Iâm beyond excited to relaunch as The Standout Creatives! This isnât just a new nameâitâs a new mission to help you build a business that stands out while staying true to your creative passion.
In this episode, Iâll take you behind the scenes:
The Cracking Creativity journey: Lessons I learned from inspiring interviews and how they shaped my perspective.Burnout and breakthroughs: How stepping back helped me reevaluate and refocus on what matters most.Why the rebrand matters: My mission to bring you practical strategies for turning creative passion into sustainable success.What to expect going forward: Actionable advice, authentic stories, and insightful interviews with creative business owners whoâve been where you are.If balancing creativity with running a business feels overwhelming, youâre not alone. This podcast is your guide to standing out, scaling up, and thrivingâwithout burning out.
Ready to take the next step?
Book one of my limited one-on-one strategy calls, where weâll craft a custom plan to grow your creative business with clarity and confidence. Letâs build something amazing together!
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Nick Gray is the founder of Museum Hack, a twist on the traditional museum experience. The funny thing about Nick is, he used to hate museums. That is until he went on a date that forever changed his life.
During a snowy day in NYC, a girl brought him to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and showed him artifacts, furniture, and other interesting things in the museum. This changed Nickâs perception of what a museum tour could be. Thatâs when he started frequenting the MET, and learned to love museums.
The first time Nick charged for a museum tour, he even tried to give money back to the people who took it. He had so much fun with the tour that he thought he shouldnât charge people for it.
âThe first tour that I actually charged money for, it was a Sunday morning tour at 11 in the morning, and I was like âAlright Iâll just see if I can charge money. Iâll charge them $20. See if they come.â And everyone gave me their cash, and I gave them the tour. And I had so much fun Kevin, I had so much fun, that at the end of the tour, I think I freaked everybody out because I gave them all of their money back. And they were like âWhy are you giving us⊠is this Candid Camera or something?â and I was like âNo, I had so much fun. It feels dirty for me to take your money, to do something that I love, something that Iâm having so much fun with.â So for me that was the first time I experimented, but it didnât really go so well.â
Before Nick started Musuem Hack he was a salesman of flat screen monitors. But the success of his initial tours, and the experience he gained as a salesman, allowed him to turn his passion project into a business.
âWhat I think is special about what Iâve done with Museum Hack that your listeners might find fascinating, is that I took something that was a passion project, something that I just did for a hobby, for fun, and I was able to convert it and make it into a business. And my time selling these screens really taught me the importance of marketing and sales and dollar value of creating premium experiences. So for me that was really helpful.â
The thing that makes Museum Hack different from other museum tours is what Nick likes to dub the 3 Gâs. While most other tours are zigging, Museum Hack is zagging.
âThe three Gs. These are the three things that makes Museum Hack completely different from most museum tours. Three Gs. Number one, guides. Number two, games. and number three gossip. So itâs the tour guides that are so engaging, that are actors and educators, and science teachers, and musicians who write their own tours who are so special. Thatâs the guides. The games means that the tours are so fast paced. Theyâre ultra fast paced. Theyâre two to three times as fast as most museum tours. And we also do selfie challenges. We takes shots of espresso or drink some wine. And then the gossip, thatâs the juicy back story. The cool stuff about the art that we like to talk about.â
Instead of trying to find people who are knowledgeable in history and museums, Nick hires guides who are good with people. Anyone can learn about art, but not everyone is good at connecting with people.
âThe number one thing we look for is someoneâs ability to be a good host. How is their body language? How comfortable to they make people? Do they make us laugh? Thatâs the most important thing. Itâs not about their knowledge. Itâs not about how much they know about the art history. Itâs about how do they make the guests feel. Because thatâs what weâre trying to do, right? Weâre trying to make people comfortable and weâre trying to get them to warm up inside the space. So thatâs really what we hire for first and foremost. And then we can teach them about the art. We can teach them about the museum⊠We hire folks that are really good with people.â
He also gives his guides the freedom to create their own tours. When you are building something
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Erik Young is one of my friends from high school. In this episode we broke from the normal format of the show and talked about our thoughts on creativity, inspiration, the education system, and learning from your mistakes. We also talked about some of the projects he's worked on including his children's book and work as owner of 7Mangos.
Read more shownotes from episode 91 with Erik Young
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Chalky White grew up in an abusive household, so much so that he gave up trying in school as an act of rebellion. When he 17 he joined the police cadets where he worked with alcoholics and drug addicts. It was at this point that Chalky realized he wanted to be in service of others.
One day his friend asked Chalky if he wanted to go skiing. By saying yes to his friendâs request, Chalky unknowingly changed his life. Even though he wasnât very good at skiing on that first trip, he was hooked.
A year after that first ski trip Chalky went to Andorra and decided to become a ski instructor. When he ran out of money, he went back to Britain to become an encyclopedia salesman just so he could go back to Andorra.
After a series of tests in Andorra, and failed attempts to become a licensed instructor, Chalky went to New Zealand to get certified. Chalky was constantly told he was never going to be good enough to be an instructor, but through persistence and his system of What If? questions, Chalky was finally able to gain his certification.
Chalky not only became a certified instructor. He also wrote his own book on skiing and became a motivational speaker through it all.
In this episode, Chalky talks about asking yourself what if, being persistent, and why continuing to try leads to success.
Here are three things you can learn from Chalky:
Ask Yourself What IfMany of us give up at the first sign of failure. We let our lack of success define and shape us. What if it didnât have to be this way? What if we could continue on despite our doubts?
Thatâs why Chalky developed his what if factor questions. These questions help him decide whether or not he should pursue his goals, despite his doubts.
âThe big dream came true because I never, never quit, and it all happened⊠because I got the semblance of something I now use in my speech, âHow to say nay to your naysayers and have the last laugh,â which I call my What if factor. âWhat if I donât continue on with this? What if I donât follow through? What are the consequences of that?â Of course when you ask yourself that sort of question, you really donât like the answers at all. In fact, you sort of despise and hate them, but theyâre enough to stimulate you to want to be asked the opposite question. âWhat if I do continue on? What can be the repercussions and consequences of that?â And of course you really like your answers to that.â
The benefit of constantly asking yourself positive what if questions is that they make you want to continue on. They help to push you forward instead of falling back or giving up.
âBy keeping on asking yourself those questions, the negatives and the positives of the What If? factor, it tends to make you want to go on and on and on. And thatâs really the premise of my speech.â
Chalky believes these what if questions helped him publish his book. They helped him get past his biggest naysayer, himself. They have helped guide him through many things in life.
âIf I hadnât asked myself those What If? questions, Iâm not sure that I would have followed through and published that book. So by making myself not listen to a naysayer⊠it tends to translate into⊠self-doubt. Doubting yourself can obviously be the biggest naysayer of all. So by following through and continually asking myself those What If? questions, I actually was successful. And thatâs basically what Iâve done with very many things through my life.â
Be PersistentThere are many things that help you sustain a long career as an artist. Talent and luck help a lot, but one thing is often overlooked. Itâs something we can all control. That thing is persistence.
Most of us give up after the first sign of failure. We give up when things are looking grim. We give up when things donât go our way. We give up when someone says no. But...
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