The This is How We Create podcast digs deeper into the creative life of contemporary artists of color. Discover what feeds their creativity and how they found (or are finding) their artistic voice. Through these intimate and candid conversations, you will gain insights into the lives of creative professionals of color that are hard to find anywhere else.
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132. The Creative's Guide to Sales Without Being Icky - Martine Severin
31:18
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31:18Do you feel uncomfortable with the sales process as a creative? In this candid mini-episode, Martine Severin tackles the topic many creatives dread: sales. Martine breaks down practical strategies for artists to sell their work authentically without feeling like "used car salesperson." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Life 00:23 The Visibili…
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131. How to Write a Screenplay - Shannan E. Johnson (2022)
55:45
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55:45Have you ever wondered how a movie gets made? Or better yet, where do the ideas from movies come from? And if you have your sight on making a short film, wouldn't it be great if someone helped you buff your idea and make the end product simply spectacular? Shannan E. Johnson is that someone! As a former creative executive at NBCU/The Syfy Channel, …
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130. Stop Waiting, Start Creating- Lessons from an Unexpected Practice - Martine Severin
9:53
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9:53In this mini-episode, we explore the unexpected parallel between toe yoga and creative practice. Through her personal experience with a daily exercises, our host, Martine Severin, reveals how small, consistent efforts lead to remarkable changes over time – both in physical flexibility and creative mastery. Martine challenges the myth of natural tal…
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129. Honoring Everyday People Through Your Art - Rhonda K. Brown (2020)
51:20
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51:20We welcome fine art painter Rhonda K Brown, whose artistic story is deeply intertwined with a remarkable family legacy in the art world. Join us as Rhonda pulls back the curtain on her creative journey - from the influential gallery environment of her youth to her eventual return to painting after exploring other paths. How did growing up surrounde…
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128. Crafting Your Artist Statement: A Comprehensive Guide - Martine Severin
17:13
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17:13In this essential episode, host Martine Severin draws from her experience creating an artist statement for Scope Miami to provide a practical roadmap for artists struggling with this crucial professional document. From understanding your audience to finding your authentic voice, this episode breaks down the process into manageable steps that will h…
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127. The Principle Can Make Your Unstoppable As an Artist - Tobi Shinobi
33:03
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33:03This week on This Is How We Create: Award-winning photographer Tobi Shinobi reveals his fascinating journey from courtroom to camera lens. Discover the unique productivity framework that transformed his creative process and catapulted his career to global recognition. Episode Highlights The Name: How a playground nickname evolved into one of photog…
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126. Navigating Doubt and Resilience - Martine Severin
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13:18Have you ever committed to creating even when you didn't believe in yourself? In this mini-episode of 'This Is How We Create,' Martine Severin explores the quiet yet persistent power that drives artists to create even when faced with doubt, external pressures, and self-criticism. She shares a profound revelation from a cinematographer who admitted …
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125. How To Market Yourself and Your Artwork – Courtney Minor (2024)
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20:21Struggling to get your art in front of the right people? Then this episode is your roadmap. Join multidisciplinary artist Courtney Minor on "This Is How We Create" as she unveils the emotional underpinnings of her creative journey—from finding fresh inspiration in Vietnam to transforming personal therapy into powerful art. Courtney doesn't just ins…
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124. Why 'Maybe' is Holding You Back (And How to Fix It) - Martine Severin
10:22
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10:22Ever find yourself stuck in decision limbo, saying "maybe" to opportunities that deep down you know aren't right for you? In this episode of "This is How We Create," Martine Severin unpacks her game-changing "Waffle Rule," a powerful framework that will transform how you make decisions in your creative career and beyond. You'll discover: Why indeci…
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123. The Power of Creative Community - Ankita Das
41:46
41:46
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41:46What happens when a medical student abandons her stethoscope for a camera, moves to a foreign country where she knows no one, and transforms an abandoned garage into a thriving art collective? In this episode, we explore the multifaceted world of communication designer and photographer Ankita Das, whose work transcends traditional medium boundaries…
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122. Attention Residue: What's Draining Your Creativity - Martine Severin
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12:12In this mini-episode, we dive into something we ALL struggle with as creatives - the hidden cost of context switching. Ever feel like you've run a mental marathon without actually finishing anything substantial? Turns out there's a name for that overwhelmed feeling: attention residue. Martine shares her personal struggles with toggling between crea…
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121. How to Develop a Unique Artistic Voice - Kianne Patrice Hutchinson
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48:01THIS IS HOW WE CREATE PODCAST WORKFLOW Episode Number: 121 Guest Name: Kianne Patrice Hutchinson Title: 121. How to Develop a Unique Artistic Voice - Kianne Patrice Hutchinson Description: Learn how digital artist Kianne Patrice Hutchinson balances pharmacy and art, blending vibrant textures, augmented reality, and AI. She reflects on her journey f…
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120. The Digital Toolkit Behind Our Podcast - Martine Severin
14:48
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14:48In this episode, we pulls back the curtain on our creative process, revealing the digital ecosystem that brings the podcast interviews to life. If you've ever felt intimidated by the technical side of podcasting, tune in to discover a your new favorite tool. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Creative Journey 00:27 Behind the Scenes of Podcasting …
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119. The Truth About Design Careers No One Will Tell You: Kyra Wells' Radical Approach to Creative Confidence
39:33
39:33
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39:33We chat with Kyra Wells, a graphic designer and advocate for creative community and mentorship. She reflects on her path from a young artist to her role at American Greetings and leadership at AIGA Cleveland. Kyra explores the role of playfulness in design, supporting emerging creatives, and her course, You Are Not an Imposter, which helps designer…
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118. The Guilt-Free Approach to Those Goals You Haven't Touched - Martine Severin
6:53
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6:53In this mini episode, we reflect on our progress with the creative goals you set at the beginning of the year. We discuss the common challenges of procrastination and hesitation while offering practical strategies to overcome these barriers and reconnect with creative intentions. Key Points Take time to honestly assess your progress on goals set ea…
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117. Decolonizing Design: A Pacific Islander's Guide to Authentic Creative Practice - Ube Urban
49:28
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49:28In this illuminating episode of "This is How We Create," host Martine Severin sits down with Ube Urban, a multifaceted creative leader who brings his Pacific Islander heritage to the forefront of his design practice and mentorship approach. Born in Hawaii with Japanese, Black, Native American, and Filipino roots, Ube shares his journey from island …
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116. How One Black Artist Turned Intuition into a 90-Year Career - Martine Severin
8:27
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8:27What if the biggest creative breakthroughs come from breaking your own rules? In this Black History Month mini-episode, we explore the remarkable artistic journey of 97-year-old sculptor and painter Lillian Thomas Burwell, whose creative evolution spans nearly a century of American history. Episode Highlights: Growing up during the Great Depression…
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115. Replace I with We': Inside the Creative Director's Guide to Winning Client Pitches - Ashley Bozeman
44:12
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44:12Ever wonder how top creatives land those dream campaigns with GEICO, Target, and Old Navy? In this episode, art director Ashley Bozeman pulls back the curtain on the art of the perfect pitch. In this episode of This Is How We Create, host Martine Severin sits down with art director Ashley Bozeman for an intimate conversation about creative collabor…
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114. How a Black Woman's Living Room Became a Cultural Revolution - Martine Severin
5:25
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5:25This week on our Mini Episode of This Is How We Create, we unpack the revolutionary story of Dr. Margaret Burroughs, who transformed her first-floor living room into the DuSable Museum—one of America's most significant institutions of African American history. This episode explores how creating the spaces we need can spark cultural movements that r…
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113. High Stakes Success: How Setting Boundaries Transformed This Artist's Career (and Life) - Mojo Reed, II
17:44
17:44
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17:44Want to know the real secret to turning your biggest fear into your greatest success? Today's episode covers the intersection of faith, fear, and artistry. In our conversation, Mojo shared something that stopped me in my tracks – his relationship with heights, a fear he hasn't so much conquered as befriended. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN: A counter…
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112. Shadow and Light: How Roy DeCarava Captured Black Joy in 1950s Harlem - Martine Severin
8:43
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8:43In this special mini-episode, we explore the extraordinary legacy of Roy DeCarava (1919-2009), one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century. From the streets of Harlem to the stages where jazz giants performed, DeCarava revolutionized how we see through photography, especially in his groundbreaking representation of Black life and …
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111. The Art of Seeing: From Street Photography to the Smithsonian - Adrian Walker
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50:26This week's episode reminds us why authenticity is essential to artistic vision. Martine sits down with Adrian Octavius Walker, a mixed-media artist and photographer whose journey from St. Louis to the Smithsonian will inspire you to think differently about your creative path. A note from the content team: In this episode, we discuss grief and the …
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110. The Comfort of Knowing Your Path Isn't Wrong - Martine Severin
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9:49This episode unpacks a powerful truth about creativity: your path isn't linear, and that's exactly how it should be. Host Martine Severin breaks down how three groundbreaking artists navigated multiple streams of life while building their creative practice. Elizabeth Catlett: Merged modernist training with accessibility Charles White: Combined Chic…
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109. A Former Paratrooper's Take on Creativity (And His Secret to Avoiding Burnout) - Chris Charles
55:27
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55:27In this episode, photographer and U.S. Army veteran Chris Charles shares his remarkable journey from military service to creative entrepreneurship. His story is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and the unexpected ways our past experiences shape our future success. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: How military discipline can transform your creative busin…
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108. Create or Doom-scroll? An Artist's Guide to Political Uncertainty - Martine Severin
4:55
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4:55"Trust Your Art in Troubled Times" - When democracy makes you uncertain, should you create or doom-scroll? Host Martine Severin draws wisdom from Black artists who've turned constitutional tension into enduring work - from Baldwin to Amy Sherald. Perfect for: Artists, writers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their creative pr…
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107. A Peek Into the Life of a Book Designer - Kieron Lewis
35:49
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35:49Want to hear an honest conversation about what it really takes to build a creative career while staying true to your roots? Today's guest, Kieron Lewis, shares his remarkable journey from a kid in South London to becoming one of the most sought-after editorial designers in publishing. His story will inspire you to embrace change, trust your instinc…
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106. Building Bridges to Your Future Creative Self (Part 3 of 3) - Martine Severin
18:42
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18:42In this episode, host Martine Severin shares her proven 10-year framework for creative reflection that treats your artistic journey with the gentleness it deserves. Through the lens of "creative archaeology," discover how to uncover patterns, celebrate progress, and set meaningful intentions for your creative practice. This episode is part 3 of our…
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105. Finding Success as a Freelance Illustrator: The Power of Creating Art That Heals - Alex Cabal
42:42
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42:42We sit down with Alex Cabal, a Los Angeles-based illustrator whose vibrant work celebrates cultural identity and diverse representation. From movie posters to YA book covers, Alex shares her journey of finding authentic artistic expression and building a sustainable creative career. Episode Highlights Growing up in a strict household and using art …
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104. Building Bridges to Your Future Creative Self (Part 2 of 3) - Martine Severin
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16:55Latest Episode: Building Bridges to Your Future Creative Self (Part 2 of 3) Transform your creative practice through this theatrical three-act exploration. Using insights from "Wicked" and conversations with seasoned artists, learn to identify and bridge the gaps holding you back. This episode offers gentle yet practical guidance for your creative …
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103. How to Build Wealth as an Artist - James Hoston
1:05:18
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1:05:18How do you make a living as an artist while building long-term financial security? Today we're talking with James Hoston, a painter and educator who's taken an unconventional approach to the traditionally unpredictable world of fine art. After working in Jeff Koons' studio and teaching at prestigious institutions, Hoston is charting a path to becom…
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102. How to Find Purpose in Your New Year’s Planning - Martine Severin
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19:51In this episode of 'This Is How We Create', Martine Severin reflects on the creative lives of contemporary artists of color, emphasizing the importance of planning and self-reflection as the new year approaches. She shares personal anecdotes about her journey, the significance of understanding one's purpose, and the need for deep self-exploration t…
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101. ICYMI: How to Challenge Stereotypes Through Art - Candice Tavares
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31:47In cased you missed it, we're replaying our most popular episode of 2024 with Candace Tavares. Candace joins us to talk about how can you unleash your creativity and defy limitations. Candice embraces the rich textures of wood to create powerful works that celebrate Black beauty and shatter negative stereotypes. Her art is a warm embrace, reminding…
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100. How to Built a Thriving Creative Practice Across Cultures - Andrea Pippins
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50:27
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50:27Welcome to our 100th Episode! Cue the confetti! Thank you for being part of our community. In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Andrea Pippins—illustrator, author, and creative powerhouse—as she shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery, growth, and artistic transformation. Andrea opens up about the defining moments that shaped her…
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99. How to Trust Your Creative Evolution: Holly McWhorter on Moving Between Art Forms
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37:5299. How to Trust Your Creative Evolution: Holly McWhorter on Moving Between Art Forms In this conversation, Holly McWhorter shares her journey as an artist, writer, and entrepreneur, discussing her childhood influences, her experiences living between Copenhagen and Brooklyn, and her transition from running a skincare business to rediscovering her p…
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98. How to Create a Creative Business with Purpose and Intent: Lessons from Ceramicist Sherrod Faulks
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49:12On today's episode, we sit down with Sherrod Faulks, founder of Deep Black Ceramics. From tech screens to pottery wheels, Faulks shares his remarkable transition from UX design to establishing his ceramics brand. We explore how authenticity shapes his creative process, from custom glaze formulation to collection development. Faulks discusses findin…
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97. How to Turn Photography from Side Hustle to Success Story - Ayanah George
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30:10If you’ve ever considered dipping your toes into a creative field, tune in to hear the journey of Ayanah George, a digital and film photographer who masterfully bridges the worlds of engineering and photography. From mastering double exposure techniques to embracing the beautiful imperfections of film photography, she shares intimate insights into …
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96. How to Build a Creative Career Rooted in Passion and Authenticity – Kelly Marshall
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44:52In this episode of This Is How We Create, we sit down with the talented photographer Kelly Marshall to explore the journey of turning passion into purpose. Throughout our conversation, Kelly emphasizes the power of building strong networks and lifting up other creatives, especially within the Black community. She reveals practical strategies for ba…
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95. How Art Will Save You: A Conversation with Intuitive Painter, Rashna Hackett
27:46
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27:46In this soul-stirring episode, Sheffield-based artist Rashna Hackett shares her extraordinary journey from a 35-year career in psychiatric nursing to discovering her calling as an artist at age 50. Born in Tanzania with memories of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Indian Ocean, Rashna reveals how art became her sanctuary during a period of workplace bully…
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94. How to Innovate Your Art with the Power of Augmented Reality - Steven Christian
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46:08Have you ever considered using Augmented Reality in your work? Meet creator, writer, and Augmented Reality developer Steven Christian as he shares his journey from a love for cartoons and video games. Steven shares how he came to find Iltopia Studios, where he blends storytelling with cutting-edge augmented reality (AR). He recounts how a pivotal A…
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93. How to Transform Your Creative Practice Through Crafted Kinship - Malene Barnett
56:21
56:21
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56:21Join us for a transformative conversation with multidisciplinary artist Malene Barnett, who shares her evolution from commercial textile designer to ceramicist, researcher, and cultural preservationist. In this episode, Barnett reveals how embracing her authentic artistic voice led to founding the Black Artists and Designers Guild (BADG), securing …
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92. How to Center the Black Experience in Your Photography - Akilah Townsend
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30:49In this soul-stirring episode of This Is How We Create, Townsend takes us behind the lens, sharing how she went from shooting personal projects in Chicago to commanding commercial sets – all while staying true to her roots. Through her surrealist-inspired imagery, Akilah isn't just making pictures; she's rewriting narratives and reclaiming Black st…
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91. How to Address Black Masculinity in Art - Fahamu Pecou (2023)
37:32
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37:32Some people wait to be chosen, hired, or validated. But others don't wait. They make their own path with determination. They use different tools, like guerrilla marketing, to get noticed. Dr. Fahamu Pecou is one of those people. Today on the podcast, you'll hear his inspiring journey from dreams of working as an animator to becoming an award-winnin…
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90. How to Navigate the Creative Journey as a Design Student – Ruby Lee
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22:58Graphic design student Ruby Lee reflects on her creative journey from childhood influences to balancing personal style with commercial design. She shares her dream of creating experiential events, the importance of mentorship, and how tackling untold stories fuel her creativity. Episode Overview: Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://marti…
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89. How to Build Your Interior Design Business from the Ground Up – Byron Risdon
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40:10Join us for an exclusive conversation with Byron Risdon, the interior design sensation taking the industry by storm. In this episode, Byron pulls back the curtain on his remarkable journey: From childhood dreams to design stardom: Discover the roots of Byron's passion Crafting a signature style: Learn how he developed his unique aesthetic Client wh…
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88. How To Market Your Artwork – Courtney Minor
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57:58In this episode of This Is How We Create, multidisciplinary artist Courtney Minor reveals how her emotions fuel her artistic process. From reigniting her creative spark in Vietnam to using art as therapy, Courtney also shares practical tips on how to market your artwork, how to use unconventional materials in your creative work and how to find your…
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87. How to Create Diverse Characters in Animation - Joshua Leonard
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36:21In our latest episode of 'This is How We Create,' we dive deep into the world of Joshua Leonard, the creator of Team Supreme. From his early days as a military kid sketching Garfield to pitching groundbreaking inclusive animated series to major networks, Joshua's journey is as inspiring as it is instructive. This episode unpacks: The impact of dive…
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86. How to Communicate to Your Specific Audience - Kendell Burton
56:24
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56:24Art director and graphic designer Kendell Burton shares his creative journey, from early influences to building a career at VaynerMedia—Discover the key questions to ask yourself to communicate better with your audience. Hear Kendell’s habits for success and his insights on fostering meaningful connections. Finally, if you love the horror film genr…
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85. How to Build a Production Company from The Ground Up - Chandra Lynch
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26:52Welcome back. On today's episode, theater producer, photographer and model, Chandra Lynch chats with us about how she turned her childhood passion for arts into a thriving production company. Dive into her world of emotion-driven creativity, from photography to theater. Learn the power of meditation in art and gain insider tips on pricing and brand…
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84. How to Blend Passion and Purpose in Your Creative Career - Morgan Bissant
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39:08Calling all creatives and aspiring illustrators! Tune in to hear the incredible journey of Morgan Bissant, a New Orleans artist who's turning her childhood passion into a thriving career. Discover: • How Morgan's early love for cartoons blossomed into a full-fledged illustration and graphic design career • The power of education in honing your craf…
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83. How to Trust Your Creative Process - Anastassia Whitty
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30:08In this episode of This Is How We Create, Anastassia Whitty, a talented creative, shares her journey from discovering photography to developing her own unique, cinematic style. Stassi shares how she captures raw emotions in her photography. She discusses the challenges of freelancing and offers advice on staying true to oneself in a creative career…
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