Jeff and Tobin are genuinely thrilled that you've chosen to spend your valuable time with Brush With Creativity.
Together, we'll unravel the threads of inspiration, creativity, and innovation that weave through the fabric of our diverse and dynamic world.
The Ed Draganski Interview
Summary
You can find Ed HERE
In this episode, Tobin and Jeff discuss their upcoming show format changes and encourage listeners to share the podcast with others. They then delve into a conversation about leadership styles, with Tobin sharing his perspective on servant leadership. They also discuss the importance of not limiting oneself with labels and the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone. The episode concludes with an interview with designer Ed Roganski, where he shares his journey into product design and his experiences working with brands like Dr. Pepper and Seven Up. Tobin K Pilotte reflects on his 34-year career in design and shares his insights and advice for young designers. He emphasizes the importance of working with others, being open to learning, and not passing up opportunities. Tobin also discusses his superpower of sourcing hard-to-find design materials and his kryptonite of balancing subjectivity and objectivity in design. He highlights the value of effective communication and the need to listen to clients' needs and preferences. The conversation explores the importance of the creative process and the value of traditional methods in art and design. The guest emphasizes the benefits of starting with pencil and paper rather than going straight to the screen, as it allows for more creative thinking and problem-solving. They discuss the journey and enjoyment of the creative process, highlighting the need to appreciate and embrace it. The conversation also touches on the legacy of AI in art and the importance of preserving traditional techniques and styles. The guest shares personal experiences and inspirations from their own creative journey.
Sound Bites
"Don't pass up an opportunity just because you think it's not the best you can do yet."
"Collaboration is very important. I'm not a good in a vacuum. I like to work with others."
"Be prepared to do some grunt work, you never know what you're gonna be learning."
"When you go straight to the screen, you've already solved without thinking about it, a gajillion problems in your head that are going to dictate what that end product looks like."
"A lot of people have forgotten about the process and the process matters."
"There's no shortcuts to taking that journey as an artist. If you don't take the journey and you go straight to the end, you kind of miss the whole point of why we do what we do."
The Jeanette Smith Interview
Summary
In this episode of Brush with Creativity, Tobin and Jeff interview Jeanette Smith, a copy editor, author, diver, and mermaid. They discuss the different ways people define and engage with creativity. They emphasize that creativity is not limited to art and can be applied to problem-solving and thinking outside the box. They also discuss the importance of listening to others and the role of copy editing in preserving an author's voice. Jeanette shares her morning routine and the challenges of being patient in the editing process. Jeanette shares her diverse background and how it has influenced her creative journey, from working in a cemetery to being a scuba diving instructor to becoming a mermaid. She emphasizes the importance of embracing different experiences and skills, as they all contribute to one's creative endeavors. Jeanette also discusses her upcoming book on mermaids and her plans to launch a self-editing course. She encourages aspiring writers to write messy and experiment, while advising aspiring copy editors to read extensively in their desired genres.
How to connect with Jeanette
Jeanette@jeanettethewriter.com
https://www.jeanettethewriter.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanette-writer-dallas/
Takeaways
Creativity can be expressed in various ways and is not limited to art.
Listening to others and understanding their perspectives can lead to fewer misunderstandings and more agreement.
Copy editing is about preserving an author's voice and enhancing their work.
Impatience can be a challenge in the editing process, but it's important to take the time to ensure quality.
Having a morning routine can help set the tone for a productive day. Embrace diverse experiences and skills, as they all contribute to your creative journey.
Write messy and experiment as a writer, and don't be afraid of rough drafts.
Read extensively in your desired genres to gain insights into language and storytelling techniques.
Don't be afraid to pursue new interests and hobbies, as they may lead to unexpected creative opportunities.
Titles
Exploring the Many Facets of Creativity
The Power of Listening and Understanding Writing Messy: The Power of Rough Drafts
Embracing Diverse Experiences: A Journey of a Writer
Sound Bites
"Creativity in itself is a loaded term."
"Not everybody is creative, and that's fine."
"Even the small things you do in this world have unseen consequences."
"I went from that to being a sexton's assistant, which is a sexton works in a cemetery."
"The big job I had like my first career was a scuba diving instructor."
"I have a big tattoo of an octopus on my shoulder. I've been able to interact with them in the wild on my scuba dives."
Psycho-Cybernetics Creative Mechanism
Summary
In this conversation, Tobin and Jeff discuss the book 'Psycho-Cybernetics' by Maxwell Maltz and its insights on creativity. They highlight the importance of being open to interesting conversations and how they can lead to unexpected places. They also emphasize the value of going back to the original sources of ideas and learning from the giants who came before us. The conversation delves into the concept of the creative mechanism and the five rules for optimizing creativity. They discuss the importance of doing your worrying before taking action, being present in the moment, recognizing and moving past past trauma, and more. In this conversation, Tobin and Jeff discuss the five rules for freeing your creative machinery, as outlined by Maxwell Maltz in his book Psycho-Cybernetics. The rules include gathering the facts, sketching a plan, and not worrying about the outcome; consciously responding to the present moment; doing one thing at a time; sleeping on it; and relaxing. They emphasize the importance of finding what works for you and experimenting with different relaxation techniques. They also discuss the idea that ideas and solutions can come to you as if you are remembering them, and the importance of seeking help if substances are needed to relax.
Takeaways
Engaging in interesting conversations can lead to unexpected and valuable insights.
Going back to the original sources of ideas can provide a solid foundation for growth and learning.
The creative mechanism is a channel through which ideas flow, and it can be optimized through conscious attention and presence in the moment.
Doing your worrying before taking action allows you to focus on the present and avoid analysis paralysis.
Recognizing and moving past past trauma can free up mental space for creativity and growth. Gather the facts, sketch a plan, and don't worry about the outcome.
Consciously respond to the present moment and focus on one thing at a time.
Sleep on it and trust that the solution will come.
Find what relaxes you and experiment with different techniques.
Seek help if substances are needed to relax.
The Ramona Patterson Fine Artist Interview
Summary
In this episode of Brush with Creativity, Tobin and Jeff interview artist Ramona Patterson. Ramona shares her journey as a creative person and discusses her various creative efforts, including painting, inventing, and performing. She emphasizes the importance of embracing creativity in all aspects of life and finding inspiration in everyday things. Ramona also talks about her love for art and her passion for creating. She shares insights on balancing creativity with other aspects of life and encourages listeners to pursue their creative passions. Ramona Patterson, a fine artist and boat wrap designer, shares her journey as a creative and the importance of finding your tribe. She emphasizes the need for balance between family, friends, and artwork, and the joy that comes from knowing your limits and relying on others. Ramona also discusses the role of inspiration in her creative process and the importance of getting out and engaging with the world. She challenges the stereotype of the tortured artist and encourages creatives to live every day with wonder and joy.
How to find and connect with Ramona:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramona-patterson/
Takeaways
Creativity can be found in all aspects of life, from art to cooking to science.
Embrace your creativity and make time for the things you love.
Find inspiration in everyday things and let it guide your creative process.
Don't be afraid to take risks and try new things in your creative journey.
Support and connect with other creative individuals to fuel your own creativity. Find your tribe of dreamers and doers who inspire and support you.
Balance family, friends, and artwork to maintain a fulfilling creative life.
Know your limits and rely on others to help you achieve your creative goals.
Seek inspiration from the world around you and engage with other artists and creatives.
Challenge the stereotype of the tortured artist and embrace a life filled with wonder and joy.
Failure to Launch - Analysis Paralysis
Summary
In this episode of Brush with Creativity, Tobin and Jeff discuss analysis paralysis and how to overcome it. They emphasize the importance of having a plan of action and a support system, as well as the need to just start doing the work, even if you don't feel motivated. They also talk about the value of play and how it can help unlock creativity. They encourage listeners to reevaluate their goals and expectations and to find joy in the process of creating. In this conversation, Tobin and Jeff discuss the importance of play and breaking free from conditioning in order to unleash creativity. They emphasize the need to detach from the outcome and focus on the process of creating. They also explore the role of self-help books and the importance of taking action and implementing what is learned. The conversation concludes with a reminder to be kind and loving to oneself and to embrace the unexpected and unconventional in the creative journey.
Takeaways
Have a plan of action and a support system to help overcome analysis paralysis
Just start doing the work, even if you don't feel motivated
Embrace play and find joy in the process of creating
Reevaluate your goals and expectations to find what truly brings you fulfillment Play and experimentation are essential for overcoming creative ruts and analysis paralysis.
Breaking free from conditioning and embracing the unexpected can lead to new and exciting creative breakthroughs.
Self-help books can provide valuable insights, but it's important to take action and implement what is learned.
Being kind and loving to oneself is crucial for nurturing creativity and embracing imperfections.
Embracing the unconventional and exploring new environments and methods can spark fresh ideas and perspectives.
The Brad Long Interview
Check our our guest Brad Long
https://www.linkedin.com/in/reformedblong/
https://twitter.com/bradlongco
Summary
In this episode Jeff and Tobin have an opportunity to talk to a world class entrepreneur who specializes in helping people become successful entrepreneurs. Brad Long, an entrepreneur with a background in sales and music, shares his journey and insights into building a successful online business. He emphasizes the importance of validating your market niche and setting realistic expectations for the time and effort it takes to succeed. Brad also discusses the challenges that creative individuals face when it comes to marketing and sales, and offers advice on how to overcome imposter syndrome. He advocates for optimizing for relationships rather than scale, and highlights the significance of community and support in the entrepreneurial journey. Brad's superpowers include his faith and his hunger for clarity.
In this conversation, Tobin and Jeff interview Brad Long, an entrepreneur and musician, about his journey and insights into creative entrepreneurship. They discuss the importance of serving a community and focusing on the needs of the audience. Brad emphasizes the need to balance passion with finding a niche that is receptive and financially viable. They also touch on the challenges of clarity and the myth of overnight success. Brad shares recommended books and resources for creative entrepreneurs. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of realistic expectations and the entrepreneurial mindset in pursuing creative endeavors.
Takeaways
Validate your market niche and ensure there are players with money and an enthusiastic audience.
Set realistic expectations for the time and effort it takes to build a successful online business.
Overcome imposter syndrome by understanding that marketing and sales are about connecting the right people with the transformation you offer.
Optimize for relationships rather than scale, focusing on serving the people in front of you.
Build a supportive community and seek guidance from mentors and coaches.
Embrace your faith and develop a hunger for clarity in your entrepreneurial journey. Focus on serving a community and meeting their needs as a creative entrepreneur.
Balance passion with finding a niche that is receptive and financially viable.
Clarity is crucial in entrepreneurial endeavors; lack of clarity can lead to going through the motions without results.
Realistic expectations are important; overnight success is a myth.
Recommended books for creative entrepreneurs include 'Hooked on You' by Ian Harris, 'Ploductivity' by Doug, and works by Scott Adams and Seth Godin.
The John Linford Interview
Data and storytelling unite at a place that will inspire you!
How to Find John Linford
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-linford/
Professional Website
Portfolio
https://john-linford.carrd.co/
Summary
In this episode of Brush with Creativity, Tobin and Jeff interview John Linford, a statistical storyteller, magician, and writer. John's unique blend of strategy and data helps early-stage businesses turn complex data into actionable stories. He shares his background, hobbies, and his superpower of distilling complexity. John discusses the importance of reading and how it enhances his creative abilities. He also talks about his kryptonite, shiny object syndrome, and the challenge of staying focused.
John's motivation comes from adding value, both professionally and personally. He emphasizes the role of spirituality in feeding creativity and the importance of seeking something higher. The conversation explores the balance between creativity and business, the power of turning numbers into stories, and John's experiences as a magician. The episode concludes with a discussion about John's appearance on Channel 11 and his business idea of providing book summaries for executives. In this conversation,
John discusses his experience with ghost reading, a unique approach to coaching where he reads books on behalf of clients and translates the insights into actionable steps. He explores the value of reading by oneself and the limitations of trying to replicate that experience through a service. John also delves into the evolution of reading and the impact of the internet on deep, immersive reading experiences. He shares his thoughts on the future of writing in a world driven by quick snippets of information and the role of AI in the creative process. John emphasizes the importance of finding balance, overcoming inner voices, and caring deeply. He concludes by discussing his work in building an agency focused on storytelling through pitch decks and presentations.
Takeaways
John Linford combines strategy and data to help early-stage businesses turn complex data into actionable stories.
Reading is a key component of John's creative superpower, allowing him to distill complexity and understand complex topics.
John's kryptonite is shiny object syndrome, which leads him to jump from one hobby or interest to another.
John is motivated by adding value, both professionally and personally, and seeks to create meaningful and impactful work.
Spirituality plays a significant role in feeding John's creativity, and he believes in seeking something higher to enhance creative abilities. Ghost reading is a unique coaching approach where the coach reads books on behalf of clients and translates the insights into actionable steps.
Reading by oneself has inherent value that cannot be fully replicated through a service or summary.
The internet has changed the way we read, leading to more piecemeal and fragmented reading experiences.
There is a need for deeper, longer thought and a return to old styles of reading and writing.
Generative AI can be a powerful tool for creativity, but it is important to maintain individuality and voice in the creative process.
Finding balance and overcoming inner voices are essential for staying motivated and productive.
Caring deeply about others and their stories can lead to personal growth and transformation.
Pitch decks and presentations are powerful tools for storytelling and conveying brand messages.
Entering a Flow State
What is a flow state and just how do you get there?
Summary
In this episode, we discuss the concept of getting into a state of flow with creative work. We explore the importance of timing and accepting imperfections in the creative process. We also discuss the balance between forcing creativity and allowing it to flow naturally. The conversation emphasizes the need to create the right environment and explore different mediums to enhance creativity. In this episode we also emphasize the value of consistency and the impact of showing up consistently in creative pursuits.
Overall, the conversation provides insights and strategies for optimizing the state of flow in creative work. This conversation explores methods to unblock and find inspiration, the importance of discipline and avoiding distractions, the benefits of collaboration and routine, the power of journaling, the value of exploring and experiencing life, the role of variety and self-awareness, dealing with inner critics and taking small steps, using research and being mindful of distractions, seeking help and support from others, the benefits of journaling and self-reflection, the importance of the creative process, the dangers of instant gratification and AI, the value of the creative journey, the role of philosophy and humanities in creativity, breaking through creative ruts, and understanding the creative process.
Takeaways
Timing plays a crucial role in getting into a state of flow with creative work.
Accepting imperfections and embracing the unexpected are important aspects of the creative process.
Creating the right environment and exploring different mediums can enhance creativity.
Consistency and showing up consistently are key to unlocking the state of flow in creative pursuits. Explore different methods to unblock and find inspiration, such as visualization and mindfulness practices.
Maintain discipline and avoid distractions, especially when using technology and the internet for research.
Collaborate with other artists and establish routines that work best for your creative process.
Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and clearing the mind.
Take time to explore and experience life outside of the creative process to gain new perspectives and inspiration.
Embrace variety and self-awareness to overcome creative blocks and maintain a fresh perspective.
Deal with inner critics and take small steps towards your creative goals.
Use research effectively while being mindful of the distractions and pitfalls of the internet.
Seek help and support from other artists and creatives when facing creative challenges.
Journaling can be a valuable practice for personal growth and creative expression.
Focus on the creative process and the journey rather than solely on the end result.
Be cautious of the dangers of instant gratification and the over-reliance on AI in the creative process.
Recognize the value of philosophy and humanities in nurturing creativity and critical thinking.
Break through creative ruts by exploring new ideas, seeking inspiration, and embracing discomfort.
Understand and appreciate the creative process, including the challenges and rewards it brings.
Creatives will change the world…
Summary
In this episode, Tobin and Jeff explore the concept of creativity and where ideas come from. They discuss the Theosophists and their belief in the Akashic records, a hall of records containing all human knowledge. They also touch on Carl Jung's concept of the collective consciousness and the influence of the Theosophical Society on the New Age movement. The conversation delves into the struggle between science and faith and the role of spirituality in creativity. They conclude by discussing the story of Krishnamurti and the idea that inspiration comes from a source outside of ourselves. This conversation explores the influence of esoteric ideas on creativity and the impact of spiritual and metaphysical movements on artists throughout history. It delves into the concept of extreme expressions of creativity and the ways in which alternative views of the physical world shape artistic expression. The conversation also touches on the role of myths and religions in understanding truth and the evolution of ideas on creativity. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of connecting with the Brush with Creativity community and fostering a community of like-minded individuals.
Takeaways
Creativity is often fueled by ideas that seem to come from a source outside of ourselves.
The Theosophists believed in the Akashic records, a hall of records containing all human knowledge.
Theosophy and the New Age movement have had a profound influence on modern spirituality and creative thinking.
The struggle between science and faith continues to shape our understanding of creativity and inspiration. Esoteric ideas and spiritual movements have shaped and influenced creativity throughout history.
Artists often explore alternative views of the physical world and seek to transcend traditional boundaries.
Creativity is a universal human endeavor that taps into a source beyond the physical realm.
Myths and religions offer different perspectives on truth and inspire artistic expression.
Summary
In this episode, Tobin and Jeff interview Jared Williams, a multi-talented creative with a diverse background in design, UX, and AI. Jared shares his journey from being a mechanic to working in design and UX for over 20 years. He discusses his passion for creativity and how he uses AI as a tool to bring his ideas to life. Jared also talks about his project, Campfire, and his vision for a better world. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of human connection and the need for authenticity in the digital age.
Takeaways
Creativity can manifest in various ways and across different industries.
AI can be a powerful tool for creatives, helping them explore ideas and bring their visions to life.
Human connection and authenticity are essential in a world increasingly dominated by technology.
Mistakes and failures can lead to unexpected and creative outcomes.
Summary
In this episode, Tobin and Jeff explore the topic of adaptability and flexibility in the creative process. They discuss the different perspectives on adaptability and how it can be born from personal experiences. They also delve into the challenges of being adaptable in various life situations and career transitions. The hosts provide steps to enhance adaptability, including reframing problems as opportunities and engaging in a reflective process. They emphasize the importance of having a support network and learning from others, as well as incorporating spiritual beliefs in adaptability. The episode concludes with a message of gratitude to the listeners.
Takeaways
Adaptability and flexibility are crucial aspects of the creative process.
Adaptability can be born from personal experiences and challenges.
Reframing problems as opportunities can enhance adaptability.
Having a support network and learning from others can aid in adaptability.
Incorporating spiritual beliefs can provide guidance in adaptability.
Who drops 3 shows a week?
Engage with the creative muses! Join Jeff and Tobin as they go on a conversational journey through the landscape of ideas and muses.
Summary
In this episode of A Brush with Creativity, the hosts discuss the process of getting in touch with one's personal muse as an artist or writer. They explore the idea of immersion in creativity, emphasizing the importance of diving in and fully embracing the creative process. They also delve into the ancient beliefs and practices surrounding creativity, highlighting the connection between spirituality and artistic expression. The hosts discuss the concept of ceremonial magic and its role in creativity, as well as the significance of finding personal rituals that enhance the creative experience. They conclude by addressing the challenges of navigating resistance and distractions in the creative journey. In this conversation, Tobin and Jeff discuss various aspects of creativity and how to tap into your personal muse. They explore topics such as fear of public speaking, overcoming resistance and discomfort, creating without expectations or judgment, living a creative life, detaching from feelings and judgments, not taking yourself too seriously, consistency and openness, and embracing the ebb and flow of inspiration.
Takeaways
Embrace the process of immersion in creativity, diving in and fully embracing the creative process.
Recognize the connection between spirituality and artistic expression, and explore ancient beliefs and practices surrounding creativity.
Consider the role of ceremonial magic in creativity, using rituals and symbols to enhance the creative experience.
Find personal rituals that enhance your creative process and help you connect with your personal muse. Public speaking is a common fear that many people can relate to. The first time speaking in public can be nerve-wracking, but it's important to push past the discomfort.
When engaging with creativity, it's crucial to detach yourself from feelings and judgments. Focus on the process and the experience rather than the end result.
Getting in touch with your personal muse involves being nonjudgmental of your creations, living a creative life, and embracing the spiritual and awe-inspiring aspects of creativity.
Consistency and openness are key to nurturing creativity. Make creativity a part of your daily routine and be open to the inspiration that comes.
Embrace the ebb and flow of inspiration in your creative journey. Indulge in your craft and find inspiration in the unexpected.
Summary
This conversation explores the origins and nature of creativity, discussing topics such as the role of faith in creativity, the impact of psychedelics on artistic inspiration, and the connection between artists. The conversation also delves into the importance of conversations and the tribal nature of artists. It concludes by emphasizing the limitless potential of creativity and the need to embrace inspiration in our creative journeys.
Takeaways
Creativity is a force that has always been with us, from nature to human evolution.
The source of creativity is a mystery, with external transmissions and internal spirits playing a role.
Psychedelics can enhance creativity and provide access to the spirit world.
Artists are drawn to each other for validation, appreciation, and the comfort of a creative tribe.
Conversations and connections with other artists are essential for inspiration and creative growth.
Summary
In this episode of A Brush with Creativity, host Tobin Pilati and co-host Jeff Sublick interview special guest Justin Johnson, a musician and motivational life coach. Justin shares his profoundly spiritual view of creativity and how he uses his creative work to help others. The conversation explores topics such as finding inspiration, overcoming perfectionism, and the importance of self-mastery. Justin also opens up about his upbringing and the journey of self-healing he has embarked on. The episode concludes with a discussion on the H3 concept: hurting, hiding, and healing. In this conversation, Justin discusses the importance of connecting with the right people and gathering quotes from various sources. He shares how he shapes quotes to fit his personal story and how he finds inspiration and guidance from God. Justin also talks about overcoming imposter syndrome and the importance of self-mastery. He emphasizes the value of reflecting on the past and learning from others. Justin discusses the process of incremental improvement and repurposing ideas. He also shares his current projects and his passion for life coaching.
Takeaways
Creativity can be a powerful tool for helping and inspiring others.
Overcoming perfectionism is essential in the creative process.
Self-mastery and a morning routine can contribute to personal growth and success.
Turning pain into purpose can lead to healing and positive change. Connecting with the right people is crucial for personal growth and making a positive impact.
Gathering quotes and learning from the past can provide inspiration and guidance.
Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt is essential for creative success.
Reflecting on the past and learning from others can lead to personal and creative growth.
Incremental improvement and repurposing ideas can lead to creative breakthroughs.
Self-mastery and focusing on the journey are key to achieving creative goals.