Your World of Creativity

Mark Stinson

On YOUR WORLD OF CREATIVITY, best-selling author and global brand innovator, Mark Stinson introduces you to some of the world’s leading creative talent from publishing, film, animation, music, restaurants, medical research, and more. In every episode, you'll discover: - How to tap into your most original thinking. - Inspiration from the experts’ own experience. - Specific tools, exercises, and formulas to organize your ideas. - And most of all, you’ll learn how to make connections

 and create opportunities to publish, post, record, display, sell, market, and promote
 your creative work. Listen for the latest insights for creative people who want to stop questioning themselves and overcome obstacles to launch their creative endeavors out into the world. Connect with Mark at www.Mark-Stinson.com read less
ArtsArts

Episodes

Victoria Simmonds, UK Indie Singer-Songwriter
Mar 18 2024
Victoria Simmonds, UK Indie Singer-Songwriter
On this episode of YOUR WORLD OF CREATIVITY, welcome singer-songwriter Victoria Simmonds.Victoria's Website @officialvictoria_music on Instagram Victoria's Facebook page Victoria's Musical Journey: From performing in theater and cabaret acts to discovering and creating her own music, Victoria shares her evolution as an artist, driven by her passion for creativity.The Inspiration Behind "Let's Do Happy": Victoria discusses the irony and relevance of her debut album's title, reflecting on its origins and the impact of her music during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.Recognition by BBC Introducing Solent: Victoria recounts the excitement of having one of her songs featured on BBC Introducing Solent, highlighting the importance of platforms that support local talent.Influences and Musical Style: Victoria shares her eclectic influences, from Neil Diamond to Spice Girls, and describes her music as a personal expression across various genres and styles.Future Projects and Collaborations: With new collaborations on the horizon and plans for festivals and competitions, Victoria gives insight into her upcoming projects and musical endeavors.Highlight Quote from Victoria: "When you enjoy creating things, you want to try all sorts of different methods... my own music ends up being a very personal expression through creativity."Victoria Simmonds is a local independent pop/ alt-rock singer-songwriter. Having been raised in both the New Forest and Western France she has benefited from a wide variety of musical styles. Her passion for music has always been strong. After performing in musical theatre and cabaret acts she started her journey to discovering her own music. In 2021 she released her first album “Let's do Happy” and since then has continued to release new and meaningful songs, one of which was recognised by BBC Introducing Solent in 2023 and performed at gigs, concerts and festivals. During her career she has amazed audiences across Europe including France, Cyprus, Germany, Belgium and Mallorca with her powerful tones.
Kiaundra Jackson, marriage and family therapist, author, and media personality
Mar 11 2024
Kiaundra Jackson, marriage and family therapist, author, and media personality
On today's YOUR WORLD OF CREATIVITY: Kiaundra Jackson, licensed marriage and family therapist, author, and media personality, discusses her multifaceted career.https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiaundrajackson@kiaundrajackson on Instagram Kiaundra on YouTube Kiaundra's Facebook page Kiaundra's Website - Navigating Identity and Profession: Kiaundra shares her challenges explaining her diverse roles to her parents, highlighting the complexity of her career.- Therapy Approach: Kiaundra emphasizes her raw and authentic approach to therapy, focusing on deep emotional work while providing support and guidance.- Media Attention and Authenticity: She discusses media interest in her authentic approach, emphasizing the importance of consistency and personal branding. - Cultural Awareness and Mental Health: Kiaundra advocates for cultural inclusivity in therapy, striving to make mental health resources more accessible to people of color.- Starting Therapy: She advises clients to approach therapy with honesty and openness, emphasizing the importance of building rapport and setting realistic expectations.- Personal Journey: Kiaundra shares her non-linear path to becoming a therapist, highlighting the importance of perseverance and self-discovery.- Crafting Stories in Writing: She discusses the challenge of sharing relatable stories while maintaining client confidentiality, emphasizing the value of authenticity.- Entering the Speaking Industry: Kiaundra advises aspiring speakers to focus on honing their craft and building a personal brand to stand out in the competitive speaking industry.- Balancing Work and Personal Life: She stresses the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care to maintain balance amidst professional commitments.Highlights:- Kiaundra's raw and authentic therapeutic approach resonates with clients, attracting media attention and establishing her as a thought leader in mental health.- She emphasizes the need for cultural inclusivity in therapy, striving to make mental health resources accessible to marginalized communities.- Kiaundra advises aspiring speakers to focus on honing their craft and building a personal brand to succeed in the competitive speaking industry.- Maintaining work-life balance is crucial for Kiaundra, who prioritizes self-care and sets boundaries to preserve her well-being amidst professional commitments.- Through perseverance and self-discovery, Kiaundra navigated a non-linear path to becoming a therapist, emphasizing the importance of resilience and determination.Key Takeaway Quote from Kiaundra:"Your therapist can't want you to heal and be better more than you want to heal and for you to be better. So you have to have that tenacity to want more for yourself."Join our journey of unlocking creativity again in the next episode!
Dianna Kokoszka, Trainer and Author "Becoming More"
Mar 4 2024
Dianna Kokoszka, Trainer and Author "Becoming More"
Welcome to Unlocking Your World of Creativity with today's guest, Diana Kokoszkahttps://becomingmorebook.com/- Diana shares insights from her new book, "Becoming More," and discusses the power of training the brain to think differently for enhanced creativity and success.- Neuroplasticity and Thought Patterns: Diana explains how repetitive thoughts create neural pathways, likening it to walking the same path across grass, and emphasizes the importance of breaking old thought patterns to foster creativity and growth.- Creative Problem-Solving: Diana shares her journey from a struggling single parent to a successful real estate agent through innovative approaches like door-to-door networking and creative marketing strategies.- The Role of Mentors: Reflecting on her mentors like John Maxwell and Zig Ziglar, Diana emphasizes the importance of learning from both successes and failures, highlighting the value of mentorship in personal and professional growth.- Overcoming Challenges:*Diana candidly discusses facing financial setbacks and emphasizes the importance of resilience, mindset, and facing challenges head-on, rather than avoiding or denying them.- Abundance Mindset and Legacy: Diana advocates for cultivating an abundance mindset, combating scarcity and doubt, and shares practical techniques from her book to retrain the brain for confidence, gratitude, and success.Key Pull-out Quote: "No one succeeds alone. Every single person that has ever made it big... always had others that helped them... It's not the circumstances we're in that make our life journey. It's the decisions we make around the circumstances we're in that cause our life journey." Listeners are encouraged to explore Diana's book, "Becoming More," and her upcoming events for practical strategies to unlock their creativity and achieve personal and professional growth. Join the journey of unlocking creativity in the next episode!
Nismah Osman, Songwriter and Music Producer
Feb 26 2024
Nismah Osman, Songwriter and Music Producer
Join us on "Unlocking Your World of Creativity" as we dive into the musical journey with the incredible Nismah Osman. Nismah's Website @nismahosman on Instagram Here are some key takeaways:Nismah's early music exploration began with an old piano, leading to a lifelong passion for songwriting and recording.She shares insights into her creative process, emphasizing the importance of a strong concept as the heart of a song.Nismah's dedication to her craft led her to study under industry legends, shaping her songwriting skills.Sync licensing became a pivotal avenue for Nismah, with placements on major networks, demonstrating an alternative path for musicians beyond traditional avenues.Nismah's mission is to empower emerging artists, guiding them through the complexities of the music industry, with a focus on sync licensing as a viable and lucrative option.To punctuate the episode, enjoy snippets of Nismah's original tracks: "Have You In My Dream," "Sexy Today," and "Nasty Woman." (All music is copyrighted by the artist and used with permission.)Connect on her website www.nismahosman.com or find her on Instagram @NismahOsman. She's not just sharing music; she's sharing a roadmap to success! Thanks to our sponsor: Exact Rush B I'm Nismah, a songwriter, music producer, vocalist and businessperson with a penchant for outside-the-box thinking. I help musicians of all kinds & from all walks of life to increase their income while honoring their passion and working LESS. My expertise primarily caters to aspiring musicians of all kinds who are struggling to make music their "full-time" job. I understand the challenges they face and offer tried and true strategies for increasing cash flow in their music business. Over my 17-year career in music, I've secured over 200 sync licensing placements in films and tv shows, studied hit songwriting techniques with pop songwriting legend Kara DioGuardi (P!nk, Jason Derulo, Kelly Clarkson, American Idol), and taught songwriting and music business classes to the next generation of songwriters at my alma mater, Berklee College of Music ('19, '22).
Susan Steiner, Author and Human Design Coach
Feb 19 2024
Susan Steiner, Author and Human Design Coach
Welcome back, friends, to our podcast, unlocking your world of creativity. In our globetrotting adventures, today we're in Zurich, Switzerland, chatting with the multi-talented Susan Steiner. Susan's Website Susan's Facebook page She's not just an author but also a human design aficionado, executive coach, grandmother, and more. Our conversation dives into the intriguing intersection of her diverse roles and her unique approach to creativity.Susan shares how human design, a technology she uses in coaching, shapes her characters. Through her August Burns series, she crafts individuals based on her grandchildren's human design charts. In this creative fusion, characters feel authentic, relatable, and delightfully flawed.In a lively excerpt from "Murder by Manuscript," we witness the charming meeting of August Burns and the cowgirl of his dreams, Rita. Susan's writing is both approachable and detailed, setting the stage for a thrilling murder mystery.Five Highlights:1. Susan's multidimensional roles, blending into a theme of embracing individuality.2. Human design as a tool for character development, creating relatable and authentic personas.3. Susan's engaging and relatable writing style, illustrated through a snippet from "Murder by Manuscript."4. The family and friend collaborations enriching Susan's writing process.5. A sneak peek into the upcoming third book, promising more excitement and a diabolical villain in Texas.Key Quote from Susan:"I don't tell my clients what to do. I don't tell my characters what to do. I don't like to tell people what to do. And I definitely don't like to be told what to do."Murder mystery novelist Susan D. Steiner is a Human Design aficionado, grandmother of four, and Executive Coach, living in Switzerland. Currently busy writing book three in the August Burns series, she bases her characters on the Human Design charts of real people, including her four grandchildren. This makes for fun, in depth stories of real-life heroes and villains set in Zurich, London, Charlotte, and San Antonio. Thanks to our sponsor,Exact Rush B
Ana Gabriel and John David Mann, Authors of "The Go-Giver Marriage"
Feb 12 2024
Ana Gabriel and John David Mann, Authors of "The Go-Giver Marriage"
In this engaging podcast interview (re-issued from April 2022 with co-host, Kirstin Hanson), John David Mann and Ana Gabriel Mann, coauthors of "The Go-Giver Marriage," share insights into building a successful and fulfilling relationship. The conversation revolves around the principles outlined in their book, which incorporates the Go-Giver philosophy into the realm of marriage. https://gogivermarriage.com/Here are 5 key highlights from the interview:1. **The Go-Giver Approach to Marriage:** The Manns introduce the concept of applying the Go-Giver principles to marriage, emphasizing the importance of generosity, care, and nourishment in building a lasting relationship.2. **The Parable and The Practice:** The book is structured into two halves, with the first half presenting a parable about a couple facing challenges, and the second half offering practical advice and actionable steps, referred to as "The Practice," to implement the principles in real life.3. **The Usness of Marriage:** The metaphor of a tree is introduced to represent the collective entity of a couple – the "us." The tree needs continuous care, symbolizing the importance of nurturing the relationship to ensure its growth and sustainability.4. **Daily Actions for Lasting Love:** The Manns stress the simplicity and practicality of the five secrets outlined in the book. These daily actions, when consistently practiced, lead to a shift in mindset, fostering a positive and enriching atmosphere in the marriage.5. **Application Beyond Marriage:** While the book focuses on marriage, the principles are versatile and can be applied to various relationships, including those in the workplace. The Manns encourage listeners to bring these practices into their professional and personal interactions.The interview offers a compelling blend of personal anecdotes, professional expertise, and actionable advice, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their relationships through a Go-Giver mindset.Thanks to our sponsor,Exact Rush B
Joana Sa Lima, Architect Partner at Compte Bureau
Feb 5 2024
Joana Sa Lima, Architect Partner at Compte Bureau
Welcome back to "Unlocking Your World of Creativity." In this episode, host Mark engages in a captivating conversation with Joana Sa Lima, an architect and designer based in Oslo, Norway. They explore the multifaceted nature of creativity, delving into the process of getting inspired, organizing ideas, and building confidence to make impactful connections.Joana's Website @comte_bureau on Instagram Highlights:1. **Diverse Creative Background:** Joana shares her unique journey from Portugal to Italy, Berlin, Holland, and finally, Oslo. Each experience enriched her creative thinking, providing a unique blend of architectural influences and technical expertise.2. **Impact of Design on Sustainability:** The discussion focuses on the societal impact of design, particularly in addressing environmental causes and sustainability. Joana emphasizes the importance of research-driven design and how it extends beyond creating aesthetically pleasing structures.3. **Social Sciences in Design:** Joana's company, Comte Bureau, is a bridge between architecture and social sciences. They use design thinking, sociology, anthropology, and psychology to inform their decisions, solving societal issues through innovative and thoughtful design.4. **Collaboration and Innovation:** Collaboration emerges as a key theme, both in the academic realm and in addressing global challenges like COVID-19. Joana underscores the need for continued collaboration to overcome societal issues, encouraging a shift from individual achievements to collective impact.5. **Challenges in the Current Climate:** Joana addresses the challenges posed by the current geopolitical climate, emphasizing the importance of sustained innovation and investment in solving societal problems. She warns against the dangers of defunding innovation and the potential loss of progress made during critical times.6. **Encouragement for Creatives:** The conversation concludes with a call for creatives to listen actively, break out of echo chambers, and embrace diversity. Joana emphasizes that, now more than ever, understanding different perspectives is crucial for personal and societal growth.Key Quote from Joana Sa Lima:*"More than ever, we should be listening. We are in these echo chambers, and we are creating even deeper echo chambers. We only care about those that actually speak the same tone of voice that we do and that care about the same colors that we do. And that is the wrong thing to do, in my opinion. We should actually be much more aware, making this cross or opening up to the differences that we all have is what's going to make us better and what's going to make us survive, in a way."*In this insightful episode, Joana Sa Lima provides a thought-provoking perspective on the intersection of creativity, design, and societal impact, urging listeners to consider the broader implications of their creative endeavors.Joana, educated in Porto, Rome, and Berlin, has had a dynamic career with experiences in the Netherlands, New York, and Norway. Working with OMA-Rem Koolhaas, she developed a passion for research-driven design. In 2008, she co-founded 'CONDITIONS,' a Scandinavian architecture magazine, shortlisted for the CICA Pierre Vago Journalism Award and participating in the III Moscow Architecture Biennale and Venice Biennale. In 2012, Joana co-founded Comte Bureau to address societal challenges. This consultancy integrates social sciences and design thinking with architecture to foster conscious innovation and human-centric solutions, shaping policies, services, and urban spaces. Joana's impact extends to academia and architectural competitions, lecturing, and serving as a jury member. She...
Gabe Bolkosky, Violinist and Music Educator
Jan 29 2024
Gabe Bolkosky, Violinist and Music Educator
Welcome back to *Unlocking Your World of Creativity,* where we explore diverse creative pursuits. In this episode, we chat with acclaimed violinist Gabe Bolkosky, known for his inclusive approach to music and innovative projects.Gabe's Website 1. Gabe's Musical Journey: Explore Gabe's unique approach to music and his inclusive philosophy, aiming to connect deeply with the audience.2. Inclusive Music: Learn about Gabe's embracing of inclusiveness in his performances and how it became a fundamental aspect of his creative process.3. Collaborative Creativity: Gabe shares insights into collaborating with other musicians, emphasizing vulnerability, trust, and the importance of nurturing a connection.4. Genre Spanning: Discover Gabe's experiences in transitioning from classical to genres like tango and jazz, and the distinct approaches required for each.5. Innovation in Music: Explore how Gabe incorporates innovation into his musical endeavors, especially during the challenging years of the pandemic.6. Education for Happiness: Gabe introduces his practice support program, offering a unique blend of education and happiness in music, catering to musicians of all ages and levels.For more on Gabe and his projects, visit Gabe's Website @rollinpractice on Instagram Gabe on YouTube Gabe's Facebook page Violinist and violist Gabe Bolkosky has been praised for the way he "takes audiences into his confidence and includes them" and described as having "the serenity of a master without a hint of coldness." He performs a diverse repertoire of classical and contemporary works with different collaborative artists from many musical genres in many of the great concert halls. Coming in 2024, Gabe will release Mozart's Milanese quartets with the Bayberry String Quartet. He has performed and taught across the United States and abroad, working with all ages of musicians. As a member of the Bayberry String Quartet, he recently pioneered an online approach to music-making and collaboration from home. His organization, Education for Happiness, recently launched PhoenixPhest Virtual Chamber Music Immersive and Rollin’ Daily Practice Support, culminating a 20 year in-person program. His focus educationally has been to help musicians of all ages and stages with a focus on inclusion.
GUEST REUNION: Reconnecting with Guests from Over the Years
Jan 22 2024
GUEST REUNION: Reconnecting with Guests from Over the Years
In this landmark 300th episode, the host is joined by past guests, each on a distinctive creative journey.Guest Introductions:1. Nikki Nash - Author of "Market Your Genius." - Successfully published with Hay House despite unconventional methods. - Engaged in consulting, focusing on coaching businesses and community building. Highlights: - Reflects on the success of her book, "Market Your Genius," connecting her with a broader audience. - Emphasizes the importance of building a community and sustainable coaching businesses. - Plans to relaunch her accelerator program in 2024.Key Takeaways: - Approach connections by offering service and support without immediate expectations. - Building relationships by being present and available, even without an agenda.2. Boris Meshkov - Filmmaker and video producer based in Bangkok, Thailand. - Recently completed his first short film, gaining attention at a local film meeting. Highlights: - Overcame challenges with limited resources and time constraints. - Showcased the film at a local event, gaining positive feedback. - Attracted interest from producers and investors for future projects. Key Takeaways: - Overcoming limitations with creativity and resourcefulness in filmmaking. - Leveraging local events and showcases to connect with industry professionals.3. Marlene Sharp - Involved in animation and Japanese animation production. - Connected with Rich Magallanes from Nickelodeon through industry events. Discussion Highlights: - Shares the experience of attending networking "shindigs" organized by Rich. - Emphasizes the value of spontaneous gatherings for industry professionals. Key Takeaways: - The importance of spontaneous gatherings for networking in the creative industry. - The value of being part of a community, connecting with professionals in the field.4. Allyson Hernandez - Author and creator of the musical "A Ballad of Dreams." - Released an audiobook combined with a concept album of the musical. - Raised $70,000 to produce an industry reading in New York. Highlights: - Started as a book, later transformed into a musical. - Recorded 17 songs from the musical in a studio. - Combined an audiobook with the concept album for a unique experience. Takeaway: - Creativity can take unexpected turns; pivoting and adapting is crucial in the creative process.5. Michaell Magrutsche - Author of "The Smart of Art." - Advocates for the true value of art: creation, perception, and exposure. - Emphasizes the importance of sharing creativity with others. Highlights: - Art's true value lies in creation, perception, and exposure. - Encourages artists to embrace their unique creativity. - Highlights the importance of sharing creative work with others. Takeaway: - The true value of art lies in creating, perceiving, and exposing; creativity is a discipline that should be practiced.6. Elizabeth Hanson - Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer at Dramafy. - Manages an audio drama streaming service with nearly 250 shows. - Focused on improving user experience and technology for creators. Highlights: - Expanded to nearly 250 shows on the streaming service. - Focused on improving technology, including a new player and mobile apps. - Seeking collaborations and more content in areas like children's shows and romances. Takeaway: - Audio dramas require more scripting, sound design, and scoring than audiobooks; Dramafy is seeking collaborations, especially in children's content and romances.7....
Jacqueline Suskin, Poet and Author, "A Year in Practice"
Jan 8 2024
Jacqueline Suskin, Poet and Author, "A Year in Practice"
Welcome back to "Unlocking Your World of Creativity," where today's episode dives into the transformative power of seasonal rituals and prompts with our guest, poet Jacqueline Suskin. In her latest book, "A Year in Practice," she explores the cyclical nature of creativity, aligning it with the seasons to awaken our cycles of expression. Jacqueline 's Website @jsuskin on Instagram - Jacqueline emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with one's creative practice, understanding its rhythm, and recognizing the profound influence of the natural world.- The book unfolds the seasons as chapters, offering insights into when to retreat, reflect, expand, and wind down in alignment with the Earth's cyclical energies.- Creativity is a dance with the seasons, and the book encourages creatives to embrace the ebb and flow of their practice rather than prescribing rigid routines.- The podcast delves into the intersection of creativity and the unpredictability of life, exploring how to turn setbacks into opportunities through strategic preparation.Excerpt:"Imagine all of the life underground that is waiting for spring. Envision the resting roots, the sleeping creatures, and everything below the surface that is paused for the season. Feel the fullness of this stillness. Feel the necessity of this calmness."As we embark on 2024, Jacqueline leaves us with a gentle nudge to embrace the winter season of reflection, urging us to tend to our mind, body, and spirit. By aligning our energy, we create the fertile ground for the next leap in our creative journey. Winter, with its slow pace, becomes the perfect canvas for crafting a vision and setting intentions for the year ahead.If you're seeking a creative mindset and a guide to navigating the creative roller coaster, "A Year in Practice" offers a roadmap. Jacqueline's wisdom reminds us that the Earth constantly provides a wellspring of inspiration and guidance—accessible and free, waiting for us to attune ourselves to its rhythm.Don't just be creative; become a practitioner, crafting your unique rhythm in harmony with the ever-changing seasons.Thanks to our sponsor, Exact Rush, LLCExact Rush B Jacqueline Suskin is a sought-after poet and educator, recognized by Michelle Obama as a Turnaround Artist, who regularly leads writing and creativity workshops for Commune, Insight Timer, and InsideOut, garnering press in the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the Atlantic, Better Homes & Gardens, Spirituality & Health, the Huffington Post, and beyond. She is the author of eight books and lives in Detroit.
Rebekah Louisa Smith, The Film Festival Doctor
Dec 21 2023
Rebekah Louisa Smith, The Film Festival Doctor
Podcast Interview with Dr. Rebekah Louisa Smith - Unlocking Your World of CreativityIntroducing Rebekah Louisa Smith:, an award-winning film festival strategist and founder of The Film Festival Doctor. - Rebekah's unique approach, blending practical business skills and spiritual techniques in her work.Origin of Film Festival Strategies: - Question: What inspired you to venture into film festival strategies, particularly focusing on winning and not just participating? - Insights into Rebekah's accidental entry into the world of film festivals and the crucial need for a strategy.Evolution in the Film Festival Landscape: - Question: Over the years, how have you seen the film festival landscape evolve, and what challenges and opportunities does it present? - Exploration of the surge in film festivals, online award festivals, and the changing dynamics of film production.Balancing Creativity and Mental Health:5. **Success Mindset and Mental Health:** - Question: How do you integrate practical business skills with mental and spiritual techniques to foster a success mindset and support filmmakers' mental health? - Discussion on the importance of handling rejection, using vision boards, EFT, and maintaining emotional detachment.Rebekah's Journey and Balancing Creativity: - Question: Having faced anxiety and panic attacks, how do you balance the demands of your career with self-care, and what advice do you have for other creatives? - Insights into finding balance, embracing nature, and the significance of a 50-50 approach to avoid burnout.Encouragement and Next Steps: - Question: What advice do you have for creative individuals working on projects right now, and where can they find additional resources? - Dr. Rebekah's encouragement to seek objective feedback before submissions and her book, "Born to Do It."
Christian Lodgaard, Flokk Furniture on Sustainable Design
Dec 20 2023
Christian Lodgaard, Flokk Furniture on Sustainable Design
Episode Theme: Exploring Sustainable Design for a Greener WorldGuest: Christian Lodgaard, Senior Vice President of Design at Flokk Furniture, NorwayDefining Sustainable Design: - Lodgaard emphasizes that sustainable design should improve industry sustainability and address environmental footprints. - Iconic, eternal objects are praised, but longevity alone isn't enough. The focus must include reducing environmental footprints in production.Circular Design Principles: - Flokk follows circular design principles: low weight, few components, durable materials, long lifespan, and designed for disassembly. - Transparent and intuitive architecture is encouraged to celebrate assembly and promote easy repairability.Brand Building and Transparency: - Lodgaard discusses the importance of transparent brand communication in addressing sustainability. - Flokk's name change and brand redesign aimed to embrace human-centeredness and Scandinavian legacy while maintaining a global perspective.Metrics and Transparency: - Flokk has been transparent about sustainability, implementing environmental product declarations since 2004. - The five, three principle focuses on using as little material as possible, choosing low-carbon footprint materials, and designing for disassembly.Scaling Sustainable Initiatives: - The challenge lies in scaling sustainable initiatives rather than introducing constant innovation. - Discipline, patience, stamina, and joy are essential in creating fewer, high-impact products with longer market presence.Personal Background and Inspiration: - Lodgaard shares a personal story about his mother's influence on his path towards sustainability and industry. - Growing up in Norway, surrounded by nature's challenges, influenced a design tradition favoring essential, durable, and functional products.Future Initiatives and Scaling Challenges: - The future involves scaling existing technologies and practices rather than constant innovation. - Lodgaard stresses the need for systematic approaches and joyful initiatives to create sustainable products with a lasting impact.Closing Thoughts: - Host Mark Stinson emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions for meaningful connections and creative inspiration. - The podcast continues to explore global creativity, actionable plans, and making positive impacts in sustainability.Join in for future episodes where global creativity takes center stage.Copyright 2024 Mark Stinson
Daniela Marzavan, Change Darer for Innovation & Design Thinking
Dec 19 2023
Daniela Marzavan, Change Darer for Innovation & Design Thinking
Unlocking Your World of Creativity with Daniela MarzavanGuest Introduction: - Introducing Daniela Marzovan, a change darer specializing in innovation and creativity. - Setting the podcast scene in Lisbon, Portugal, and highlighting Daniela's expertise in teaching innovation.Cultural Connections: - Discussing the combustible energy between California and Portugal, exploring the shared love for the seaside, waves, nature, and joie de vivre. - Reflecting on the cultural exchange and creative discussions at monthly networking events.Teaching Innovation: - Introducing Daniela's consultancy that not only consults but also teaches innovation tools. - Focusing on the knowledge, attitude, and practice required for creativity and innovation.Tools for Innovation: - Differentiating between creativity and innovation, highlighting the need for processes, rationality, and courage in innovation. - Describing the design thinking process and the importance of courage at each step.Impact in Education and Overcoming Challenges: - Addressing challenges in the education system that hinder creativity, sharing experiences of working with creative teachers, and rekindling their creative confidence. - Discussing the importance of structural changes in education to empower teachers and students.Creativity in Crisis: - Sharing personal experiences of growing up in post-communist Romania and witnessing creative responses to crisis in Barcelona, Tokyo, and Cairo. - Expressing optimism about the potential for creativity to thrive amidst crises, emphasizing the need to channel creative energy effectively.Global Awareness and Creativity: - Suggesting alternative ways to travel globally through books, movies, art, and photography. - Encouraging a deeper understanding of cultures and social issues, even in the absence of physical travel.Inspiring Change in Education: - Advocating for listening to children, allowing them the space to be creative without interruption. - Visioning a future where the role of change darers becomes obsolete as a new generation of little change darers emerges from schools.Copyright 2024 Mark Stinson
Tom  Bairstow, Northhouse Creative, Immersive Visual Experiences
Dec 18 2023
Tom Bairstow, Northhouse Creative, Immersive Visual Experiences
Unlocking Your World of Creativity with Tom Bairstow:The podcast explores creativity, inspiration, and organizational methods worldwide.Guest: Tom Bairstow, Founder and creative Director of North House Creative, specializing in immersive visual experiences.Tom's Website @northhouse__ on Instagram North House Creative's Portfolio: - Known for immersive experiences for Coldplay, Queen's Platinum Jubilee, Super Bowl 50, and Disney's Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl. - Combining physical set elements, lighting, and video for a unified fan experience.Evolution of Immersive Experiences: - Started in 2008 with a focus on live music, evolved into brand events and activations. - Embracing multi-sensory experiences, combining physical and digital elements.Creative Process: - Highly collaborative, involving producers, creatives, designers, and technology experts. - Ideation and conceptualization stages are crucial, emphasizing collaboration with clients.Challenges and Contingency: - Addressing challenges in live shows, Super Bowl 50 as an example. - Technical contingency plans with backup servers and projectors, while creatively being adaptive and reactive.Pushing Boundaries and Innovation: - Constant pursuit of the next creative frontier. - Balancing client expectations, adaptability, and innovation to deliver visually stunning and technically flawless experiences.Inspiration Sources: - Drawing inspiration from nature to soften digital elements and incorporate organic materials. - Emphasizes the importance of taking a step back, being present, and allowing time for creative ideation.Upcoming Projects: - Teases upcoming artist tours, brand events, shows, and immersive experiences. - Ongoing projects in Saudi Arabia and Dubai, showcasing diverse creativity across sectors.Key to Immersive Experiences: - Emphasizes the core elements of storytelling, moments, emotion, and shared experiences. - People-first approach, considering the human experience and emotions.Closing Thoughts: - Shared experiences unite people, creating a powerful connection. - Tom Bairstow's insight into balancing creativity, collaboration, and innovation in the evolving landscape of immersive experiences.Tom Bairstow is the visionary Creative Director & Founder of NorthHouse Creative, a multi-award-winning studio that fuses design, motion and technology to create immersive visual experiences for music, brands and live shows. Bairstow's career has been marked by groundbreaking contributions to video, projection, and digital design. Over the past twelve years, he's led the NorthHouse team to play a pivotal role in a range of global events, including the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, the King's Coronation, Coldplay's World Tours and a range of brand events and immersive experiences for the likes of Ferrari, Youtube and the Dubai Expo. With a team of highly skilled designers, directors, technologists, and producers, NorthHouse Creative has emerged as one of the leading companies in live shows and immersive experiences. Together, they strive for excellence and innovation, consistently pushing boundaries to create awe-inspiring visuals that connect people to music, brands and each other. Copyright 2024 Mark Stinson
Amara Emuwa, Leadership Coach, Author "The Truth Behind Excuses"
Dec 15 2023
Amara Emuwa, Leadership Coach, Author "The Truth Behind Excuses"
Welcome back to "Unlocking Your World of Creativity," featuring Amara Emuwa, a leadership coach and author of "The Truth Behind Excuses."- Amara shares insights on authentic leadership, drawing from her corporate HR experience and consulting practice.Amara's Website @AMARAEMUWA on Instagram Amara's Facebook page **Passion for Authentic Leadership:**- "I am particularly passionate about authentic leadership. It answers questions that traditional leadership models did not."- Authentic leadership emphasizes the self, relationships, and the environment, creating a holistic approach to leadership development.**Leadership in a Changing Environment:**- "Leadership development principles are universal, but cultural nuances play a crucial role."- Amara discusses the impact of cultural differences, emphasizing the need for leaders to understand and manage perceptions in multicultural teams.**Authenticity in Power Dynamics:**- "Leadership is about perception, and authentic leadership guides you in managing that process."- Cultural nuances, such as power distance, influence leadership styles. Understanding these dynamics is essential for effective leadership.**Balancing Authenticity and Power:**- "Authentic leaders use their stories to connect and sell their vision, making them relatable."- Leaders must navigate the balance between maintaining authority and being authentic, sharing personal stories to connect with their teams.**Authentic Leadership Transformation Stories:**- "Authentic leaders embrace vulnerability as strength, connecting with what is important to their people."- Amara shares stories of leaders who transformed organizations by prioritizing what mattered to their teams, building trust, and achieving success.**The Journey of "The Truth Behind Excuses":**- "Excuse-giving becomes a habit, reinforcing the pattern of attributing failures to external factors."- Amara delves into the journey of writing her book, exploring the psychological aspects of making excuses and overcoming creative obstacles.**Overcoming Excuses in Creative Endeavors:**- "Excuses kill the desire to aim higher; don't let them devalue your talent."- Amara encourages creatives to overcome excuses, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing patterns that hinder progress.**Upcoming Projects:**- Amara discusses her upcoming projects, including a leadership roundtable, and a new book on leading from the core of excellence."Excuses can rob you of the value and talent you possess; aim higher and unleash your unique leadership strengths."Thanks to our sponsor, Exact Rush, Publishing, Editorial, and Multimedia servicesExact Rush B Copyright 2024 Mark Stinson
Rich Magallanes, Executive Producer, Nickelodeon Dora!
Dec 14 2023
Rich Magallanes, Executive Producer, Nickelodeon Dora!
Welcome back to our podcast, where we delve into the fascinating world of animation, specifically kids' show animation, covering everything from branding and production to streaming channels. Today, we have the pleasure of talking with the talented Rich Magallanes, executive producer at Nickelodeon. Rich is currently working on an exciting new project, bringing Dora back in a fresh CG reboot.**1. Dora's Comeback:** - "Dora's coming back. We're doing the CG reboot. She's been away for a couple of years, but she's always been beloved by families and the industry worldwide. It's something that's never really lost its steam."**2. A Refreshed Approach:** - "We're reintroducing her in a brand new way. CG animation with a whole new look, updated music, much more entertaining and engaging for today's audience. We're stretching our stories, taking her into new areas we haven't explored before."**3. The Evolution of Characters:** - "When you executive produce, you've got the one show on your mind all the time. It's a constant evolution, experimenting, and executing character development and story development."**4. Challenges in Rebooting Dora:** - "There's so much content out there nowadays. In brainstorming about Dora and how to take it to the next level, the important part is asking, 'What is new about this? What's exciting? What's the next step?'"**5. Principles of Creativity:** - "You have to ask yourself, what is new about this? What's exciting about this? What is the next step? It can't just be, 'Oh, she's in CG.' It's all about storytelling, relationships, interactions, and staying true to the character's identity."**6. Leadership and Team Building:** - "I had to allow myself to be myself. If I'm not having fun doing something, I don't want to do it. Be open-minded, and when someone's saying stuff to you that you don't like, try to break down that wall and have a good creative conversation." - "I'm a big advocate of helping people today. You got to get out there in the world, get into communities, and build your own profile on LinkedIn. That's how you connect and network."Rich Magallanes shares insights into the intricate world of animation, storytelling, and leadership, leaving us with valuable lessons on creativity, team building, and the delicate balance of crafting content for kids.
Elizabeth Blake Thomas, Medicine with Words
Dec 13 2023
Elizabeth Blake Thomas, Medicine with Words
"Living with Intention: A Conversation with Elizabeth Blake Thomas of Medicine with Words**Elizabeth's Creative Journey:**- Elizabeth reflects on her diverse creative projects, from published books and professorship to producing and directing over two dozen films.- Pull-out quote: "The underlying theme for all my projects is to transform one person's life each day."**Medicine with Words:**- Elizabeth discusses her coaching practice, "Medicine with Words," emphasizing the power of words to heal and transform.- Pull-out quote: "The power of our words is beyond anything we could imagine."**Cabinet Cleanse Exercise:**- Elizabeth introduces the concept of "cabinet cleanse," a practice to declutter the mind and focus on specific tasks.- Pull-out quote: "Monotasking is essential for clarity in creative work."**Butterfly Doula and Metamorphosis:**- Exploring the unexpected role of a "butterfly doula," Elizabeth shares how this experience parallels creative transformations.- Pull-out quote: "Metamorphosis, every stage, how does that connect to us? It was life-changing for me."**Holistic Filmmaking:**- Elizabeth discusses her approach to holistic filmmaking, creating a family environment on set, and her latest project, "Caroleek."- Pull-out quote: "Every element of my work encompasses self-care and self-nourishment."**Living with Intention Book:**- Elizabeth provides insights into her upcoming book, "Living with Intention," sharing stories, tools, and practical exercises for mindful living.- Pull-out quote: "Living with intention means making intentional choices to lead to emotional fulfillment."**Vision Boards and Emotional Goals:**- Elizabeth challenges the traditional concept of vision boards, focusing on emotions and intentional alignment with goals.- Pull-out quote: "It's about how I want to feel, how that process takes place. That is what's crucial."**Fear and Creativity:**- Addressing fear, Elizabeth suggests acknowledging it, understanding the worst-case scenario, and turning fear into a positive force.- Pull-out quote: "Once we break it down and understand our why, fear can be turned into a positive."**Boundaries and Pyramid of Purpose:**- Elizabeth shares her approach to boundaries, using a "pyramid of purpose" to guide choices aligned with long-term goals.- Pull-out quote: "No's and yes's are the same as long as you are living with the intention of what you have chosen at that moment."**Upcoming Retreat and Future Projects:**- Elizabeth talks about her upcoming retreat, collaborating with a nutritionist, and the organic growth of her creative endeavors.- Pull-out quote: "When you start working out what you exactly want, it's amazing the clarity that you get."**Closing and Prescription:**- Mark thanks Elizabeth for the insightful conversation and asks her to share a creative prescription or exercise.- Elizabeth suggests the "Cup of Tea" meditation and the "Patting Yourself on the Back" exercise for acknowledging daily achievements.- Mark wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to practice intention, gratitude, and mindfulness in their creative journeys.