From Corporate Suit to Creative Pivot

Episode 193: Erik Wahl - How To Rediscover Your Creative Genius

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The Learning Leader Show

"Performing is not an act of extroversion, it's an act of connection."

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• The fascination with "live theatre" -- Erik is a performer on stage (art, speaking, message, theatrical)
• "Transport so the molecules in the room change"
• How to reverse engineer what we love
• What happened after Erik was told that "Art was not his strength"
• Relationship with money and success -- how it can be unhealthy
• Why artists have a different take on life... A life of philosophical gratitude
• "I built this plane as I flew it"
• Pursue mastery... Be insatiably curious on how to connect with audiences
• The power of vulnerability and why you should share more of yourself
• First paid gig? $1,000 in LA -- "I probably sucked."
• The tipping point to kick off his speaking/performing career
• The definition of being introverted... Erik is an introvert. He gains energy from alone time... Stage time is where the energy is spent
• Erik's writing process -- "Verbal Vomit" -- Fortunate to have great team of editors
• Why we should all study acting and stand up comedians
• Thinking, "What will fascinate the audience?"
• Pre speech routine -- Stretching, meditation. Taking energy from "Me and giving it to them"
• Decluttering of the mind. Meditate. Think at a higher level
• "Art is about producing... Thinking... Expanding consciousness"
• Understanding the value of being uncomfortable
• "Money is not important to us, we do not sell my paintings"
• Why audiences are drawn to authenticity and trust
• Why we should rehearse creativity on a regular basis
• How much does Erik get paid per speech now? $40,000
• New ideas? Holographs, Drones, Cirque Du Soleil
• "Pursue excellence, pursue mastery... Let the money come where it may"

"Creativity is a muscle that must face resistance to create more... Be stronger."

Continue Learning:

• Follow Erik on Twitter: @ErikWahl
• Read: The Spark and The Grind
• Read: Unthink: Rediscover Your Creative Genius
• Join our Facebook Group: The Learning Leader Community
• To Follow Me on Twitter: @RyanHawk12

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Episode 179: How To Sustain Excellence - The Best Answers From 178 Questions

Episode 107: Simon Sinek – Leadership: It Starts With Why

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If you enjoyed hearing Erik Wahl on the show, please don't hesitate to send me a note on Twitter or email me.

Episode edited by the great J Scott Donnell

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