The Light Watkins Show cover image

The Light Watkins Show

135: Steven Pressfield on the Origin Story Behind Overcoming Resistance, Listening to the Muse, and Living as an Artist

Dec 21, 2022
01:25:43

As a bestselling author, today's guest is no stranger to the inner resistance that can hamper your creative journey. Regular listeners might recognize our guest Steven Pressfield, not just from his work as a bestselling author of titles like The War of Art and Put Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants to Be, but also from his previous appearances on The Light Watkins Show. 

Not only has Steven produced a wealth of engrossing works of fiction and non-fiction, he has also written extensively about the writing process, overcoming resistance, and what it means to create art. His non-fiction work has helped countless artists and writers (including our very own Light Watkins) overcome their inner resistance, find their voice, and share their truth through their chosen art form. 

In today’s conversation, we discuss Steven’s latest book Govt Cheese: A Memoir and what inspired him to write it. Steven goes on to expand on why he is a big proponent of listening to the muse when inspiration strikes, and how your ego can get in the way of the writing process. 

We also discuss the types of journeys that artists need to go on, why the artist’s life may seem boring at times, and some of the key lessons Steven learned about the writing process from mentors throughout his life. 

Today’s episode covers a range of topics; from spirituality to trucking, and is filled with special anecdotes and insights from Steven’s life, so be sure to tune in for all the fascinating details!

Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode