#370: Adam Savage on Great Tools, Great Projects, and Great Lessons

118 snips

Apr 30, 2019

Adam Savage, renowned special effects artist and former MythBusters host, dives into his multifaceted career, showcasing his skills in various artistic mediums. He discusses the importance of creativity, emphasizing that true creators follow their instincts. Savage shares insights on failure's role in innovation and the emotional connections fostered by storytelling, including the impact of Japanese cinema. He also reflects on the art of slow-cooking scrambled eggs as a metaphor for authenticity, leading to deeper conversations about vulnerability and mental health.

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ANECDOTE

Overengineered Armor

Adam Savage built a suit of armor out of roofing aluminum in high school, inspired by the film Excalibur.
He wore it to class and promptly passed out from heat exhaustion, a formative experience in his maker journey.

INSIGHT

Finding Focus

Adam Savage felt unspecialized in his 20s but found his niche in San Francisco's accepting maker culture.
The city allowed him to explore various creative pursuits and discover his passion for special effects.

ANECDOTE

Restarting the Show

At EG, Adam Savage restarted his Maltese Falcon talk after a flawed start, prioritizing the recording's quality.
Inspired by Jane Siberry's similar onstage restart, this highlighted his theatrical approach to public speaking.

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