Your World of Creativity

In today’s episode, I’m talking with Dominic Alegrete — a 21-year-old SOC Analyst who entered the tech industry at 18 without a college degree. Dominic has since built a platform to guide others into cybersecurity, emphasizing a holistic approach to personal and professional development.Dominic's Website @dominicalegrete on Instagram Dominic on YouTube 1: Dominic's unconventional entry into tech -- Dominic, your journey into cybersecurity is quite unique—starting at 18 without a college degree. Can you share how you navigated this path and what motivated you to pursue a career in tech?2: Building a personal brand and online presence -- You've grown a substantial following by sharing your experiences and insights. How did you approach building your personal brand, and what impact has it had on your career?3: The role of writing in cybersecurity -- You've emphasized the importance of writing in cybersecurity roles. Can you elaborate on how writing skills contribute to success in this field?4: Integrating wellness into a tech career -- Beyond your professional work, you're passionate about health, wellness, and personal development. How do these aspects influence your approach to your career and life?5: Advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals -- For those looking to break into cybersecurity, especially from non-traditional backgrounds, what advice would you offer to helpThis episode is brought to you by White Cloud Coffee Roasters Enjoy a 10% discount on your first order with the code CREATIVITY at checkout. Visit WhiteCloudCoffee.com to explore their selection.Thank you for joining us on Your World of Creativity. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite podcast app. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we continue to explore the creative journeys of inspiring individuals.Dominic is a 21-year-old with a growing presence in the tech space, currently working as a SOC Analyst. While his start in cybersecurity is impressive, what truly sets him apart is his focus on building a life rooted in consistency, growth, and purpose. He’s passionate about health, wellness, and developing strong habits—financially, spiritually, and mentally—that set the foundation for long-term success. Whether it’s in his career or his personal life, Dominic is all about staying grounded while aiming high.

Welcome back to Your World of Creativity, the podcast where we explore the creative process across industries, around the globe, and from the stage to the studio. Today, we’re talking steaks, strategy, and storytelling with a guest whose creativity spans real estate, law, mixology—and Wagyu. Yes, you heard that right.Joining us is Steve Haddadin, an accomplished entrepreneur with a decade-long real estate career, a newly sworn-in attorney, and the founder of National Wagyu Day—celebrated every June 21st on his birthday.Steve's Website @stevehaddadin on Instagram Steve's Facebook page We’ll hear how this idea came to life, and how Steve continues to blend innovation into every area of his career.1: THE BIRTH OF NATIONAL WAGYU DAYSteve, let’s start with what makes this episode so delicious—National Wagyu Day. What inspired you to create this celebration of Wagyu beef, and how did you go about officially declaring it? You’ve said the day welcomes both seasoned connoisseurs and first-timers—why was that inclusive spirit important to you?Why June 21st—and how does the symbolism of the summer solstice add to the day’s meaning?2: THE FLAVOR OF CREATIVITYYour creativity clearly doesn’t stop at business—tell us about the Smokin’ Steve Old Fashioned cocktail you developed. What sparked that idea, and how does a drink become an experience? What role does sensory experience play in your creative work?How did your travels—like Japan or the Whiskey and Bourbon trails—influence your flavor creativity?3: BUILDING BRANDS WITH BOLD IDEASLet’s zoom out a bit. You've scaled a real estate brokerage, installed EV charging stations, and passed the bar exam—all while launching personal brands. What’s your framework for bringing an idea to life? You’ve said, ‘The more something is looked at as crazy or impossible, the more excited I get.’ How do you manage risk while staying excited about disruption?How do you decide when an idea is worth turning into a movement—like you did with Wagyu Day?4: CREATIVE LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY IMPACT Your work with the CSUF Center for Real Estate and your student endowment shows a passion for giving back. How do you bring creativity into mentorship and leadership? What does legacy mean to you?5: WHAT’S NEXT ON YOUR CREATIVE MENU?You’ve accomplished so much already—and at such a young age. What’s next for you creatively? More food ventures, legal advocacy, tech innovation?Steve, what a treat—literally and creatively. Thanks for sharing your journey and how you’ve brought bold, flavorful ideas to life across industries. And listeners, whether you’re enjoying Wagyu or Old Fashioneds—or just building your next creative venture—we hope this episode inspired you.And a special thanks to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee Roasters. You can enjoy 10% off your first order at WhiteCloudCoffee.com with the code CREATIVITY at checkout.Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review Your World of Creativity wherever you listen to podcasts—and come back again as we continue exploring how creative professionals around the world turn ideas into action.

Welcome back to Your World of Creativity, the podcast where we explore the minds of creative professionals around the world to uncover how they bring ideas to life.Today’s guest is Jamie Schwartzman, Chief Creative Strategist and founder of Flux Branding. With over 25 years of experience, Jamie has helped transform businesses through bold storytelling, innovative strategy, and his signature IDEA Method. He’s a trusted advisor, a creative force, and a name you might recognize from Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars.Jamie's Website @fluxbranding on Instagram Jamie's Facebook page 1 – The Power of Brand TransformationYou’ve led rebranding efforts that have had measurable impact—like helping Motor Car Parts of America go from $2 to $38 a share. What are the core elements of a transformational brand strategy that delivers results like that? What do many companies get wrong when they try to ‘refresh’ their brand?2 – The IDEA MethodYour IDEA Method is a four-step branding process designed to reduce risk and reveal identity. Could you walk us through each of the four steps and share how you developed this framework?3 – Branding, Storytelling & AuthenticityYou often say that storytelling and authenticity are critical in branding. How do you guide companies to uncover and communicate their true identity, especially if they’ve been operating on ‘autopilot’ for years? How do you balance bold creativity with the need for brand consistency and customer trust?”4 – Leading Through ChangeYou say that ‘change is the only constant.’ That’s not just a tagline—it’s the core of your company’s name, Flux. What advice would you give to business leaders struggling to embrace change creatively?5 – Trends, Lessons & Food Stars (4 minutes)You’ve been featured as an Expert Brand Strategist on Food Stars and you write the ‘First Tuesday’ newsletter. What branding trends are you watching right now, and what’s one key insight from your work that our listeners can apply today?Jamie, thank you for the wit, wisdom, and perspective you’ve shared with us today. It’s been fantastic to hear how creativity, clarity, and strategic storytelling can truly move the needle for brands.This episode was brought to you by our friends at White Cloud Coffee Roasters. Get 10% off your first order when you use the code CREATIVITY at checkout. Visit WhiteCloudCoffee.com.Thanks for listening to Your World of Creativity. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite podcast app. And come back again for the next episode, where we continue to explore how creative professionals inspire the world.

Welcome back to Your World of Creativity, the podcast where we explore the intersection of imagination and innovation across industries and disciplines.Today, we’re talking music, creativity, and collaboration with the genre-defying band, The Empty Pockets. This Chicago-based quartet has backed legends like Kenny Loggins and Al Stewart, topped the Billboard Blues charts—twice—and brought their folksy Midwestern rock-blues blend to stadiums and stages around the world. Their latest release is a Live in Buffalo album just outJoining us today are Josh Solomon, Erika Brett, Nate Bellon, and Adam Balasco—the musical family behind The Empty Pockets.josh 's Website @theemptypockets on Instagram josh 's Facebook page josh on YouTube 1: Genre-Bending IdentityYou’ve been described as everything from Americana to Chicago-style yacht rock—with a side of blues and soul. How do you describe your sound? And how has your style evolved across the years and albums?  What do you think it is about your sound that resonates across such a wide audience—from MLB stadiums to blues charts?2: Life on the Road + CollaborationYou’ve toured with iconic artists. How have those collaborations shaped your sound or songwriting process?  What’s it like writing and performing as a group with such tight chemistry? Is there a secret to staying creatively in sync? Touring this summer with Al Stewart.3: Inside Gotta Find the MoonYour latest #1 album Gotta Find the Moon was recorded with a unique, ‘one-room’ process—much of it at Abbey Road Studios. What was that experience like, and how did it influence the vibe of the record?  You’ve mentioned tributes to family, political inspiration, and even puns—how personal do these songs get, and how do you balance the intimate with the universal?4: Performance Moments + Live MagicYour latest release Live in Buffalo album captures that spontaneous, road-tested energy. What’s the difference between your studio work and your live shows—and do you have a favorite on-stage memory that captures your creative spark?  How does adding collaborators like jazz saxophonist Elliot Scozzaro or guitarists from Marbin and Vulfpeck elevate your performances?5: Creativity in MotionYou’ve made your own creative lane, and done it as an independent band. What advice would you give to other creatives—musicians or otherwise—about building a lasting, authentic career in today’s world?  What’s next for The Empty Pockets? Any new directions, surprises, or dream collaborations coming up?Josh, Erika, Nate, Adam—thank you so much for sharing your creativity and stories with us today. Your passion and joy for music is contagious.And thanks to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee Roasters—listeners can get 10% off their first order at WhiteCloudCoffee.com with the code CREATIVITY at checkout.Until next time, keep creating, keep sharing your light—and be sure to subscribe, rate, and review Your World of Creativity wherever you listen to podcasts. I’m Mark Stinson. See you next time!The Empty Pockets' versatile pedigree backing up renowned 70’s artists like Al Stewart, Gary Wright, Simon Kirke, and Kenny Loggins, gives life to a genre-bending Folksy Midwestern Blues jam with killer vocals and memorable songs. You could call it Chicago-style yacht rock. Or call it something else entirely. But this “baseball band” makes good; hitting up MLB and MiLB stadiums all over the country while touring in support of their two independently-released #1 Billboard Blues albums.

“Most artists are told they’ll never make a living from their work. Tim Packer is living proof that’s a lie. A former police officer turned celebrated Canadian artist, Tim walked away from a badge and a pension to chase a dream—and built a thriving art business that’s both creatively fulfilling and financially successful. Today, through his Tim Packer Art Academy and new book You Can Sell Your Art, Tim is mentoring a new wave of artists to do the same.Tim's Website YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/timpackerfineartsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timpacker1/1.    From the Badge to the Brush“Tim, let’s start with your backstory—what was the moment when you realized you had to walk away from police work and fully commit to your art? What fears did you face, and how did you overcome them?”2.    Why Talent is Overrated“You say that talent is a myth and that success in art isn’t about being ‘born with it.’ What do you believe actually sets successful artists apart—and what are most creatives getting wrong?”3.    The Missing Curriculum“You’ve said the traditional art school system is broken. What are the most important things you had to learn outside the classroom about building a sustainable career—and how do you teach that in your academy?”4.    The Business Side of the Brush“Let’s talk dollars. Pricing art is something many creatives struggle with. What’s your philosophy on pricing, and how can artists overcome the fear of ‘asking too much’ or ‘selling out’?”5.    Building a Creative Empire“From originals and prints to your online academy and now your book, you’ve built a multi-million dollar art business. What’s your advice to artists who want to think bigger and diversify their income streams—while still staying true to their creative voice?”Sponsor Shout-Out:“Today’s episode is brought to you by White Cloud Coffee Roasters. Listeners, you can enjoy 10% off your first order with the code CREATIVITY at checkout. Visit WhiteCloudCoffee.com.” “Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review Your World of Creativity wherever you get your podcasts—and come back next time as we continue to explore how creative professionals like you bring their ideas to life, and the world!”

Welcome back to Your World of Creativity, where we dive into the minds of creators around the world—those shaping the way we think, live, and leave our mark.Today’s guest is Chance McClain, a master storyteller and the creative force behind Heritage Films. With over 800 feature-length family documentaries to his name, Chance preserves the essence of individuals and generations. A proud Army veteran, a sports radio pioneer, and even a Broadway musical writer, Chance has done it all—and done it with heart. Chance's Website Chance's Facebook page 1: "The Radio Guy Turned Legacy Filmmaker"You’ve worn so many creative hats—radio host, playwright, filmmaker. Can you walk us through the journey from radio and Broadway to founding Heritage Films?Follow-up: What was the moment when you realized storytelling through film was your true calling?2: "Inside the Business of Heritage"Prompt: Creating personal documentaries isn’t your average gig. What does it take—behind the scenes—to deliver such high-end, deeply personal films? How do you strike the balance between cinematic quality and emotional truth in these projects?3: "800 Documentaries Later..."You’ve made over 800 legacy films. That’s incredible. What patterns or lessons have emerged from these hundreds of interviews and stories? What’s one story that surprised you or stuck with you in a profound way?4: "Legacy, Leadership & Resilience"Through your lens, you’ve captured themes of courage, loss, love, and purpose. What has making these films taught you about leadership, failure, and resilience? As a veteran and entrepreneur, how do those life experiences shape your creative process?5: "Future-Proofing Storytelling with Technology"You’re a traditional storyteller using modern tools. How do you embrace technology to enhance—not dilute—the power of legacy and memory? Where do you see personal documentary filmmaking going in the next 5 to 10 years?And thanks to our sponsor White Cloud Coffee Roasters—listeners, enjoy 10% off your first order at WhiteCloudCoffee.com with the code CREATIVITY.We’ll see you next time on Your World of Creativity. Until then, subscribe, rate, and review us on your favorite podcast app—and keep bringing your ideas to life.

Welcome listeners to Your World of Creativity, where we talk with creative professionals around the globe about how they bring ideas to life.Our guest today is Jordan Morris—an award-winning producer, director, and screenwriter known for Nintendo Quest and Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make-Believe, which won TIFF’s People’s Choice Award for Best Documentary. He’s also the creator of the Life & Death Story Model™ and founder of the Six Months to Screenplay program. Jordan is known as The Writer Igniter—and we’re excited to explore how he helps writers bring emotionally powerful stories to life.Jordan 's Website Here's an overview of our conversation:1. The Story Starts HereJordan, your Life & Death Story Model™ is a fascinating framework. What inspired you to rethink traditional narrative structures, and how does it shift the way writers approach their scripts from the start? Can you give us a quick example of this model in action?2. From Plot to PulseYou say, ‘Plot grabs attention. Emotion keeps it.’ What does it take for writers to master The Emotional Arc™—and why do so many scripts fall flat in this area? How do you help writers dig deeper emotionally without losing structure?3. Story Forge & Undercooked ConceptsYou’ve coined the term ‘undercooked concepts’—which feels painfully accurate for many writers. What’s your process for Story Forging™, and how can it help pressure-proof a story idea before diving into draft one?4. The Writer’s Voice & MindsetOriginality isn’t always about ideas—it’s about voice. How do you coach writers to uncover a voice so distinct it can’t be ignored? And what mindset shift must occur for a writer to go from aspiring to producing? How do you balance preserving voice with the demands of marketability or genre?5. Creativity in a Changing LandscapeYou’ve worked across theatre, film, and now community-building with Storytowne. How do you see the creative process evolving today—especially with new tools like AI? Are we witnessing the revolution or the ruin of storytelling? What role does Six Months to Screenplay play in future-proofing storytellers?Sponsor:This episode is sponsored by White Cloud Coffee Roasters. Use the code CREATIVITY at checkout for 10% off your first order at WhiteCloudCoffee.comBe sure to subscribe to Your World of Creativity, rate us, and leave a review on your favorite podcast app. Join us again for more insights into how creative professionals around the world bring their ideas to life.

Welcome back to Your World of Creativity, the podcast where we dive into the minds and methods of artists, innovators, and creative thinkers from around the globe.Today, we’re welcoming another extraordinary guest — Nina Worsley. Nina is a jazz singer, classical composer, and theater veteran whose music and performance career spans more than a decade. She’s also a creative coach helping women entrepreneurs clear blocks and unlock their inner artistry by blending faith, healing, and creative freedom.Nina on YouTube @composedbynina on Instagram Here's an outline of our conversation:1. Your Creative JourneyNina, your creative roots are in eastern Pennsylvania, and since then you’ve built a unique blend of performance, composition, and coaching. Can you share a bit of your personal journey—from theatre to jazz to classical composition—and how it shaped your view of creativity?2. The Intersection of Healing, Faith, and CreativityOne of the things that sets your coaching work apart is how you incorporate faith and healing into the creative process. How do those spiritual and emotional dimensions help artists and entrepreneurs push through creative blocks?3. Composing Across GenresYou’ve written music that’s been performed by both professional and amateur musicians. What’s your approach to composing across genres, and how do you balance technical discipline with raw creative expression?4. Coaching Women EntrepreneursIn your work with women business owners, what’s a common mindset hurdle you see—and how do you help them move from hesitation to confidence in expressing their creativity?5. Tools for Everyday CreativityWhether someone’s a full-time artist or simply trying to tap into their creativity more consistently, what are a few tools or practices you recommend to stay inspired and avoid burnout?Closing:Nina, thank you so much for sharing your story and creative insights with us today. It’s inspiring to hear how you help others navigate their path with so much passion and purpose.Sponsor:Today’s episode is brought to you by White Cloud Coffee Roasters—where flavor meets inspiration. Listeners, you can enjoy 10% off your first order when you use the code CREATIVITY at checkout. Visit WhiteCloudCoffee.com to discover your new favorite roast.”Thank you for tuning in to Your World of Creativity. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the show on your favorite podcast app—and come back next time as we continue to explore the world’s most creative minds and projects.

In today's episode we talk about ecommerce, conversion optimization, and the creative strategies behind successful online stores with our guest: Matthew Stafford, a serial entrepreneur who has built successful businesses across industries, especially eCommerce.Matthew's Website @matthewstafford815 on Instagram Matthew on YouTube Matthew's Facebook group Matthew's Facebook page Here's a guide to our conversation:1: Unlocking Conversions Without Bigger Ad BudgetsMatthew, one of your specialties is helping brands increase conversion rates without necessarily spending more on ads. What are a few of the most effective strategies you recommend for ecommerce store owners looking to maximize their existing traffic? What are some quick wins versus long-term strategies you’ve seen work best?2: Avoiding the Biggest Conversion KillersYou’ve reviewed thousands of ecommerce sites. What would you say are the top three biggest conversion killers that you spot over and over again? And how can businesses fix them? Any common myths or mistakes people should be aware of when diagnosing conversion issues?3: Data-Driven Optimizations for GrowthIn your experience, what key data points should ecommerce brands focus on when trying to make smarter conversion decisions? How can tools like heatmaps, A/B testing, and session recordings really move the needle? Can you share an example where a simple data insight led to a major breakthrough?4: Creating a Personalized Customer JourneyYou talk a lot about personalizing the user experience. How can ecommerce brands use AI, segmentation, and behavioral data to create shopping journeys that feel custom-tailored — and ultimately boost customer retention? How can even small brands, without giant tech budgets, start implementing personalization?5: Remarketing and Retargeting with ImpactWe know that most visitors don’t convert on their first visit. What are the smartest ways to run remarketing campaigns that actually bring people back — without being creepy or annoying? Any trends you’re seeing with how brands can re-engage cart abandoners more creatively?Today’s episode was sponsored by White Cloud Coffee Roasters. Enjoy a 10% discount on your first order when you use the code 'CREATIVITY' at checkout. Visit WhiteCloudCoffee.com.Be sure to come back again for our next episode, and if you liked what you heard today, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app.

Welcome back to Your World of Creativity! Today, we're traveling—at least virtually—to Milan, Italy, where our guest, Davide Colla, has been crafting memorable narratives and experiences for some of the world's most iconic brands.DAcide 's Website @dado150 on Instagram Davide is the founder of the award-winning digital branding agency 150UP and has led projects for Ferrari, Prada, Amazon, and many more. He's also co-founder of Viento Padel, creating products that connect sport, lifestyle, and passion.Here is an overview of our conversation:1.   Davide, you've worked with brands that are synonymous with style and innovation — Ferrari, Armani, Alessi. When you first approach a brand like that, how do you begin crafting a narrative that stays true to their DNA but still brings something new and inspiring? How do you balance respecting tradition while pushing toward innovation?2.   Your love for technology is clearly intertwined with your design philosophy. How do you see emerging technologies — like AI, VR, or AR — changing the future of brand storytelling and user experience? Are there any recent projects where you've integrated these technologies in surprising ways?3.   In founding Viento Padel, you moved from working with brands to building one yourself. What lessons from your agency and branding work did you apply — or maybe re-learn — when creating a brand from scratch? What has surprised you most about being on the entrepreneur side of the table?4.   You emphasize creating 'solid foundations' for brands that can be shared with the world. In today's fast-paced digital world, what does a solid brand foundation look like to you? Where do you think brands sometimes cut corners that hurt them in the long run?5.   As a creative director and mentor, what advice do you give young designers and entrepreneurs who want to build brands that last and influence culture? What qualities or mindsets do you think are essential today?Special thanks to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee Roasters. You can enjoy a 10% discount off your first order when you use the code 'CREATIVITY' at checkout. Just visit WhiteCloudCoffee.comAnd thank you, listeners! Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review Your World of Creativity on your favorite podcast app. We’ll see you next time as we continue our journeys to unlock … your world of creativity.