Creative Pep Talk

Join Brad and Kristi Montague, the creative duo behind Kid President and several beloved picture books, as they explore the concept of failure as a stepping stone in art. They discuss their latest book 'FAIL-A-BRATION', focusing on how sharing both wins and losses can spark genuine connections in the creative community. Through their engaging anecdotes, they illuminate the joy of collaboration and spontaneity, encouraging listeners to embrace their artistic mishaps as essential parts of the creative journey.

Michael Dante DiMartino, the brilliant writer and co-creator of 'Avatar: The Last Airbender,' dives into the art of storytelling. He shares insights on juggling multiple creative projects and the balance between dreaming big and execution. The discussion touches on his new novel 'Both Here and Gone,' exploring themes of loss and identity. Michael reflects on the importance of improvisation and collaboration in creativity, revealing how nostalgic influences shape his work. His journey highlights the unpredictable yet rewarding nature of storytelling in various mediums.

Discover the crucial connection between sales and creativity. Explore how to transform casual fans into devoted supporters without needing a massive following. Delve into the financial struggles musicians face in a merch-driven world and the emotional toll this takes on their identity. Learn the importance of a professional online presence and how to create an attractive website that serves a clear purpose. Finally, embrace the ambiguity of art, appreciating its intrinsic value beyond just making money.

In this engaging conversation, Brian McDonald, an award-winning screenwriter and author known for his work with Pixar, unpacks the essentials of storytelling. He delves into the purpose of narratives, emphasizing the importance of substance over trends. McDonald highlights how the structure, or 'armature,' supports character development and reflects the hero's journey. He also illustrates the deep emotional resonance stories can create through vulnerability, connecting creators with their audiences on a profound level.

Julian Glander, a 3D artist and filmmaker known for his vibrant characters and animated feature 'Boys Go to Jupiter,' shares insights into his creative journey. He emphasizes the importance of viewing obstacles as sparks for creativity. Glander discusses navigating the indie film landscape, including innovative marketing strategies and the balance between artistic freedom and constraints. The conversation also touches on the blend of music and narrative in filmmaking, reminding us that adaptability in creativity leads to unexpected growth and discovery.

Explore the emotional struggles creatives face when their work goes unnoticed. Discover how to build genuine connections with fans by prioritizing engagement over perfection. Learn the importance of marketing your art and stepping out of your comfort zone. Gain insights from personal experiences that highlight the necessity of persistence in the creative journey. Plus, get practical advice on using personal websites to foster lasting relationships with your audience.

Grammy-nominated musician Gallant shares his unique artistic journey, highlighting the tug-of-war between making art and sharing it. He speaks candidly about the emotional rollercoaster of releasing music, the internal struggles of staying true to oneself, and the joys of creating mood boards. Gallant emphasizes the importance of self-fulfillment over external validation and explores the balance between creative instincts and marketing demands. His fresh take on inspiration and authenticity is a must-listen for anyone navigating the creative world.

Vanessa Rivera, a creative professional known for her whimsical Photoshop art, shares insight into her journey as a working mom. She discusses the tools that help streamline her busy schedule and the joys of leaving home to travel around Europe with family. Vanessa emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries to maintain a work-life balance and finding joy in a sometimes lonely creative world. Her passion for connecting with the community and the role of AI in enhancing creativity add depth to her inspiring story.

Sanjay Patel, an animator, illustrator, and author, discusses his transformative journey reconnecting with his Indian heritage. He shares insights on creating accessible and innovative work, highlighting his preschool show that presents Hindu deities as playful children. Patel delves into the importance of embracing cultural roots, navigating creative stagnation, and the value of personal history in artistic expression. He offers thoughtful reflections on identity, the challenges in animation, and the evolving landscape for artists today.

Carson Ellis, an acclaimed author and illustrator known for her unique storytelling through visual art, shares her journey of rediscovering a forgotten journal from her 20s. This sparked a creative revival, leading to new artistic projects. She discusses the power of illustrations in capturing emotions and personal narratives, reflecting on her evolution as an artist. Carson also dives into the significance of collaboration, the joy of merging art and writing, and the nostalgic influences that shaped her creative path, encouraging listeners to embrace their own artistic practices.