In this episode, we dive deep into what it really means to choose creativity, rather than simply waiting for inspiration to strike. We open with the fascinating origin story of Photoshop—how a grad student’s simple problem-solving evolved, through deliberate choices and refinement, into a revolutionary creative tool. This story sets the stage for this episode’s exploration of how intentional actions, not just spontaneous bursts, drive meaningful creative outcomes. We’re joined by Zorana Ivcevic Pringle, senior research scientist at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of the new book, . Zorana shares insights from her 25 years of creativity research, focusing especially on the overlooked emotional aspects of creative work. We discuss why creativity is about continuous, intentional choices—both big and small—that help us make progress, manage our energy, and use our emotions as information. Together, we unpack actionable strategies to deliberately foster creativity in high-pressure environments, the science behind emotional rhythms and productivity, and how tools like generative AI fit into the evolving landscape of creative work. Zorana also offers a unique perspective on matching your creative tasks to your emotional state and daily energy rhythms. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ Get weekly articles to your inbox at BraveFocusedBrilliant.com https://BraveFocusedBrilliant.com. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we dive deep into why optimism is far more than just wishful thinking—it's a practical, essential quality for doing brave, creative work and leading others with clarity. We explore how maintaining optimistic vision, especially in uncertain times, can drive teams forward and inspire decisive action. We also welcome special guest Peter Wilken, branding expert and author of and . Peter shares stories from his storied career at the forefront of global advertising and brand consulting, shedding light on the origins and importance of “brand DNA.” Together, we discuss the key components that make great brands resilient, relevant, and unique, and how nurturing breakthrough ideas means protecting them as they grow. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET ARTICLES TO YOUR INBOX EACH WEEK AT BRAVEFOCUSEDBRILLIANT.COM https://BraveFocusedBrilliant.com. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we dig deep into the experience of “stuckness” that every creative pro and leader faces when tackling hard problems. We challenge the typical advice of “just push through,” and instead reveal the true root causes behind creative block. Also, we explore why simply grinding it out doesn’t always work and how a more mindful approach can help us regain momentum. We unpack three main reasons why we often get stuck: lack of definition, loss of motivation, and outdated systems. Through relatable examples and practical questions, we show how redefining the problem, reconnecting with our deeper why, and shaking up our routines can reignite progress. Whether you’re leading a team, working solo, or just trying to unlock new ideas, this episode guides you to reflect, reset, and recharge your creative drive — so you can move forward with purpose. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ SUBSCRIBE TO ARTICLES LIKE THIS AT BRAVEFOCUSEDBRILLIANT.COM https://bravefocusedbrilliant.com.
In today’s episode of Daily Creative, we dive into the crucial distinction between being a collector and a curator in the digital age. With endless streams of information bombarding us daily, it’s easy to fall into the trap of hoarding inspiration—saving articles, quotes, and ideas without ever transforming them into something meaningful. We explore how true creativity is about making the complicated simple and turning endless noise into valuable insight. We walk through a practical, three-step framework to move from information overload to actionable insight: casting a wide net, curating what matters, and ruthlessly eliminating the rest. By asking ourselves key questions—what is this really, why does it matter to me, and what can I create with it—we can ensure that our collections fuel creativity and purposeful work instead of stifling it. Plus, we share tips for establishing regular curation sessions so these ideas don’t gather digital dust. If you’re ready to stop drowning in information and start producing more focused, meaningful creative work, this episode is for you. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ Get full interviews and daily content in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app https://DailyCreative.app Get free weekly articles by email to help you do your best work at BraveFocusedBrilliant.com https://BraveFocusedBrilliant.com.
In this episode, we dive into managing uncertainty with Todd Henry and special guest Melody Wilding. We share insights on thriving in uncertain times, including building chaos-proof rituals, asking transformative questions, and thinking countercyclically. We also highlight Melody Wilding's expertise from her latest book , which is about how to get what you want from those in charge. Melody shares how creative professionals can align with their managers and navigate workplace dynamics through strategic conversations. Get new articles by email each week at BraveFocusedBrilliant.com https://BraveFocusedBrilliant.com. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app
In this episode of Daily Creative, we delve into the concept of "Strategic Indifference," a powerful approach to leadership and creativity. We share insights on how Steve Jobs exemplified this concept when he returned to Apple in 1997 and made bold decisions that transformed the company. The episode explores the difference between prioritization and strategic indifference, highlighting the courage it takes to purposely ignore certain tasks, even when they appear important, to concentrate on what truly matters. We discuss the art of not caring as a superpower, understanding the importance of timing, and how strategic indifference empowers teams to thrive. Additionally, we explain the paradox of priorities, emphasizing that sometimes, saying no to good things is necessary to achieve great things. The episode closes by asking listeners to identify their most important initiative and consider what they can let slide temporarily to focus on achieving long-term value. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ Get full interviews and daily content in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app https://DailyCreative.app.
In this episode of Daily Creative, we discuss how to make yourself stand out in a competitive job market by reversing the traditional job search approach. We highlight the inspiring story of Nina Mufleh https://www.inc.com/chris-matyszczyk/what-you-can-learn-from-the-resume-that-broke-the-internet.html, who broke through the job market noise with her innovative product listing resume, showcasing the exact qualities employers seek: creativity, problem-solving, and calculated risk-taking. Madeline Mann, our guest and author of the book , shares insights on transitioning from being a job seeker to a job shopper, a mindset that attracts opportunities rather than chasing them. We explore the importance of focusing on connections during interviews, demonstrating authenticity, and shifting the narrative from telling your story to solving the company's challenges. KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app.
In this episode of Daily Creative we are joined by Jenny Wood https://itsJennyWood.com, author of and former executive at Google. We delve into the concept of mediocrity and how many bright creatives can inadvertently settle for less due to fear and external pressures. Jenny shares her transformative subway moment that led her to embrace "wild courage" and how she has applied this principle to various aspects of her life and work. We discuss the importance of taking action despite fears, and Jenny introduces us to her unique approach to courage, highlighting traits such as being "healthily manipulative" to enhance influence and success. Jenny also explains the idea of "woo with you," a technique to build relationships through empathy and valuing others, while staying rooted in ethical practices. We explore how courage isn't about eliminating fear, but progressing despite it, focusing on subtle yet determined actions that lead to significant change. Jenny emphasizes rejecting imposter syndrome and owning one's strengths proudly. Her book, , encourages readers to pursue their goals with deliberate, courageous steps that defy conventional expectations. KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP.
In this episode of Daily Creative, we dive into the essential dynamics of trust within creative organizations and our personal relationship with money. We start with a discussion on how trust is foundational in the creative process, emphasizing the significance of a reciprocal relationship between team members and leadership. When trust erodes, it can lead to workplace inefficiencies and cause talented individuals to leave. We then explore how our internal trust, particularly in the context of money, influences our professional lives. Our guest, Elizabeth Husserl, author of "The Power of Enough," joins us to unravel the complexities of valuing creative work in a financial market. She offers insights into how personal narratives around money can either empower or hinder our careers and stresses the importance of understanding and re-shaping our relationship with money to match our creative aspirations. KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ SUBSCRIBE TO BRAVE, FOCUSED, BRILLIANT AT BRAVEFOCUSEDBRILLIANT.COM https://BraveFocusedBrilliant.com. GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode of Daily Creative, we share insights from my recent (grueling, yet rewarding) speaking tour across the United States, where I delivered nine keynote presentations in just 14 days. My travel provided me with valuable lessons and inspiration, captured as quick sketches and observations in my notebook. Today, I'm pulling back the curtain to discuss two powerful moments from my recent travels that challenged my thinking and revealed profound insights about creativity and leadership. The first moment comes from a Q&A session following a keynote about https://TheBraveHabit.com. A client's story about teaching his daughter the importance of bravery and wise decision-making led to an insightful takeaway on agency and optimism. The story of a man repeatedly falling into a hole but eventually deciding to take a different street, inspired us to consider how often we fail to fill the holes in our lives and how an optimistic vision and a sense of agency can prevent repeated mistakes. The second moment of discovery happened unexpectedly during an Uber ride in Houston. Despite exhaustion, a casual conversation with my driver unearthed his aspiration to write. This experience reminded me that meaningful contributions often occur in small, seemingly insignificant moments. Sometimes, our impact on others happens in private, when we choose to be present. Key Learnings from the Episode: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
Chances are, you're probably not taking enough shots. In this episode, we explore the importance of starting more and letting go of the pressure to finish everything. We discuss how embracing parallel creation and being unafraid to repeat ourselves can lead to brilliant work. We also hear from Becky Blades https://beckyblades.com, Austin Kleon https://austinkleon.com, Andy J. Pizza https://andyjpizza.com, and Ozan Varol https://OzanVarol.com about the significance of taking action on our ideas without being paralyzed by the fear of public perception. KEY INSIGHTS: 1. Overthinking can hinder creativity, so it's important to move from imagination to action swiftly. 2. Embracing the process of starting multiple ideas can help identify the ones worth persevering for. 3. Pay attention to the ideas that won't leave you alone, as they may be the keepers. 4. Life is more of a jungle gym than a ladder; sometimes the road ahead only becomes clear as you take each step. 5. Taking action on the ideas that resonate with you is crucial, as the world often lights the path ahead only a few steps at a time. GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app
In this episode we delve into the concept of adopting a brave mindset in our daily lives, drawing inspiration from Todd Henry's book "The Brave Habit." Throughout the episode, we discuss the significance of choosing which narratives to respond to in defining our identities. We emphasize that bravery is not synonymous with bravado; rather, bravery involves self-sacrificial actions that pursue visions outside of oneself. We further explore how acts of bravery can influence those around us, encouraging others to recognize and follow their path to courage. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we delve into the powerful concept of incremental improvement, using the inspiring example of one writer's simple but effective writing routine. We're joined via a 2016 interview by Dan Harris, author of "10% Happier," as he shares his transformative journey from a skeptic of meditation to an advocate, following a live panic attack that stemmed from mounting stress and self-medication. Harris discusses how meditation provided him with mindfulness—an essential tool that enhances focus, reduces reactivity, and promotes calmness. We explore how mindfulness practices can profoundly impact decision-making, creativity, and leadership. By being mindful, we can navigate life's challenges more wisely, transforming how we respond to stress at work and in personal relationships. Dan offers practical advice on starting a meditation practice, emphasizing the importance of consistency, even if it begins with just five to ten minutes daily. Five key learnings from the episode: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating story of Fred Cox, a former NFL kicker for the Minnesota Vikings, who transitioned from the football field to becoming the inventor of the Nerf football. His story showcases how innovation can emerge from unexpected places and how outsiders with fresh perspectives often lead to groundbreaking changes. We are also joined by Kim Christfort, chief innovation leader and national managing director at the Deloitte Greenhouse Experience and co-author of . She discusses the concepts of overcoming resistance to change, distinguishing between critical thinking and cynicism, and fostering innovation by maintaining a beginner’s mindset. Kim enlightens us on dealing with internal and external skepticism, optimizing team dynamics to promote innovation, and leveraging the language of your organization to advocate for new ideas. KEY LEARNINGS: OUTSIDER INNOVATION: Fred Cox’s journey from NFL kicker to the inventor of the Nerf football exemplifies how fresh perspectives can lead to groundbreaking innovations. CRITICAL THINKING VS. CYNICISM: Critical thinking involves asking provocative questions and seeking truth, while cynicism is a toxic presence that shuts down new ideas. BEGINNER’S MINDSET: Adopting a beginner’s mindset helps strip away preconceived notions and encourages openness to new possibilities, crucial for fostering innovation. DEALING WITH SKEPTICISM: Logical explanations and creating structured environments for discussion can help mitigate the impact of skepticism and keep innovation efforts on track. LEVERAGING ORGANIZATIONAL LANGUAGE: Framing innovation opportunities in the language of the company (e.g., ROI, culture) can make them more convincing and increase the likelihood of buy-in. GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In today’s episode, we welcome Adam Galinsky, social psychologist, leadership expert, and author of the book "Inspire." Galinsky discusses the concept of the "leader amplification effect" and describes his visionary-exemplar-mentor (VEM) model of inspiring leadership. Through both Abouleish’s journey and Galinsky’s insights, we explore what makes leaders truly inspiring and how their influence can create lasting change within communities and organizations. KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In today's episode of Daily Creative, we dive into the subtle yet powerful dynamics that can undermine our creative potential. Imagine you're driving down a familiar road, and your car begins to pull to one side, requiring constant correction just to stay on track. This metaphor perfectly encapsulates how certain hidden forces can slowly erode our creative output and lead us astray from our best work. These stealthy saboteurs are what we call the "Assassins of Creativity". We'll explore how these assassins—Dissonance, Fear, and Expectation Escalation—work quietly behind the scenes to hinder our productivity and innovation. Through a recent keynote from Todd Henry, we break down these assassins and provide actionable insights on how to counteract them. From aligning tactics with strategy and purpose, to taking calculated risks in the face of fear, and managing expectations to maintain creative white space, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on sustaining creative excellence. Five Key Learnings from this Episode: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we explore the nature of taking a stand. Our guest, DR. SUNITA SAH (author of ), a professor at Cornell University and an organizational psychologist, joins us to delve deep into the concept of defiance. Dr. Sah proposes a new definition of defiance—acting in alignment with your true values when there is pressure to do otherwise. She reveals insights from her research that suggests most of us are conditioned from an early age to comply and how this conditioning affects our ability to act on our values. We also discuss the five stages of defiance that individuals go through as they act according to their principles. Dr. Sah emphasizes the importance of explicitly knowing and writing down our values to ensure that our actions align with them. __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS, DAILY EPISODES, AND MORE AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode we explore the importance of remaining open to unexpected detours and serendipitous moments in our creative and personal lives. Our guest, Bernadette Jiwa, a recognized authority on storytelling in business innovation and the author of the book , offers deep insights into how curiosity, empathy, and imagination are vital traits for spotting transformative opportunities. Jiwa explains the crucial difference between ideas and opportunities, emphasizing the importance of addressing real problems rather than merely generating ideas. We explore the concept that sometimes our objectives and goals can act as blinders, preventing us from recognizing valuable peripheral discoveries. Jiwa shares practical strategies for developing better awareness and tapping into serendipity, fostering the kind of curiosity and attention that can lead to breakthrough innovations. Throughout the episode, Jiwa provides examples of how successful entrepreneurs have turned seemingly mundane observations into impactful solutions, reinforcing the value of remaining curious and empathetic in our pursuits. KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP http://dailycreative.app/.
In this episode, we explore the importance of the narratives we surround ourselves with, as highlighted by our guest, Gabriel Reilich, the head of content and innovation at Upworthy and author of the book . Gabriel discusses the profound effects of uplifting stories and how they can reshape our perceptions and empower us to engage more positively with the world around us. We discuss George Gerbner's "Mean World Syndrome" theory and its modern-day implications, emphasizing the need to consciously balance our media consumption. Positive stories are not just feel-good content; they can fundamentally alter our outlook, creativity, and leadership. Join us as we uncover the power of good thinking and positive storytelling to inspire better leadership, creativity, and a kinder world. KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app
SHOW NOTES: DAILY CREATIVE - "SO EMOTIONAL" In this episode of Daily Creative, we explore the profound impact of emotion in our creative processes. We begin with a captivating story about Walt Disney and how his emotional response to rundown amusement parks sparked the creation of Disneyland—revolutionizing family entertainment forever. We sit down with Greg Hoffman, former Chief Marketing Officer of Nike and author of "Emotion by Design," to delve into the power of creativity and emotion in brand building. Greg shares insights from nearly three decades at Nike, emphasizing that the most successful brands are those that form deep emotional connections with their audiences. He highlights the essential balance between analytical precision and the ineffable qualities of art, urging brands to respect the craft of storytelling rather than just producing content for distribution. We also dive into a memorable story featuring legendary basketball coach, Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K), and how his advice to Nike’s marketing team parallels the creative journey—seeing what others don’t and transforming deep insights into iconic work. Greg discusses fostering a culture of risk-taking and empathy, which is vital in generating innovative and emotionally resonant work. Five Key Learnings from This Episode: __ __ Get full interviews and daily episodes in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we delve into the question of whether it's better to be first to market... or second. Safi Bahcall, author of "Loonshots," discusses the importance of nurturing big ideas and differentiates between product-type (P-type) and strategy-type (S-type) innovators. Through historical anecdotes and industry examples, we explore whether it's more advantageous to be first or second to market, and how to leverage your strengths for lasting success. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS, DAILY EPISODES, GUIDES, Q&A SEGMENTS, AND MORE AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode we revisit Todd's powerful talk delivered at Schermerhorn Symphony Hall in Nashville, TN for the Story Conference. Todd discusses the importance of shunning comfort zones, overcoming fear, and identifying your productive passion to ensure we empty ourselves of our best work by the end of our lives. He also delves into practical questions to help you discover your own productive passion and emphasizes the importance of fighting the right creative battles. With engaging anecdotes and suggestions, this episode is a call to action: define your principles, take bold steps, and strive to put your best work into the world, ensuring you live and ultimately, die empty. KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ Get full interviews and daily content in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we reflect on the importance of vulnerability and kindness in fostering meaningful relationships, both personal and professional. Our guest, James Rhee, author of , recounts an impactful kindergarten experience that taught him the value of goodwill and sharing. He likens the power of kindness to the magical world of "Harold in the Purple Crayon," emphasizing our ability to create goodwill through our actions. We then delve into a conversation with Eric Barker, renowned for his book . Eric reveals surprising insights about our relationships, especially how "frenemies" tend to cause more stress than outright enemies. He discusses ways to engage with difficult people empathetically, and he underscores the importance of vulnerability in building strong, supportive communities. The episode wraps up with actionable advice from Todd’s latest book, , focusing on how to cultivate brave teams through healthy conflict, protection of teammates, and the giving and receiving of feedback. KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In today's episode, we dive deep into the intriguing world of perception and communication. It all begins with a story about how a seemingly simple movie night turned into a revelation about differing perspectives. We explore how our interpretations of the same events can vary widely, reflecting our own stories and lenses. Joining us is Tamsen Webster, a message designer with 25 years of experience in marketing and messaging. She shares insights from her new book , unveiling why some messages stick while others fail to resonate. Tamsen introduces us to the four primary categories of listeners: actives, ambivalence, indifference, and antagonists. Each category requires a unique approach when crafting messages for effective communication. Tamsen explains the critical importance of understanding the deeper 'why' behind our messages to reach our audience's core beliefs and values. We discuss how influential stories and beliefs can shape perceptions, often leading us to believe in something despite contradicting evidence, as illustrated by the Theranos scandal. We learn that to inspire change and build buy-in, we need to structure our messages around elements our audience already agrees with, support their deeper beliefs, and be patient as change happens in layers. KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS, DAILY EPISODES, Q&A, AND MORE AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app.
In this episode, we explore the stories of two remarkable individuals who took bold steps to seize opportunities in their lives, despite facing incredible challenges. First, we hear from Trey Sheneman, a marketing consultant and a father whose son, Bear, was born with a unique birth defect that severely impacted his hearing. Trey shares the heartwarming journey of how watching Wheel of Fortune became a therapeutic ritual for Bear and led Trey to audition for the game show. Against the odds, Trey's determination and strategic planning not only landed him a spot on the show but also resulted in a life-changing win for his family. Next, we delve into the powerful narrative of Bo Cornelius, who faced a life-altering experience after a car accident that led to a prison sentence. Despite the overwhelming circumstances, Bo found a way to inspire and lead from within prison walls. His journey of redemption and his efforts to create a leadership development group in prison culminated in a significant event that continues to impact many lives. KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ Get full interviews and daily content in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we are joined by renowned author and strategist Seth Godin https://sethgodin.com, who shares invaluable insights into understanding and developing effective strategies. We delve into the concept of elegant versus inelegant strategies, with Seth providing compelling examples of how simple, effective solutions can resolve complex problems. He also discusses the critical distinction between strategy and tactics, and highlights the dangers of ignoring systemic inertia while pushing for change. Key Learnings: __ __ LISTEN TO THE FULL 30 MINUTE INTERVIEW AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app.
In this episode of Daily Creative, we explore a quote from Richard Rohr: This imagery of a mouse confidently navigating a grand space leads us into a profound discussion on humility, self-awareness, and authentic leadership. We reflect on the importance of striking a balance between confidence and humility, highlighting how true confidence stems from self-awareness rather than ego. By understanding our own worth and limitations, we can operate from a place of genuine humility, fostering trust, respect, and creativity within our teams and personal lives. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER AT BRAVEFOCUSEDBRILLIANT.COM https://bravefocusedbrilliant.com
In this thought-provoking episode of Daily Creative, we delve into the concept of safety, its potential illusions, and how it impacts creativity. Chase Jarvis (author of ) shares his personal journey from a budding second-grade entrepreneur, whose creative ventures were effectively shut down by a well-meaning teacher, to becoming a globally celebrated commercial photographer, director, author, and founder of CreativeLive. He underscores the notion that the best experiences in life are often on the other side of our comfort zones and how societal norms and expectations can steer us away from our true paths. Throughout the episode, we also reflect on the wisdom of 20th-century mystic Thomas Merton on the dangers of imitation and the value of staying true to oneself, even when misunderstood. Jarvis provides insights into the importance of intuition, attention, and constraints as vital elements of creativity that are frequently undermined by societal pressures. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: 1. Illusions of Safety: Perceived safety in stable jobs or predictable careers can often be more dangerous as it puts others in control of our lives. 2. Nature of Risk: Avoiding risk does not eliminate problems; it only changes the type of challenges we face and may lead to worse situations. 3. Intuition and Creativity: Our intuition, attention, and constraints are powerful tools we have been conditioned to ignore, yet they are essential for creative success. 4. Risk as a Portfolio: Taking risks isn't about recklessness; it’s about calculated decisions and balancing various aspects of life to ensure growth and innovation. 5. Individual Risk Tolerance: Everyone has a different tolerance for risk, and what feels risky to one might feel safe to another. It's crucial to celebrate small wins and respect individual journeys. GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND DAILY CONTENT IN THE DAILY CREATIVE APP AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
What if failure isn't just something to be tolerated and learned from, but actually something to be for? In this episode, we delve into an unconventional approach to success through the lens of failure. We are joined by Manu Kapur, a learning scientist and author of the book "Productive Failure." Manu believes that failure should not just be something we learn from when it happens, but something we should design for deliberately. This proactive stance on failure can accelerate learning and growth. He highlights the distinction between traditional views that stigmatize failure and a more constructive approach that celebrates effort and risk-taking. Understanding our own knowledge boundaries through failure is a central theme discussed. Failed attempts reveal the limit of what we know and spotlight the gaps in our understanding. This awareness is crucial for deeper learning and personal growth. To further illustrate the lessons from failure, Todd shares a personal story about taking up running post-injury. His journey from struggling to run a mile to becoming an avid runner underscores how small, incremental progress—even in the face of failure—leads to significant achievement. Key Learnings from the Episode: 1. Redefining Failure: Viewing failure as a learning opportunity rather than a setback can lead to greater resilience and success. 2. Designing for Failure: Proactively integrating failure into learning processes can accelerate growth and understanding. 3. Intrinsic Curiosity: Embracing uncertainty and the desire to figure things out is a natural human trait that fosters innovation and learning. 4. Awareness of Limits: Recognizing the boundaries of our knowledge through failure is essential for deep learning. 5. Progress Over Perfection: Celebrating small, daily wins and incremental progress, even through failures, fuels long-term success. Get full interviews and daily content in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app https://dailycreative.app/.
In this episode, we explore the significance of understanding your audience. Mike DiMartino, co-creator of , emphasizes the importance of creating content that respects and enlightens the audience, rather than just entertaining them. We delve into Mike’s career journey from his art school days to his innovative work in animation and his venture into novel writing. DiMartino shares the creative process behind his novel , offering profound insights on grief and loss through a young protagonist's story. We also touch upon the necessity of having creative guardrails to channel artistic efforts effectively, rather than absolute freedom, and discuss the impact of evoking genuine emotions rather than provoking reactions in the audience. Key Learnings: 1. AUDIENCE FOCUS: Keeping a specific, real-life audience in mind, like Stephen King did with Tabitha, can ground and humanize creative work. 2. RESPECTING THE AUDIENCE: Creating content that respects the intelligence and emotional depth of the audience leads to more impactful and memorable art. 3. CREATIVE GUARDRAILS: Constraints and clear direction can enhance creativity by providing focus and a framework within which to innovate. 4. EVOKING VS PROVOKING: Authentic creative expression aims to evoke deep, lasting emotions rather than provokes temporary reactions. 5. CONTINUAL LEARNING: Even seasoned creators like Mike DiMartino continue to study and refine their craft, demonstrating the importance of lifelong learning. Get full interviews and daily episodes in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1