Chasing Dreams with Aimee J.

Gregg Clunis is very connected to the concept of embracing change in order to create your ideal life. His podcast, Tiny Leaps, Big Changes is all about embracing a new perspective in order to take steps towards improving your life. Gregg’s journey to success in personal development came out of the frustration he felt about existing personal development resources and his desire to give people access to something that could truly help make a shift. In this chat with Aimee J., Gregg talks about everything from college to entrepreneurship to success as a podcaster - and beyond. He shares his goals for the show, how he finally found freedom by following his dreams, and the book that changed everything for him, at the young at of 13.

TWEET: Making tiny leaps towards your #dreams, on this episode of #ChasingDreams

Realizing you can create the life you want.

Gregg wasn’t your typical kid. He always knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur, he just wasn’t sure what area it would be in. Gregg shares the moment that changed everything for him: when his brother handed him a book at the beginning of the summer and told him to have it finished by the time school started. The book? Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins. At the age of 13, Gregg not only read the book, but also was profoundly impacted by it. Gregg shares how this book opened up a world of possibilities to him and made him realize he could create whatever kind of life he wanted.

The power of not giving up on your dreams.

Gregg goes on to discuss his college experience and how he ended up changing his major multiple times in search of the right “fit” for him. He went from marketing to IT to economics to a few other things before settling on Art as his final major. Gregg talks about the issues he had with each of the previous majors and why art seemed to fit with his goals as an entrepreneur. He also talks about how it helped him with his first job out of college and why it was the right choice for him. Gregg offers insight into his first attempt at entrepreneurship and the subsequent failure of the first business, followed by taking another leap of faith less than a year later. He also talks about why the last attempt worked and how important it is to keep trying until you can make it work.

TWEET: The #power of never giving up on your dreams, on this episode of #ChasingDreams

Tiny steps lead to very large changes in the future.

The concept behind Gregg’s podcast was born out of frustration he felt within the personal development industry. He talks about what he thinks was missing in the industry and why his show, Tiny Leaps, Big Changes fills that void. Gregg talks specifically about a book he was reading that he felt particularly frustrated with and how it lead to the creation of the show during a train ride with his girlfriend. Today, he releases a new show 7 days a week with topics ranging from fitness to meditation to fear to asking for help. Gregg goes on to share how connecting with his audience helps him formulate show topics.

Connecting with your audience to help them make big changes.

Gregg is clearly all about helping people - and one truly unique way he does that is by having chats with his audience each week. He talks about why he opens himself up to 15 minute phone calls with anyone that wants to talk, and why that’s helped him come up with show topics that truly resonate with people. Gregg also shares insight into his main goal with the show: getting people to have a new perspective on things. In closing, Gregg shares his top tips for fellow dream...

Through his vast experience in radio, podcasting, and digital media production, Russ Johns (Future Media TV, Future Media Association, Agency 258) is known to many as “The Modern-Day Renaissance Man”. His passion for helping others is clear and his talent at sharing branding tips, digital media strategies, and much more has led to a successful career as a coach. Russ and Aimee discuss how he found himself in the world of technology and why it resonates with him so much. They also discuss various platforms, strategies, and advice that can help you take things to the next level. Today, Russ juggles family life as the father of 2 sons with being a musician, author, speaker, and business owner.

TWEET: Pursuing your passion while helping others, on this episode of #ChasingDreams

Being launched into a career in technology.

Before Russ found technology, he was in the advertising business as a billboard installer. As fate would have it, Russ fell from a billboard during an installation and ended up being unable to continue on that path. That’s what led him to the world of technology. And, according to Russ, he knew immediately it was where he belonged. Initially, Russ was involved and engaged in audio. He did some recording for films and continued to learn more about ways to use audio to grow his career. And then Russ found podcasting. That’s when he truly hit his stride.

Finding the right platform for your message.

Russ discusses the various platforms out there and how to drown out all the noise so you can find the right one for your message. He shares insight into one of the latest video platforms - Blab - and why he’s found it to be useful to repurpose content across other platforms. Russ talks about the things he likes most about Blab - on the top of that list: it allows a conversation to take place. He also talks about his ability to think about the next step and how Blab just seems to work well for that.

TWEET: Tips on choosing the right #platform to share your #message, on this episode of #ChasingDreams

Helping others find their voice and refine their message.

As the continue their chat, Russ and Aimee discuss Russ’s passion for helping others. Russ gives insight into what he truly loves about coaching others: helping them define their voice and their message. His mindset is simple: if he can do it, anyone else can - and Russ is determined to help people get their message out there in order to fulfill their dreams. He also shares one of the most critical elements of the success of any business: being able to repurpose content across several platforms. Russ goes onto share some of the commonalities he sees in the people he helps and why it’s so rewarding for him to coach them.

Don’t wait to be perfect to start.

In closing, Russ shares some valuable advice to fellow dream chasers: Perfection kills progress, so don’t wait to be perfect to start. Russ goes on to talk about why getting started is the most important thing you can do - you can always improve along the way. He goes on to give a final piece of advice: forgive yourself for being perfect - and talks about why he embraces his imperfections and freely shares them with his audience. We have to agree, Russ Johns really is a modern-day Renaissance man - and he shares his advice and insight so freely throughout this conversation with Aimee J.

TWEET: #Perfection kills #progress - so don’t wait to be perfect to start ~ Russ Johns

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE:

• [1:13] Introduction of today’s guest, Russ Johns.
• [2:50] How did you get into this?
• [5:12] Why did you evolve into Blab and other areas instead of just...

Law Blank wanted to be an artist for as long as he can remember. He was creating from the age of 2 and art was a part of his daily life. Law worked in mediums like chalk, pencil and even dirt as a child, finding his voice and honing his craft through the years. Today, Law enjoys success as an artist and balances it all with a busy day job and family. In this chat with Law, Aimee J. explores his passion, purpose, and dedication to art, as well as how he found success as an artist shown in galleries around the world.

TWEET: How to turn your passion into a career, on today’s episode of #ChasingDreams

Chasing your dreams in spite of negativity around you.

When you find your purpose and passion, it’s likely that you’ll hear a lot of negative voices around you. Law discusses how he dealt with negativity and how it actually inspired him to pursue his dreams rather than give up on them. He shares why the negativity didn’t dissuade him at all from chasing his dream of being an artist and why he gained strength from it instead. Law also discusses the value of constructive criticism and why it’s important to share feedback with others, even if it’s not in your field. He gives insight into how he uses constructive criticism with his own children to help them find their own voice.

Finding a mentor and using inspiration to hone your craft.

For Law, inspiration was all around him growing up. He explains how his mother’s talent and creativity inspired him. Law’s mother was very creative, and he enjoyed watching her draw and paint as a child. It was hugely inspiring to him and influenced him greatly throughout his childhood. Law also discusses how he found his biggest inspiration not in a person, but in a place: the library. He shares how he would spend all of his free time in the library and why it inspired him so much.

TWEET: The value of finding #inspiration from a young age as you chase your #dreams

Networking to grow your business and share your art.

As he got older, Law knew he needed to find a way to get his art into galleries. And so, at the age of 18, Law had his first show in a local gallery after spending time taking his portfolio to various galleries. He discusses how the process of submitting a portfolio changes as you get older and gain more experience, and why he still doesn’t have an agent. Law also talks about what it was like to have his art shown internationally and why it’s a must to understand how to network if you want to grow your business. He discusses the importance of having a website, but the reality that the real work comes with networking. Law offers a tip for fellow artists: LinkedIn is an awesome place to network with other artists and those with a passion for art.

Finding balance in a very busy life.

As they close out their chat, Aimee and Law discuss the difficulty of finding balance in a very busy life. Law talks about how he balances it all: a full time day job, being on the board of Sing Me a Story Foundation, running stART Talking Art, his art, and - most importantly - his family. He also shares some advice for fellow dream chasers: Nothing should keep you from pursuing your dreams; you’re the only barrier to making them come true. It’s clear Law has passionately pursued his dreams for most of his life and it’s inspiring to hear, with such honesty, the struggles and obstacles he’s faced along the way.

TWEET: How to find #balance in a very busy life, on this episode of #ChasingDreams

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE:

• [0:58] Introduction of Law Blank.
• [2:13] Was art an interest when you were young?
• [3:14] Law’s medium of choice when he was young.
• [4:04] Wws there any negativity around your decision to chase your dream to be an artist?
• [5:47] Should you give...

For Sabrina Johnson Turner, an interest in travel came early. Her independence and refusal to stay in the corner have translated into a fervor for travel and experiencing everything life has to offer. In this chat with Aimee J., Sabrina discusses her path to becoming a lawyer, her original plans for the future, and how she caught the travel bug. From finding ways to save big on flights around the world to staying true to the things that make her truly happy, it’s clear Sabrina has figured out how to blaze her own trail and live a life she loves.

TWEET: Following your dreams around the #world, on this episode of #ChasingDreams

Allowing your passions to dictate your path.

Sabrina’s plans for the future evolved significantly during college and she explains how she found her true calling in life. From an early age, Sabrina wanted to design video games. But, during college she realized this wasn’t the path for her. While it’s clear Sabrina has the aptitude and intelligence for this career, she simply didn’t love it. She discusses the decision to study law and how she ended up finding her true passion in life. Sabrina also shares made her want to study law in the first place and how she ended up landing her dream job.

A dream job checklist - landing the perfect job. 

For Sabrina, the decision to study law was simple: it was something that interested her, so she decided to study it. During law school, she fell in love with the law and knew this was where she belonged. Sabrina discusses the process of finishing law school as well as the grueling process of studying for (and passing) the bar exam. She goes on to offer insight into the jobs she had after law school and how she ended up landing her dream job just 2 years after passing the bar.

TWEET: How a #DreamJob #checklist could help you land the perfect job.

Catching the travel bug.

Now that she had the perfect job, it was time for Sabrina to discover her other passion: travel. She discusses how travel had been a part of her life early on - in the form of European travel during high school. Sabrina also shares the pivotal moment in her life that made travel a must from that point forward. Today, she travels around the world and enjoys the flexibility to do so through a job she absolutely loves. Sabrina also shares a few tips and tricks that make global travel not only possible, but also affordable.

It’s only a dream until you do it.

As they close out their chat, Sabrina and Aimee discuss some new opportunities that will make travel even easier for Sabrina. Sabrina offers insight into the role of flexibility in being able to travel the world, even on a budget. She also talks about why she still works 2 jobs today - one job as a trial attorney for an insurance company and the other as a group fitness instructor. In closing, Sabrina offers some big advice for fellow dream chasers: it’s only a dream until you do it. It’s clear Sabrina is a dream chaser through and through, and this chat will inspire you to “just do it” - whatever it is that makes you happy.

TWEET: It’s only a #dream until you do it ~ Sabrina Johnson Turner

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE:

• [0:57] Introduction of Sabrina Johnson Turner.
• [2:14] Sabrina discusses her recent travels.
• [3:20] The work Sabrina does now.
• [3:44] What did you originally want to do with your life?
• [7:24] Sabrina and Amy discuss the bar exam and the preparation process.
• [10:57] The jobs Sabrina has had since law school.
• [13:13] What was your dream job checklist when you were leaving law school?
• [16:42] How long after you passed the bar did you find this dream job?
• [18:11] What area of law did you think you’d practice in when you finished law school?
• [19:58] The role of networking in landing the right job.
• [21:59] They discuss why Sabrina is known as “Sabrina San...

Steve Thompson has built his business around his 2 passions: socks and giving back. His business, Necessary Good, LLC, is focused on giving back in a big way. Steve discusses the mission of Necessary Good, as well as the inspiration behind the company. It’s clear that Steve makes helping people a core focus of his life and the good that he continues to do with his company is certainly inspiring. Learn more about Steve and the conscious work Necessary Good does to make the world a better place, one pair of socks at a time.

TWEET: Making the world a better place, one pair of #socks at a time

Having an “a-ha” moment that shapes your future.

Steve’s passion for socks goes back a few years. In fact, he has quite the collection of unique(and sometimes downright “crazy”) socks. For Steve, realizing just how much money he was spending on his sock collection sparked an idea. Fueled by a passion for helping people, Steve decided it was time to give back and pursue his passion for socks at the same time. His a-ha moment came when he found out the number one things homeless shelters need are socks. Once Steve put those 2 ideas together, Necessary Good was born.

The value of giving back and building a business around that.

The mission of Necessary Good is simple: “Giving socks a new meaning, one pair at a time”. Their“buy a pair, give a pair” business model has been a huge hit with customers. Steve discusses why this is important and how they donate 1 pair of socks for every pair sold to a homeless shelter.He discusses the design process of the socks as well, sharing more detail of his passion for unique socks. Steve also dives into the subject of balance while building a business and how he maintains focus on what matters most.

TWEET: Can you build a #businessaround #GivingBack? Ask Steve Thompson

Overcoming setbacks and focusing on your why.

For any new business, there are setbacks. Steve shares one of his setbacks in building NecessaryGood and how, for a short time, it sidetracked him from his mission. He also discusses how maintaining focus on his “why”helped him get back on track. Steve delves deeper into his why and shares how he always focuses on why he started the company,especially when there are naysayers around. He also discusses the importance of having the right people around you so that you can stay focused on what matters most and continue to grow.

Making the world a better place, one pair of socks at a time.

As they close out their chat,Aimee and Steve talk about the inspiration behind the nameNecessary Good as well as Steve’s hopes for the future. Steve also gives his top piece of advice to fellow dream chasers (hint: follow your heart). He gives insight to the commitment Necessary Good has to environmental responsibility as well as how important it is to make sure customers understand your mission. It’s clear Steve is a dream chaser through and through. It’s also clear he’s following his dreams with passion and purpose, truly making the world a better place.

TWEET: Overcome #obstacles by always focusing on your #why

OUTLINE OF THISEPISODE:

• [1:09] Introduction of SteveThompson.
• [2:26] Making strides to change the world.
• [2:47] The inspiration behind NecessaryGood.
• [4:45] Steve’s “a-ha” moment.
• [5:35] The process of giving back throughSteve’s company.
• [6:42] Steve’s passion for design.
• [7:23] Steve’s aspirations as a child.
• [8:54] Balancing the company with other areas of life.
• [10:27] Some mistakes Steve made along the way and what he learned.
• [14:24] What inspired the name “NecessaryGood”?
• [15:32] Will you expand beyond socks?
• [16:42] What was one thing you’ve done over the last 2 years, that you’re really happy about?
• [18:28] The thrill of the first sale.
• [23:03]

Michael Russo is at the time of this recording a full time college student and founder of Sticky Quotes, which we’ll talk about more later in this episode. Michael is double majoring in Business Management and Philosophy and is very active on campus, serving as President of the Entrepreneurship Club. One of his goals is to one day find a company in the clean/renewable energy industry that helps save the planet! He’s already saving the planet with his positive attitude and sticky quotes business, please welcome Mike to the show.

TWEET: Learning what U don’t like 2 do is just as valuable as learning what U do like 2 do ~ Michael Russo

A high school entrepreneurial club project that went big.

Michael Russo was the very first student who signed up to participate in his high school’s new entrepreneur’s club. You could say the club itself was a startup. It was out of his experience as part of that club that his mentor encouraged him to take what seemed like a silly idea and make it into a business. That’s how Sticky Quotes was born. On this episode Aimee digs into the story with Michael to learn about the inspiration behind this inspirational business and the road to success that he’s paved before he even graduated from college. Be sure you take the time to listen.

Finding a way to mass produce his product wasn’t easy.

But Michael Russo kept at it. He did the grunt work himself for a very long time, manually copying pages of templates and sticky note quotes at his local office supply megastore. It was because the desire to see his high school entrepreneur club project succeed was stronger than his desire to be comfortable. What are your dreams? Are you willing to pay the price to see them come to life? You’ll learn a lot from hearing the lengths Michael went to in order to make his dream come true, so we hope you listen to what he has to say.

TWEET: I didn’t think about failing because it wouldn’t have been a #failure either way ~ Michael Russo

Finding support in like-minded people is always a win.

Being in an entrepreneur’s club in high school taught Michael the benefits of bouncing ideas and difficult situations off a group of like-minded people. Since that time he’s always made a point of being in an environment where that kind of synergy and give and take is available. He credits the great people around him with much of the success his Sticky Quotes business has been. You can hear Michael’s advice about getting into mastermind type groups on this episode of Chasing Dreams.

He wants to change the world through renewable energy.

Michael Russo is a young guy. In fact, he’s just about to graduate college around the time this episode of Chasing Dreams publishes. But his vision is far bigger than most college graduates. He’s got the ambition and drive to create a renewable energy company that can change the planet. He believes that it can be done through hard work and research and that scientific dedication and testing can make all the difference for the future of the planet. You’re going to hear his exciting vision for that company on this episode as Aimee J. asks him to talk about his dream.

TWEET: From inspirational quotes to changing the world with #renewable energy, with Michael Russo

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE:

• [0:47] Aimee’s introduction of Michael Russo.
• [2:03] Michael’s upcoming graduation from college: what it what he imagined?
• [5:59] How keeping busy keeps Michael focused.
• [6:40] The way that Michael came up with Sticky Quotes.
• [11:02] The way Michael originally created his Sticky Quotes.
• [15:22] What kept Michael going when things weren’t going well?
• [18:54] Other projects Michael’s entrepreneur club in school worked on.
• [20:52] The benefits Michael has found in mastermind groups.
• [21:32] Michael’s tryout for

Tanavi P was a closet nerd till she discovered the Chuck and Haven fandoms. After working at Nerd HQ, conventions quickly became her perfect pastime, where she realised she could combine her nerd curiosity with her love of journalism and become an entertainment reporter. She now also works for MCM Comic Con hosting the MCM Buzz stage and has moderated panels for Walker Stalker Con. Her interest is mainly genre TV, but she is always looking for the next new thing to fangirl over! Today you’re going to hear Tanavi’s journey from non-nerd to full-on nerd.

TWEET: If you have something you think you might want to do, just try ~ Tanavi Patel

Getting into the fangirl lifestyle.

Tanavi Patel never thought of herself as a “fangirl” of anything in particular, until she came across some television shows that really grabbed her. Her interest in those shows led her, over time, to her current immersion in the comic and fan world. On this episode you’re going to hear the unlikely journey she’s taken from simple fan of the shows to moderator of some of the most high profile aspects of major comic con type events. It’s an inspiring story for every dream chaser, so be sure you take the time to listen.

Keeping her nerdy life a secret - for a while.

As Tanavi got involved in the comic and fantasy fan realm she began attending events and participating in the culture, but it was all behind the scenes. In her everyday life as a physician, she wasn’t sure how her hobby would be perceived, so she kept it quiet. What she’s discovered is that the “fangirl” aspect of who she is is exactly that - part of who she is, and it’s not best to hide it. It may sound funny, but she’s much happier since she’s “come out” and the reception among her friends and family has been warmer than she expected.

TWEET: What’s holding you back from chasing your own #dreams? #ChasingDreams podcast

The “love fest” that is comic con.

One of the main aspects of what Tanavi has experienced at the comic con events that she’s attended is the incredible community of caring people who attend the events. It really is a place where everyone is accepted and stereotypes and barriers that keep people separated in the “real world” don’t exist. On this episode you’ll hear Tanavia and Aimee chat about that phenomena and their experience of it, as well as hear where Tanavi’s participation has taken her.

Motivation, opportunity, and intellect or talent enable anyone to do anything.

That’s the mantra that Tanavi has come to believe and live by. Her own experience has proven it to be true and she tries to encourage anyone who is hesitant to chase their dreams to take it to heart. As you listen to Tanavi’s journey on this episode of Chasing Dreams, let it inspire you to consider your own journey and your own dreams. What’s holding you back? What will it take for you to step over the obstacles and get started chasing your own dreams?

TWEET: Motivation, opportunity, and intellect or talent enable anyone to do anything ~ Tanavi Patel

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE:

• [0:49] Aimee’s introduction of today’s guest, Tanavi Patel.
• [1:38] How Tanavi got interested in fan shows.
• [7:00] Keeping her nerdy life secret.
• [10:24] The positive atmosphere of comic con type events.
• [12:30] How Aimee J. and Tanavi met.
• [17:49] Tanavi’s experience meeting cast and crew of her favorite shows.
• [20:20] Tanavi’s day-job: being a physician.
• [23:11] How Tanavi began doing...

Fritz Leopold found his way into the recruiting world quite by accident. Since the age of 3, Fritz dreamed of being an architect. Through the process of chasing that dream, he realized it wasn’t as fulfilling as he’d hoped it would be. As new opportunities crossed his path, Fritz realized he needed to pursue his passion for helping others. Along the way, he found himself being invited to be a full time recruiter - and so, he found his true path. Today, Fritz works as a business technology recruiter for McKinsey & Company, where he is able to follow his purpose of helping others.

TWEET: Don’t run away from your dreams and always be true to yourself ~ Fritz Leopold

Getting to the heart of your dreams.

Although dream chasing required Fritz to start over in an entirely new career, he wouldn’t change a thing. He discusses with Aimee J. the process of finding his purpose in the world of recruiting and what it’s like to make such a huge transition. Fritz shares the realities of making such a shift, including facing the financial challenges that might come with it. He also discusses - with great honesty - why it’s essential to follow your true path, even with the sacrifices it might require. For Fritz, once he found that path, he knew it was right. He explains why that makes the initial sacrifices very worthwhile.

Regret has no place here.

As Fritz delves a bit deeper into the transition process and some of the obstacles he faced, Aimee asks if he has any regrets. Without skipping a beat, Fritz makes it clear that he doesn’t believe in regret. He shares why all experiences are valuable - especially the mistakes. And how we must embrace them as part of learning and growing. He discusses in more detail why you have to be realistic about the fact that shifting gears when it comes to your career means you are starting at the bottom. It’s a humbling experience and one that you must be realistic about before you take the plunge.

TWEET: Getting to the heart of your #dreams and chasing them no matter what, on this episode

The importance of learning to take feedback.

Another key element to making a career change is learning to take feedback. When you switch careers like Fritz did, there will inevitably be a learning curve. That’s where feedback comes in. Fritz discusses why you must embrace feedback because it is the key to your growth as a person and in your career. Fritz also offers a few tips to help you through the transition process, including some steps to take before you even consider making a change. He also discusses the role of headhunters and how to make sure you work with people who truly have your best interests at heart.

Being a good interviewee - practice makes perfect.

As they close out their chat, Aimee and Fritz discuss the interview process, along with some negotiating tips. When it comes to the interview, says Fritz, the biggest hiccup can be talking about the areas in which you excel. Fritz gives his recommendations on how you can overcome this obstacle (hint: it involves a lot of practice). Fritz also offers his number one piece of advice for fellow dream chasers: Do not be afraid to chase your dreams. Your dreams are what you aspire to be. If you downplay them, you’re never going to be your true self. Don’t run away from your dreams and always be true to yourself.

TWEET: Why you need to learn how to take #feedback in order to #grow, on this episode

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE:

• [0:53] Aimee’s introduction of today’s guest, Fritz Leopold.
• [2:36] How Fritz transitioned from architecture to recruiting.
• [4:51] The pivot into recruiting.
• [8:21] Making the decision to take this huge chance on an entirely new career.
• [12:59] Do you regret making any of the transitions you’ve made?
• [15:55] The role of feedback in...

For Mat Poovan, the path to his dreams was filled with unexpected twists and turns. He always had lofty ambitions and a clear path to follow to achieve his goals. But, on the road to some of those goals, Mat found his true passion: Indian classical music. Specifically, it was the sitar that grabbed his attention. Mat discovered the sitar quite by accident, while attending class and studying ancient India. His teacher played Indian classical music in the background and the rest, as they say, is history. From there, Mat pursued his passion for music, but it was balanced with some other passions - creating a full life of being a business consultant by day and a talented musician by night.

TWEET: Discovering your #dreams when you least expect to, on this episode of #ChasingDreams

Following his path - even though it was unexpected.

When Mat started school, he had already been studying the sitar for several years. He knew he had to be more practical about school, so he decided to major in political science with a minor in economics. Mat’s end goal was to become an ambassador eventually. As his passion for music grew, Mat’s goals in political science shifted. He made some changes so that he could pursue both passions - changing his major and eventually discovered instructional design. His passion for instructional design would pave the way for a solid career as a business consultant, while allowing Mat the freedom to pursue music in his downtime.

Finding your true passion and pursuing it with all that you’ve got.

Mat discusses his passion for instructional design and walks us down the path of discovering the sitar at a young age, and how he ended up with his first instrument. Once Mat set his sights on learning the sitar, everything fell into place around it. He found a local teacher who was an expert in Indian classical music and he was able to develop his skills over the years. His love of the sitar and Indian classical music as a whole was clear - and Mat eventually found himself being encouraged to become a teacher. This led to many new opportunities in the music industry, including his work with the Indian Academy of Music & Fine Arts and his work with the record label Aimrec.

TWEET: When it comes to #pursuing your #passion, you have to go after it with all that you’ve got

Being a trendsetter in the realm of Indian Classical Music.

Mat gives us insight into his connection to Indian classical music and how he knew - instantly - that this was a path he needed to follow. He also discusses how uncommon it is to find an American-born Indian who plays the sitar. In reality, Mat had become a trendsetter and was blazing a trail for budding musicians who wanted to follow his path. He discusses his goals within music, as well as his other career in industrial design, and shares insight into some “bucket list” items he’d like to conquer. One of his bucket list items? To record an album and eventually win a Grammy. Mat believes in dreaming big, and that’s just what he does.

The key to following your dreams? Just start.

As Aimee and Mat close out their chat, they discuss the value of setting huge goals in order to propel yourself forward. Mat offers advice to fellow dream chasers who are ready to pursue their dreams. The key to his advice? Just start. Mat’s all about planning and making sure you know the steps that will help you achieve your goal. But, according to Mat, the most important thing is to just start. Mat also discusses some other dreams, including playing a huge venues like The Kennedy Center and someday building a house. When it comes to chasing dreams, Mat is a shining example of following the road less traveled and being true to yourself along the way.

TWEET: Once you find your #dream, the key to making it happen is to just start ~ Mat...

Today’s Dream Chasers are Cristin Kist and Jeffrey Gritman. Friends for more than 20 years, Cristin and Jeff started writing 5 years ago. From the beginning it was clear they had a passion for pop culture, science fiction and all things geeky, so the stories they were drawn to were, naturally, in the same vein. In today’s chat with Aimee J., Cristin and Jeff discuss how a story evolved from a concept into a multi-volume book series, and how they manage to stay focused on their dreams in spite of having super busy schedules. They share their passion for writing, telling stories, and making people life, and how this propels them towards their dream of being full time writers.

TWEET: Discovering your #passion and going after it with everything you’ve got, on this episode

Discovering a passion for writing.

Cristin and Jeff are both avid writers on their own. But together, they craft unique and hilarious stories that attract a wide audience. They explain how the “Prison Dad” storyline was born and why they originally intended for it to be a TV series. Cristin and Jeff also share why they ended up opting for a book series they self-published through Amazon. They discuss the character development as well as the original idea behind the main character. Cristin and Jeff offer insight into how pop culture inspires them to craft stories for the Prison Dad series.

The evolution of a story from original concept to published book.

In the beginning, the main character in the Prison Dad books was older and more “grizzled” than he ended up being. For Cristin and Jeff, this evolution into a younger, more relatable, although still grizzled in his own way, made sense to them and why they chose to make this shift. The writing process is unique when dealing with 2 authors, but because of the close friendship they share Cristin and Jeff are able to work together to find a balance and discover the true path of the characters.

TWEET: Being diligent with your time and maintaining balance while growing your #dreams

Maintaining balance in a busy life.

Cristin and Jeff are chasing their dreams - that much is clear. What’s not clear though is how they manage to maintain balance in their lives while they still work full time. Finding a way to make the time for family, career, friends, and writing can be tough. Cristin explains how Jeff keeps them on task and how he helps to manage their time so they maintain focus on writing, along with their other priorities. They also discuss their podcast, Silly Talks about Science Fiction and what inspired them to create the show.

The role of networking in growing an audience.

As they close out their chat with Aimee J., Cristin and Jeff offer insight into their decision to self-publish versus going with a publishing company. They also discuss the benefits of doing this and the feeling that they had more control over the process by doing it themselves. Cristin and Jeff give insight into the importance of networking and how they’ve tapped into their expansive network to have book signings and grow their audience. In closing, Cristin and Jeff give their one tip to fellow dream chasers.

TWEET: Fear keeps you from reaching your dreams. Be brave. Even trying is a success ~ Cristin Kist

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE:

• [0:51] Introduction of Cristin Kist and Jeffrey Gritman.
• [2:34] How Cristin and Aimee connected.
• [3:57] How Cristin and Jeffrey met each other in high school, and how the relationship evolved from there.
• [5:05] Their love of watching movies and talking about them.
• [5:55] How they started writing together and found their true passion.
• [7:40] Their background in writing/English.
• [9:18] The creation of the Prison Dad book series.
• [11:53] How long after you had the idea did you write the first book?
• [14:33]...