Creative Baggage

In this episode, we talk to composer/saxophonist/music educator Miguel Bolivar about his experiences building successful music programs in public schools. We discuss the bureaucratic and logistical obstacles that teachers face, as well as the breakthroughs and accomplishments that make those struggles worth it. Finally, we cover the role of technology and innovation in improving the education system for both teachers and students.

https://www.miguelbolivarmusic.com/

In this episode, we talk to composer/violinist/YouTuber Michael Shingo Crawford about his various skills, and how they allow him to have artistic control over his projects. We discuss the benefits and challenges of working as an individual versus in a team, emphasizing how collaborating with others can affect a creative vision. Finally, we share our experiences with monetizing our hobbies and developing a work/life balance when working for ourselves.

https://www.michaelshingocrawford.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb46nljnneXaQCa5wKYsbWA 

In this episode, we weigh the positive and negative elements of boredom, contemplating whether it is necessary or something to be avoided. We discuss the fear of boredom, as well as its association with laziness. We also talk about the role that being bored plays in sparking creativity, and how we can create an environment that inspires us to reach past the feeling of boredom.

In this episode, we continue our conversation about vulnerability and connection with Elizabeth Rowe. She tells us about her journey to becoming a coach for young creatives, and how rewarding it has been to help people realize their potential. We also talk about our passions outside of music, coming to the conclusion that sometimes our outside interests can have profound impacts on our career, but they are valuable even if they don’t. Finally, we confront the hierarchies present in our field of work and how important it is to create communities that extend beyond these boundaries.

Elizabeth's Website

https://iamelizabethrowe.com/

Elizabeth's TED Talk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7lbT0485wI&ab_channel=TEDxTalks

In this episode, we talk to Elizabeth Rowe (principal flutist of the Boston Symphony Orchestra) about the importance of being compassionate towards ourselves and others, especially in a field of work that is often isolating and competitive. We open up about some of our struggles and insecurities, asserting that being vulnerable is crucial to overcoming loneliness. We also discuss finding motivation to constantly improve, and how difficult it is to separate observation from judgement when evaluating oneself.

Elizabeth's Website

https://iamelizabethrowe.com/

Elizabeth's TED Talk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7lbT0485wI&ab_channel=TEDxTalks

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Episode Sponsor: https://heidikaybegay.com/shop/

Use code CREATIVEBAGGAGE code for 25% off of both of Heidi's digital video courses: The Podcasting Musician & The Corporate Sponsorship classes.

(Valid until 12/31/23)

In this episode, we talk to our good friend and fellow flutist Malinda Voell about the benefits and challenges of dating another musician. We discuss valuing a partner’s opinion, appreciating each other’s art, and the sense of competition that can arise from working in the same field.

Follow Malinda on Instagram! 

instagram.com/malindangelinda

In this episode, we talk to Garrett Dexter about his journey to becoming a professional music educator. Garrett provides insight on the ways in which the field of Music Ed has evolved over the years, as well as the direction it is headed in now. We also discuss our fears of not being “qualified” to teach and what it means to be a great music teacher.

https://linktr.ee/creative.baggage

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Evan Kassof about his work as a labor organizer, particularly as president of the Temple University Graduate Students’ Association (TUGSA). We dive into the inequalities present in higher education, as well as the affects of financial insecurity on our abilities to teach, create art, and help others. You can find Evan’s musical works on his website:

http://www.evankassof.com/

In this episode, we talk to Americorps member and aspiring lawyer Keenen McMurray about the economic barriers involved in law school applications and how a law degree will allow him to help others in the future. We also talk about taking a detour to explore jobs and passions that aren’t necessarily related to our career paths. You can find Keenen’s writings through the link below:

https://medium.com/@keenenmcmurray

In this episode, we talk to Jeff and Jacob from the band Riverview about their experiences making music while working/studying full time. We also learn a lot about the pop punk genre and the music scene in Arkansas. You can listen to Riverview’s debut song “Knuckles” through the links below:

YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=jc7WEa9LaJo

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/4QMEsRvcQrjrwKpJ1rDzcF?si=2sfsg7ESTY-76V5uKwxprA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/knuckles-single/1539104529