"If you wanna be known for something, go find those communities, find where those people are, and be there consistently, show up and participate and comment, ask questions, provide value to people."

— James Quick 

Are you someone who welcomes change with open arms or someone who struggles with it? 

In the latest episode of Creative Chats, I had the pleasure of speaking with James Quick, a developer, content creator, and speaker who shared invaluable insights on the power of adaptability and the limitless potential of technology.

Here are three key takeaways from our conversation that can help you navigate transitions and thrive in an ever-evolving world: 

1️⃣ Embrace Technology, Embrace Opportunities: Throughout history, mankind has faced numerous technological changes. It's crucial to shift our mindset from fearing job loss to automation towards seeing it as an opportunity to expand our capabilities with AI. By being open to new possibilities and adopting a curious mindset, we can unlock endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.

2️⃣ Building a Personal Brand: Your presence and active engagement are essential steps towards building a strong personal brand. By consistently participating in relevant communities, adding value, and seeking out connections, you can rapidly grow your network and establish yourself as an influential voice in your field. Remember, your personal brand is your most valuable asset, so invest in it wisely.

3️⃣ Adaptability is the Key: In a world that's constantly evolving, adaptability is no longer just a nice-to-have skill – it's a necessity. Those who are willing to question what's possible, think outside the box, and continuously improve will thrive amidst change. Be open, be flexible, and be willing to learn. Remember, success comes to those who adapt.

Whether you're a tech enthusiast or someone who has no interest in technical terms, the innovations and creations of individuals like James Quick impact us all. Tune in to this inspiring episode of Creative Chats to gain valuable insights and unleash the power of adaptability. Keep evolving, keep learning, and keep pushing boundaries! 💡

Visit: https://www.jamesqquick.com/

Order your copy of my new book, Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again at www.MakeFunaHabit.com

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com

The Importance of Confidence in the Creative Process: "Invite someone else into your process. Have someone else that you can use as a sounding board who can help bring their taste to match your taste or maybe not even sometimes match it, but sometimes to challenge it. So that you can really be clear on what it is that you are aiming at, what quality you consider to be the standard and what you're willing to accept and not accept when it comes to what you're creating."— Mike Brennan

I recently had the chance to watch a documentary on Amazon Prime about the making of Tom Petty's iconic album, Wildflowers. It was a fascinating deep dive into the creative process and the power of collaboration.

I couldn't help but draw some valuable insights from this documentary that I wanted to share with all of you.

🔑 Key Takeaway #1: Embrace Feedback: Tom Petty, a renowned artist with a string of hits, recognized the value of inviting someone else's feedback into his process. No matter your level of expertise, seeking out different perspectives can push your creativity to new heights.

🔑 Key Takeaway #2: Collaboration is Key: When Tom Petty teamed up with Rick Rubin, a record producer with a different musical background, they brought fresh ideas to the table. Their collaboration allowed them to create something unique and take their artistry in a new direction. Don't be afraid to work with others who have different skill sets or perspectives—they might just bring out the best in you.

🔑 Key Takeaway #3: Trust Your Taste: Rick Rubin's expertise wasn't in playing instruments or writing songs, but he had an incredible ability to recognize when a song reached its full potential. Trusting your own taste and artistic instincts is crucial in creating work that resonates with others.

Order your copy of my new book, Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again at www.MakeFunaHabit.com

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship: "Many times you feel the high highs of the mountains and the low lows of the valley minutes, in between each other, days in between each other." — Rob Jelinski 

I had the pleasure of having Rob Jelinski as a guest on this episode of Creative Chats podcast, where we discussed taking risks, embracing opportunities, and the power of mentorship in the creative industry.

With 20 years of creative entrepreneurship, Rob brings a wealth of expertise (strategy, branding, marketing, & design) as he leads his award-winning, family of brands which encompasses Infinite Design Agency, Think Art Director, and more.

Here are some key takeaways from the episode:

🔑 Takeaway 1: Say "Yes" to the Opportunities That Scare You Saying "yes" to opportunities, even if they seem intimidating or uncertain, can lead to defining moments in your life. Don't let the fear of rejection hold you back. Embrace the unknown and see where it takes you.

🔑 Takeaway 2: Embrace the Unpredictable Journey Success isn't defined by one big opportunity that revolutionizes everything. It's a continuous process of growth, personal development, and building relationships. Embrace the ups and downs of your creative journey and recognize that each step is part of your unique path.

🔑 Takeaway 3: Champion Community Over Competition Competition can lead to negative behaviors and self-doubt. Instead, focus on building a supportive community of fellow creatives. Encourage and appreciate the work of others, ask questions, and learn from different perspectives. Together, we can elevate the creative industry and inspire each other.

Visit thinkartdirector.com and use the code "Creative Chats" for a 10% discount. 

See Rob's work at https://www.infinitedesignagency.com/

Order your copy of my new book, Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again at www.MakeFunaHabit.com

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com

"Everything slows down when you're at an event sometimes. If it's a well-run event, there can be this moment where nothing else matters except what is happening right in this space."

— Phil Mershon

In this episode, Phil shares his insights and experiences from creating new and unforgettable experiences for over 25 years, with experiences as a worship pastor and as the director of experience for Social Media Marketing World. 🎶💡

Here are 3 key takeaways from this enlightening episode:

1️⃣ Unleashing Your Creativity: Phil's journey showcases the power of creativity in designing engaging experiences. Regardless of your field, his insights on storytelling, thoughtfulness, engagement of all senses, and access to creativity and intellect will inspire you to unlock your own creative potential. 🌈📚

2️⃣ Harnessing the Power of Events: Not involved in event planning? Don't worry! Phil encourages visual artists, musicians, and creators of all kinds to think beyond their craft and consider the impact of events, both online and in person. Learn how you can leverage the communal experience of events to amplify the reach and impact of your work. 🎨🎶

3️⃣ The Art of Presentation: Phil's emphasis on the importance of presentation rings true for all creators. Discover how the way art is displayed and experiences are crafted can significantly enhance their impact and capture the attention of your audience. From “bricks to mortar”, learn how to design seamless experiences that leave a lasting impression. 🖼️🧱

Visit https://www.philmershon.com/signup/

Order your copy of my new book, Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again at www.MakeFunaHabit.com

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com

In this episode of Creative Chats, host Mike Brennan finds himself in the hot seat as guest Kabrina Ashely turns the tables and delves into his new book, Make Fun A Habit. The conversation focuses on the concept of infusing more fun and intentionality into our lives and work. As Kabrina asks Mike deeper questions about his book, they explore how to unlock the power of fun, find meaning in work, and create fulfilling personal experiences.

Here are a few takeaways:

1️⃣ No matter if we're talking about personal or work life, we're all people. Our well-being intertwines, and fun plays a critical role in shaping our mindset and outlook.

2️⃣ Start small. Uncover what brings you joy, even if it's just a tiny spark. There may be biases or challenges, but together, we can figure it out.

3️⃣ It's not about having foosball tables in the office. It's about creating a process that fosters fun and play. Embrace breaks, change your focus, and unleash your creativity.

4️⃣ Fun is not just limited to our personal lives, but it also has a place in our professional journeys. By fostering a culture that embraces creativity, collaboration, and experimentation, organizations can create fulfilling work environments that lead to higher employee satisfaction and innovative outcomes.

Join us as we discover the inspiration behind Mike's book and uncover practical ways to make fun a habit in our own lives. 

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com

Order your copy of my new book, Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again at www.MakeFunaHabit.com

Importance of Self-Identity in Personal Growth: "No one operates beyond the boundaries of their own self-image."— K-Rahn Vallatine

In this episode of Creative Chats, I am thrilled to have K-Rahn Vallatine joining me. K-Rahn is a passionate communicator and advocate for empowering and inspiring people to fulfill their potential. He believes in the power of mindset and self-identity to create positive change in communities. 

We dove deep into K-Rahn's journey and discussed how creativity, mindset, and self-identity play crucial roles in personal growth and success. Here are a few key takeaways from our conversation:

📌 Embracing Creativity: K-Rahn shared how creativity flourishes when faced with problems that others may not have been able to solve. Tapping into a passion for problem-solving can unlock incredible creativity and innovative solutions.

📌 The Power of Mindset: We explored the impact of self-limiting beliefs on both youth and adults. K-Rahn emphasized the importance of self-identity and how it shapes every aspect of our lives. Helping others see themselves as the greatest versions of themselves is a transformative journey.

📌 Mindset and Employment: K-Rahn's work with workforce development agencies shed light on the importance of mindset in sustaining employment. While programs often focus on surface-level skills, developing a growth-oriented mindset is crucial for long-term success.

To learn more about K-Rahn Vallatine and gain valuable insights on mindset, creativity, and empowering others, tune in to this engaging episode of Creative Chats.

www.innersunconsulting.com

Get a copy of K-Rahn's book Beyond The Crack Generation: Surviving A Trauma Organized Culture

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com

Order your copy of my new book, Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again at www.MakeFunaHabit.com

The Power of the Whiteboard: "So for me, as non-creative as it sounds, there is something magical that can happen at a whiteboard."— Ryan Holck 

In this episode, I had the pleasure of hosting my good friend Ryan Holck, a talented marketer and brand message strategist. Join us as Ryan shares invaluable insights on storytelling, messaging clarity, and the creative process.

✨ Here are 3 key takeaways from our chat:

1️⃣ Being intentional and clear in your messaging is essential for logical sense before applying creativity. It's like dismantling and understanding how things work, serving as the foundation for your creative process.

2️⃣ Creativity is not limited to art but expands to the words and expressions used in marketing and communication. Don't forget to explore the realm of possibilities and ideas beyond just execution.

3️⃣ Asking good questions and avoiding assumptions are vital when it comes to effective communication. Words, photos, and infographics can solve communication gaps, so think about the most essential takeaways and express them creatively.

And find out why effectively ending a presentation or story is crucial.

If you're looking to enhance your storytelling skills, gain messaging clarity, or ignite your creativity, this episode is a must-listen. Join us on this creative journey with Ryan Holck!

Visit https://distillyourstory.com/

Join Ryan's Facebook Group High Proof Marketing for Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders

Order your copy of my new book, Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again at www.MakeFunaHabit.com

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com

Finding Fun in Life: "This is an important message of making fun a habit of looking for those places in our lives, discovering and rediscovering those places in our lives where we can have fun again, where things don't have to be so heavy."— Mike Brennan

In episode 207. Embracing Your Inner Author: Making Book Writing Feasible for Creatives, I take you behind the scenes of my book-writing process. From brainstorming chapters to designing the book cover, I'll share my journey of turning an idea into a tangible product. Whether you're considering writing a book or pursuing any creative project, I hope my insights and experiences can inspire you to take action and make your ideas a reality. Join me as we explore the exciting journey of creativity, fun, and productivity!

Order your copy of my new book, Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again at www.MakeFunaHabit.com

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com

"Experience produces confidence": Confidence and self-assurance are not inherent traits but are developed through lived experiences and self-reflection.— Mike Brennan

In this episode, I dive into the power of experience, challenges, and mindset when it comes to building confidence as a creator. Here are three key takeaways to remember:

1️⃣ Experience Produces Confidence: Embrace challenging moments in your creative process. These moments are opportunities for growth, learning, and developing confidence in your abilities.

2️⃣ The Power of Challenging Moments: Don't shy away from challenging situations. Embrace them as opportunities to push your limits and test your creativity. It's through these moments that we gain valuable experience and build confidence.

3️⃣ Mindset Matters: Cultivate a positive and growth-oriented mindset. Believe in yourself and your abilities. Surround yourself with a supportive community that encourages your creative pursuits. Your mindset plays a crucial role in building confidence.

Join me on this journey towards confidence in creativity. Together, we can learn, grow, and inspire one another. Let's create with confidence and make a positive impact through our work!

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com

The Importance of Investing in Community: "You know, everybody looks at the cost of going to a conference or going to an event or the cost of hiring a coach, the cost of joining a community. But no one considers the cost of what it would be like if you were the same person a year from now."— Terry Weaver

I'm thrilled to announce that the latest episode of the Creative Chats podcast is a mashup with Terry Weaver's podcast, Making Elephants Fly! In this episode, Terry Weaver and I sit down for a thought-provoking conversation we had in Jamaica about creativity, community, and the shifts that have occurred in the past year. 

Here are the key takeaways from this conversation:

1️⃣ Expand Your Definition of Creativity: Creativity is not limited to visual art. It's about how you see the world and what you do as a result. Embrace different perspectives and include people from diverse backgrounds and interests. This opens up new avenues for collaboration and idea generation.

2️⃣ Build Authentic Connections: Community and relationships are vital for cultivating creativity. Find a community where you can be known, challenged, and encouraged. It's about creating a transformative experience and unlocking new possibilities together. Seek out events and gatherings that foster deep connections, like Terry Weaver's upcoming event, The Thing, happening November 3-5th 2023 in Orlando, Florida (use the code: CREATIVE for a discount), and the Mastermind at Sea!

3️⃣ Take Action and Embrace Scary Ideas: Creative ideas are like seeds—they need nurturing and growth to become something beautiful. Dream big and don't shy away from ideas that scare you. Taking action leads to stories of success while hesitating and overthinking hinder progress. Create a daily creative habit that allows you to consistently show up for your passion projects and explore new avenues of self-expression.

Join the free Facebook community, "Daily Creative Habit," where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate your creative journey. Make sure to subscribe to the "Daily Creative Habit" newsletter, delivered to your inbox, for inspiration and practical tips. And don't forget to grab your copy of the "Daily Creative Habit" guided creative journal, designed to ignite your imagination and help you develop a consistent creative practice.

www.DailyCreativeHabit.com