What color was your childhood fridge? For photographer Ben Marcum, it was that unforgettable avocado green—and that odd little memory sets the tone for an honest, funny, and insightful hour about life, art, and connection.

Ben, based in Louisville, Kentucky, has built a thriving portrait and boudoir studio rooted in authenticity. We talk about how his years in theater shaped his ability to read people, how video became his strongest storytelling tool, and how he keeps things light, human, and deeply real—both online and in-studio.

He opens up about burnout, fitness, therapy, and the never-ending tug-of-war between creativity and comparison. It’s a candid look at what it takes to build a creative business without losing your sanity or sense of humor.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Ben Marcum: Don't Make An Avocado Green Fridge

Episode Number: 61

Publish Date: 6 Oct 2025

Episode Overview

• How short-form video can strengthen client relationships and attract real fans

• Why authentic storytelling beats social-media trends every time

• Ben’s pre-session rituals and grounding practices for emotional shoots

• The difference between directing and collaborating with clients

• How to handle self-criticism, mental health, and burnout as a creative

• Why timeless portraits outlast the algorithm

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🎧 Watch the full Generator playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLInsertYourGeneratorPlaylistHere

📍 Connect with Ben Marcum:

Website: https://www.benmarcum.com or https://boudoirbybenmarcum

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benmarcumphoto

📍 Connect with me, Matt Stagliano:

Website: https://stonetreecreative.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stonetreecreative

Podcast: https://generatorpodcast.com

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