This is the story of how I walked away from a life that looked perfect on paper to create something that actually felt like mine. It’s not a highlight reel or a 5-step formula — it’s the real journey of becoming a full-time creative from scratch.

If you’ve ever felt stuck between who you are and who the world expects you to be…If you’ve ever picked up a camera hoping to express something real…If you’re trying to find your voice in a sea of noise…

This episode is for you.

What I share:

• The quiet breakdown behind a “dream” career in aviation
• How a cancer diagnosis in my 20s changed everything
• The real reason I started photography (and why it didn’t work at first)
• The trip that shifted everything
• Building a creative life from scratch — without a plan
• Why photography is about presence, not perfection
• The moment I stopped performing and started creating

Whether you’re a hobbyist who’s feeling stuck or a pro still searching for your voice — this isn’t just about photography or any specific artform. It’s about choosing to live a life that feels like yours.

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Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

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https://mattjacobphotography.com/voice-alchemy

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Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

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