Join us for an uplifting and inspiring journey with the exceptional Nicole C. Mullen on this episode of theLive2Create Podcast. Nicole, a two-time Grammy-nominated and eight-time Dove Award-winning artist, shares her path from dance and choreography, including her pivotal role in Amy Grant's Heart in Motion tour, to her solo career. Weexplore her collaborations with renowned Christian artists like Michael W. Smith, the Newsboys, and CeCe Winans and discover how she has remained grounded through prayerful learning.

Nicole mesmerizes us with stories from her musical journey, reflecting on the rigorous rehearsal schedules, her influential idols such as Andre Crouch and Amy Grant, and the surreal experience of performing with her heroes. Overcoming shyness and stage fright, she reveals how a deep sense of love and support empowered her to handle the unexpected and embrace her early singing experiences in church andwith family. As a listener, you'll gain insight into her passion for songwriting, which she discovered in her teenage years, and her recognition as a two-time female vocalist of the year.

In a heartfelt and introspective discussion, Nicole delves into her songwriting process, balancing solo writing with collaboration, and shares the pride she feels in her diverse body of work. She also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming album, celebrating life and joy after overcoming storms, and engages in a fun rapid-fire round ofquestions. Concluding the episode, Nicole expresses her gratitude to her supporters and leaves us eagerly anticipating her new music, which promises to blend familiar elements with fresh inspiration to enrich our spiritual journeys. 

BIO

Nicole C. Mullen is an award-winning Gospel Recording Artist, songwriter, and dancer/choreographer. She's won 8 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards including 2 Female Vocalist of the Year honors, and received 2 Grammy nominations as well. Mullen is the only African American artist to win the Dove Award for Song of the Year ("Redeemer"), and in 2011 was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame.  

In addition to her solo career, Nicole has also toured as a backup singer for Christian artists like Michael W. Smith, the Newsboys, CeCe Winans, and Amy Grant. Nicole has established an international mentor group for girls called "The Baby Girls Club," where she mentors girls worldwide through the arts.

We cover a lot of great topics in this episode including:

• Singing back up for Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant, CeCe Winans, The Newsboys, and many more
• Doing dance choreography for Amy Grant
• Learning the daily habits it takes to be a professional singer
• The role her personal faith plays in the creative process
• The importance of learning the basics before improvising in the studio or on stage
• The ultimate advice for aspiring singers and songwriters
• The importance of taking your time in the songwriting process (don't be afraid to spend a year if that's what it takes!), and so much more!

Ever wondered what it's like to capture the evolution of music and film through the lens of a seasoned journalist? Neil Pond, the managing editor ofParadeMagazine,joins us to share his storied career in entertainment journalism, from a memorable first assignment with country legends Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn to candid interviews with icons like Garth Brooks. We delve into the art of storytelling and Neil's humorous anecdotes, offering a rare glimpse into the rich tapestry of entertainment history that has unfolded over the decades.

Our conversation transitions from Neil’s early misadventures to the complexities of writing with authenticity, where the personal meets the professional. Neil and I discuss the intricacies of interviewing, the humbling nature of country music's biggest stars, and how dabbling in drumming complements his writing life. The harmonious balance Neil has struck between his creative passions and a fulfilling career in journalism is not just inspiring but also laden with practical wisdom for those yearning to follow their own dreams without compromising their nature.

Rounding off this captivating episode, Neil imparts sage advice to aspiring writers and reflects on the profound influence of literature on his craft. We also explore the myth of following your passion to success and the importance of empathy in professional pursuits. With Neil's reflections on receiving top accolades and his musings on life, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the heartbeat of entertainment journalism or looking for that spark to ignite their own creative journey.

In this episode, we cover a ton of interesting topics including:

• Interviewing Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn as his first professional assignment

• Why there was pushback about doing music videos for some Country music artists

• The Oak Ridge Boys’ unique choices in swimming attire on the French Riviera

• How journalism has changed over the years, and the rise of Entertainment Journalism

• Visiting with Hank Williams Jr. in Montana

• The types of questions that are important to flesh out in an interview

• Garth Brooks instructing on the proper way to tuck in a shirt

• Being offered your very first joint from Willie Nelson, and Tammy Wynette making biscuits for you

• Unusual sightings of Chuck Norris in Randy Travis’ driveway, and SO much more!

BIO

Neil Pond is an award-winning entertainment journalist, film critic, and the managing editor of ParadeMagazine. He previously served as editor in chief of American Profile magazine and as editorial director of the nation’s two leading country music publications:Country Weekly andCountry Music.

Neil has been an on-air commentator for CNN, the BBC, VH-1 and CMT, and is a recipient of the Media Honors Award, the highest journalistic decoration bestowed by the Country Music Association. Neil is a voting member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, and his weekly movie reviews appear in national newspaper syndication, on Rotten Tomatoes and on his websiteNeilsEntertainmentPicks.com.

When he's not wearing his magazine ormovie hats, he plays drums in the Blondie tribute band Blonde Me.

Ever wondered what it takes to bewitch an audience with nothing but a deck of cards and a captivating story? In an episode that's nothing short of magical, we delve into Karl's captivating journey through the global magic scene, his tours, and the rich tapestry of magic communities he's experienced. From the intimate sleights of hand in close-up magic to the dazzling grandiosity of television magicians, Karl shares the secrets behind crafting moments of pure wonder, the kind that leave you questioning reality. He’s not just pulling a rabbit out of his hat; he's revealing the road map to mastering close-up magic and the essence of creating those gasp-worthy moments. And yes, he even gives us a taste of his mind-bending abilities right on the show!

With Karl, we traverse the intricate pathways that lead to magic mastery and discuss the delicate art of sourcing magical wisdom. He enlightens us on the significance of personal style over mimicry, while considering the psychological allure of the unknown that magic uniquely wields. Our exchange is not just about tricks and illusions; it's about the creative fire that drives magicians to push beyond the known into realms of innovation, all while respecting a heritage woven with well-guarded secrets.

Wrapping up an episode that's sure to leave you spellbound, we peek behind the curtain at the creative process that gives birth to new magic, acknowledging the fine line between tradition and innovation. Karl and I share a laugh over the simple yet ingenious routines that resonate within the magic community, leaving both audiences and magicians alike in awe. Whether you're a lifelong fan of magic or just curious about the life of a modern-day wizard, this episode with Karl Koppertop is your ticket to an enthralling experience. Join us for an unforgettable foray into the world of magic on Live2Create, and you might just find that the real magic lies in the stories we create.

"It's not about having facts. It's about having ALL the facts." – Karl Hein

Karl Hein, a.k.a. Karl Koppertop is an international performing magician, lecturer, and creator of illusions. He has appeared on The Pete Holmes Show and Penn & Teller's Fool Us, and his ideas have been featured on America's Got Talent. He has authored numerous instructional DVDs and done seminars for elite magic organizations in dozens of countries including the world-famous Magic Castle.

We cover a lot of fascinating topics in this episode including:

Embark on a vocal odyssey with Jamie Wigginton, where triumph over physical adversity harmonizes with a passion for melody and teaching. Our conversation leads you on a path of discovery, as Jamie reveals the early challenges that carved his vocal prowess and his journey to becoming a vocal coach par excellence. We demystify the myth of tone-deafness, offering hope and technique to those aiming to hone their vocal skills, and we delve into Jamie's approach to making complex vocal concepts accessible for aspiring singers.

Jamie navigates the delicate balance between classical and commercial vocal training, dissecting the act of performance coaching where voice, style, and substance collide. You'll hear about the transformative impact of vocal coaching across cultures, the art of crafting an artist's stage persona, and the intricate role of a vocal coach in shaping an artist's career. As we engage in this melodic conversation, Jamie shares his expertise in sculpting not just voices, but also the future of music through his mentorship at Belmont University and leadership of the elite Phoenix vocal program.

In this episode, we cover a lot of ground including:

BIO

Jamie Wigginton is a performance and vocal coach who works with some of the biggest voices in the music industry. He is well-known both across the US and internationally for his exceptional ability to quickly assess and aid vocalists in all aspects of vocal performance and extending vocal range. He has done over 50 international tours in 11 countries – appearing in concert and presenting Master Classes on performance and vocal technique.

Jamie authored The Karaoke Singer’s Guide to Greatness, The Pro Singer’s Warm-up, and co-authored Singing Success – which was the biggest-selling

Jamie is the only student in Belmont's history to graduate with a double major in both Vocal and Piano Performance. He has been a background singer for music superstars such as Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Ray Stevens, Vince Gill, Donna Summer, and many more. He is also an ASCAP songwriter and composer/arranger whose orchestrations have been feature in over 500 broadcasts, and is the Musical Director for Musico A Musico, an international music education organization geared towards artists who use their gifts in the church.

Step into the vibrant world of fashion as we sit down with Manny Cuevas, the formidable designer who's stitched his legacy into the very fabric of the industry. Growing up amidst the swirl of his father Manuel's tailor shop, Manny's tale is woven with the golden threads of heritage and innovation. From the eclectic celebrity clientele of his youth to the birth of his own label, Wear It Out by Manny, we explore the symphony of style and music that's danced through his career, especially the beat of change that came with his move to the heart of Nashville.

We trace the footsteps of his journey as he crafts limited edition lines, fusing the exclusivity of couture with the reach of ready-to-wear. But it's not just about the glitz of the garments; Manny gets real about the hustle it takes to raise $8.9 million, storm New York Fashion Week, and the rush of seeing his designs sell like hotcakes in the aftermath. His story isn't just a lesson in style‚ it's a masterclass in turning dreams into tangible triumphs.

As we wrap up, Manny's passion for design unfurls like the finest silk, revealing a philosophy that's as personal as it is professional. He imparts wisdom to budding designers, reflecting on moments that marked his career‚ like Bob Dylan's Vatican performance and the shine of a lifetime achievement award. But it's the intimate memories, the blend of art and celebrity from his father's shop, and the solid foundation of support that truly dress the soul of this episode. Join us, and let Manny Cuevas tailor an experience that will leave you inspired, informed, and immeasurably enriched by the threads that connect us all.

We cover a ton of cool topics in this extended episode including:

BIO

Manny Cuevas was born into fashion design royalty. He began working with his father – the world-renown designer Manuel – at the age of 6, designing for and dressing everyone from American Presidents Dwight Eisenhower, Ronald Reagan and both George Bushes – to music royalty such as Liberace, Johnny Cash, The Rat Pack Elite, John Lennon, Dolly Parton, Roy Rogers, The Grateful Dead, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, The Jackson Five, David Lee Roth, Kid Rock, Jack White, and Kenny Chesney – to Hollywood icons like Marlon Brando, John Wayne, Jack Nicholson, John Travolta, and Sylvester Stallone, to name a few.

After being approached in 2006 by Alan Tucker (who helped Calvin Klein create and launch the Calvin Klein brand) about creating a ready-to-wear line, Manny has developed into a global fashion force of his own. He's headlined fashioned weeks in New York and Mexico City, and his signature clothing line, Wear it Out by Manny, can be found in stores and boutiques around the globe. And Manny himself designed the suit that Johnny Cash was laid to rest in.

Every so often, life hands us a roadmap to transformation, etched with signs we can't ignore. For Laura Duksta, a near-death experience and the ethereal guidance of a departed friend became the catalysts for a metamorphosis from the electric pulse of South Beach nightlife to a beacon of love and inspiration. In our latest episode, we're honored to have Laura share not only the origins of her bestselling book I Love You More, but also the heartfelt prayer for her nephew that grew into a worldwide embrace of affection. Through anecdotes brimming with divine sparks and life-altering awakenings, she lays bare her journey of self-discovery and the insights on connecting with universal truths that resonate with every soul.

Imagine finding the courage to strip away a facade and stand in your truth—Laura Duksta did just that, and in doing so, she freed herself from the constraints of wigs and societal expectations. In a candid conversation, she recounts the life-defining moments that shaped her path, including her survival of a car crash that served as a wake-up call to pursue a deeper purpose. Her experiences, including a poignant nightclub revelation years later, have been poured into her writing, inspiring others to “Keep Shining” and acknowledge the support of unseen guides. Laura's evolution translates into stories for children and adults alike, bridging generational divides with the universal language of love, as seen in her cherished collaborations with illustrator Karen Keesler.

Penning children's books offers a unique tapestry of creativity and spontaneous inspiration—a balance Laura has mastered, allowing her to craft stories like I'll Hug You More with heartfelt whimsy. She takes us behind the scenes of her creative process, revealing the unexpected joys and challenges of bringing imaginative stories to life without the confines of a rigid writing routine. As we wrap up the episode, Laura imparts wisdom on navigating the publishing landscape, the significance of staying true to one's vision in the face of critique, and the fortifying power of a supportive team. Her encounter with Warren Buffett, a testament to authentic communication and shared values, leaves us contemplating the impact one can make through the written word, and the fulfillment of childhood dreams when you dare to spread love unreservedly.

We cover a lot of beautiful topics in this episode including:

BIO

Laura Duksta is a New York Times bestselling author who believes that through the power of love, and with an attitude of gratitude, anything is possible.

Laura knew from a young age that she was meant to travel the world, meet her brothers and sisters, and spread the message of love. She is now fulfilling this mission through her books, school programs, music and inspirational talks. Her first book, I Love You More, originally self-published, has now sold over 800,000 copies and is available in six languages. Her second book, You Are a Gift to the World, flips over to The World is a Gift to You, and encourages us to love and care for ourselves, one another, and the world we call home. She released her third book, I’ll Hug You More, in 2017.

Laura has been featured in USA Today, as one of "10 Individuals Making a Difference in South Florida" in Boca Magazine, in several creative anthologies, as well as on and in dozens of TV, radio shows, blogs and articles.

Imagine the walls around you not just as barriers defining space, but as canvases brimming with potential artistry. That's the reality Bernie Mitchell, the Bob Ross of Drywall, has been sculpting for nearly forty years as an artist who's ingeniously redefined the realm of art and building materials. With his tools of choice—a drywall knife and kitchen spoons—he crafts landscapes and wildlife with such finesse that they breathe a new life into the walls they inhabit. His technique, honed over nearly four decades, challenges the preconceived notions of art, proving that the ordinary can indeed become extraordinary.

Listen in as Bernie reveals the intricacies of his craft, from the perfect consistency of joint compound to the impact of lighting on his sculptures. His anecdotes of hitchhiking to Alberta, carving out a niche in southern Ontario's cottage country, and finding inspiration in nature to fuel his art are as inspiring as they are fascinating. As we explore the balance between passion and livelihood, Bernie's stories of sharing his knowledge and becoming a minor celebrity in the art world offer an authentic look at the intersection of artistry and business. Whether you're an aspiring artist or simply appreciate the joy of creation, this episode is a testament to the power of following one's passion and the beauty that can be found in unexpected places.

We cover a lot in this episode including:

BIO

Bernie Mitchell has been dubbed "The Bob Ross of Drywall" and "The Mud Michelangelo," and is a man with an incredibly unique skill set: he sculpts elaborate and detailed landscapes in bas relief in drywall (using nothing more than kitchen utensils!), redefining the boundaries of interior design and home decor. As a drywall contractor, he puts his creativity to work designing, constructing, sculpting and finishing specialty features in shoreline homes and cottages.

He prefers to use birds as his main subjects – blue heron, osprey and loons – but he also enjoys sculpting horses, wolves and dogs. In addition to the high-end homes and business he decorates,

Bernie lived in Alberta for 23 years, and spent lots of quality time traveling with his family throughout British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, Yukon and Alaska. These beautiful surroundings are evident in all of the scenes and subjects he’s chosen for his sculptures. Bernie and his family live on Pigeon Lake, in Ontario, Canada. He takes his family on canoe trips every summer, and his pride and joy is a cedar strip canoe he built himself.

Discover the beat behind the legendary Oak Ridge Boys as Fred

Fred's chronicles extend beyond the stage into Nashville's recording studios, where creativity meets precision. As a seasoned session drummer, he unveils the intricacies of recording everything from demos to Olympic anthems, emphasizing the subtle art of capturing the perfect tempo. Musicians and music aficionados alike will gain a fresh perspective on the collaborative magic that happens behind the scenes, as well as the disciplined approach it takes to maintain a steadfast groove, both in music and in life.

But Fred's talents don't stop at the drum kit. As we segue into the

We cover a ton of fascinating topics

BIO

Fred Satterfield is a Grammy & Dove Award-winning drummer, and graphic Illustrator. Fred was the Oak Ridge Boys' drummer for 20 years, winning 2 Grammy's, 2 Music City News Awards for Band of the Year, 1 CMA Award (along with 7 other nominations), and contributing to 35 Top 40 Hits including 25 #1's. He's made 4 appearances at the White House for 3 sitting presidents, and 25 appearances on The Tonight Show.

In additional to his musical acumen, Fred is also an accomplished illustrator, having produced more than 4 dozen coloring books for Dalmation Press, and numerous album covers for Benson Publishing. He is currently illustrating the graphic novel versions of C.G. Cooper's popular Corps Justice Series.

Get ready for an episode that's as enlightening as it is entertaining! Join us as we catch up with world champion pool player and trick shot artist, Andy "The Magic Man" Segal. Listen as Andy divulges the secrets of his success, from his thrilling win at the US Open championship to the role his supportive wife plays in his journey. He candidly discusses the trials and triumphs of juggling a demanding career while maintaining razor-sharp pool skills, and even delves into the impact of aging within the sport.

But Andy's accomplishments and experiences don't stop at the pool table. He's also graced the glitz and glamour of Hollywood sets and he's here to share those stories too! From hilarious encounters with stars like Jake Gyllenhaal, to insightful comparisons between billiards and golf, martial arts, and even mathematics. Be prepared to question all you know about pool as we debunk the myth that this sport is solely about geometry –

In the latter part of our episode, we explore the art and joy of teaching. Andy divulges how his passion for sharing knowledge stems from his family values, and shares his exciting decision to become a math teacher. As we wrap up, we discuss the intricate world of trick shots, the rigorous journey to maintain a professional ranking, and even the business aspects of professional pool playing.  This episode is a must-listen for all pool enthusiasts and fans of compelling life stories.

In this episode, we cover a lot of ground including:

BIO

Andy "The Magic Man" Segal is 4-time Artistic Pool World Champion, a 7-time ESPN Trick Shot Magic Champion, a 6-time Masters Champion, and a 2-time US Open Champion. He began playing professional nine-ball in the 1990’s, and was a regular on the Camel Pro Billiard Tour before switching over to trick-shot competitions in 2002. He became a full-time pro competitor in 2007 and hold 4 world records in artistic billiards. He's also a member of the Screen Actors Guild, appearing in films such as Spider Man 2 and The Dictator, and TV shows such as Person of Interest and Boardwalk Empire.

Step into the intricate world of language creation with our special guest, David Peterson, an acclaimed writer and linguist with a fascinating journey that includes the mastery of more than 20 languages. Peterson unveils the richness and complexity of his craft, painting a vivid picture of language creation as an art form. We unmask the methodical magic of shaping a language from scratch, focusing on the essentials of vocabulary development, internal consistency, and the evolution of grammar.

Peterson also shares his experiences from the heart of the film industry, shedding light on the painstaking process of crafting languages for the big screen and the pursuit of authenticity at its core. We delve into the pressures of language creation for the fast-paced world of television and film, with its tight deadlines and the necessity for compromise. From battling writer's block to discussing career advice for aspiring language creators, we cover it all. We draw the curtain with a look at the Language Creation Society's jobs board and the importance of early language education. So, join us and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring domain of language creation, where art and linguistics collide in a symphony of words!

We cover a lot of fascinating topics in this episode including:

BIO

David J. Petersen is an American linguist and language creator. He has studied over 20 "Earth" languages, and created more than 40 artificial languages for TV and movies, including Dothraki and Valyrian for HBO's hit show Game of Thrones, based on George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire.

Additionally, David has created the languages for Thor: The Dark World, Dune, The Witcher, House Of The Dragon, Syfy's Defiance, CW's Star-Crossed and The 100, Dominion, Penny Dreadful, The Shannara Chronicles, Warcraft: the Beginning, Doctor Strange, and Emerald City, to name a few.

He is the author of Living Language Dothraki and The Art of Language Invention: From Horse-Lords to Dark Elves to Sand Worms, the Words Behind World-Building. David’s work is featured in the documentary Conlanging: The Art of Crafting Tongues, and he is the co-founder of the Language Creation Society.