This episode of the 'Making Artists Podcast' explores the concept of 'beginner's ego' – the overambitious mindset often encountered by artists at the start of their creative journeys.

Using a viral meme about a three-year-old's nonchalant approach to becoming an astronaut as an entry point, this podcast episode goes into the importance of maintaining enthusiasm while managing realistic expectations.

I share personal and client experiences to highlight some of the most common pitfalls, such as abandoning projects prematurely or believing something is wrong with oneself. I offer strategies to navigate these challenges, radical acceptance and perseverance as key to artistic success.

Work and Connect With Me Here:

• Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com
• Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/
• Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/
• IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun
• Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode of "Making Artists," we dive into the complex and often misunderstood emotion of anger. This episode centers on embracing and understanding anger as a natural part of the human and artistic experience.

Anger, is often seen as a negative emotion—something to be suppressed or avoided. This perspective can be particularly harmful to artists who might feel compelled to wait until they are no longer angry before engaging in their creative practices. This avoidance only reinforces the belief that anger is unproductive and wrong, potentially leading to feelings of guilt and shame.

Throughout the episode, I share observations about how people typically handle their anger. Some common reactions include isolation to protect others from their anger, numbing or distracting themselves with various activities, and misdirecting their anger towards safer targets. These methods often fail to address the root cause of anger, leaving the underlying issues unchanged.

The episode highlights the importance of integrating anger into one's creative practice rather than excluding it. By doing so, artists can produce more authentic and complete works. For instance, actress Anya Taylor-Joy's advocacy for expressing female rage in her roles serves as a powerful example of how bringing anger into art can resonate deeply with audiences and challenge prevailing norms.

A recent example of an artist channeling anger into their work is rapper Macklemore, who created a song inspired by student protests demanding divestment from Israel. By expressing his anger through music and directing proceeds to support Palestinian refugees, Macklemore demonstrates how anger can drive impactful artistic and political actions.

The episode is a call to recognize and harness anger as a powerful and valid emotion. I encourage you to incorporate your anger into your creative processes and everyday lives, transforming it from a source of shame into a catalyst for change and expression. So artists, what are you mad about? And can you use that powerful emotion to create?

Work and Connect With Me Here:

• Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com
• Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/
• Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/
• IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun
• Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Welcome to another episode of the Making Artists Podcast! Today, we're diving into a powerful piece of advice that's not only relevant for parents but for artists like you too.

Have you ever heard the saying, "When the child is born, the parent is born"? Well, I'm here to introduce its artistic counterpart: "When the art is made, the artist is made." This piece of wisdom has been resonating with creatives across different disciplines, from painters preparing for their first solo exhibit to actors navigating their craft during pregnancy.

Let's break it down. When you create art, you're not just producing a finished product. You're also shaping yourself as an artist along the way. Think of it as a journey of self-discovery and growth. But how does this apply to you, especially if you're in the early stages of your artistic career?

Firstly, it's about letting go of any preconceived notions or fantasies you might have about your art and yourself as an artist. Just like parents-to-be might have imagined their parenting style before actually having a child, you might have envisioned your creative process without fully experiencing it. Embrace the reality of creating art, with all its challenges and surprises.

Take, for example, a screenwriting client who questioned traditional writing practices when working on a passion project. Sometimes, what works for others may not be the best fit for you and your art. Be open to exploring different approaches and trust your instincts.

Secondly, allow your art to shape you. Be comfortable with being a beginner, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone. Remember Kristen Milioti, whose breakout role in "Once" required her to learn piano in just 10 days? Sometimes, it's the challenges that push us to grow as artists.

Lastly, have compassion for yourself and your artistic journey. If your art is still in its infancy, embrace the fact that you're also a new artist in relation to that piece. Avoid comparing your progress to others who might be further along in their careers. Instead, focus on your own growth and celebrate each step of the process.

So, whether you're just starting out or feeling discouraged, remember that every masterpiece began as a rough draft. Trust the process, stay true to your vision, and keep creating. After all, when the art is made, the artist is made.

Work and Connect With Me Here:

• Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com
• Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/
• Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/
• IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun
• Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode, we dive into the concept of "what's in and what's out" for 2024, inspired by the trend forecasts that flood social media at the end of each year. In this episode I share my own list, tailored for creative individuals, identifying common mindset mistakes and offering alternative solutions.

First up: "downloading" versus "uploading." Many creatives blame excessive social media use for their lack of productivity. However, it's not about avoiding social media altogether but rather about how you engage with it. Instead of passively consuming, focus on actively creating and sharing your art to expand your reach and community.

Next, we tackle the shift from hubris to humility. While confidence is important, excessive confidence can lead to complacency. Humility allows for growth and adaptation, essential qualities for navigating the ups and downs of a creative journey. By embracing humility, artists can open themselves up to new opportunities and experiences.

Finally, we challenge the notion of prioritizing quality over quantity in the creative process. Perfectionism often hinders productivity and joy, leading to burnout and stagnation. Instead, embracing quantity allows for experimentation, learning, and growth as an artist. Having multiple projects can enrich your skills and perspective, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling creative practice.

By reevaluating these traditional mindsets and embracing new approaches, artists can overcome common challenges and unlock their full potential. So whether you're sipping rosé or diving into orange wine, there's something here for everyone to sip on and savor. Cheers to embracing what's in and leaving what's out behind!

Mentioned in the episode:

• Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (link: https://bookshop.org/p/books/flow-the-psychology-of-optimal-experience-mihaly-csikszentmihalyi/8937185?ean=9780061339202) 
• Trust the Process by Shaun McNiff (link: https://bookshop.org/p/books/trust-the-process-an-artist-s-guide-to-letting-go-shaun-mcniff/629450?ean=9781570623578) 
• Taylor Swift: From Blank Space to Mastermind Part 1 and Part 2 (Part 1 link: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9490396c-fbd9-42b4-b036-fc847008c790; Part 2 link: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9143c3f9-de20-4aab-83d5-b25ea45073ca) 

Work and Connect With Me Here:

• Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com
• Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/
• Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/
• IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun
• Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Welcome to another episode of the Making Artists Podcast! Hey, artists, it's your host, Nancy, checking in and genuinely asking, "How are you?" No, seriously, how are you *really* feeling, especially in your body?

Today's episode is all about *every body.* Whether you're a painter, filmmaker, storyteller, or just a human navigating life, this one's for you. And if you've never thought of yourself as "creative," no worries – this is still your jam.

I know, I know, when someone says they're going to talk about your body, you might brace for the usual lecture on the perfect diet, exercise routine, and sleep schedule. But fear not, this episode is not about listing "shoulds." Sorry, not sorry.

As a coach, artist, and fellow human, I believe everyone is creative – it's part of being human. And guess what? Your body is the expert on you, not me. So, let's dive into why this matters.

Have you ever noticed how many of us don't bring our bodies into coaching sessions? It's like we've got a silent agreement with our bodies – not a problem, but not part of the solution either. That's a trap many artists fall into, and it often starts with a simple question: "How are you feeling?"

Existential crises kick in when you're building your creative skills or navigating the challenges of sharing and selling your work. The answer to "How are you?" might sound like frustration, boredom, anxiety – emotions that spiral into bigger questions about your art, choices, and life.

But what if the simplest explanation for these feelings lies in your body? I had a client who felt behind in her artistic journey after binge-watching documentaries about successful performers. Coaching helped her realize it wasn't about being behind – it was about her body craving creativity instead of endless screen time.

Your body communicates through physical sensations, often mistaken for complex emotions. A tight stomach might not mean stress – maybe it's just hungry. An empty heart space could be loneliness, not hopelessness. And a racing mind might be your brain's way of saying, "Hey, I'm tired."

So, here's a tool for problem-solving: Occam's Razor. The simplest explanation is usually right. Don't assume malice when there could be a straightforward reason for how you feel.

I've been there, not listening to my body during my corporate days. My brain led the way, and I ended up with an eating disorder, chasing an idealized image of success. It took years to realize my body was screaming to unsubscribe from that toxic environment.

Now, as a coach, I support clients in creating a healthy partnership with their bodies, finding sustainable ways to balance art and life. If you're battling with this too, let's connect at makingartist.com.

Remember, how you treat your body often reflects how you approach your creative process, art, audience, and life. Let's troubleshoot the right problems and ditch those existential crises. Start implementing the HALT tool and listen to your body – it knows what it needs.

If you're feeling disconnected, don't know how to listen to your body, or need accountability, I'm here for it. Let's make your art and life a partnership between equals. Until next time, stay creative, stay curious, and keep making art!

Work and Connect With Me Here:

• Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com
• Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/
• Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/
• IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun
• Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

This episode is inspired by the many coaching sessions where clarity seekers come to me with one burning question: "What's my life purpose?" They've got the family plan, the dream locale, even the number of pets sorted. But when it comes to their artistic journey, it's a foggy mess.

So, they're on a quest for the perfect "why," assuming it's the golden ticket to success. They believe that unlocking the ultimate "why" will trigger a magical cascade of actions, ushering in a happily-ever-after montage. Enter the coaching session, where they hope to unveil the perfect "why" in 45 minutes or less.

But here's the twist—I've found that the true obstacle isn't the "why" itself, but their struggle to accept, trust, and commit to it. Fixating on the perfect "why" can only take you so far. It's about embracing, trusting, and committing to your "why" unconditionally. That's where the real magic happens. As an actor or someone in the creative realm, you get it—nailing the character's "why" is one thing, but committing to it on stage is a game-changer.

And that's precisely the work I do with my clients. It's not just about finding the "why," but becoming the person who can commit to any "why." Commitment, my friends, takes time. I'm in this for the long haul with you, not a quick-fix genie. The secret to achieving your goals? Learning to be committed, no matter the circumstances.

So, if you find yourself stuck in the "why" loop, it might be a sneaky way of saying you need more willpower. But let's face it, relying solely on willpower is a dangerous game. I'm here to help artists build habits, systems, and environments that make action a breeze, free from the shackles of conscious willpower.

My hope for you is that after listening to this episode, you unsubscribe from the cult of "why" and focus on becoming the committed artists we're meant to be. Thanks for listening!

Work and Connect With Me Here:

• Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com
• Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/
• Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/
• IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun
• Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode we continue our deep dive into Taylor Swift and what we can learn from her success as an artist and the impact she has made. 

There are only three steps that you need to take in order to become a creative success. I reference these in another episode 3 Steps To Creative Succe$$, but I’ll summarize the 3 steps here: 

• Make Your Art
• Share Your Art 
• Ask Others For What Your Art Needs

In part 1 of our deep dive into Taylor Swift we talked about the first step to become a creative success- Making your art. (link to that episode below to go and listen)

In this episode we will dive into the last two parts, sharing your art and asking others for what your art needs and I will show you how Taylor Swift does both of those things and what actions you can start taking to model how she does this.

Things referenced in episode:

Pepe Silva Meme: https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/pepe-silvia

Previous Taylor Swift Episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9490396c-fbd9-42b4-b036-fc847008c790

3 Steps to Creative Succe$$ Episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/3e8e1ab0-dc80-4fdc-966e-e72f70ade1ee

Work and Connect With Me Here:

• Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com
• Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/
• Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/
• IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun
• Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

It’s time we talk about Taylor Swift and what we can learn from both her success and impact that she has made. In this episode I'm going to talk about how Taylor Swift identifies as an artist, makes art, shares it, Sells it to make a fuck ton of money and makes an impact.

Her art, in itself, is sufficient to make an impact. Her music creates connection, empathy, self compassion, catharsis, and community. And her success makes her a role model for other singer songwriters.

After this episode of Making Artists, I hope that her success makes her a role model for you too.

There are only three steps that you need to take in order to become a creative success. I reference these in another episode 3 Steps To Creative Succe$$, but I’ll summarize the 3 steps here: 

• Make Your Art
• Share Your Art 
• Ask For What Your Art Needs

 And Taylor Swift has mastered these three steps. In this episode we dive into Part 1, how she has mastered making her art. Taylor Swift makes a great case study for this episode, and how she offers so many lessons on how to be a successful, professional, and impactful artist who makes art.

My hope for you is that you will put any objections you have about learning from her success, as her journey is a great teacher for all of us who want to make art and make an impact. Make sure you join me for Part 2! 

Link to 3 Steps To Creative Suce$$ referenced in this episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-steps-to-creative-succe%24%24/id1644954213?i=1000587895931

Work and Connect With Me Here:

• Let's Coach: www.makingartistspodcast.com
• Make Art Mondays: https://www.possiblethings.co/make-art-mondays/
• Newsletter: https://www.possiblethings.co/newsletter/
• IG: https://instagram.com/thenancysun
• Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@thenancysun/

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

This special episode about how to make art worthy of accolades, using the 2023 Oscar for Best Picture 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' as a case study. When I fall in love with a piece of art I go on an internet binge to learn as much as possible about its creators and its origin story: what inspired it, who made it, under what circumstances, and with what obstacles and what allies.

After doing that for EEAAO, I learned so much that I just HAD to share it. It reinforced the ways I’ve already been treating myself, my process, and my art AND how I coach other creatives.

The lessons I’ve learned from EEAAO, in no particular order, are:

• Having imposter syndrome doesn’t mean shit.
• Believe that others believe, and let that be enough.
• Allow the journey to make your idea better.
• Let go of being the best and just get started first. 
• Success is a lot closer and a lot more possible than you think.

Let these lessons help you start getting in your own way. Need more support? Subscribe to my newsletter and get on my VIP waitlist at makingartistspodcast.com or connect with me on IG @thenancysun.

Episode 11 - The Self Worth Myth: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/57213fdc-2f9f-4704-b30d-08e37b218d2f

NYTimes Profile of Ke Huy Quan: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/05/movies/ke-huy-quan-everything-everywhere.html?unlocked_article_code=-biN46GaKsEhhwOVJ73GtwjAfswnK05eC0kMPgLuixyBlIydegXvjFfdpgS51pY-56Hwzg_EG17oZxAKMZ9SG5mnqC-6hWy_GMjdCsQA27WxkeTjbIhLnxjKXvQdOSG6ccsb9-8mToRYsdx9PrnaAKPNtATyOgcMxBEl3zFAAoRFtlo2gnuGykq16rcovvo8wkZ1fRA5-DBOzjh1-8jLggUcQ-6yypOWQ3k5Nv2MwTTDaSJYAc7PZyDxuh3B0zT3gBK4ymhxx-qHtgWr-wM-M68DErcxMYkyppgIu34SGE2KxExYSaSn62CdjF9ZzvcTZiKbDyloawRHpc9U6zKXl7NFyT_4QtmTvaw&smid=url-share

Trust the Process by Shaun McNiff

https://a.co/d/1tyVIRJ

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production

For this final episode of Making Artists Season 1, I want to share with you the lessons I have received on how to be a human, how to be an artist, and how to treat my art that I have learned from being a parent, from being a mother, from raising another human being. I hope that these lessons will inspire you to treat yourself differently, to treat your creativity and creative process differently, and to treat your art differently so that you can have all of what you want and you can leave the rest.

The first lesson I learned from watching my son get used to tummy time and learning how to walk is this: You don’t need to know the how to be able to begin. You don’t need to know the end to start taking a step. 

My second lesson was to start in a rested and relaxed state. I want you to experiment with coming from a place of having all your needs met first so you can be playful, adventurous, and take big risks.

My third lesson was to start small, because if nothing else, at least you’ve started. Everything starts with tiny steps, and everything counts. How can you change your creative practice to make it more conducive to you?

Lesson 4: Allow “training wheels” steps. Intermediary steps still count, and they need to happen without judgment. 

Lesson 5: Progress doesn’t have to be linear. Some milestones may be a bit of a fluke, and shouldn’t immediately be made the baseline. It’s okay to give yourself some grace and follow the fun.

Fear As Fuel episode 4: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/2bddd5b2-8535-4ccb-99e3-db01750b0506

The Self-Worth Myth episode 11: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/57213fdc-2f9f-4704-b30d-08e37b218d2f

Ready to start making art, making, money, and making an impact? Visit makingartistspodcast.com or connect with me on IG @thenancysun.

Music credit: Positive Experience by Sunny Tones

A Podcast Launch Bestie production