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What if the secret to a meaningful creative life is actually much simpler than we make it?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with Brian Atkins, a Portland-based lifestyle and landscape photographer whose work is rooted in authenticity, connection, and a genuine love for the world around him.
In an industry increasingly driven by algorithms, trends, and constant pressure to do more, Brian offers a refreshing perspective: take pictures, be curious, and be a good person.
Throughout his career, Brian has focused on creating honest imagery that celebrates everyday moments, natural landscapes, and the human experience. His work reminds us that photography doesn't need to be complicated to be meaningful.
In this conversation, we discuss the current state of the photography industry, the challenges creatives face in today's digital world, and why simplicity, kindness, and community remain some of the most powerful tools available to photographers.
• Brian's journey as a lifestyle and landscape photographer in Portland, Oregon
• His thoughts on the current photography industry
• Why authenticity matters more than ever
• Navigating social media, pressure, and creative burnout
• The value of slowing down and enjoying the process
• Building meaningful relationships within the photography community
• Why kindness is an underrated creative superpower
• Focusing on passion instead of comparison
• Remembering why we picked up a camera in the first place
This is a conversation about photography, perspective, community, and finding joy in the creative process.
Whether you're a professional photographer, hobbyist, artist, or someone searching for a healthier relationship with creativity, Brian's insights serve as a powerful reminder that meaningful work often comes from keeping things simple.
Visit Brian:
Instagram:@brianatkinsphotography
Threads:@brianatkinsphotography
Web:www.briansatkinsphotography.com
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
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Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
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What happens when photography, filmmaking, music, and storytelling all collide?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with Dave Herring, a Bay Area creative director, commercial photographer, videographer, writer, musician, YouTuber, and passionate advocate for creative community.
Dave is the definition of a modern storyteller. His work spans multiple creative disciplines, blending photography, filmmaking, music, and digital media into projects that are both visually compelling and deeply human. Whether he's directing commercial campaigns, creating content for YouTube, making music, or producing films, storytelling remains at the center of everything he does.
In this conversation, we take a deep dive into his short film Lone Wolf, featuring Christian Wallowing Bull, exploring the inspiration behind the project, the creative process, and the responsibility of telling meaningful stories through film.
We also discuss the importance of community within the creative world, why sharing knowledge accelerates growth, and his unique plans to photograph a Luke Combs concert using a Leica, combining documentary photography with the energy of live music performance.
In This Episode:
• Dave's journey as a creative director, photographer, and filmmaker
• The inspiration behind his short film Lone Wolf
• Working with Christian Wallowing Bull to bring the story to life
• The role storytelling plays across photography, film, and music
• Why community is essential for creative growth
• Building meaningful connections through YouTube and social media
• Lessons learned from working across multiple creative disciplines
• His upcoming Leica project photographing a Luke Combs concert
• Staying curious and evolving as a creator
This is a conversation about creativity, storytelling, filmmaking, photography, and the communities that help artists thrive.
Whether you're a photographer, filmmaker, musician, content creator, or storyteller, Dave's perspective offers valuable insight into building a creative life that embraces curiosity, collaboration, and meaningful work.
Visit Dave:
Instagram: @daveherring
Threads:@daveherring
YouTube:@davidherring
Web:www.dave.online
Watch Here:
Lone Wolf Short Film
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
Shop Harlowe And Support The Show:
Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
Donate
Patreon
What transforms a portrait from a photograph into a genuine human connection?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with Los Angeles-based portrait photographer Josh A Katz, a visual storyteller whose work seamlessly blends technical precision with emotional authenticity.
Known for his mastery of controlled lighting and his ability to create meaningful connections with the people he photographs, Josh has built a reputation for producing portraits that go far beyond appearance. His images reveal personality, vulnerability, confidence, and character, creating work that feels both powerful and deeply human.
Over the course of his career, Josh's photography has been exhibited in galleries, published in print, featured across digital platforms, and commissioned by individuals, agencies, and major brands. His impressive client list includes Dr. Dre, Missy Elliott, Killer Mike, Jaeden Martell, Wyatt Oleff, and leading entertainment and media organizations.
In this conversation, we explore portrait photography, lighting, collaboration, professionalism, and the art of creating images that resonate long after the shutter is pressed.
In This Episode:
• Josh's journey as a professional portrait photographer in Los Angeles
• Why lighting is one of the most powerful storytelling tools in photography
• Building trust and connection with portrait subjects
• Creating authentic emotion in front of the camera
• Behind-the-scenes stories from photographing high-profile clients
• Working with artists including Dr. Dre, Missy Elliott, and Killer Mike
• The importance of professionalism and collaboration
• Balancing technical mastery with creativity
• Continuing to grow as an artist and storyteller
This is a conversation about portraiture, creativity, craftsmanship, and the relationships that make powerful photographs possible.
Whether you're a photographer, creative professional, artist, or someone passionate about visual storytelling, Josh's insights offer valuable lessons on both the technical and human sides of photography.
Visit Josh:
Instagram:@joshakatz
Threads:@joshakatz
Web:www.joshakatz.com
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
Shop Harlowe And Support The Show:
Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
Donate
Patreon
What does it take to remain creative, curious, and passionate for more than four decades?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with legendary professional skateboarder, artist, and musician Steve Caballero, one of the most influential figures in skateboarding history.
Steve's story is deeply woven into the evolution of modern skateboarding. From his early days skating Campbell Skate Park in California to becoming a member of the legendary Bones Brigade under the guidance of Stacy Peralta, Steve helped define an era that would change action sports forever.
Turning professional in 1980, Steve became known not only for his groundbreaking style but also for inventing some of the most iconic tricks in skateboarding history, including the Caballerial, frontside boardslide, backside boneless one, and numerous variations that continue to influence skateboarders around the world today.
But Steve's impact extends far beyond skateboarding.
Throughout his life he has embraced creativity in many forms, building careers as an artist, musician, and storyteller while continuing to inspire generations through his passion, curiosity, and commitment to personal growth.
In this conversation, we explore skateboarding history, creativity, resilience, aging with purpose, and the mindset required to keep pursuing new challenges throughout life.
In This Episode:
• Steve's early days skating Campbell Skate Park
• Joining Powell Peralta and the legendary Bones Brigade
• Working alongside Stacy Peralta and skateboarding pioneers
• Turning professional during skateboarding's formative years
• The stories behind the invention of the Caballerial and other iconic tricks
• What skateboarding taught him about perseverance and creativity
• His work as an artist and musician
• The importance of staying curious and continuing to evolve
• Why passion and purpose never have an expiration date
This is a conversation about skateboarding, creativity, innovation, and living a life driven by curiosity.
Whether you're a skateboarder, artist, musician, entrepreneur, or simply someone chasing a dream, Steve's story is a powerful reminder that growth never stops when you're willing to keep learning.
Visit Steve:
Web:www.stevecaballero.com
Instagram:@stevecaballero
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
Shop Harlowe And Support The Show:
Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
Donate
Patreon
Whose stories deserve to be told?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with Ben Tobin, a photographer based in Spokane, Washington, whose work is dedicated to documenting the people, places, and stories that often go unseen.
For Ben, photography is more than creating compelling images. It's a tool for connection, empathy, and understanding. Through his lens, he shines a light on overlooked communities, forgotten narratives, and the individuals whose experiences are too often ignored or misunderstood.
His work explores the humanity that exists beyond headlines and assumptions, reminding us that every person has a story worth telling.
At the same time, Ben has become a visual storyteller for Spokane itself, documenting the city with honesty and care while helping redefine how people see the place he calls home.
In this conversation, we discuss photography as both an art form and a vehicle for advocacy, the responsibility that comes with documenting real lives, and the importance of using creativity to foster empathy and understanding.
In This Episode:
• Ben's journey as a photographer in Spokane, Washington
• Why he focuses on overlooked people and forgotten stories
• The responsibility of documenting vulnerable communities
• Photography as a tool for empathy and social awareness
• Balancing storytelling with respect and authenticity
• How photography can challenge perceptions and stereotypes
• The evolving identity of Spokane through visual storytelling
• The role of artists in building stronger communities
• Why human connection remains at the heart of great photography
This is a conversation about storytelling, compassion, community, and the power of photography to create meaningful change.
Whether you're a photographer, artist, journalist, or someone who believes in the importance of human stories, Ben's work serves as a powerful reminder that some of the most important voices are often the ones least heard.
Visit Ben:
Instagram:@cave_mfg
Threads:@cave_mfg
Instagram:@capturing_spokane
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
Shop Harlowe And Support The Show:
Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
Donate
Patreon
What can photography and theatre teach us about being human?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with Jonathan Pitts-Wiley, a Rhode Island native, Yale graduate, portrait photographer, writer, actor, director, and Artistic Director of Mixed Magic Theatre.
For Jonathan, creativity has always been about people. Whether behind the camera creating portraits or on stage directing and producing theatre, his work explores the delicate balance between strength and vulnerability that exists within every human story.
His photography is known for capturing authentic moments that reveal both confidence and emotion, while his decades of experience in theatre have given him a unique understanding of storytelling, character, and human connection.
Since 2010, Jonathan has served as Artistic Director of Mixed Magic Theatre, directing, writing, and acting in numerous acclaimed productions including Fences, The Spirit Warrior's Dream, The Baghdad Tale of Romeo and Juliet, Moby-Dick: Then & Now, Misery's Fiend: Frankenstein, The Tempest, Art of Attack, King Lear, Great Holiday Traditions, and Dutchman, which was named one of the Top 10 Shows of 2017.
In this conversation, we explore photography, theatre, storytelling, empathy, and the ways art can help us better understand ourselves and each other.
In This Episode:
• Jonathan's journey from Yale University to photography and theatre
• Creating portraits that balance strength and vulnerability
• The role empathy plays in visual storytelling
• His work as Artistic Director of Mixed Magic Theatre
• Lessons learned from directing, writing, and acting
• How photography and theatre influence one another
• The importance of authentic human connection in art
• Why storytelling remains one of humanity's most powerful tools
• Art as a pathway to understanding and healing
This is a conversation about creativity, humanity, storytelling, and the transformative power of art.
Whether you're a photographer, actor, filmmaker, writer, or creative professional, Jonathan's perspective offers a powerful reminder that the best art doesn't simply entertain—it helps us see ourselves and one another more clearly.
Visit Jonathan:
Instagram:@jpittswiley
Threads:@jpittswiley
Web:www.jpittswiley.com
Vanta Guild:
Instagram:@thevantaguild
Mixed Magic Theatre:
Instagram:@mmt560
Web:www.mmtri.org
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
Shop Harlowe And Support The Show:
Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
Donate
Patreon
How can art become a bridge between generations, cultures, and communities?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with Brandon Gabriel, an internationally recognized artist, designer, mixed media sculptor, illustrator, teacher, entrepreneur, and proud member of the Kwantlen First Nation.
Brandon's work exists at the intersection of culture, storytelling, identity, and contemporary design. Through sculpture, illustration, public art, education, and entrepreneurship, he creates work that honors Indigenous traditions while exploring new ways to share those stories with future generations.
As a member of the Kwantlen First Nation, Brandon carries deep connections to both the Downriver Hən̓q̓əmin̓əm-speaking and Upriver Halkomelem-speaking peoples, with strong familial ties throughout the Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver regions. His work reflects a commitment to preserving cultural knowledge, strengthening community, and ensuring Indigenous stories continue to be told through art.
In this conversation, we explore creativity, cultural identity, entrepreneurship, education, and the responsibility artists have when carrying stories that extend beyond themselves.
In This Episode:
• Brandon's journey as a Kwantlen First Nation artist and entrepreneur
• The role storytelling plays in Indigenous culture
• How heritage, kinship, and community influence his work
• Blending traditional Indigenous knowledge with contemporary design
• The importance of preserving culture through art
• His work as an educator, mentor, and community leader
• Art as a tool for healing, resilience, and empowerment
• Building bridges between generations through creativity
• Why representation and storytelling matter
This is a conversation about art, identity, culture, and the enduring power of storytelling.
Whether you're an artist, educator, entrepreneur, or someone interested in the role creativity plays in preserving culture, Brandon's perspective offers valuable insight into the responsibilities and opportunities that come with telling stories that matter.
Visit Brandon:
Instagram:@brandengabrielart
Threads:@brandongabrielart
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
Shop Harlowe And Support The Show:
Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
Donate
Patreon
How does mentorship shape a photographer's journey, and what can we learn from those who came before us?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with Betina La Plante, an internationally recognized portrait photographer whose work has appeared in fashion, editorial, and fine art publications around the world.
Dividing her time between Los Angeles, Europe, and Argentina, Betina has built a career defined by curiosity, craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of human connection. Her portraits are known for their honesty, elegance, and ability to reveal something meaningful about the people she photographs.
One of the most remarkable chapters of her story is her friendship and mentorship with legendary photographer Elliott Erwitt. Betina shares personal insights into their relationship, the lessons she learned from one of photography's most celebrated visual storytellers, and how those experiences continue to influence her work today.
We also discuss working with celebrities, navigating the photography industry, her ambitions to move into unit stills photography for film productions, and why community remains one of the most valuable resources available to any artist.
In This Episode:
• Betina's journey as an international portrait photographer
• Lessons learned from her friendship with Elliott Erwitt
• The value of mentorship in a creative career
• Behind-the-scenes insights into photographing celebrities
• Building trust and connection with portrait subjects
• Her vision for transitioning into unit stills photography
• Navigating the worlds of editorial, fashion, and fine art photography
• Why artistic communities are essential for growth and resilience
• The importance of collaboration over competition
This is a conversation about photography, mentorship, creativity, and the relationships that help shape who we become as artists.
Whether you're a photographer, filmmaker, artist, or creative professional, Betina's story is a powerful reminder that success is rarely achieved alone and that some of life's greatest opportunities begin with meaningful connections.
Visit Betina:
Instagram:@betinaleplante
Threads:@betinaleplante
Web:www.betinaleplante.com
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
Shop Harlowe And Support The Show:
Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
Donate
Patreon
How do you create photographs that make people feel seen, accepted, and empowered?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with David Lacy, an Army veteran originally from Atlanta and now based in Washington State, whose work explores the intersection of trust, vulnerability, identity, and human connection.
After serving in the military, David found a new form of purpose through photography. Today, he specializes in lifestyle and boudoir photography, creating environments where people can feel comfortable expressing themselves authentically in front of the camera.
His work is built on a foundation of respect, communication, and trust. Rather than simply creating photographs, David focuses on creating experiences that help people see themselves differently, often revealing confidence, strength, and beauty they may not have recognized before.
In this conversation, we discuss David's journey from military service to professional photography, the responsibility that comes with photographing vulnerable moments, and how photography can become a powerful tool for self-discovery and empowerment.
In This Episode:
• David's transition from Army veteran to professional photographer
• Building a career in lifestyle and boudoir photography
• The importance of trust between photographer and subject
• Creating safe and respectful environments for clients
• The role vulnerability plays in powerful imagery
• Photography as a tool for confidence and empowerment
• Lessons learned through working with diverse individuals and stories
• Life, creativity, and inspiration in Washington State
• The human connection that exists on both sides of the camera
This is a conversation about trust, empathy, storytelling, and the transformative power of photography.
Whether you're a photographer, artist, creative professional, or someone interested in the deeper relationship between photography and personal growth, David's perspective offers valuable insight into the responsibility and privilege of documenting human experience.
Visit David:
Instagram:@culture2crown
Threads:@culture2crown
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
Shop Harlowe And Support The Show:
Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
Donate
Patreon
What if great photography isn't about choosing a genre, but about learning to see stories everywhere?
On this episode of The P.H.Y.S Podcast, I sit down with William Botka, a Montréal-based photographer, outdoor enthusiast, and adventure seeker whose work spans street photography, wildlife imagery, and sports documentation.
While many photographers spend years trying to define themselves by a single specialty, Will has chosen a different path. His approach is driven by curiosity, exploration, and a belief that compelling stories can be found in every environment, whether it's a shadow-filled city street, a hidden moment in nature, or an athlete pushing beyond their limits.
Throughout his career, Will's work has been featured in multiple issues of Ducks Unlimited Canada, commissioned by wildlife reserves throughout Quebec, and showcased through his role as the official photographer for the Écomuseum Zoo in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue.
In this conversation, we explore photography, storytelling, adventure, and the value of remaining open to wherever creativity leads.
In This Episode:
• Will's journey as a photographer based in Montréal, Quebec
• Why he refuses to limit himself to one style or genre
• The creative lessons found in street photography
• Capturing wildlife and finding stories in nature
• Documenting sports and human perseverance
• His published work with Ducks Unlimited Canada
• Collaborations with Quebec wildlife reserves and the Écomuseum Zoo
• Why curiosity is one of a photographer's greatest tools
• The importance of storytelling regardless of subject matter
This is a conversation about exploration, creativity, observation, and finding meaningful stories wherever life takes you.
Whether you're a photographer, outdoor enthusiast, wildlife lover, or storyteller, Will's perspective offers a refreshing reminder that the best images often come from following your curiosity rather than fitting into a category.
Visit William:
Instagram:@william.botka
Threads:@william.botka
Website:www.williambotka.com
YouTube:@Will_B_Photos_MTL
Visit The Show:
Instagram: @PHYS_Podcast
Threads: @PHYS_Podcast
YouTube: @phys_podcast
Web: www.physpodcast.ca
Show Partners:
Fotophase.org
Shop Harlowe And Support The Show:
Save on Harlowe Here
Support The Show
The P.H.Y.S Podcast exists because of listeners like you. Your support helps fund conversations that explore photography, storytelling, creativity, mental health, and human connection.
Donate
Patreon
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