Creativity Excitement Emotion

Have you ever felt like you're spinning your wheels creatively, unable to move forward despite having talent and ideas? Do you find yourself surrounded by half-finished projects, unopened mail, and organizational chaos that somehow feels manageable but might actually be holding you back? Perhaps you've dismissed the importance of "getting organized" as something that doesn't really affect your creative output—after all, you know exactly where that important document is in the third pile from the left, halfway down. In this practical and eye-opening episode of Creativity, Excitement, and Emotion, David explores the often-overlooked connection between tying up loose ends and creative breakthroughs. Drawing from his current experience of managing a move, car repairs, client projects, and the concept of "vibrational escrow," he reveals how uncompleted tasks and disorganization can literally block opportunities from flowing into your life. Whether you're struggling with creative blocks, feeling overwhelmed by commitments, or simply wondering why success feels elusive despite your efforts, this episode provides both the framework and motivation needed to clear the energetic and practical clutter that may be standing between you and your next breakthrough. Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Entrepreneurial Artists.” Get coaching: Stuck in your creative career? Not sure what to do next? Want to take things further? Book your personalized coaching session with David today. Highlights: 00:17 – Tying up loose ends 01:23 – Why organization matters 03:40 – David’s current loose end inventory 10:00 – What David has learned and discovered on this journey 19:43 – Closing thoughts Summary: In this practical and revealing episode, David delves into the often-overlooked connection between organization and creative success. Through his personal experience of managing multiple loose ends—from car repairs to moving to client projects—he demonstrates how incomplete tasks and disorganization can actually block opportunities from manifesting in your creative career. Key Themes & Takeaways The concept of "vibrational escrow" and how incomplete tasks block incoming opportunities Why top performers tend to be highly organized and how this affects creative output The mental clarity that comes from reducing commitments and completing projects How delegating to experts frees up creative energy for higher-value activities The surprising connection between physical organization and new opportunity flow The Vibrational Escrow Principle David introduces a compelling concept about how incomplete tasks affect our ability to receive new opportunities: The idea that certain things are "waiting for you" but require completion of current tasks to arrive How unfinished projects occupy mental space and block creative flow Why defining when something is "done" is crucial for moving forward The importance of unclogging your system to allow new opportunities to flow "When you don't flow things out, it does affect your ability to create, attract, and manifest what is already on its way... there's things that are for you, waiting for you, and they're gonna come to you at the right time, but that doesn't mean you don't have to do anything." This framework provides a compelling reason for addressing organizational challenges beyond simple productivity benefits. David's Current Loose Ends Inventory To illustrate the principle, David shares his actual current list of items requiring completion: Car repairs and maintenance – delegating to automotive experts rather than ignoring warning signs Moving logistics – relocating within the Vancouver area with minimal possessions but strategic planning Furniture acquisition – purchasing only essentials (bed, desk, office chair) for the new space Current rental cleanup – hiring professional cleaners rather than doing it himself Project management – completing client work while passing some projects to qualified beginners File organization – addressing physical mail and documentation systems Accounting maintenance – implementing regular bookkeeping rather than annual rushes This practical inventory demonstrates how even successful creators accumulate loose ends that require systematic attention. The Expert Delegation Strategy David emphasizes the importance of delegating tasks outside your zone of genius: Why hiring professional cleaners makes more sense than doing it yourself How automotive expertise prevents costly mistakes and ensures quality work The recognition that managing people may not be everyone's entrepreneurial strength The value of identifying your weaknesses and finding others who excel in those areas "I'm delegating responsibility to a capable expert... It's generally not the best and hi

Have you ever felt like you've been pushing and striving for opportunities in your creative career, only to find that your biggest breakthroughs came when you weren't actively chasing them? Do you sometimes struggle to recognize your own accomplishments because you're so focused on what you haven't achieved yet? Perhaps you've wondered why some artists seem to effortlessly attract the right opportunities while others work tirelessly with little to show for it. In this deeply reflective episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares how music is unexpectedly making a comeback in his life, not through force or relentless pursuit, but by choosing him when the conditions were finally right. Drawing from his journey of building financial stability through his tech contract and growing Spark Infinity to nearly 2,000 members, he explores the crucial difference between opportunities you chase and those that find you when you're ready. Through honest reassessment of his previous music career and practical insights about finding mentors who've already achieved what you want, David offers both validations for non-linear creative paths and actionable guidance for recognizing success when it's staring you in the face. Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Entrepreneurial Artists.” BUMP Global TV: Want to join a growing network of heart-centered entrepreneurs exploring and creating new opportunities together? Check out BUMP. Get coaching: Stuck in your creative career? Not sure what to do next? Want to take things further? Book your personalized coaching session with David today. Highlights: 00:17 – Documenting the journey 00:53 – Hard lesson learned 03:19 – Being chosen 04:41 – Reflecting on a music career that was buried in a shallow grave 08:47 – The revival of a music career 14:24 – Tying up loose ends 16:54 – Excited for what’s to come 18:10 – Recognizing your successes 21:23 – One step you can take to shortcut years of anguish Summary: In this reflective episode, David shares how music is unexpectedly making a comeback in his life, arriving not through force or planning but by choosing him. Through candid self-assessment, he explores the lessons learned from his previous music career, the importance of recognizing actual accomplishments amid failures, and why finding mentors who've already achieved what you want is crucial for avoiding years of guessing and reverse-engineering. Key Themes & Takeaways The difference between forcing projects and allowing opportunities to choose you How financial stability and having a home base enable better decision-making about creative opportunities The importance of taking a "sober" view of past accomplishments rather than dwelling on perceived failures Why skipping the step of finding mentors or proven methods leads to years of inefficient guessing The reality that success comes from what you do with failures, not from avoiding them entirely The Foundation Lesson David begins by reinforcing a crucial life lesson learned through a difficult experience: The necessity of having both a home base and financial stability for life to function well How his current big tech contract and Spark Infinity success provide the foundation for better choices The distinction between people who can thrive as nomads (with family safety nets) versus those who need more stability Why some people require different structural supports to be creative and productive "If I don't have a place to call home, and if I don't have some kind of financial stability... my life tends to spiral out of control. And for some people, I'm telling you, that's not the case... But I think what I've learned for myself... is if there's no home to go back to and my financial life is variable at best, things do tend to spiral out of control." This foundational insight provides context for understanding how different people require different conditions to thrive creatively. Things Choosing You vs. You Choosing Things David explores a fascinating shift in how opportunities have been presenting themselves: The contrast between actively choosing projects that didn't work out and being chosen by opportunities that flourished How the big tech contract and Spark Infinity both "chose" him rather than being pursued The growth of Spark Infinity from 4-5 members to over 1,900 in seven months Why sometimes the best opportunities come when you're not actively seeking them "In the last year and a half or so, really what I've noticed is instead of me choosing things, things are choosing me... the things I've chosen didn't necessarily go anywhere or didn't do that well... what I can say about things that have chosen me that have worked well is, of course, the big tech contract and Spark Infinity." This obs

Have you ever enthusiastically committed to a project that gradually revealed itself to be a frustrating, poorly managed nightmare? Do you find yourself torn between honoring your commitments and protecting your mental health when collaborative work turns toxic or simply exhausting? Perhaps you've wondered whether persisting through difficult projects builds character, or if knowing when to walk away is actually the wiser choice for your creative career and personal well-being. In this candid episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares his real-time experience with an education reform project that started with noble intentions but quickly devolved into the kind of volunteer work that leaves participants feeling deflated and questioning their involvement. Through honest reflection on what makes projects turn sour—from poorly defined tasks to unrealistic time expectations—he explores the tension between maintaining integrity through commitment and practicing self-preservation by setting boundaries. Whether you're currently stuck in a project that's draining your energy or simply want to better navigate future collaborative commitments, this episode offers both the framework and permission needed to make decisions that honor both your professional relationships and your personal well-being. Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Projects that suck 02:59 – The situation 12:27 – Backing out 17:38 – Character and integrity 21:39 – Closing thoughts Transcript: In this deeply personal episode, David explores the challenging territory of projects that start with good intentions but gradually reveal themselves to be draining, poorly managed, or outright toxic. Drawing from his current experience with an education-focused volunteer project, he examines the tension between maintaining integrity through commitment and protecting your well-being by knowing when to walk away. Key Themes & Takeaways The inevitable reality that everyone will encounter projects that initially inspire but eventually disappoint The distinction between projects that merely "suck" versus those that are genuinely toxic How character and integrity factor into decisions about following through on commitments The importance of protecting your mental health while maintaining professional relationships Why clear task definition and reasonable expectations are crucial for volunteer projects The Education Project Reality Check David begins by sharing his involvement in an education reform project that exemplifies how good intentions can lead to frustrating experiences: His genuine passion for education system reform and supporting teachers The volunteer nature of the work with minimal tangible rewards beyond testimonials How the project atmosphere gradually shifted from inspiring to deflating The realization that other team members were experiencing similar frustrations "I went into this feeling pretty good, and then after a few meetings, kind of started to feel deflated and, ‘oh, no, is this going to be one of those?’ At first, I really just thought it was me... After meeting number three or four, other people started complaining and leaving.” This candid assessment demonstrates how even well-intentioned projects can become problematic when fundamental management issues arise. The Anatomy of Project Deterioration David identifies specific factors that can poison otherwise worthy projects: Excessive rigidity and structure that removes the fun and inspiration from volunteer work Poorly defined tasks that leave team members confused about expectations and deliverables Leadership that fails to break down complex actions into manageable time commitments Unrealistic assumptions about how much time volunteers will dedicate to unpaid work "A lot of the weekly tasks are not well-defined. So, there are many missing pieces... clearly the leader is not totally clear on the steps there... it would have been beneficial to take some time to break down these actions and tasks into smaller pieces that are manageable and relatively easy to do." This analysis provides valuable insight for both project leaders and participants about what makes collaborative work sustainable. The Dan Kennedy Philosophy David introduces a practical framework for evaluating problematic commitments: The "three-day rule" – if you wake up thinking about a project negatively for three consecutive days, something is wrong How this principle, originally applied to client relationships, extends to any collaborative commitment The importance of communicating concerns before reaching the breaking point Why addressing issues directly often leads to constructive solutions "I stand by what Dan Kennedy said about clients, which is basically, if I wake up thinking about you more than three days in a row and

Have you ever wondered what happens to talented musicians who spend decades perfecting their craft but never build an audience? Are you currently so focused on creating great work that you're neglecting the relationships and contact lists that could sustain your career in the future? Perhaps you assume that your talent alone will eventually attract the recognition and financial rewards you deserve, or that social media platforms will always provide access to the people who matter most to your career. In this eye-opening episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares a sobering case study of working with a veteran musician in his golden years who possesses substantial talent and decades of excellent work, but virtually no audience to monetize it. Through this real-world example, David reveals the harsh reality of what happens when list-building and relationship maintenance are neglected throughout a creative career—and why it becomes exponentially harder to build an audience when you finally need one. Whether you're just starting your musical journey or have been creating for years without systematically building your contact database, this episode provides both the wake-up call and practical strategies needed to ensure you don't find yourself with limited options when you're ready to monetize your life's work. Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – This is the situation you don’t want to find yourself in… 01:55 – The preventable reality 03:26 – Relying on systems that may not last 05:46 – Small practices that build rapport 06:35 – The value of building relationships with a wide array of people 07:59 – Updating your list as time moves forward 09:52 – You don’t have to do this perfectly 10:49 – Refreshing your database 11:17 – Monetization challenges 13:51 – Closing thoughts Summary: In this sobering and practical episode, David shares insights from working with a veteran musician in his golden years who finds himself with decades of excellent work but virtually no audience to monetize it. Through this real-world case study, David delivers both a cautionary tale and actionable guidance about the critical importance of building and maintaining contact lists throughout a creative career, before it's too late. Key Themes & Takeaways The stark reality of reaching later career stages without an audience despite quality work Why list-building and relationship maintenance are non-negotiable for sustainable creative careers The predictable ways networks naturally shrink over time without intentional effort How to build meaningful contact databases that provide options for future monetization The difference between social media followers and owned contact information The Golden Years Reality Check David opens with a sobering case study of a veteran musician facing monetization challenges: A client with substantial body of work but minimal audience or contact list Decades of performances and collaborations that never translated to owned relationships The harsh reality of having limited options when trying to monetize without an existing audience How even talented, experienced creators can find themselves isolated in their later years "He asked me how we were going to monetize his work. This is where I got to talking about his email list. It's not something that he spent a whole lot of time, in fact, really any time building through the years... he did not have a list, he did not have traffic, he did not have a following or an audience." This opening immediately establishes the stakes while providing a clear example of what happens when relationship-building is neglected throughout a career. The Preventable Crisis David emphasizes that this situation, while common, is entirely avoidable: The same time resources available to everyone (24 hours, 365 days) can be used differently How craft development often happens in isolation, but audience building requires different strategies The missed opportunities at every performance, collaboration, and professional interaction Why waiting until monetization becomes urgent makes the challenge exponentially harder "There's something you can do about it today, tomorrow, the day after. You’ve got the same 24 hours a day everyone else does... with all the performances he's done, with all the people he's worked with... There were surely handshakes, there were surely people met along the way." This section emphasizes the urgency of taking action while also acknowledging that most musicians face this challenge, as audience building isn't an intuitive aspect of artistic practice. The Network Shrinkage Phenomenon David explains the natural forces that erode professional networks over time: How life transitions (family, career changes, relocations) naturally separate people The

Have you ever felt the sting of creating something you genuinely believe is good, only to watch it languish in obscurity while inferior work gains massive attention? Do you sometimes wonder if the lack of recognition for your creative efforts means you should question your abilities, or if there are other factors at play that successful gurus conveniently ignore when dispensing their "simple" advice about quality and sales? In this fired-up episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David tackles a particularly frustrating piece of guru wisdom: "If your book isn't selling, it sucks." Drawing from his journey of reviewing past work while preparing his upcoming book "Champion of Artistic Success," he dismantles this oversimplified view with a four-category framework that reveals the complex relationship between quality and commercial success. Using examples from both publishing and the music industry, David challenges the notion that sales equal quality, offering validation for creators producing excellent work without recognition while exposing how established figures' advantages skew their perspective on what it takes to succeed. Whether you're questioning your abilities or simply seeking a more nuanced understanding of creative success, this episode provides both the analytical framework and emotional support needed to continue creating quality work regardless of immediate market response. Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Stupid guru quotes 01:18 – The statement that set David off 01:54 – Developing Champion of Artistic Success, Vol. 1 02:54 – Crappy books that sell 04:13 – Creating work that doesn’t sell 06:11 – The music industry parallel 07:32 – Nuances that affect sales performance 09:14 – The four-category framework 09:32 – Pop music of recent years 11:09 – Closing remarks Summary: In this passionate episode, David Andrew Wiebe challenges a provocative statement from an unnamed guru: "If your book isn't selling, it sucks." Drawing from personal experience and industry observations, he dismantles this oversimplified view by exploring the complex relationship between quality and commercial success, particularly in creative fields where excellent work often goes unrecognized while inferior products dominate the marketplace. Key Themes & Takeaways The false equation between sales performance and artistic quality How market timing, trends, and audience awareness affect the reception of good work The four-category framework for understanding the relationship between quality and sales Why persistence and consistent creation matter more than perfect output The role of marketing resources and industry positioning in determining commercial success The Guru Statement That Sparked Outrage David begins by addressing a statement that particularly frustrated him from a well-known guru: The claim that books that don't sell well simply "suck" Why this black-and-white thinking fails to account for the complexity of creative markets The personal impact of such statements on creators producing quality work without recognition How guru status and existing audiences skew perspectives on what constitutes "success" "His comment was, well, if you're not selling that many books... it's because your book sucks. Plain and simple. And I'm like, gee, you know, I don't think it's that black and white." This opening challenge sets the stage for a nuanced exploration of factors beyond quality that influence commercial success. The Personal Journey of Improvement David candidly reflects on his creative evolution: Reviewing past blog posts while preparing "Champion of Artistic Success" The honest assessment that not everything he created was brilliant How disciplined practice led to genuine improvement over time The realization that consistency matters more than perfection in developing craft "Looking back on some of this stuff, I'm like, ‘this was really not all that good,’ or ‘it's not that revolutionary, ’ or ‘I'm talking too much about myself.’ There were a lot of flawed blog posts... But I showed up, I produced good work, and sometimes hit that brilliant mark too." This vulnerable self-assessment demonstrates the reality of creative development – that improvement comes through sustained effort rather than immediate perfection. The Four-Category Framework David proposes a more nuanced view of the quality-sales relationship: Great work that sells – The ideal scenario most creators hope for Great work that doesn't sell – Quality content lacking marketing support or market timing Poor work that sells – Products succeeding due to marketing, timing, or trend alignment Poor work that doesn't sell – Low-quality content that finds no audien

Have you ever felt like you're chasing something elusive—searching for your "purpose" or trying to "find meaning" in your creative work—only to feel increasingly frustrated by the abstract nature of these pursuits? Do you sometimes wonder if the endless quest for meaning is actually keeping you from experiencing the satisfaction and joy that drew you to create in the first place? Perhaps it's time to question whether these popular personal development concepts are helping or hindering your creative journey. In this contemplative episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David returns after a month-long hiatus to share insights gained from an unexpected period of stillness and reflection. Drawing from his recent experience of financial stability through his tech career and the continued growth of Spark Infinity, he challenges one of personal development's most sacred pursuits: the search for meaning. Through thoughtful analysis of how meaning actually works (spoiler: it happens automatically), David proposes a radical alternative—seeking fulfillment instead of meaning, becoming passionate rather than finding passion, and creating purpose rather than discovering it. Whether you're feeling burnt out from endless productivity or stuck in the exhausting cycle of seeking your "why," this episode offers a refreshingly practical approach to finding satisfaction in your creative work. Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Personal and podcast updates from David 07:29 – Meaning is problematic 13:23 – The passion parallel 16:20 – You’ll never “arrive” 17:27 – Reframing “finding meaning” 19:13 – Replacing meaning with fulfillment Summary: In this deeply reflective episode after a month-long hiatus, David explores the transformative power of stillness and questions one of personal development's most sacred pursuits: finding meaning. Drawing from his recent experience of financial stability and professional security, he challenges the conventional wisdom about meaning-seeking and offers a radically different approach centered on accessible, achievable fulfillment. Key Themes & Takeaways The importance of stillness and reflection in an increasingly busy creative life How financial security changes the lens through which we view opportunities and choices The problematic nature of "finding meaning" as an endless, undefined pursuit The distinction between meaning (which happens automatically) and fulfillment (which can be consciously cultivated) Why chasing passion and meaning may be counterproductive compared to becoming passionate and seeking fulfillment The Gift of Stillness David begins by addressing his extended absence and the unexpected theme of stillness that has emerged in his life: The natural pull toward reflection and rest after periods of intense productivity Recognition that previous high-output periods were driven by survival rather than choice The realization that with financial stability comes the luxury of being more selective How stillness and reflection become possible when basic security needs are met "Things that I was doing previously or really the rate at which I was working and insisted on being productive and being increasingly more productive... ultimately I realized was kind of coming from a place of survival. I probably would not have known it at the time... now that I have a contract in big tech that's lasted over a year, several promotions later... I haven't felt this kind of peace." This candid reflection reveals how survival mode can masquerade as purposeful productivity, only becoming visible once security provides perspective. The Evolution of Choice With Spark Infinity growing to 1,500 members and continued professional advancement, David explores how success changes decision-making: The shift from saying yes to every opportunity to evaluating minimum thresholds for engagement Questions about the value of small paid opportunities when time becomes precious The luxury of choice that comes with having a stable foundation How security enables focus on reward beyond just monetary compensation "I don't have to make choices out of pure survival anymore. I have a foundation to stand on. I can be far choosier. I don't have to say yes to every paid opportunity in my inbox anymore." This section provides valuable perspective for artists at different career stages, illustrating how priorities naturally evolve with changing circumstances. The Problem with "Finding Meaning" David presents a provocative challenge to one of personal development's core concepts: The automatic nature of meaning-making from childhood onward How trauma and difficult experiences autom

Have you ever found yourself with more opportunities than time? Are you struggling to maintain your creative output while balancing growing professional responsibilities? Many content creators reach a pivotal moment when their success in one area forces them to completely rethink their approach in others—a bittersweet challenge that requires honest assessment and strategic pivoting. In this candid episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares his evolving strategy for sustainable content creation during a season of significant change. From questioning the ROI of maintaining a sprawling 2,000-post website to developing efficient content repurposing systems, he offers practical insights for creators facing similar time constraints. As his tech career advances through multiple promotions and his Spark Infinity community continues to grow, David explores how financial stability has transformed his creative mindset, moving from achievement-driven creation to a more relaxed approach focused on enjoyment and impact. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by competing priorities or simply seeking more efficient ways to maintain your creative presence, this episode provides both validation and actionable strategies for finding focus when life's opportunities outpace your available time. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Streamlining content 00:55 – Possible future of this website 02:46 – Seeing things through the lens of priorities 06:49 – Responding to circumstances 07:40 – Repurposing content the smart way 09:23 – New opportunities 11:47 – Closing thoughts Summary: In this reflective episode, David shares his evolving approach to content creation and business priorities during a period of significant professional growth. As his work responsibilities expand through multiple promotions at his tech job and the continued development of Spark Infinity, David explores practical strategies for content repurposing, team building, and maintaining quality while managing increasingly limited time. Key Themes & Takeaways The necessity of streamlining content creation processes when time becomes a premium resource The strategic shift from trying to serve everyone to focusing on effective content distribution How growth in one area of life necessitates reprioritization in others The challenge of building teams when no one cares about your projects as much as you do Finding balance between leveraging new technologies and maintaining content quality The Website Identity Crisis David begins by addressing the current state of his personal website and its lack of clear direction: The challenge of maintaining nearly 2,000 blog posts without a cohesive strategy Questioning the ROI of extensive content audits and reorganizations The shift from trying to serve specific audiences to creating a simpler personal portal The realization that trying to appeal to everyone results in appealing to no one "The website right now is... trying to appeal to everyone. And it's not appealing to anyone specifically, because when you're for nothing, you're pretty much just vanilla. And that's not really the idea here." This candid assessment demonstrates the evolving understanding that focus and specialization often yield better results than attempting to serve too broad an audience. The Content Repurposing Strategy Facing time constraints, David outlines his practical approach to maximizing content impact: Creating one substantial piece of weekly content (newsletter) that can be repurposed across platforms Breaking down articles into social media quotes, podcast episodes, and other derivative content Staggering release schedules to prevent audience fatigue across channels Finding efficiency without sacrificing the quality and personal touch that audiences value "I'm sitting down to write something every week, usually something for the email newsletter... I thought to myself, really, I could repurpose that content... That could be my big piece of content that I repurpose in different ways throughout the week or throughout the month." This section provides practical insight into sustainable content creation strategies that maintain quality while acknowledging real-world time constraints. The Team Building Challenge David reflects on the difficulties of scaling creative work through delegation: The reality that no one will care about your projects as much as you do The transition from doing everything yourself to managing others' contributions How delegation doesn't eliminate work but transforms it into training and oversight The search for collaborators who can support broader creative visions "No one's ever going to be as interested as you are in your own projects or your ventures. That's just the way thin

Are you creating great music but struggling to find an audience that cares? Do you feel like you're shouting into the void with each release, wondering why your streams and followers aren't growing despite your best creative efforts? The painful truth is that being a talented musician is only half the battle in today's oversaturated market—the other half is building the platforms that connect your art with the people who would love it, if only they knew it existed. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David tackles the concept of distribution channels—the overlooked foundation of sustainable artistic careers that separates commercially successful artists from perpetually struggling ones. Drawing from his own experiences hitting plateaus as an independent musician and his observations of countless artists facing similar challenges, he explains why building platforms where audiences consistently gather is often more important than creating more content, and why the "play more shows" approach has diminishing returns beyond your early career stages. Whether you're just starting out or hitting a frustrating ceiling after years of effort, this episode provides both the strategic framework and practical next steps to transform how you connect with potential fans. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Today’s topic 00:31 – Valuing opportunities and differences in perspectives 08:01 – What are distribution channels? 09:14 – Understanding the power of a distribution channel 10:17 – What the Sharks are looking for 11:47 – Traffic already exists, you don’t need to create it 17:44 – What to do if you’re unwilling/unable to build a distribution channel Summary: In this strategic episode, David breaks down one of the most crucial yet overlooked aspects of artistic success: building and leveraging distribution channels. Moving beyond conventional music career advice, he explains why creating platforms where audiences consistently gather—whether blogs, podcasts, newsletters, or YouTube channels—is essential for sustainable artistic careers, and why failing to prioritize this aspect may be "the worst career move" musicians can make. Through personal anecdotes and practical examples, he illuminates the often-invisible bridge between creating great art and building a viable career. Key Themes & Takeaways The fundamental difference between creating art and creating platforms to distribute that art Why building distribution channels is more effective than endlessly creating content without an audience How perspective differences lead artists to overlook valuable opportunities in front of them The limitation of the "play more shows" approach to building a music career Strategic ways to leverage existing networks rather than building audiences from scratch The psychological challenges of shifting from artist to platform-builder mindset The balance between artistic integrity and strategic audience development The Distribution Channel Advantage David begins by establishing the concept of distribution channels as the missing link in many artists' career strategies: Defining distribution channels as platforms where people consistently gather for specific content Examples include blogs, podcasts, YouTube channels, email lists, and other owned media The critical difference between creating content and creating platforms that deliver content How distribution channels transform random offerings into consistent revenue opportunities The compound value that accumulates when building platforms rather than isolated content The security provided by owning your distribution rather than relying on algorithms or gatekeepers This foundational section establishes the strategic framework that differentiates sustainable artistic careers from those that remain perpetually struggling despite quality output. By drawing clear distinctions between content creation and platform building, David challenges artists to reconsider where they're investing their limited time and resources. "Until you realize and understand the power of a distribution channel, you're probably not going to prioritize it. And this is the worst career move that you could make... if you have a distribution channel and you can plug an offer into it... you can generate sales. And in fact, you can command large sums of money if your distribution channel is big enough." The Perspective Challenge Before diving deeper into distribution strategies, David addresses the psychological barriers that often prevent artists from seeing opportunities clearly: How different people can look at the same opportunity and see completely different potential The challen

Are you an independent musician feeling stuck in the endless cycle of social media posts that no one sees, gigs that don't grow your audience, and streaming platforms that generate pennies? Do you wonder how other artists manage to build momentum while you're still waiting for the industry to discover your talent? Perhaps you're looking for a realistic roadmap that acknowledges today's music industry challenges while offering practical solutions you can implement immediately. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares a special interview with Mark Dixon of UK electronic duo RadarBase, who has transformed his approach to music marketing after reading "The Renegade Musician." From growing to 2,000 monthly Spotify listeners to creating strategic industry connections, Mark offers candid insights about the realities of venue closures in London, the declining effectiveness of social media, and the practical steps his band has taken to build sustainable momentum. Whether you're just starting your music career or looking to pivot your approach after years of frustration, this conversation provides both the wake-up call and practical guidance needed to take genuine control of your artistic future. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Introduction 02:59 – Interview with Mark Dixon 03:33 – How RadarBase came about 04:55 – Mark’s musical journey 06:06 – Where you can listen to RadarBase 06:23 – RadarBase’s goals 07:06 – How Mark decided he required help with his music career 09:26 – How Mark came across The Renegade Musician 12:36 – How Mark found The Renegade Musician 13:49 – Mark’s first impressions of The Renegade Musician 15:15 – The Spotify delusion 21:08 – What Mark learned and earned from The Renegade Musician 23:52 – How The Renegade Musician has empowered Mark 25:39 – Who not how 27:36 – Challenges Mark has encountered 30:48 – The difference that location makes 34:06 – Do it because you love it and do it for free? 37:03 – Growing an email list 39:57 – What are David’s plans for 2025? 45:01 – AI music and creating an experience with your music 50:24 – Closing thoughts Summary: In this special crossover episode from Spark Infinity, David interviews Mark Dixon of the UK-based electronic music duo RadarBase about applying principles from "The Renegade Musician" to build a sustainable music career. Their wide-ranging conversation covers challenges faced by independent musicians, creative marketing strategies, and the practical steps RadarBase has taken to grow their audience to 2,000 monthly Spotify listeners while just getting started. The candid exchange provides both inspiration and tactical guidance for artists navigating the complex music landscape of 2025, highlighting the power of strategic thinking and consistent action. Key Themes & Takeaways The importance of taking ownership of your music career rather than waiting for industry recognition How building your own email list creates independence from increasingly unreliable social media platforms The reality of venue challenges facing independent musicians in major cities like London The value of strategic networking and collaborative relationships with other artists The transition from traditional record label aspirations to independent artist entrepreneurship The balance between authentic creative expression and strategic career development The shift from passive hope to active creation of opportunities in today's music landscape The Renegade Musician Impact Mark shares how discovering David's book transformed RadarBase's approach to music marketing, providing both a mindset shift and a practical framework: Finding the book through Amazon while searching for marketing guidance beyond the traditional industry model The immediate connection with the book's straight-talking approach and actionable advice The realization that artists must "start their own fire" rather than waiting for industry recognition The practical implementation of relationship-building strategies from the book The liberation that comes from taking control rather than waiting for external validation The shift from seeing marketing as outside his skill set to embracing it as a necessary component of artistic success This section reveals the transformative impact that the right resource can have at the right time, particularly for artists struggling with the marketing aspects of their career. Mark's openness about marketing being a weakness demonstrates the self-awareness necessary for growth in today's music industry, where artists must wear multiple hats. "My first impression was, okay, here's someone that's speaking in a tone that I can relate to, I can connect to it, that is very honest about the state of the way things are... It was someone who underst

Have you ever rated your motivation as a nine or 10, only to abandon your projects at the first sign of difficulty? Do you wonder why certain opportunities never materialize despite your talent, or why success seems to come more easily to others? Perhaps it's time to honestly assess whether you're truly willing to do what it takes—not just some things, but everything required—to achieve the creative success you claim to want. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares both tough love and genuine encouragement about the journey of becoming the person capable of creating the artistic life you desire. Drawing from personal experiences of financial hardship, setbacks, and eventual breakthroughs, he explores the gap between perceived motivation and demonstrated action. Whether you're struggling with making excuses, taking full responsibility for your career, or developing true go-getter persistence, this episode offers a compassionate yet uncompromising invitation to honestly evaluate where you stand on your creative journey. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – David’s fiery side 00:44 – How motivated are you? 05:47 – Have you read The Magic of Thinking Big? 10:38 – Have you read The Go-Getter? 14:56 – Summary Summary: In this powerful and challenging episode, David invites artists to honestly assess their level of motivation and commitment to success. Through direct questions, personal reflections, and practical examples, he explores the gap between what we say we want and what we're truly willing to do to achieve it, offering both tough love and genuine encouragement for the creative journey. Key Themes & Takeaways The crucial distinction between perceived motivation and actual willingness to take necessary actions How success typically requires more effort and time than most people initially anticipate The importance of taking complete responsibility for both successes and failures The progressive nature of personal growth and how it enables creative achievement The reality check of what being a true "go-getter" involves in practical scenarios The Motivation Assessment David begins with a direct challenge to listeners about their true level of commitment: The honest self-evaluation of motivation on a scale from 0-10 The crucial question of what you're genuinely willing to do to achieve your goals The gap between self-perception and demonstrated action The relationship between motivation level and ability to persist through inevitable obstacles "Are you willing to do nothing of what it takes to get to where you want to go? Are you willing to do some things that might be required to get you to where you want to go? Are you willing to do most things required to get you to where you want to go? Are you willing to do everything that's required for you to get to where you want to go?" This straight-talking approach cuts through the comfortable illusions many artists maintain about their dedication level, asking them to examine their actions rather than their intentions. The Success Timeline Reality Drawing from personal experience, David addresses the often-unexpected nature of the creative journey: The surprising length of time required to achieve meaningful goals The inevitable obstacles and setbacks that test commitment Personal reflections on his own journey through hardship to current success How perseverance through difficult moments eventually leads to desired outcomes "Understanding that very typically achieving success on your terms, whatever that may look like, takes way more effort than you think it will and takes way more time than you ever think it will. And that's been my experience as well." By sharing his own moments of struggle—from financial hardships to personal challenges—David creates an authentic connection with listeners while demonstrating the realistic timeline of meaningful achievement. The Excusitis Diagnosis Drawing from "The Magic of Thinking Big," David introduces a powerful concept about the root of failure: The "failure disease" of excusitis—the habit of making excuses How to identify where you're currently making excuses in your career The self-deception of blaming external circumstances for personal results Practical examples of how strong mindset development overcomes external obstacles "Where are you making excuses in your career right now? All you’ve got to do is look at what's not working. I mean, look at this soberly. Who else and what else is responsible for the results you've gotten in your career? It can't be external." This section provides a practical framework for identifying excuse pa

Do you find yourself collecting books, courses, and information about how to succeed as an artist, but rarely putting any of it into practice? Are you comfortable discussing creative theories and marketing strategies, but hesitant to build that website, launch that podcast, or release that album? Perhaps you consider yourself knowledgeable about artistic success while secretly wondering why that knowledge hasn't translated into tangible results. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares a candid, car-recorded exploration of the critical difference between knowing and doing in creative careers. Distinguishing between what we truly know through experience versus what we merely "know about" intellectually, he challenges artists to move beyond the comfort of theoretical debates and into the revealing territory of implementation. From his three-part framework for artistic success to a surprising story about a reviewer who claimed to "know it all" while implementing nothing, this episode offers both a wake-up call and a practical pathway for transforming intellectual understanding into experiential wisdom. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Capturing a car-recording episode 00:55 – Intellectual rightness 03:04 – Getting it together, getting it done, getting it out there 06:05 – Digging in the mud 08:40 – Synthesizing information to create your unique approach 10:09 – Talking about things vs. doing things 11:16 – Accurate thinking 12:46 – Input is key but it can’t stop there 14:20 – Know, know about, beliefs 17:46 – What’s most useful about this episode 18:10 – Not doing what you already “know” to do Summary: In this unfiltered car-recorded episode, David cuts through philosophical debates and intellectual posturing to address a fundamental issue in artistic development: the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Drawing distinctions between knowing, knowing about, and believing, he challenges artists to move beyond endless debate and into the transformative realm of experimentation and implementation. The rawness of the recording—captured during errands to preserve insights that might otherwise be lost—serves as a living demonstration of his core message: taking imperfect action trumps waiting for perfect conditions. Key Themes & Takeaways The crucial difference between intellectual understanding and experiential learning How endless debate and theorizing becomes a substitute for meaningful action The three-part framework of "getting it together, getting it done, and getting it out there" The self-deception that occurs when artists claim knowledge they haven't applied The dangerous comfort of remaining in theory rather than facing the vulnerability of practice The misleading influence of educational systems that reward information retention over application The Purpose Beyond Philosophy David begins by establishing his position in relation to theoretical debates, drawing clear boundaries around his mission and approach: Clarifying that his mission is finding practical tools that help artists, not philosophical arguments Distinguishing himself from those who enjoy "intellectualizing" and debating for its own sake Emphasizing his role as someone who "digs in the mud" of personal development to bring back "gold nuggets" for artists Highlighting the three fundamental areas he focuses on: mindset/psychology, productivity/effectiveness, and marketing/promotion Acknowledging the interconnected nature of these three areas while maintaining their distinct functions Creating context for why some successful artists may not need additional development in these areas His direct approach cuts through the tendency toward abstract discussion that often dominates creative development conversations. By positioning himself as a practical explorer rather than a theoretical guide, David creates a framework for evaluating information based on utility rather than intellectual elegance. "I want you to know that the number one thing, the number one pursuit that I have is finding things that help artists. That's about it. I'm out there in pursuit, learning things, trying things, implementing things... I'm out there doing things so that I can bring the gold nuggets back." The Knowledge-Application Gap At the heart of the episode is David's passionate argument about the difference between theoretical and practical knowledge, illustrated through both personal experience and observation: The disconnect between claiming to know something and having actually applied it How education and schooling have created a false equation between learning informa

Are you constantly stuck in the dreaded cycle of "someday I'll start my podcast" or "I need to make this song perfect before releasing it"? Have you noticed how days turn into weeks, weeks into months, and suddenly years have passed while your creative projects remain in perpetual preparation? Perhaps you've convinced yourself that your delays are about quality rather than fear, or that you're just waiting for the right moment to launch your creative vision. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David cuts through the comfortable illusions that keep artists stuck in planning mode by confronting the twin traps of procrastination and perfectionism head-on. Drawing from his own struggles—including a commissioned painting he's delayed for years—he delivers the uncomfortable truth that "commitment precedes success" while offering a liberating alternative: you don't have to build everything from scratch. Whether you're a musician perfecting tracks that never see release, a writer with unpublished drafts gathering digital dust, or any creative stuck in the gap between intention and action, this episode provides both the wake-up call and practical pathway to finally making the impact you're capable of. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – The two traps that prevent artists from making an impact 01:05 – Trolls and critics 02:16 – Procrastination and perfectionism 04:50 – What’s preventing you from getting started? 06:19 – Creativity in a new era 08:07 – So, when are you going to start that podcast of yours? 11:15 – Commitment precedes success 13:21 – Hitch your wagon to a star Summary: In this direct and uncompromising episode, David Andrew Wiebe confronts the two primary obstacles that prevent artists from making their desired impact: procrastination and perfectionism. Moving beyond theoretical concepts, he delivers practical insights about commitment, action, and the uncomfortable truth that many creative aspirations remain unrealized due to these insidious mental barriers. With a blend of personal confession and professional observation, David creates a compelling case for immediate action over perpetual planning, while acknowledging his own struggles with the very obstacles he identifies. Key Themes & Takeaways The destructive cycle of procrastination that turns days into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years How perfectionism prevents artists from even beginning projects, let alone completing them The fundamental truth that "commitment precedes success" in any creative endeavor Why hitching your wagon to an existing star often proves more effective than trying to become one yourself The self-awareness required to recognize patterns of delay in your own creative work The freedom that comes from accepting collaboration as a pathway to completion The Procrastination Paradox David candidly explores how procrastination manifests in creative lives, using his own experiences to illustrate the point without positioning himself above his audience: The perpetual delay of meaningful projects despite genuine intentions to complete them His personal example of a commissioned painting project that remains uncompleted years later, demonstrating vulnerability rather than perfection The cumulative cost of "someday" thinking on artistic careers and impact How legitimate reasons for delay (like skill development) can become permanent excuses The invisible mental barriers that create resistance to starting despite genuine desire to create The false comfort of planning compared to the uncomfortable reality of execution This honest self-assessment creates a sense of shared experience with listeners, acknowledging that procrastination affects even successful creators. By admitting his own struggles, David establishes credibility while removing the excuse of exceptionalism that many artists use to justify their delays. "I think I would want to set aside a summer or set aside a couple weeks or a couple months to work on these types of projects... But I also procrastinate. I also have those moments." The Perfectionism Trap With refreshing clarity, David distinguishes between legitimate quality standards and self-defeating perfectionism, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by musicians and other technical artists: The difference between fixing genuine issues (like off-time drums) versus endless tweaking How fear disguises itself as perfectionism—fear of criticism, theft of ideas, or inadequacy The rapidly changing creative landscape, particularly with AI advancement, that makes perfectionist delays increasingly costly The counterproductive belief that completely or

Have you found yourself drowning in opportunities but struggling to determine which ones are worth pursuing? Do you sometimes reject possibilities that could transform your career because they arrive at inconvenient times or challenge your ego? Perhaps you've experienced the opposite problem—feeling stuck in a creative desert where meaningful opportunities seem nonexistent? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares his journey from resistance to "allowing" as a foundational approach to both life's challenges and opportunities. Beginning with candid stories of a day filled with minor mishaps—from spilled smoothies to broken windshield wipers in Vancouver rain—he reveals how embracing what is creates space for better decision-making about what could be. Drawing from personal experiences with predatory offers, overwhelming choices, and observations of self-sabotaging behaviors in the artistic community, David offers a philosophical framework for recognizing and valuing the right opportunities while maintaining the self-care necessary for sustainable creative practice. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – A day filled with minor mishaps 04:46 – How internal conditions manifested external circumstances 05:30 – The universe operates on allowing 07:28 – Evaluating and valuing opportunities only gets harder with time 10:58 – Questionable opportunities 16:30 – Ranking the opportunities that cross your desk 17:55 – People shooting themselves in the foot 23:06 – Closing thoughts Summary: In this reflective episode, David explores the concept of "allowing" as a pathway to better valuing opportunities in both life and artistic careers. Beginning with personal anecdotes about a challenging day filled with minor mishaps—from spilled smoothies to windshield wiper failures in Vancouver rain—he weaves together insights about emotional processing, opportunity evaluation, and the self-sabotaging behaviors that can prevent artists from recognizing valuable possibilities in their lives. Through vulnerable sharing about his own journey, David offers a philosophical framework that balances pragmatic career advice with deeper wisdom about living well as a creative professional. Key Themes & Takeaways The transformative power of allowing versus resisting life's circumstances The evolution of opportunity as careers progress and how to evaluate increasingly complex choices The self-defeating cycle of pride that causes artists to reject potentially life-changing opportunities The delicate balance between pursuing professional opportunities and maintaining personal well-being The progression from scarcity to abundance of opportunities as creativity becomes sustainable The wisdom of developing discernment rather than reflexive acceptance or rejection The Practice of Allowing David shares his journey toward a more accepting relationship with life's challenges, presenting a philosophy that extends beyond mere positive thinking: Moving from resistance to acknowledgment, then to welcoming and finally allowing The freedom that comes from seeing circumstances exactly as they are without trying to fix or avoid them How this principle applies to emotional processing, financial reality, and professional opportunities The wisdom from spiritual teacher Gary Spivey that "the universe operates on allowing" The courage required to face reality—particularly financial reality—exactly as it is How allowing creates space for intuitive decision-making rather than reactive choices This perspective offers an alternative to both toxic positivity and cynical resignation, suggesting a middle path that acknowledges difficulties while remaining open to possibility. David notes how his emotional processing from previous weeks affected his current experience, demonstrating the interconnectedness of our mental states and external circumstances. "Moving to that space of allowing has been so healthy because it's not me trying to run from it. It's not me trying to fix it. It's simply acknowledging and welcoming and allowing in my existence exactly as it is. Not trying to change it, not trying to avoid it, not trying to ignore it. Seeing it exactly as it is." The Evolution of Opportunity As creative careers develop, the nature of opportunity changes in significant ways, creating new challenges that require different responses: Early-stage opportunities often feel scarce but provide motivation to learn and grow through necessity Middle-stage opportunities begin multiplying, creating decision fatigue and FOMO (fear of missing out) Advanced-stage opportunities require strategic filtering systems to avoid overwhelm and maintain

Are you finding yourself paralyzed by "world conditions," unable to create because things just feel too chaotic? Have you caught yourself crafting eloquent social media posts about why creativity is impossible right now, while ironically demonstrating your creative abilities in the process? Do you believe that true artistic expression can only flourish under ideal circumstances, or have you been using external factors as a shield against the vulnerability of creating? In this unfiltered episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David delivers a passionate wake-up call that might just be the tough love you need to hear. Drawing from his own experience of writing multiple books while homeless, facing bankruptcy, and surviving on $50 of groceries for six weeks, he challenges the intellectualized excuses that keep artists stuck in patterns of inaction. Whether you're genuinely struggling with legitimate hardship or simply hiding behind societal problems to avoid creative risks, this episode offers both the compassion and confrontation needed to move beyond excuses and back into meaningful creative work. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Your Wish Is Your Command: For a limited time, use the code “YWIYC” at checkout to get access to this life-changing audio program for free! Highlights: 00:17 – Someone opened Pandora’s Box 01:15 – A channel for free expression 02:48 – A smack upside the head 03:32 – Conditions that can make it challenging to create 04:15 – A time for everything under the sun 05:26 – If you have time enough to post to Facebook… 07:30 – Deconstructing a Facebook comment 14:09 – Famous artists who succeeded in the face of adversity 15:07 – Conditions David faced as he was writing four books 18:49 – The cost of inaction Summary: In this passionate and challenging episode, David delivers a powerful wake-up call to artists who blame external circumstances for their creative paralysis. With raw honesty and personal vulnerability, he confronts the excuses that prevent action while sharing his own journey of creating multiple books during a period of homelessness, financial devastation, and personal loss. Key Themes & Takeaways The fundamental difference between legitimate hardship and intellectualized excuses How external conditions are rarely the true barrier to creativity The self-defeating cycle of blaming societal problems for personal inaction The historical precedent of great artists who thrived during genuinely difficult times The Permission Paradox David begins by acknowledging legitimate reasons for creative pauses while challenging the tendency to intellectualize inaction: The importance of recognizing genuine hardship (grief, illness, burnout) versus manufactured obstacles The irony of those who claim they "can't create due to world conditions" while crafting eloquent social media posts The permission to rest when truly needed versus the self-deception of false limitations The difference between temporary creative blocks and complete creative abandonment "If you have time enough to post about this on Facebook, that's not the condition you're in, is it? That's not the circumstance you're facing, is it? It's not like Uncle Sam or the government has come knocking at your door and is escorting you to the nearest FEMA camp to be imprisoned there for all lifetime." Dismantling Popular Excuses With pointed precision, David deconstructs common justifications for creative inaction: The "progressive narrative" and "class divide" arguments that serve as intellectual diversions Environmental concerns that, while valid for discussion, have little bearing on individual creative capacity Funding challenges that can be addressed through proactive measures rather than passive complaint The "Trump squeeze" and "planetary crisis" justifications that lack specificity and actionable relevance "Why aren't you directing your thoughts in the direction of creating funding instead of talking about where the funding is supposed to come from? Why aren't you demanding some accountability from your government? They're supposed to be your employees. They're supposed to represent you." Historical Perspective on Creative Adversity David places current challenges in the broader context of art history: References to Renaissance masters who created masterpieces during genuinely difficult historical periods The enduring principle that "when the going gets tough, the tough get going" The contrast between perceived modern hardships and the genuine adversities faced by historical creators How art has often flourished precisely during periods of societal

Are you constantly overlooking opportunities that are right in front of you? Do you find yourself frustrated with the lack of traction in your creative career, despite creating meticulously crafted content? Have you ever dismissed an unexpected connection or invitation, only to wonder later if it might have led somewhere meaningful? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares a provocative perspective on the self-defeating cycle of cynicism that plagues many artists, revealing how the opportunities they desperately seek are often the very ones they unconsciously reject. Drawing from his own experiences building the Spark Infinity community, he offers a compelling argument for why being personable has become more valuable than creating perfect content in 2025's creative landscape. Whether you're struggling to gain visibility for your work or simply feeling stuck in a "miserable existence" as an artist, this episode provides both the wake-up call and practical guidance needed to recognize the "acres of diamonds" that might be hiding in plain sight. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – When cynicism kills opportunity 01:59 – The Dan Kennedy of the artistic industry 04:16 – Being mindful of how you show up 04:42 – Facebook: Not just a social network 06:08 – What not to do when accepting invitations 08:50 – The importance of being personable 09:44 – How David sees 2025 playing out for creators Summary: In this timely and thought-provoking episode, David shares insights about the shifting landscape of content creation and networking in 2025, emphasizing the crucial difference between healthy skepticism and self-defeating cynicism. He makes a compelling case for the transformative power of authentic connections, arguing that opportunities constantly surround us if we can remain open to recognizing them. Drawing from his own experiences and observations of successful artists, David offers a refreshing perspective on how creative professionals can thrive in today's relationship-driven environment. Key Themes & Takeaways The critical distinction between necessary skepticism and opportunity-killing cynicism The shift from polished, perfect content toward authentic, service-oriented engagement How personal presence and attitude directly influence the flow of opportunities The growing movement of facilitators and spotlighters who elevate others through interviews and live streams The counterintuitive nature of success in the current content landscape The importance of emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills in artistic careers The Self-Defeating Cycle of Cynicism David explores how artists often sabotage their own success through unnecessary cynicism, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of missed opportunities and frustration: The paradox of artists who complain about lack of opportunity while simultaneously rejecting it through dismissive responses and confrontational attitudes How negative responses to invitations and connections reflect deeper self-limiting patterns and beliefs about one's value in the marketplace The metaphor of "acres of diamonds" – valuable opportunities that remain invisible to those unwilling to recognize them because they're focused on looking elsewhere The dangerous cycle of validating a "miserable existence" through self-defeating behaviors that confirm negative expectations The subtle ways artists protect themselves from potential rejection by pre-emptively rejecting opportunities How cynicism masquerades as wisdom while actually restricting growth and possibility David acknowledges his own struggles with this pattern: "I'm guilty of all of it, trust me. But that's how I'm able to recognize it, is because I've been guilty of all those things and I'm trying to adjust." This honest self-reflection establishes his perspective not as criticism from above but as insights from someone navigating the same challenges. "Every single day, everywhere you go, opportunity is staring you down. The acres of diamonds are in front of you and you don't notice it. In fact, you actively work against yourself, shoot yourself in the foot and make it so those opportunities can't possibly flow to you. And then you get to continue to validate this miserable existence that you claim you live as an artist." This powerful statement encapsulates a fundamental truth about human psychology – we often unconsciously create the very circumstances we claim to despise, finding comfort in the familiarity of our struggles rather than embracing the uncertainty of new opportunities. The Art of Being Personable Drawing from personal expe

Are you worried about AI taking over your creative work – or worse, taking over the world? Do you find yourself caught between the techno-evangelists claiming AI will solve all our problems and doomsayers warning of a robotic apocalypse? Perhaps you've wondered if those impressive AI demos really represent what these systems can do consistently, or if there's a gap between marketing hype and everyday reality. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares a rare insider perspective on artificial intelligence based on his daily professional experience working with these systems. With candid examples, he reveals current AI tools' surprising limitations while cutting through the hype and hysteria surrounding the technology. Whether you're an artist concerned about AI-generated competition, a professional wondering how to incorporate these tools ethically, or simply someone trying to make sense of contradictory AI narratives, this episode offers a grounded, practical perspective to help you navigate the changing technological landscape. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – The gap between perception and reality in AI 03:10 – Is AI sentient? 05:19 – What AI isn’t 08:56 – Weird things AI does (tendencies, errors, and hallucinations) 16:18 – Where things are going with AI 22:29 – Concluding thoughts Summary: In this thought-provoking episode, David Andrew Wiebe cuts through the noise surrounding artificial intelligence, offering a sobering perspective on its current capabilities and limitations. Drawing from his daily professional experience working with AI systems, he provides a rare insider view that contrasts sharply with popular narratives. With a combination of personal anecdotes, critical analysis, and a touch of humor, he explores the significant gap between public perception of AI and its actual functionality, challenging both utopian visions of AI assistance and dystopian fears of machine takeover. Key Themes & Takeaways The episode weaves together several interconnected ideas that provide a framework for understanding AI's current reality: The substantial gap between public perception of AI capabilities and its actual limitations, particularly in areas requiring contextual understanding and basic reasoning The importance of maintaining healthy skepticism when using AI tools, especially for tasks requiring accuracy and nuance The inherent problems in AI's learning methodology and why sentience remains elusive despite rapid advancement in language generation The balance between embracing AI's benefits for productivity while recognizing its significant shortcomings The distinction between using AI as a tool versus delegating critical thinking and decision-making How the marketing of AI capabilities often creates unrealistic expectations that actual performance cannot match David approaches the topic not as an AI doomsayer or evangelist, but as a practical professional who uses these tools daily while maintaining critical awareness of their limitations. This balanced perspective offers listeners valuable insights for navigating the increasingly AI-influenced creative landscape. AI's Current Reality David meticulously catalogs the surprising limitations of current AI systems, drawing from recent personal experiences with multiple AI platforms. His examples reveal a technology that, despite impressive language capabilities, still struggles with basic tasks that humans perform effortlessly: Geographic confusion, such as confidently but incorrectly identifying which fish species exist in specific Canadian provinces: "I said, I want to go bass fishing in Alberta. And the AI's like, 'Oh, that's such a great idea. Alberta's teeming with largemouth and smallmouth bass.' ... Then I'll contradict it and be like, 'Yeah, but are there many bass in Alberta though?' 'Oh, sorry, I made a mistake.'" Mathematical inabilities, particularly with basic counting and word limits: "It can't do basic math. It has a horrible time and this is pretty universally true of all models... It doesn't really understand character limits." He describes requesting 100-character bios that came back at 150-200 characters, requiring multiple attempts to get the correct length. Hallucinations about locations, like generating multiple fake addresses for a single Walmart: "It finds Walmart in a specific city and passes it off as three separate stores... It'll even identify possibly something crazy like Wally's World or Waldo Mart as being another Walmart location." Creating media timestamps for videos it has never seen: "Generates media hig

Have you ever felt like your sensitivity was more of a curse than a gift? Do you find yourself deeply affected by criticism, overwhelmed by intense environments, or struggling to navigate a world that seems built for less sensitive souls? Perhaps you've even wondered if success in the creative field is possible for someone who feels everything so deeply. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David Andrew Wiebe opens up about his personal journey through the depths of sensitivity – from the challenging summer of 2014 when he "lost his business, lost the girl, and lost his faith," to his transformative discovery of resources for highly sensitive people. He shares the story behind his latest book, "Flashes of Elation: Navigating the World as a Sensitive, Creative Soul," while weaving in powerful insights about how what appears to be a weakness can become your greatest creative strength. Whether you identify as a highly sensitive person or simply want to understand the intersection of sensitivity and creativity better, this episode offers both validation and practical wisdom for your creative journey. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Flashes of Elation: Navigating the World as a Sensitive, Creative Soul. Yes, it’s here. It’s available. It’s ready to be consumed! Get your copy. Highlights: 00:17 – A spontaneous approach to content and embracing the mainstream 04:45 – Is Flashes of Elation finally available? 06:07 – For those who pre-ordered the book… 08:16 – What is Flashes of Elation about? 09:42 – The complex nature of personal evolution 10:35 – The story behind Flashes of Elation 14:12 – The writing process 14:58 – Wrapping up the preview Summary: In this candid episode, David Andrew Wiebe opens up about the origins and release of his latest book, "Flashes of Elation: Navigating the World as a Sensitive, Creative Soul." Through unscripted, natural storytelling, he weaves together the personal journey that led to the book's creation with current insights about content creation, authenticity, and the evolution of creative work. The episode demonstrates David's current approach to content – speaking from experience rather than scripts – while exploring how this very method reflects the growth journey described in his book. Key Themes & Takeaways The episode explores several interconnected themes that resonate throughout both David's current work and his book: The evolution from structured to spontaneous content creation, exemplified by his current approach to podcasting where preparation often consists of just "turning over some ideas" in his mind The parallel between personal growth and creative expression, particularly how embracing one's natural tendencies can lead to more authentic work The journey of accepting and leveraging sensitivity as a strength, illustrated through both past experiences and current content creation methods The balance between mainstream appeal and maintaining authenticity, drawing inspiration from artists like David Bowie who successfully navigated this transition The power of unscripted, authentic communication in building genuine connections with audiences The recognition that different phases of our creative journey serve different purposes, even if we later evolve beyond them David's approach reflects a broader shift in content creation, moving away from heavily structured formats toward more authentic, conversational styles. This mirrors his personal journey from seeing sensitivity as a limitation to recognizing it as a unique advantage in creative work. Origins and Inspiration David shares the pivotal moment that sparked the book's creation, taking us back to a transformative period in 2014. During this time, he experienced what he describes as a "triple loss" – his business, a significant relationship, and his religious faith all fell away simultaneously. This period serves as more than just backstory; it represents the catalyst for a deeper understanding of sensitivity in creative life. The metaphor he uses is particularly striking: feeling like he was on a train track that suddenly led into the desert, where the train left him to figure things out alone. This imagery captures the isolation and disorientation many sensitive creatives experience during periods of major transition. His description of prayers "hitting the ceiling" – a reference to feeling disconnected from spiritual support – adds another layer to understanding the depth of this challenging period. His discovery of Heidi Sawyer's work came through what he describes as an act of desperation – a YouTube search about living as a sensitive person. He recalls her initial impact as being like "a deer staring into headlights" or "a normal person looking into the eyes of an alien," highlighting how transformative it can be to finally find resources that speak to one's experienc

Have you ever felt stuck in a situation that seemed impossible to escape? Do you sometimes wonder if personal development programs are worth the investment, or if they're just marketing hype? What if the difference between struggling and thriving came down to a fundamental shift in perspective? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David opens up about the personal development program that transformed his life, sharing the raw details of his journey from working five poorly-paying jobs and living with the "roommate from hell" to manifesting unexpected opportunities and financial breathing room. He also provides updates on Spark Infinity's evolution and his upcoming book "The Ferry Letters," offering insights into how intuition guides his creative process. Whether you're skeptical about personal development or curious about authentic marketing approaches, this vulnerable exploration of transformation and truth-telling offers valuable lessons for creators at any stage of their journey. This episode is particularly relevant for: Artists and creators going through challenging times Entrepreneurs seeking authentic ways to connect with their audience Anyone interested in the relationship between mindset work and tangible results Creators balancing multiple projects and life demands Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Your Wish Is Your Command: For a limited time, use the code “YWIYC” at checkout to get access to this life-changing audio program for free! Highlights: 00:17 – Distinguishing Spark Infinity from Creativity Excitement Emotion 01:24 – Alterations to David’s book launch schedule? 03:48 – Today’s topic 05:54 – The personal development program that made the biggest difference 07:33 – Your Wish Is Your Command 08:57 – David’s personal story of vulnerability 12:25 – Rapid change in circumstances 17:45 – Closing thoughts Summary: In this vulnerable and deeply personal episode, David opens up about his transformative experience with the personal development program "Your Wish Is Your Command," while also providing updates on his current projects and the evolution of Spark Infinity. He shares a powerful before-and-after story from 2011, illustrating how mindset shifts can catalyze real-world changes, even in seemingly hopeless situations. Key Themes & Takeaways The power of personal development programs to shift perspective and create tangible life changes The importance of sharing authentic experiences without over-selling or manipulation The delicate balance between maintaining multiple projects and knowing when to streamline The role of intuition in creative work, particularly in relation to his upcoming book "The Ferry Letters" Project Updates & Strategic Shifts David shares several important updates about his current work: Plans to give Spark Infinity its own dedicated space, separate from Creativity Excitement Emotion Potential adjustment to his goal of publishing four books in 2025, showing flexibility in response to changing circumstances Specific insights about "The Ferry Letters" project, including the intuitive need to visit the Sunshine Coast for completion Continued emphasis on maintaining work-life balance and self-care routines Personal Development Journey In a particularly moving segment, David details his 2011 experience: Working five poorly-paying jobs while struggling with mortgage payments Dealing with challenging living situations and vehicle problems The transformative impact of discovering "Your Wish Is Your Command" Subsequent "coincidences" that helped turn his situation around: An unexpected mortgage refinancing opportunity Performance opportunities at the Calgary International Fringe Festival Touring opportunities with Jonathan Ferguson Multiple job offers and a music industry startup investment Action Steps for Artists Drawing from David's experience, here are key takeaways for creators: Remain open to personal development opportunities while maintaining healthy skepticism Create space for intuitive decisions in your creative process Build flexibility into your goals to accommodate life changes Prioritize self-care using the "sports car" analogy - fuel yourself with the highest quality inputs Document your transformative experiences to share authentically with others Balance scalable and unscalable activities in your business (like personal letters to customers) Authenticity in Marketing David provides valuable insights about authentic promotion: "I don't claim to have magical abilities to make people buy things. I think people buy things for their own reasons... It's not as simple as, oh, it's just a customer relationship... I'm sending people letters, right? And not just newsletters either, personal letters with gifts in them." Looking Forward The episode highlights several upcoming developments: The continued evolution of Spark In

Sometimes you stumble into things. Song ideas. Promo ideas. Even opportunities of the highest order. The trick? There isn’t one. Or, if there is one, it’s to stay consistent. Keep showing up and doing the work while remaining open-minded about your approach and where things can take you. Creativity Excitement Emotion? Still here. Still going. And your courageous host David has some things to say about last week’s episode and what he realized about a famous Seth Godin quote. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Digging the new vibes? 00:47 – Shuffling the reshuffle 02:25 – Podcasting is the new blogging 07:34 – How well do you criticize yourself? 09:20 – Repurposing and expanding 12:04 – Deeper realizations 13:12 – Concluding thoughts Summary: In this thoughtful follow-up episode, David explores the unexpected evolution of his podcast format, reflecting on Seth Godin's insight that "podcasting is the new blogging." He shares how last week's more personal, introspective episode inadvertently revealed a more authentic direction for the show while continuing to navigate the challenges of success and increasing demands on his time. Key Themes & Takeaways The organic discovery of authenticity in content creation, when letting go of predetermined formats The parallel between blogging and podcasting as platforms for personal reflection and connection The importance of self-awareness in artistic development, while acknowledging our blind spots The balance between maintaining good habits and adapting to increased professional demands Format Evolution David shares a crucial realization about the podcast's direction: The previous week's more personal format emerged naturally, without intentional experimentation Every other platform in his portfolio focuses on other people, making this podcast unique as a space for personal updates The combination of music, reflection, and personal insights created an unexpectedly resonant format The power of authentic voice over structured content "I wasn't trying to experiment and find a new format for the show," David reflects. "That's not what I had in mind. And yet that seems to be where we landed." The Changing Media Landscape The episode provides valuable insights into content creation trends: Podcasting's adoption curve has taken nearly 20 years to reach mainstream consciousness The potential for being in "the midst of the podcast revolution" despite the rise of video content The value of cross-platform publishing through tools like the Blubrry PowerPress plugin, which automatically distributes content across platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeartRadio The continuing relevance of audio content in a video-first world Seth Godin's prescient observation about "podcasting being the new blogging" has proven remarkably accurate. When he made this prediction in 2014, podcasting was still considered a niche medium. His insight wasn't just about the technological shift, but about the democratization of personal broadcasting. Just as blogs allowed individuals to bypass traditional publishing gatekeepers, podcasting has enabled creators to build intimate, direct relationships with their audiences through consistent, authentic content. Action Steps for Artists Drawing from David's experiences and insights, creators can consider these practical steps: Embrace natural evolution in your content creation, allowing authentic formats to emerge organically rather than forcing predetermined structures. Develop self-awareness about your craft while remaining open to feedback and coaching – as David notes about musicianship, the ability to be self-critical without being self-defeating is crucial. Create systems that protect your core practices (meditation, exercise, artistic practice) even during busy periods. Schedule these activities first and build other commitments around them. Map your content ecosystem strategically. Consider how different platforms serve different purposes – perhaps your podcast provides personal insights while your social media showcases others. Use AI and other tools thoughtfully to enhance and deepen your content without losing authenticity. As David demonstrates with his episode summaries, technology can help extract additional value from your content. Practice regular self-reflection about what's working and what isn't in your creative practice. Consider starting a podcast with these specific steps: Begin with a clear understanding of your unique perspective and what you can offer consistently Invest in basic quality equipment – good audio is non-negotiable Plan a sustainable publishing schedule that

Every overnight success was 10 years in the making. Does that statement resonate with you? Well, it certainly does for your brave podcast host, David Andrew Wiebe. In this spontaneous and chill episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares how he’s adapting to changing demands while staying consistent in his various creative endeavors and ventures. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – It’s Friday, podcast day 01:18 – 2025: The year of abundance 02:10 – The growing resonance of Spark Infinity 03:07 – The NO of Digital NO-Mad 04:45 – The shadow work 05:59 – BUMPing into destiny 07:02 – Hitting the hard edge of hard pivots 08:19 – Rolling your eyes at Facebook groups 09:17 – Doubling down on the winning hand 10:34 – Picking up the slack of the pickup 12:57 – Addressing decision fatigue 15:02 – Breezing through the long-winded Summary: In this introspective Friday night episode, David reflects on the evolving landscape of his creative endeavors, particularly highlighting Spark Infinity's unexpected success and the natural pivot that comes when a project finally finds its resonance. While recording later than usual, he shares vulnerable insights about the challenges of maintaining multiple projects while pursuing new opportunities that show genuine promise. Key Themes & Takeaways The importance of recognizing and doubling down on projects that demonstrate true resonance with an audience, even if it means letting go of other established ventures The delicate balance between maintaining consistency and adapting to changing circumstances, especially when success creates new demands on time and energy The evolution from music industry-specific content to broader entrepreneurial and creative guidance, responding to audience feedback and market opportunities The significance of personal development and community building, particularly through platforms that might initially seem counterintuitive to traditional business models Professional Milestones David shares several significant achievements that have marked the beginning of 2025: Recently became an award-winning author, adding to his previous status as a best-selling author Experiencing unprecedented engagement with Spark Infinity, his Facebook group, and movement Working 17 hours of overtime in his full-time contract position, indicating strong professional demand Continuing collaboration with Amos Bracewell's "BUMP" program "When you experience enough things that don't have resonance and you launch something that does have resonance, the thing that has resonance sticks out so much you can't help but notice the difference," David reflects, speaking to the stark contrast between projects that truly connect versus those that don't. The Art of Strategic Pivoting The episode provides a masterclass in how creators can gracefully navigate success without abandoning their core values. David's journey from music industry specialist to broader creative mentor illustrates the organic evolution many artists experience when their work begins reaching unexpected audiences. His recent book "Digital NO-Mad" serves as a case study in audience awareness. Despite being proud of the work, David discovered that many potential readers weren't familiar with the digital nomad concept, creating an "uphill climb" for promotion. This experience reinforces the importance of meeting your audience where they are, rather than where you assume them to be. Looking Forward While careful not to make premature announcements, David hints at several strategic changes: Streamlining his product range to reduce decision fatigue for customers Potentially adjusting the podcast's format or schedule Increasing focus on Spark Infinity's growth and community-building Finding new ways to balance creative pursuits with increased professional demands Action Steps for Artists David's journey suggests several concrete steps that artists and creators can take when experiencing unexpected success: Conduct a "resonance audit" of your current projects. Track metrics beyond just revenue – look at engagement rates, emotional responses from your audience, and the energy you feel when working on each initiative. Create clear criteria for what you'll say "no" to going forward. As David notes, even projects that take minimal time still occupy valuable mental space. Develop a framework for evaluating new opportunities that align with your current direction. Build systems to maintain your artistic practice during periods of intense business growth. Block out non-negotiable time for your craft, even if it's just 30 minutes daily. David's menti

You want to change, grow, and transform. You’re not sure exactly how, you just know that there is something more to who you are. Something important to uncover. Potential to unlock. So, what’s the pathway? Throughout history, many successful people have turned to personal development to sharpen their saw and approach work and life with an iteratively optimized approach. If that is the path, the only thing left to do is to come up with a workable plan. In this episode, David Andrew Wiebe reveals his battle-tested personal development plan that has guided him through life’s ups and downs and has led him to become a best-selling author, award-winning composer, and more. Later, he is joined by co-hosts Jody and Suzanna for a group discussion. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Introduction 01:30 – Do you need a personal development plan? 02:54 – Reading 04:27 – Audios 05:27 – Coaching 07:01 – Courses 08:27 – Attending conferences 10:37 – Other worthwhile habits 12:11 – Next steps 12:55 – Group discussion Summary: In a thought-provoking Spark Infinity: Office Hours session from November 2024, David Andrew Wiebe and his co-hosts explore the multifaceted world of personal development planning, particularly emphasizing its application for creative professionals and entrepreneurs. The Philosophy Behind Effective Personal Development Understanding Growth Cycles According to Wiebe, the foundation of effective personal development lies in understanding that growth isn't always linear or constant. He emphasizes that while continuous improvement is valuable, there are natural seasons in life when formal personal development might take a backseat to active creation or contentment. "Personal development works like a mirror," Wiebe explains, "showing you all your flaws and imperfections. If you don't face this occasionally, you probably aren't growing." However, he cautions against turning personal development into a toxic pursuit of perfection, suggesting instead that it should be a tool for authentic growth and self-discovery. The Parallel Universe Theory of Growth The discussion highlights how personal development intersects with the concept of parallel universes. Wiebe suggests that identity shifts begin the moment you start imagining them, and assuming you maintain belief in your vision, manifestation becomes inevitable. This perspective challenges traditional goal-setting approaches, suggesting that solving problems might sometimes be counterproductive if you've already imagined a reality where those challenges don't exist. Recent studies in neuroplasticity support this view, showing that visualization and mental rehearsal can create similar neural pathways to actual practice. Research from the Journal of Neurophysiology indicates that mental practice alone can increase muscle strength by up to 35%. Core Development Practices: The Five Pillars 1. The Science and Art of Daily Reading Reading emerges as a foundational practice in personal development, with research suggesting its impact extends far beyond simple knowledge acquisition. Scientific studies have shown that regular reading can: Reduce cortisol levels by up to 68% during reading sessions Improve sleep quality by establishing better pre-sleep routines Decrease cognitive decline risk by up to 32% in older adults Enhance vocabulary and communication skills Strengthen analytical thinking capabilities Improve empathy and emotional intelligence Implementation Strategy The recommended approach involves dedicating at least 15 minutes daily to focused reading. While personal development literature forms the backbone of this practice, Wiebe advocates for a diverse reading diet that includes: Fiction works that stimulate imagination and creativity: Classic literature that has stood the test of time Contemporary fiction that challenges perspectives Genre fiction that sparks creativity Biographical accounts that provide real-world success templates: Entrepreneur biographies Artist memoirs Innovation histories Industry-specific materials that enhance professional knowledge: Technical manuals Industry journals Current trend analyses Advanced Reading Practices For those seeking to maximize their reading practice, Wiebe suggests: Creating a reading journal to track insights Implementing a highlighting system Developing a personal knowledge management system Sharing key learnings with peers Teaching concepts to others 2. Immersive Audio Learning The modern landscape of personal development has expanded significantly with the accessibility of audio content. The recommendation for 30 minutes of daily listening acknowledges the reality of busy schedules while maximizing learning opport

From marketing to team-building, there are many fields to navigate for the modern artist and creator. Very rarely is there a clear path, and most are faced with the A or B choice of jumping in and taking a big risk or choosing the much safer route of status quo stagnancy. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David passes the mic with fractional CMO, marketing coach, college professor, and TV host extraordinaire Peter Murphy Lewis, who helps make the complicated entrepreneurial path simpler. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Today’s guest, Peter Murphy Lewis 00:29 – What is a fractional CMO? 01:43 – Challenges Pete solves for his customers 04:17 – Interpreting data: How important is human involvement? 09:05 – How is marketing changing with the growth of AI? 13:04 – How artists can improve their marketing 24:25 – When is the right time for a solopreneur to find their first team member? 30:11 – Bass fishing 31:30 – Renaissance man 32:08 – Happiness is reality divided by expectations 33:29 – Success is in the prep work 34:47 – Books that have helped Peter 35:43 – What matters in life 39:18 – Peter’s forthcoming book 42:44 – Concluding thoughts Summary: In this wide-ranging conversation, Peter Murphy Lewis shares his expertise as a fractional CMO, discussing everything from data analysis and team building to marketing strategies for artists. With experience as a marketing coach, college professor, and TV host, Murphy Lewis offers practical insights for both established businesses and emerging creatives. Understanding the Role of a Fractional CMO A fractional CMO is far more than just a freelance marketer. Key distinctions include: Experience as a chief marketing officer for medium to large companies Comprehensive understanding of strategic planning and revenue operations Deep knowledge of the complete marketing stack Business acumen including budgeting and team management Available at a fraction of the cost of a full-time executive ($300-600k salary equivalent) Common Challenges and Solutions Murphy Lewis primarily helps CEOs of companies in the $2-15 million revenue range with: Data Analysis Making sense of overwhelming amounts of data Cleaning up "dirty" data Fixing broken attribution systems Team Scaling Hiring and developing talent Creating effective team structures Building sustainable growth systems The Evolution of Marketing in the AI Era Current Challenges Over-reliance on automation without understanding basics Misuse of customer data leading to privacy concerns Increased sophistication of competitors using data maliciously Ad blockers and other technological barriers Successful Approaches Focusing on human connection and storytelling Doubling down on personal relationships Creating targeted, niche communities Using technology to enhance rather than replace human interaction Marketing Strategies for Artists Murphy Lewis offers several key strategies for artists looking to grow their audience and business: 1. Leverage Bartering Exchange services with other professionals Find complementary skills that benefit both parties Use bartering to build relationships and network 2. Document and Repurpose Success Record testimonials after successful events Capture positive feedback in the moment Systematically repurpose positive press across multiple platforms 3. Build Strong Distribution Systems Utilize existing platforms (CD Baby, Tune Core, BookBaby) Create multiple revenue streams Maintain consistent presence across platforms 4. Develop Professional Marketing Materials Create professional pitch decks Build comprehensive press kits Maintain organized marketing assets Building Your First Team When to Hire The right time to hire comes when: Someone can perform tasks at 70-80% of your capability You need to focus on revenue-generating activities Administrative tasks are taking too much creative time Common Hiring Challenges Perfectionism Difficulty delegating Unwillingness to accept "good enough" Asking Anxiety Discomfort with making requests Fear of negotiation Uncertainty about fair compensation Best Practices for Team Building Start with interns or part-time help Be clear about expectations and voice Embrace imperfection in delegation Focus on finding A-players who thrive on challenges Action Steps for Implementation For Artists and Creatives: Create a list of services you can barter Document all positive feedback and press Develop a system for repurposing content Build a basic pitch deck for opportunities For Business Owners: Audit your current data analysis processes Identify tasks that could be delegated Create clear systems for team management Focus on finding and retaining A-players For Everyone: Start with a clear hypothes

We are wrapping up our series of the most popular podcast content from 2024 with this, David’s interview on WeMaple. We acknowledge you, the listener, for making this possible. Thank you for tuning in as the year unfolded. We look forward to an even better 2025. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Introduction 04:22 – David Andrew Wiebe on WeMaple Summary: In a candid and wide-ranging interview on the WeMaple video show, award-winning composer and entrepreneur David Andrew Wiebe opens up about the profound events that shaped his unconventional path to success. From losing his father in a motorcycle accident at age 13 while living in Japan to teaching himself music and digital media skills after a college rejection, Wiebe's journey exemplifies the power of self-direction and resilience. The conversation with host Matt Keay delves deep into topics rarely discussed in typical business interviews – exploring everything from the state of modern masculinity to the malleable nature of reality while offering practical insights on content creation, entrepreneurship, and personal development. Wiebe's story challenges conventional wisdom about education and success, demonstrating how tragedy can become a catalyst for transformation and how betting on yourself, even in the face of uncertainty, can lead to unexpected opportunities. His experience of building a multifaceted career spanning music composition, podcasting, authorship, and digital marketing provides a compelling blueprint for creative entrepreneurs navigating today's rapidly evolving digital landscape. Key Interview Highlights David Andrew Wiebe shares his remarkable journey from losing his father in Japan at age 13 to becoming an award-winning composer and prolific author Discussion spans entrepreneurship, digital media creation, masculine identity in modern society, and thought-provoking perspectives on reality and consciousness Reveals insights about betting on yourself, the power of mindset, and navigating personal transformation Early Life & Defining Moments David's story begins in Japan, where his family moved when he was five years old. Living in Takarazuka, between Kobe and Osaka, he experienced the typical challenges of cultural adaptation and language learning. However, his life took a dramatic turn at age 13 when his father was involved in a fatal motorcycle accident. After being in a coma for 10 days, his father passed away, leaving young David and his family to navigate profound loss and eventual relocation back to Canada. This early trauma would significantly influence David's development and later drive him toward personal development work to process and heal from the experience. The loss of his father during such formative years adds particular weight to his later discussions about masculinity and personal identity. Musical Journey & Educational Decisions A pivotal moment in David's musical journey came at age 17 when he watched a friend playing popular songs by Blink-182, Sum 41, and Matchbox 20 around a campfire. This inspired him to take up guitar, leading to lessons where his teacher made the remarkable observation that David had surpassed him in the first lesson despite the teacher's 13 years of experience. In 2009, David made a significant decision regarding his education. After being rejected from SAIT's New Media program due to full enrollment, rather than waiting for the next intake, he chose to teach himself the skills he needed: Video editing Podcasting Composition (for video games) New media creation This self-directed learning approach would become a defining characteristic of his career path and entrepreneurial journey. Entrepreneurial Development David's entrepreneurial journey spans over 15 years of self-employment, with his last part-time employment being in 2011 and his final casual employment in 2016. His experience includes: Content creation and podcasting (achieving over 111,000 downloads) Award-winning music composition Book authorship (9 published titles, at the time – now 11 books) Ghostwriting and content packaging services Digital marketing and consulting Perspectives on Modern Society & Personal Development The interview takes several fascinating turns into deeper territory, exploring: Modern Masculinity David offers thought-provoking observations about the conditioning of modern men through media, education, and societal structures. He argues that while getting in touch with feminine energy isn't inherently negative, there may be systematic efforts to reduce traditional masculine capabilities and strengths. Reality and Consciousness David shares intriguing perspectives on: The malleable nature of reality

In this illuminating episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, host David Andrew Wiebe sits down with photographer and digital creative Karlo Keet to explore the intersection of traditional artistry and emerging AI technologies. As the second most popular episode of 2024, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on how creatives can adapt and thrive in an evolving technological landscape while maintaining their artistic integrity. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Introduction 03:30 – Embracing the Age of AI in Creativity Summary: In this illuminating episode of Creativity, Excitement, Emotion, host David Andrew Wiebe sits down with photographer and digital creative Karlo Keet to explore the intersection of traditional artistry and emerging AI technologies. As the second most popular episode of 2024, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on how creatives can adapt and thrive in an evolving technological landscape while maintaining their artistic integrity. The Evolution of a Creative Career Keet's journey from teenage photographer to professional began with a simple point-and-shoot camera and darkroom experience Transitioned through various creative phases, including 3D artwork and landscape photography Currently runs Catstar Images, focusing on portrait photography and personal branding Maintains multiple creative ventures, including web design and digital marketing services AI Integration in Creative Work Takes a pragmatic approach to AI implementation, using it as a complementary tool rather than a replacement Utilizes AI for: Initial logo design concepts and inspiration Copywriting assistance through ChatGPT Website development efficiency Creative ideation and workflow optimization The Future of Creative Industries Keet and Wiebe discuss the projected landscape for 2025, noting several key trends: Decreasing investment in AI startups, potentially leading to consolidation in the space Continued evolution of AI tools, but at a more measured pace Emergence of new roles and opportunities, such as prompt engineering Emphasis on human creativity and interpretation remaining crucial Marketing in the Digital Age The conversation highlights the growing importance of digital marketing for creatives: Personal branding becoming increasingly crucial for artists Need for multi-channel marketing approaches Value of professional photography in building online presence Integration of traditional and AI-powered marketing strategies Practical Applications For Photographers Embrace AI tools for initial concept development Maintain focus on human elements and artistic interpretation Consider diversifying services to include personal branding Look for opportunities to submit work to contests and exhibitions For Digital Creators Use AI as a brainstorming and efficiency tool Focus on developing unique creative processes Maintain quality control over AI-generated content Build a balanced workflow combining AI and human creativity Action Steps for Creatives Assess Your Toolkit Evaluate current AI tools in your field Identify areas where AI could enhance efficiency Research emerging technologies relevant to your craft Develop Your Brand Create a professional portfolio Establish presence on relevant platforms Consider submitting work to awards and exhibitions Document your creative process Build Your Network Join creative communities Attend industry events Collaborate with other artists Share knowledge and experiences Optimize Your Workflow Experiment with AI tools for routine tasks Document successful integration methods Maintain quality control processes Regular review and adjustment of methods Industry Perspective While concerns about AI replacing creative jobs persist, the conversation suggests a more nuanced reality. As Keet notes, "Rather than being against it, I choose it to be a tool for my work." This aligns with recent industry studies showing that creatives who embrace AI tools while maintaining their unique artistic vision tend to see increased productivity and creative output. Looking Forward The discussion emphasizes that while AI will continue to evolve, the human element in creative work remains irreplaceable. The future belongs to artists who can effectively blend traditional skills with new technologies, maintaining their artistic integrity while leveraging technological advantages. The episode concludes with an optimistic outlook on the creative industry's future, suggesting that adaptation and openness to new tools, combined with strong foundational skills, will be key to success in the evolving creative landscape. This conversation serves as a valuable resource for creatives navigating the complex relationship between

Originally aired as Episode 3 and ranked as the third most popular episode of 2024, this introspective discussion explores how intentional daily scheduling can transform your creative career. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Introduction 03:01 – How to Script Your Ideal Day Summary: David shares his journey of designing an intentional daily schedule, inspired by marketing legend Dan Kennedy's time management principles. While his perspective has evolved since initially recording this episode during summer 2023, the core message remains powerful: deliberately scripting your ideal day is crucial to achieving your creative and professional goals. Key Takeaways from the Episode The Ideal Day Framework (Original Version) Creative Work (2.5 hours) 30 minutes dedicated to songwriting 60 minutes for recording/production 60 minutes focused on book writing Content & Marketing (6.5 hours) 2 hours for content creation 4 hours for marketing and distribution 30 minutes for research and market analysis Strategic Growth (30 minutes) Dream 100 strategy implementation Targeted outreach to industry connections Building strategic partnerships Personal Development Components 30-minute daily workout routine 30 minutes dedicated reading time Emphasis on consistency over intensity Evolution and Current Perspective David notes that his approach has shifted significantly since recording, influenced by concepts from "10X Is Easier Than 2X." His current ideal day framework focuses on the following: Maximum of three priority tasks per day Four focused workdays per week Built-in buffer days for flexibility Dedicated recovery days Notable Insights & Analysis The AI-Human Balance in Content Creation While acknowledging AI's growing role in content creation, David emphasizes the irreplaceable human element in creating authentic, valuable content. This reflects a broader industry trend where successful creators are learning to leverage AI for efficiency while maintaining human creativity and expertise as their core differentiator. Finding the sweet spot between technological assistance and genuine artistic expression is key. The Music Industry Marketing Model David draws a fascinating parallel between music industry promotion and general business marketing. The "touring" approach he describes – maximizing the value of existing content rather than constantly creating new material – aligns with modern content marketing best practices. This strategy particularly resonates in the digital age, where content repurposing across multiple platforms (what David calls "breaking down into smaller chunks") can dramatically increase ROI on creative efforts. The Mathematics of Consistency Rather than viewing luck as a random force, David presents it as a mathematical inevitability that emerges from consistent action. This approach echoes Malcolm Gladwell's "10,000 hours" concept but applies it specifically to creative entrepreneurship. By breaking down large goals into daily 30 – 60 minute blocks, David demonstrates how significant achievements become more attainable through systematic effort. Evolution of Time Management Philosophy From Intensity to Sustainability David's journey from a 14-hour workday mindset to a more focused, efficient approach reflects a growing understanding in creative industries about sustainable success. This evolution mirrors broader conversations in entrepreneurial circles about work-life integration versus traditional "hustle culture." The Buffer Day Innovation The concept of buffer days represents a sophisticated understanding of creative work's cyclical nature. These aren't merely rest days but strategic pause points that allow for: Processing and integrating new ideas Handling unexpected opportunities or challenges Preventing creative depletion Maintaining long-term productivity without burnout Industry Context and Application Creative professionals often struggle with the tension between artistic freedom and business structure. David's framework provides a practical middle ground, acknowledging both the need for creative spontaneity and business discipline. This balance is particularly relevant in today's creator economy, where artists must also be entrepreneurs. Practical Application Tips Start with a Clean Slate: Imagine your ideal day without current obligations Focus on Sustainability: Design a schedule that prevents burnout Build in Recovery: Include buffer days and complete off days Track Results: Demand accountability from your marketing efforts Remain Flexible: Be willing to evolve your schedule as circumstances change The Dan Kennedy Connection While not explicitly

Our journey through 2024’s most popular Creative Excitement Emotion episodes continues with episode 61 – How to Make an Impact on Your Audience in 2024 – with Amos Bracewell. Tune in to hear Amos share his Facebook community building success story. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Introductory thoughts 01:42 – How to Make an Impact on Your Audience Summary: In this compelling conversation between host David Andrew Wiebe and entrepreneur Amos Bracewell, we dive deep into the transformative journey of building engaged online communities and the ripple effects of taking bold entrepreneurial action. The discussion weaves together Bracewell's personal story of building a Facebook community from scratch with the broader lessons he learned about leadership, community building, and business growth. Listen to episodes 57 and 61 for full context. The Coffee Shop Epiphany Bracewell's journey began in January 2023 at a coffee shop in Abbotsford, British Columbia, where he first conceived the idea for his Facebook group. Despite initial uncertainties and no clear monetization plan, he committed to giving the project ten months. This leap of faith led to remarkable results: within 15 months, his group ENTV Today grew to over 9,300 members, and he conducted more than 450 interviews. The Mother Principle: A Revolutionary Approach to Community Leadership What makes Bracewell's approach distinctive is his philosophy of "serving from the bottom up." Rather than positioning himself as the central authority, he focuses on creating spaces where others can shine. This approach mirrors what he calls the "mother principle" – nurturing and supporting growth within the community rather than dominating it. This method proved so successful that by month four, he generated $5,000 in revenue, which grew to $30,000 by month five. From Uncertainty to $30,000/Month: The Power of Persistence The success of his community-building approach led Bracewell to develop the Catapult program, where he teaches others to replicate his methods. His students have achieved remarkable results, with some groups growing by 200-300 members per week – significantly faster than the typical organic growth rate of 50-100 members weekly for most Facebook groups. The most profound lesson from Bracewell's experience is perhaps the power of taking action despite uncertainty. As he shares in the conversation, "I didn't even know what I'd be selling. And I knew that I didn't know." This willingness to move forward without having all the answers proved crucial to his success. Breaking the Social Media Selling Trap Instead of trying to sell directly on social media, Bracewell advocates for building a dedicated space where you can consistently provide value to members. He likens this to serving appetizers before offering the main course – when people consistently enjoy your free content, they're more likely to invest in your paid offerings. This approach typically converts 1-3% of group members into clients, creating a sustainable pipeline of warm leads. The Talk Show Host Mindset The most successful community leaders act more like talk show hosts than lecturers. They excel at drawing out others' expertise and creating opportunities for members to showcase their knowledge and talents. While Bracewell's own group serves as an umbrella community for empowerment and networking, he emphasizes that this approach can work for any specific niche - from dog training to visual arts, from yoga to business coaching - as long as the leader is genuinely passionate about serving that community. Beyond Numbers: Creating an Ecosystem of Opportunity What sets this approach apart is its focus on sustainable, relationship-based growth rather than quick fixes or aggressive marketing tactics. Community leaders using this method don't just build an audience; they create an ecosystem where members actively contribute to the group's value, reducing the burden on the leader to constantly produce content. This approach can compress "five years of business growth into three to six months." This acceleration comes not just from the size of the community but from the quality of relationships built within it. Essential Qualities of a Community Builder For aspiring community builders, Bracewell emphasizes three essential qualities: A genuine desire to gather others The ability to hold space for others to shine A commitment to helping others succeed Artist's Takeaway Guide: Building Your Creative Community For artists and creatives of all disciplines – whether you're a musician, visual artist, dancer, photographer, videographer, or other creat

We are looking back on the most popular Creativity Excitement Emotion episodes of 2024, and the fifth most popular episode of the year was 3 Things That Aren’t Going to Grow Your Music Career in 2024. Tune in to hear why David feels detours are inevitable on the path to music career success, and get a refresher on popular music career strategies that could be holding you back. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Introductory notes 03:07 – 3 Things That Aren’t Going to Grow Your Music Career in 2024 Summary: In an industry flooded with advice, tools, and "must-do" strategies, distinguishing between genuine opportunities and distractions has become increasingly challenging. This eye-opening episode cuts through the noise to expose three commonly promoted strategies that might lead musicians astray. The Sales Funnel Fallacy While sales funnels have become a popular marketing tool, their effectiveness for musicians requires careful examination. The episode highlights several critical insights: Building effective sales funnels requires significant time investment and multiple iterations Most musicians abandon the process after early attempts fail to deliver results Even marketing professionals with years of experience require multiple attempts to create effective funnels AI tools, while helpful, aren't a silver bullet for funnel creation Key quote: "Even with help from AI, I'm highly skeptical that building a sales funnel is going to save your career." The Production Perfection Trap The endless pursuit of better production quality might be a misallocation of resources. The episode suggests a more practical approach: Focus on audience feedback rather than theoretical production improvements Essential production skills worth developing: Basic recording capabilities Self-editing proficiency Basic mixing knowledge The importance of getting honest feedback from your audience about production quality Understanding when "good enough" is actually good enough The Social Media Treadmill Perhaps the most timely warning concerns the exhausting pursuit of social media trends. The episode breaks down why this approach often fails: The proliferation of platforms makes comprehensive coverage impossible Constant algorithm changes render "hacks" temporary at best Success stories often hide the reality of consistent, long-term effort Most viral successes come after hundreds of attempts Key quote: "You must build something that you own and control or you don't have a stake in the market." What Actually Works: Building Long-Term Assets Instead of chasing trending strategies, the episode advocates for focusing on owned assets: Website Development Creating a central hub for your music and content Building a platform you control completely Email List Building Developing direct communication channels with fans Creating a marketing asset that isn't subject to algorithm changes Physical Address Collection Expanding beyond digital-only connections Creating opportunities for meaningful fan engagement through physical merchandise and materials The Reality Check The episode serves as a crucial reality check for musicians who might be spreading themselves too thin across multiple strategic initiatives. The core message emphasizes that while these tools and platforms can be useful, they shouldn't be the primary focus of a developing music career. Action Steps for Musicians Audit your current time allocation across different activities Evaluate the real returns on your marketing efforts Focus on building owned assets before chasing trending strategies Develop essential production skills without getting lost in endless upgrades Create sustainable, long-term marketing strategies rather than chasing quick wins This episode ultimately advocates for a more measured, sustainable approach to career building in the music industry. Rather than chasing every new trend or tool, success comes from building solid foundations and owned assets while maintaining a clear focus on what truly moves the needle for your career.

It’s time to look back on the top six most downloaded Creativity Excitement Emotion episodes of 2024, and our journey begins here – 2 Ways to Make It to The Top, which was the second episode of the year. Tune in to hear David share why he’s highlighting the most popular episodes from 2024, and get a crucial refresher on the two paths to success available to you. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Introductory notes 09:05 – 2 Ways to Make It to The Top Summary: In the competitive landscape of the music industry, conventional wisdom often pushes artists to become entrepreneurial leaders. However, this enlightening episode challenges this one-size-fits-all approach, revealing that there are actually two distinct paths to success: becoming a driven leader or strategically aligning yourself with one. The Anatomy of a Driven Leader Driven leaders in the music industry possess distinct characteristics that set them apart: Rapid Vision-to-Reality Execution They transform ideas into tangible results with remarkable speed Can complete significant projects (like full albums) within six months Excel at energy management and focused concentration Notable quote: "They're able to take a vision and move it to reality rapidly. It's almost like they have an idea and snap, six months later, there it is." Forward-Thinking Mindset Consistently anticipate future needs and challenges Create data-driven strategies using charts and statistics Think weeks or months ahead while managing present tasks Demonstrate strong emotional intelligence in team management Commitment to Continuous Learning Maintain consistent reading habits (even if just two pages per day) Utilize diverse learning methods (audiobooks, podcasts, courses) Actively seek self-education opportunities Transform educational content into accessible formats for on-the-go learning The Alternative Path: Hitching Your Wagon to a Star Not everyone is naturally inclined to be a driven leader, and that's perfectly okay. The music industry has countless examples of successful artists who excelled in supporting roles: John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin: Despite being less famous than bandmates like Robert Plant or Jimmy Page, his contributions were crucial to the band's success Donald "Duck" Dunn: A legendary session bassist who played on countless hits without being the frontman Steve Jordan: A drummer who built an incredible career supporting artists like John Mayer and Keith Richards The key is recognizing your strengths and finding opportunities to support driven leaders who are already on their way to success. This requires: Self-awareness and honest self-assessment Loyalty and dedication to supporting others' visions Excellence in your supporting role The ability to set aside ego for collective success Breaking Down Success Myths The episode challenges several common misconceptions about success: The Leadership Myth: Research shows that not everyone is naturally suited for leadership roles, and forcing this path can lead to burnout and frustration. According to a Gallup study, only about 10% of people possess natural leadership talent. The Above-Average Illusion: The episode references the well-documented psychological phenomenon called "illusory superiority" or the "above-average effect." Studies show that: 93% of American drivers rate themselves as above average 88% of people consider themselves above average in job performance This cognitive bias can prevent people from choosing the most suitable path to success Action Steps for Both Paths For Natural Leaders: Develop systems for quick project completion Create forward-looking strategies Establish daily reading habits Build teams that complement your strengths For Support Players: Identify driven leaders in your genre or area Develop excellence in your craft Build a reputation for reliability and loyalty Network within your chosen leader's circle The music industry's history is filled with examples of both paths leading to success. Whether you're a natural leader or someone who thrives in a supporting role, understanding and embracing your authentic path is crucial for long-term success and satisfaction in the music business. Remember: "Go and find the driven leaders and hitch your wagon to them." This timeless advice has launched countless careers and continues to be a viable path to success in today's music industry.

Are you having trouble connecting with the world around you? Are you having drab and boring conversations? Do you wish you could connect more effortlessly with the people around you? Communication is one of the most crucial skills you can learn, and sad to say, formal education doesn’t do much to support you on that journey. In this installment of Spark Infinity Office Hours, David shares time-tested methods for having better conversations. Later, Jody joins David to unpack the conversation further. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – How this topic was chosen 01:14 – What’s the goal of this presentation? 01:29 – Set an intention for the conversation 02:41 – Introduce yourself 03:47 – Learn the FORM 06:43 – Do your homework 07:57 – Tune into WIIFM 08:46 – Ask more questions (and listen) 09:49 – Find common ground 11:02 – Learn something about everything 12:23 – Become a journalist 13:19 – Ask for what you want 15:37 – Be spontaneous and/or funny 16:15 – Additional resources 17:26 – Next steps 17:50 – Group discussion Transcript: David: We are talking about 10 ways to better conversation, which already sounds ridiculous, bad wording and all. This is something I just found out the other day. So YouTube literally tells you what it thinks your channel is about, what your audience is searching for, and the types of content it expects you to be creating. So it suggested 10 ways to better conversation. It's one of many topics it brought to the table for my channel. So yeah, the phrasing is awkward, but I like the topic, so I am running with it. And I do reject some of its suggestions because they're just kind of way out there. However, Spark Infinity is all about social media growth. So my thought process is if we can cater to the algorithm and give it what it's expecting, maybe we can improve our results. And we might as well do that and test it for ourselves to see if that's the case. Obviously in Spark Infinity, just for anybody new that might be coming along to watch this, we're focused on social media growth. So we are mostly going to be looking at how to interact with others online today. But much of what we'll cover can be brought out into the real world as well. What's the goal? What are we aiming for here? In an earlier presentation on what's the point of social media, we determined that establishing connections is one of the reasons to be using social media in the first place. So let's use these tips. Let's get better at having conversations that matter. Number one is set an intention. Many conversations suffer for lack of intention. If you don't know why you're calling someone in the first place, you're basically just hoping that something will magically happen. And yes, sometimes it does. I've had spontaneous conversations like that. But you will get better results if you know why you're contacting someone in the first place. So ask yourself, why am I contacting them? What am I going to talk to them about? What do I want to get out of the conversation? I don't want to put too fine a point on it. We don't want to overthink this. It's not about analysis paralysis, but take a moment, take a breath and think about these questions before contacting anyone. Examples. You might be contacting someone to congratulate them on their new book, to ask for a shout out, to assess the suitability or their suitability as a client. That would be like a pitching or quote calling example, to request help with a project, to invite them to an event. Those are just a few examples. So key lesson here is always set an intention, not an agenda for the conversation you're about to have. Agendas are for meetings. Intentions are for conversations. And this will help cut down on meandering conversations that don't go anywhere and increase your chances of having a conversation with desired results. Number two, introduce yourself. OK, so it's my observation that many millennials have found an odd, non sequitur way of communicating with each other. There's no hello. Oftentimes there's no my name is the classic Tai Lopez ad. Come to comes to mind before he even introduces himself or you even know what he's talking about. He just says something about knowledge while showing off a Lamborghini in the background. Well, thanks, Tai. But this non sequitur way of communicating is annoying and really doesn't work in reality. Generation Z or Generation Z is being raised on smart devices and is often clueless about interacting with the world around them. I am not criticizing Gen Z. I appreciate Gen Z, but we do need to pass some things on to them so that they can be better

Commit, do the work, and everything will work out. We’ve all heard, and possibly even clung to, some iteration of this platitude. But is it true? In this installment of Spark Infinity Office Hours, David reflects on the last 90 days of posting to Instagram, and the results he’s seen from his efforts. Later, David and Jody further unpack what they’ve been learning and discovering in growing a social media presence. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Introduction 00:55 – How it all began 01:32 – Content rollout 02:19 – How paid exposure was used 02:49 – Analyzing the stats 06:40 – David’s next steps 07:12 – Lessons and discoveries 10:25 – Pockets of genius 13:57 – Next steps 14:30 – Group discussion Transcript: David: Welcome to Spark Infinity Office Hours. It is October 17th, 2024. Today, I don't have a presentation for you so much as a 90-day review, and I am joined today by Jody. How are you doing, bud? Jody: Good. David: Thanks for being here today. Jody: 90 days. That's a lot of days. Staying consistent. David: Staying consistent. Yeah. That whole 90 day… like we started with Spark 90 and transitioned to Spark Infinity. So that's part of the significance there. I still came up with as catchy of a title as I could, which is can 90 posts change everything? This is how it all began. I started posting again to Instagram daily on July 18th this year. I originally created my account on December 7th, 2012, just for reference, anyone who's wondering. And when I started Spark Infinity a little over 90 days ago, I had fewer than 1000 followers. To be honest, it was probably something like 850. And I got a cold start, meaning I hadn't posted anything to Instagram since February. There are different reasons for that. Clean slate happened in February. But the months following that were also, I was in a transition, figuring out what I was going to do for work and passion in life. The content rollout looked out, looked something like this. I talked a little bit about this and I think the initial or maybe even the first ever Spark Infinity office hours. But the first push had nine posts. Then the second had eight. The third had 10 posts. Fourth had 19 posts. And then I finally found my rhythm with the fifth push, preparing 53 posts and then scheduling them out. So initially I really had no more than about a week's worth of posts, which meant I could spend one day creating stuff, scheduling it out, not have to do something for a week. Eventually I got to the point where I could, I was much further out, 20 days, 30 days. And so in total, I published 99 posts, but Instagram counts your stories as well. So it turns out I published 210 posts, including stories. Paid exposure, paid promotion and shout outs were utilized during this process. But to be specific, I'm only relying on one source of paid promo and only one shout out was purchased so far. I did purchase another one today. Paid exposure ended up generating the most followers and engagement of anything I did. So compared to posting and sharing out my Instagram account on Spark Infinity calls or in the podcast and things like that, where I saw the most followers and engagement was with paid promotion. Probably the biggest thing you'll notice is that I'm up to 6,346 followers starting at under 850 and certainly under a thousand that may be noteworthy. The other thing that might stick out is the 4,000 accounts reached in the last 30 days. But the really funny thing I noticed was I checked this on desktop, but on mobile, those stats look a little different. It looks more like 12,000 accounts reached in the last 30 days. So I don't know what the discrepancy is. I have yet to figure out why that happens, but just know that these stats look a little bit different in my mobile dashboard. I will attempt to narrate through. I don't have any huge revelatory discoveries in these stats yet, but I think the more I stare at them, the more stuff I'm going to find. So in the last 90 days, there's been a reach of 9,735 accounts reached. So almost 10,000 people have at least seen the posts, whether they did anything or not with them is a whole other matter. By content type, hosts had the most engagement and then reels and then stories. But this is really not a big surprise given that I created more posts than anything else. Fewer reels, fewer videos and some stories. You know, by and large, I reached more non-followers than followers, which is kind of nice. Engagement number, 8,834 accounts engaged. Vast majority non-followers. It's incredible. So I engaged 23 followers. Shows how much my old friends care. And non-followers, 8,811. Again, by content interaction, posts

Okay, so you’ve decided that social media growth is for you. You’re committed to the process, and you’ve started putting effort into it. But should you be doing social media at all? It sounds like a dreadful existential question, but knowing why you shouldn’t be putting any time into it might just strengthen all the reasons why you decided to engage in the first place. So, let’s delve into “7 reasons you shouldn’t ‘do’ social media.” Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Today’s topic 00:41 – Let’s avoid “purgatory infinity” 01:50 – It’s one more thing you have to get good at 05:06 – Social media is a horrible hobby 06:30 – Social media is addicting 08:57 – An open invitation to the comparison game 10:59 – Social media may not be the solution 15:13 – Social media sets false expectations 17:44 – There isn’t a guaranteed effort-to-reward ratio 19:28 – Closing thoughts Transcript: Welcome to Spark Infinity Office Hours. This is David Andrew Wiebe and it is October 10th, 2024. Today's presentation is seven reasons you shouldn't do social media. Do is in quotes for a reason. I'm not going to explain that reason, but if you pay careful attention to this presentation to the very end, I think you'll figure out why I'm not here to burst anyone's bubble, the reason Spark Infinity and this team and this group exists because we have that common goal of wanting to grow on social media. So today I'm not going to be discussing reasons to quit. That's not what this is about, but we need to remember that if you're going to say yes to something, you're saying no to other things as well. And being mindful of that choice and that trade off is really important in life. I also think it's a really good intellectual exercise to explore arguments against whatever your chosen path is, because it facilitates critical thinking and it helps you refine your beliefs. Ultimately, I want everyone involved, including myself, the participants or the leaders in Spark Infinity, as well as the viewers to be in Spark Infinity mode, not Spark Purgatory mode or Purgatory Infinity, that sounds even worse. That's not what we want. We want to see and get results and to put effort into things that do get results. So let's move into those reasons. Number one, it's one more thing you have to get good at. If you're already good at several things or a couple of things, or maybe just one thing, whether that's guitar or taking photos or programming, whatever it might be, if you're already good at one thing or a couple of things or three things, remember, if you want to get results with social media, that's one more thing you've got to add to the plate and actually get good at to get results. Author and blogger Seth Godin was getting started as a blogger in the early days of the internet. If he had chosen to, he could have had first mover advantage on Twitter and he was considering it. He decided against it. He saw it as one more thing he would have to get good at. Trying to get good at more things he felt would have diluted his focus. He opted to focus on his writing, thereby increasing his chances of becoming the best in writing, or at least in his category. The term best might be subjective here, but I think Seth Godin's influence speaks for himself. For a long time, if you put the term Seth into Google, he was the first result that showed up. May not be anymore, but he's definitely in the top 10 results still. And he's probably one of the people that has influenced more thought leaders on the internet than anyone else. Ironically, it's interesting. I don't know why no one seems to want to point this out, but Seth is on Twitter slash X. It's just that he's not active on it. His daily blog posts automatically publish to you and appear on his X feed. And in his case, that is really more than sufficient because he has a following of over 761,000 on X. I don't think he's going to. But if he ever did change his mind about being popular or doing well on X, he would have a pretty good foundation to stand on. Is that going to work for every blogger? I don't think so. I don't think merely having your posts re-shared to X, unless you've built your authority and credibility and your prominence in other ways, is automatically going to boost your views or help you grow a following on X. But for Seth, it worked just fine. If he had focused on X, I don't think he would have just 761,000 followers either. He'd probably have many more. Key lesson, there's actually two here. First is if you want to become the best at anything and want to have any hope of beco

Life is going to unfold exactly as it’s going to unfold, regardless of the force you attempt to exert over it. Isn’t it…? What if reality wasn’t so “set in stone?” What if your imagined realities were actually real? What if there was a way to transition to a path other than the one you’re already on? The Spark Infinity crew gathered again for David’s “Parallel Universes of the Artistpreneur,” a presentation dedicated to surfing between parallel universes. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” The Renegade Musician: David’s magnum opus on building an independent music career is here! Highlights: 00:17 – Welcome to the show 01:33 – Introduction to Parallel Universes of the Artistpreneur 02:08 – Why this topic? 02:58 – “Paying your dues” 03:37 – Life is a stream 04:52 – How to become a reality surfer 06:59 – Your imagination is your reality 08:05 – Time is just a concept 08:49 – Why you shouldn’t attempt to manifest multiple realities simultaneously 09:16 – Change your perspective/shift your attention 11:09 – What does it feel like to make an identity shift? 11:59 – Next steps 12:23 – Group discussion Transcript: David: All right, welcome to Spark Infinity. It is October 3rd, 2024, and we have Jody on the call. How you doing, Jody? Jody: Good. David: We also have Susanna on the call. She's brand new to Spark Infinity. Why don't you introduce yourself, Susanna? Suzanna: Thanks, Dave. So hello, everyone. I'm Suzanna, and I'm just a fellow artist as well. Yeah, art and design, in terms of graphic arts, I do acrylic. I also do digital art and also have my own business as well. And I’m also employed. So that's a little bit about me, and I love unique stuff and technology and yeah, there's so many things that I like. You can go on and on and on. So that's a little bit about me. David: Great. What are you looking to accomplish on social media? Suzanna: I look to accomplish actually creating, you know, like events for people and have them being connected with art and also with technology and create course content. And yeah, and to be better with regards to how I present myself. So looking forward to creating these videos with you and the journey that we are going to go on. David: It's going to be a lot of fun. And I would say that is a worthy and noble pursuit, Susanna. So, thank you for sharing. Suzanna: Yeah. Thank you. Parallel Universes of the Artistpreneur David: Today's presentation is the Parallel Universes of the Artistpreneur. I actually had AI generate this image. I'm kind of impressed. “Artist surfing between highways awkwardly with the guitar around his shoulders.” This presentation is loosely based on the book by Frederick Dodson, Parallel Universes of Self. It's not a complete copy. It's a very big book. I use different terms. I have different discoveries than he does. It's not for everyone, this book. But if you want to explore this concept in greater detail, then I recommend the read. If this resonates with you, and if this is interesting to you, that is where to go. Why Does This Topic Matter? Okay, so why are we going to talk about Parallel Universes of the Artistpreneur? I've really noticed that a lot of artistpreneurs take dramatically different actions based on how they're feeling in the moment, based on their confidence, based on their belief level. So, if they're not feeling great that day, they might be less inclined to post to social media, for an example, or they might be less inclined to reach out to a potential contact. But if they’ve got confidence and belief in what they're doing, and then they're in the momentum of it, they tend to make more contacts, they tend to post more to social media, they send more email campaigns. They try more things, because they're more excited, and their belief level is higher. If we can get to the point of believing that everything is working out for us, we would never fear taking risks or dwelling on temporary setbacks, or things that appear to be setbacks. And remembering that all things are temporary. Common Assumptions and How They Hold You Back A few prevalent assumptions, especially in music industry, I'm sure Jody has noticed this too: “Success is hard,” “it's going to take a long time,” “it's going to take 10 years,” “I've got to pay my dues,” or some variation thereof, has been repeated. We've been told the stories of The Beatles and Metallica and Billy Talent and countless others for whom success required 10 years of consistent, diligent, vigilant effort through great travail. Some variation thereof I'm sure every artist can relate to. Good news is, there are other paths, and today we're going to be talking about what that path might be – the secret path. The Streams of Life – Choose

Why bother with social media? Is it even worth doing? And if you are going to do it anyway, wouldn’t you rather get results than not? In this installation of Spark Infinity Office Hours, David illuminates how social media can bring real business value to an individual, creator, entrepreneur, or business. Later, Jody and Karlo join the discussion to share what they’re getting from David’s presentation. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Why you shouldn’t get caught up in vanity metrics 01:06 – The importance of building connections 01:50 – The cruciality of growing your subscriber list 02:53 – Sales are highly valuable and desirable 03:39 – If you do this right, opportunities will come to you 04:34 – Mindset landmines you must circumvent and avoid 08:05 – Group discussion Transcript: David: Alright, welcome to Spark Infinity Office Hours. It is September 26th, 2024. Today's topic is what's the point of social media? Why do we do it? Why Vanity Metrics Don’t Matter If you are a creative or business oriented individual, you're not doing social media for the vanity metrics. That's things like likes and shares and comments and even follows. They might make you feel good. They might stroke your ego. They might offer validation. No judgment here. It feels good to feel good, but those don't have any inherent business value. There are two examples of people I know who are killing it without a major following. You can look them up yourself, James Schramko being one, Gary Spivey being another. They may not have massive followings, but in the background, they've got multimillion dollar businesses. Okay, so what has business value on social media? Connections – Your Net Worth is in Your Network Number one is connections. If you really stop to think about it, most opportunities you've gotten to this point, including jobs, gigs, partnerships, any other opportunity you can think of, it's not because of your talent, skills, or experience, which can be helpful, but it's because of who you know. Your talents, skills, experience are valuable, but they're secondary to relationship. I can think back on gigs that I got paid $800 for as a guest guitarist. It's not because of my skills. There were other people that could have filled those shoes, it's because of who I knew. And social media is a great way to build new connections. We're not covering how to do that here. That could be a whole can of worms unto itself, but it is valuable. And out of everything we'll be talking about today, connections is probably the easiest thing to build. That's of value. Subscribers – an Asset You Own Number two is subscribers. And in this case, we're not talking about YouTube subscribers, although that can be valuable because if you reach certain metrics, you can monetize your channel. I'm pretty sure TikTok works the same way. But we're talking about building your list, your email subscribers, preferably, but it could also be a text or SMS text message list that you're building. Unfortunately, you can lose followers for a variety of reasons. It could be because people don't like you, which has happened. It could be because you're shadow banned or demonetized or your account's been deleted. You don't get to keep the followers you have on social media unless you turn them into subscribers. Your number one goal on social media, hopefully, is to turn people into subscribers. And then you can grow the relationship with those subscribers to the point where customers are sharing their mailing addresses with you. This is kind of advanced, but if you can send them stuff, direct mail, thank you notes, birthday cards, maybe even the occasional book, you're going to build a better relationship with that customer. They're going to keep coming back and stay with you. Sales – Cashflow Keeps the Creativity Alive Number three, this could be the hardest thing to get on social media, but of course it is valuable when it happens. That is sales. I dug up some stats on this that are really interesting. A good conversion rate on social media is two to five percent. So, for every 100 people that engage your content and take it seriously, two to five people should buy. But that has to be 100 really, truly engaged people. And the monthly average conversion rate on Instagram is 19.7%, which outperforms Facebook and TikTok combined. For organic content creation and generating sales organically, Instagram pretty much outperforms all the others. But this comes with the disclaimer or caveat that your mileage will vary based on your following, your reach, number of impressions you get, your industry and other factors. Opportunity – They Come to You on Autopilot I identified one more thing that c

With massively exaggerated rumors of Elon Musk running Twitter (X) into the ground, Meta founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg couldn’t resist the allure of launching a new platform to rival and quickly eclipse the “waning” X. So far, things haven’t exactly gone that way, but because Threads was integrated with Instagram, it initially got more traction than even ChatGPT. A little over a year has passed, and the dust has settled. Threads is alive and well (and so is X, which still boasts more features than Threads). So, should you consider adding Threads to your marketing mix if you haven't already? Join David and Karlo as they explore Meta’s daring venture into microblogging. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Introduction 01:58 – What is Threads? 02:51 – Why was Threads created? 05:53 – Should you be excited about Threads? 06:47 – Key stats and fun facts 07:57 – Is it worth adding Threads to your marketing mix? 09:08 – Group discussion Transcript: David: Welcome to Spark Infinity Office Hours. Today's date is September 19th, 2024. I'm David Andrew Wiebe, and I am joined today by one of our members, Karlo. How are you doing, Karlo? Karlo: I'm doing well, thank you. How are you doing? David: I'm always good, man. Karlo: Great. David: What have you been up to lately? Anything cool with social media? Karlo: Promoting my Tarot Power Reading Bundle on my Reiki and Tarot page on Facebook and also on my website and Instagram afterward. David: Oh, awesome. Why don't you do a quick briefing for us so our audience can learn more about what it is that you're offering in that bundle? Karlo: Well, let's see. It is an hour-and-a-half session consisting of a Tarot session at the beginning, and then the other half of the session is a Reiki session to clear any blockages and rebalance the aura. And right now it's at a 30% discount from $170 to $119. Book before the end of September 22nd and get a free half-hour meditation/relaxation music track. David: That sounds incredible. Wow. Karlo: Yeah. David: Okay. If you've got a custom link or anything you want to share, maybe bring that next time and we can plug that too. Karlo: They can go to KarloKeet.com and there's a really big green button that says book now. David: KarloKeet.com. Awesome. Karlo: Yep. David: Okay. Everyone go and check that out for sure. I'm working on the Digital NO-Mad plus six bonuses bundle. That's almost ready to go, but I can't announce that just yet. I can talk about it, but that'll be available real soon. And just to give a sneak preview, you're getting seven resources for 10 bucks, which could potentially save you thousands of dollars in all kinds of travel catastrophes. So, grab it if you're creating your freedom lifestyle, that would be my advice. What is Threads? Today's topic is an introduction to Threads. And the first thing we need to look at is “What is this thing?” I always find it valuable to understand a social network before diving in and trying to do something with it, knowing where it's been, but perhaps most importantly, knowing where it's now going can help you align with that stream and get better results with that social network. Threads is an Instagram social media app where you can participate in public conversations. You can post threads, reply to others, repost threads, and follow other personalities. This is how Instagram or Wikipedia likes to term it, but as far as I'm concerned, it's a Twitter copy or it's a direct competitor to X, but we'll get to that. Threads was launched on July 5th, 2023, so it's been out a little over a year. Why was Threads Created? Why was Threads created? Instagram created Threads to bring the same social media experience – in other words, their visual social media experience or the community experience – over to a text-based ecosystem like Twitter or X. Based on the reading that I did last night, it seems like Mark Zuckerberg saw an opportunity when Elon Musk bought Twitter/and seemed to be running the platform into the ground. In reality, Elon seems to be doing a pretty good job with it, but at the time everyone thought “This is going to be a disaster, so let's capitalize on this opportunity.” That was my impression of what Mark Zuckerberg had planned with Threads. Let's face it though, like the very idea of “Threads” comes directly from Twitter or X, where users would plan long-form messages to be distributed using multiple tweets or replies because of the character limit. In other words, people can almost post full blog posts on Twitter if they use enough tweets and they keep replying to the last tweet. And that's what a thread is. That's where it comes from. So, Threads is a direct competitor to Twi

Summary: Dr. Joseph Murphy is an expert on the topic of the subconscious mind. In this podcast episode, I explore what several valuable ideas I took away from reading his book, Believe in Yourself. Believe in Yourself is a shorter volume containing great wisdom. Dr. Joseph Murphy, one of the foremost experts on the New Thought movement and accessing your subconscious mind succinctly explains how to achieve spiritual health and external success. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I look at one of Murphy's great works. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:14 – Believe in Yourself vs. The Power of Your Subconscious Mind 00:40 – Feeling is the fountainhead of power 01:31 – Imagination controls the conceptive realm 02:37 – Your concept of God determines your attitude towards life 03:47 – If you are in rapport with your subconscious mind, you unlock your genius zone 04:22 – What your subconscious mind accepts is reality in the outer world 05:24 – You are the master of the circumstances you find yourself in 06:26 – Concluding thoughts Transcription: Compared to The Power of Your Subconscious Mind, Believe in Yourself by Joseph Murphy is one of his shorter works. But every sentence in Joseph Murphy's book contains valuable insights into spirituality and personal success. I have read this book from start to finish twice, and each time I've gotten something new from it. Readers should come away with fresh insights on every read as well. There is no way for me to summarize the entirety of the wisdom contained within, but I did want to share with you what I learned from this book. 1. Feeling Is The Fountainhead Of Power (or Universal Power), According to Joseph Murphy When personal development authors talk about goal-setting and visualization, they often add the phrase, “Add emotion to it!” I think Murphy is essentially saying the same thing here. He's pointing out that feelings and emotions have power, and that we can learn to channel them into achieving and obtaining our desires. Mastering this ability is an important thing! If you're setting goals that don't motivate you, you'll find it challenging to add feeling to them. But if you become obsessed with bringing about a result, you'll naturally take actions and move in the direction of your wishes and longings. Fear will reduce with each action you take, taking you closer to your dream. You must become aware of what your true desires are. The only way to make that happen is to build rapport with your subconscious mind (also see point #4 on this list). 2. Imagination Controls The Whole Conceptive Realm Life in the digital age is frantic. Few people take time to think, reflect, and ask questions. “Visualization? I have no time for that!” But you must make time for it, because most people don't. They aren't thinking about the desired result, the end goal, what their hearts yearn for. Many have forgotten the power of imagining. This is one of the reasons they struggle to create the desired conditions of life, whether money, body, love, or otherwise. Disney came to be because it was first conceived in the mind of Walt Disney. There are endless examples of technological breakthroughs, attractions, movies, books, and other works that would not exist if they weren't first conceived in someone's mind. If you want to control the conceptive realm, start imagining once again. If you don't know where to start, daydream. Remember what it was like to be a child sitting in a classroom thinking about what else you wanted to be doing, or what you were going to do when you got home. 3. Your Concept Of God Determines Your Attitude Towards Life Maveen Kaura and I spent an entire episode of Using Your Power discussing this concept. As of this writing, the episode has yet to be released, but it will be out soon. “But I don't believe in God,” you might say. The surprising conclusion I came to was that whether you're an agnostic, atheist or Christian, you believe in something. And that something is your god, whether it's belief in self, belief in aliens, or belief in an autonomous divine being. What I'm saying is that this statement is impossible to refute. You could replace the word “God” with the word “you”, and it becomes “Your concept of you determines your attitude towards life.” You could replace the word “God” with “aliens”, and it becomes “Your concept of aliens determines your attitude towards life.” Basically, Murphy shows that your beliefs affect your attitude. So, if you want to change your attitude, you need to examine what you believe in, regardless of what it is. 4. A Genius Is A Man In Rapport With His Subconscious Mind What this means is that if you are well-acquainted with your subconscious mind and its inherent power, you are a genius. Knowing how to unlock its power, and accessing God (which could be equated with building a rapport with your subconscious

Most of us have been brought up to be modest, but… Does that help us in our careers, enterprises, and relationships? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares an important truth he’s realized about self-promotion and self-aggrandizement. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – What’s new in David’s world? 01:51 – Save yourself from years and even decades of heartache, frustration, and disappointment Transcript: Hey, it's David. I hope you've been enjoying these little catch-ups at the beginning of each episode. I don't have to do this. If it's unnecessary padding and you don't want to listen, then I'm happy to cut them out. You're welcome to let me know at any point. I just thought it might be a fun way to catch up on what's going on. And honestly, there is quite a bit going on in my world. I put together a new track that I submitted to a YouTube channel, and I'm pretty sure you're going to be hearing more about this, even in the Spark Infinity stuff that I've been up to lately. And if you aren't subscribed to my YouTube channel, why is that? It's called David Andrew Wiebe: Creative Expansion, and each week we cover social media growth. I've been growing by leaps and bounds since the beginning. So, I don't know. I guess maybe you just don't care about your growth if you're not subscribed. But if I were you, I would head on over there and subscribe right away. Anyway, I've submitted this track to a YouTube channel, and they've said they're going to play it on a live stream, which is very exciting. It's not a huge channel, but it's a step or two ahead of where I am right now. And honestly, they have good engagement. So, this is something that could turn into a heck of a lot more. And I'm really excited for it. Today's episode is a real quick, real short one, but I hope you enjoy it. It is a valuable insight. This is something, weirdly enough, that came to me while I was doing my laundry. But either way, some valuable life experience coming through here. You Must Become a Ruthless Self-Promoter For those of you with ears to hear, I'm going to share something that's going to save you years, decades, and possibly even a lifetime of heartache and frustration. And that is this: As you're growing up, you're probably going to be told to hold back, be modest. Don't talk about yourself. Let others do the talking for you. Let others brag for you. A version of that, which existed in my youthhood was people saw the potential I had as a guitar player. My style, my approach, it was kind of different than what was out there in church, especially in conservative church contexts. The whole thing about guitar playing in church is you aren’t supposed be flashy, you shouldn't be soloing, you shouldn't be showing off. You should just play little plinky chords in the background that barely anyone can hear or notice. You're somehow taking away from the “spirit of worship” if you're not holding back and playing simply. And it's all wrong. It's all complete B.S. If you want people to notice you, if you want that promotion, if you want to get that date, if you want to grow your business and build the right connections to make that happen, you must talk about yourself. Share what you've accomplished and the value you bring to the table. You don't have to brag, although it will probably come across as bragging much of the time because that simply cannot be helped. Be a self-promoter, be a self-aggrandizer. You must be. It may be uncomfortable for you, just like it was for me. You may not like talking about yourself and you may have trouble breaking free from all this programming that has come from society and culture and media and religion and parents and coaching and pastors and on and on and so on and so forth. Nobody knows what you do. Nobody knows what value you bring to the table. You must be outspoken. You must be loud. And as a challenge to myself, I'm letting you know right now that I'm an award-winning composer, best-selling author, and professional podcaster. Who are you? What value do you bring to the table?

Do you ever feel stuck with social media growth? Do you feel like you’re running behind the times? Or do you struggle to get it all done? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David reveals a new approach to social media growth that can be readily applied to any independent career or entrepreneurial endeavor. Let’s dive in! Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Opening thoughts 04:55 – Today’s presentation 05:05 – Why fine-tuning and micro-adjustments? 09:33 – Benefits of this approach 27:29 – Potential pitfalls to this approach 31:38 – Adjusting to data 33:46 – Conversation with an aspiring entrepreneur 37:24 – Attending the sold-out Living Colour and Extreme concert 39:30 – Adjusting your attitude 40:17 – The results so far 42:11 – Closing thoughts Summary: New times call for new approaches! In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares what he has termed a “fine-tuning and micro-adjustments” approach. His methodology will help boost your productivity while improving outcomes. Introduction David briefly discusses AI and how many people fear the rapid changes and their potential consequences. David intends to create the Contrarian’s Guide to AI to help people understand why it may not be all it’s been cracked up to be. Why Fine-tuning and Micro-adjustments? David shares the story of how his invoicing system wasn’t working for him anymore, mainly because it wasn’t letting him accept payments in USD. (Free solutions can have their limitations…) Since there was a client who wanted to pay him pronto, David quickly replaced his invoicing system one night and got paid for the outstanding balance almost immediately. David began to see how a simple adjustment reduced friction and improved efficiency. He started to see how this approach could apply to social media, entrepreneurship, and beyond. Benefits of Fine-tuning and Micro-adjusting Reduces the stress of having to make huge changes now. Adapting to present realities is a never-ending battle for independents and entrepreneurs. But if you make it a point to fine-tune as you go instead of waiting for the inevitable, it reduces the overwhelm of being forced to make major changes later. Makes a big difference long term. Constant course correction ensures that you’re moving smoothly toward your goals instead of veering off track and taking long detours you may not recover from. Creates greater awareness of opportunity. An important aspect of fine-tuning and micro-adjusting is input. To be able to make the changes you need to make today, you must be informed about the changes that are coming. When you stay abreast of changes in the world, you also become aware of more opportunities. Helps you avoid the “insanity cycle.” If you are constantly fine-tuning and micro-adjusting, then naturally you aren’t stuck doing things the same way expecting different results. You can adjust to real-time information and circumstances. Big companies can’t be as agile as the independent or entrepreneur because there’s often an approval process for everything, and the simple act of swapping out one tool for another can result in pushback from employees, the need for additional training, the creation of new procedures, and more. Fine-tuning and micro-adjusting is an agile approach, allowing for gradual change that reduces overwhelm. Implementation of better solutions leads to better results. Is that social media scheduler slowing you down? Is it lacking the features you need to be fully unleashed in your creativity? Then swap it out for another tool that gives you what you need. This will lead to better results! Gain knowledge and skills. If you’re stuck, take a course! Not all input will prove useful, but the more aware you are of your surroundings, the more likely you’ll be to pinpoint and implement solutions that solve your problems. Accomplish things you might not otherwise get around to. A slight change can make a world of difference. Because you’ll constantly be looking for efficiency hacks, you may leave yourself with more time to get things done that you previously had trouble getting around to. Allows for more creative fusion and alchemy. Connect the dots between seemingly different subjects. Utilize your skills and experiences in new ways. Innovate your creative expression. Adapt faster. Adaptation doesn’t have to be slow. As you get into the practice of fine-tuning your work, you’ll become acclimatized to adapting at a speed most would find rare. Save time. Maybe today’s the day you learn keyboard shortcuts for your DAW. Or, maybe you find a virtual assistant to do some research for you while you’re updating your website. Whatever it might be, opportunities to save time will present themselves as you’re making those 0.1-degree turns toward your desired outcome! Take an entrepreneurial approac

It’s time to get caught up! After a prolonged absence, David finally returns to share some important news about the podcast… along with some juicy details about what he’s been up to on social media. Creativity Excitement Emotion is back! Celebrate good times, come on! 🎉 Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Getting caught up with David 05:50 – How we got here 11:17 – What Spark Infinity is about 14:42 – What David has done so far 21:43 – Mistakes and lessons 22:49 – What David has accomplished so far 25:21 – Closing thoughts Summary: We hope you’re ready for some amazing content on social media growth, because that’s what we have to look forward to in future episodes of Creativity Excitement Emotion! Getting Caught Up David acknowledges that listeners may have been expecting a new Creativity Excitement Emotion episode as early as September, right around the time the website (you’re looking at it!) got a bit of an overhaul. The stars didn’t quite align for there to be a new episode on September 1, but a new episode for the first week of October isn’t so bad, right? Right?! David got a bit of feedback on the show so far, which seemed to indicate that it's been a bit whiney…? 😅 David’s intention was to practice sharing his stories, but admittedly he was kind of going through a rough time when many of the ideas were originally captured. What do you think? Send us a note of feedback. Before diving into the meat of the episode, David shares that while there will still be an array of content, including solo episodes and interviews, he intends to share the Spark Infinity Office Hours on the show as well (including this episode). Hopefully that’s cool with you, but you’ve got our contact information… feel free to chime in with your two cents. Background and Inspiration First, a note about how we got here! The Spark Infinity team evolved from the Clean Slate event, which was created and hosted by David, Jody, and Karlo in February Inspired by a Peng Joon presentation on creating 120 pieces of content (three month’s worth) in a few days, the team decided to create the Spark 120 challenge The team transitioned from Spark 120 to Spark 90, making the goal of the challenge to create 90 videos in four weeks David was successful in capturing over 90 videos, though he couldn’t edit them in time for the deadline The team took a break during the summer, when the project was renamed Spark Infinity to reflect the notion that the content monster is insatiable and will always want more to content to consume! Core Values and Principles Growth: Focused on increasing engagement, following, subscribers, and ultimately sales Doing what works: Emphasizing strategies and tactics that yield results Moving fast: Speed of action over perfection, embracing some messiness (especially since social media tends to be a very messy place!) The Spark Infinity Journey Creating a dedicated folder for Spark Infinity: With a focus on sustainability and consistency, David began creating, and loading up the folder, with simple content. Content creation and publishing: First Push: Set the foundation with simple posts and captions Second, Third, and Fourth Push: Gradually iterating and refining content, incorporating videos as well as call to actions Fifth Push: Incorporating AI in caption assistance, experimentation with promotion services Results and Reflection Engagement and growth: Notable increase in followers and engagement Learning from mistakes: Accepting imperfections and adjusting Future directions: Focus on engagement growth and ultimately, sales Conclusion Share your feedback and suggestions for future content! What would you like to see? Group discussions, status updates, interviews, social media trends, something else? Let us know. Would you like to join the Spark Infinity team? Get in touch!

Who is David Andrew Wiebe? Where did he grow up? What pivotal life events shaped his views on life? What does he believe about the Universe? This episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion features a conversation between WeMaple’s Matt Keay and David. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Digital NO-Mad: Exposing the Lies of the Freedom Lifestyle and Grass is Greener Syndrome. David’s new book on designing the life you love through your passion is coming. Pre-order TODAY. Highlights: 00:17 – David Andrew Wiebe on WeMaple 00:56 – What is The Indie YYC? 02:03 – Clean Slate 06:30 – What David’s guitar teacher told him 08:59 – How David bet on himself 12:55 – What role does formal education play in a creative’s life? 16:38 – How does more views or more subscribers affect our perceptions of a creator? 19:30 – Growing up in Japan and the moment that changed everything 23:23 – How David has applied personal development to his career 26:44 – David’s (controversial) thoughts on masculinity and men in culture 34:36 – Life expectancy – are we really living longer? 38:35 – Is David a flat earther? 41:05 – Reality is malleable 43:54 – How can you be positive while encountering negative circumstances? 46:56 – The hotbox incident 47:33 – When David got the cops called on him 48:18 – Three roommates and the sale of David’s home 49:08 – Three months of WTF 50:48 – David’s advice on writing and publishing books 52:18 – Closing thoughts Summary: Award-winning composer, best-selling author, and professional podcaster David Andrew Wiebe was recently a guest on WeMaple, hosted by Business On Camera’s Matt Keay. The conversation touches on everything from events and music to conspiracy theories and bizarre life events. What is The Indie YYC? Noticing David’s T-shirt, Matt asks what The Indie YYC is. David shares that The Indie YYC community was created by him and Frederick Tamagi. Pre-pandemic, the community focused on three unique live events, including The New Beat (a fusion of poetry and live music), Storytellers (bringing together songwriters, poets, and authors), and Avant Guardians (featuring avant-garde and alternative musicians). During the pandemic, as well as after, the community focused on growing mostly through user submitted content on Facebook. Clean Slate On February 16, 2024, David hosted a live music and multimedia event in Victoria, BC called Clean Slate. Matt asks how the event came about, and David shares that the idea came to him while reading Frederick Dodson’s Parallel Universes of Self. David initially envisioned an event where he could bring people together to celebrate the launch of new music, a new book, new comedic video content, and more. The initial phases of planning went swimmingly. Then, things started going awry in September 2023. David could not secure the featured artist he’d hoped to, and despite booking local artists for the event, it failed to gain local support. Most people in attendance were there because David had invited them. Matt asks David whether he sees the experience as a stepping stone or opportunity to try his hand at another event. David shares that while he sees the possibility of hosting low-cost, low-key events in the immediate future, he can’t see himself attempting something like Clean Slate again unless there’s a rabid demand for it. What David’s Guitar Teacher Told Him There is something David’s guitar teacher told him that has stuck with him until present day. Matt asks David what that was. David shares that his guitar teacher told him that he’d surpassed him within one lesson. I’ve been playing guitar for 13 years. Imagine what you’ll be able to accomplish in 13 years. Matt asks David what kind of impact that statement had on him. David shares that it gave him the motivation he needed to keep practicing. From his teacher, he also learned not to dismiss people who offer him praise. If people say good things about you, you don’t counter them, you don’t cut them off, you don’t argue with them. You simply accept it. Betting on New Media Matt asks if there was a connection between what David learned from his guitar teacher and the chances he took in 2009. David answers that music was the commonality. Inspired by video game composer Tommy Tallarico, he was planning to take a new media course at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), but the class was full, and he couldn’t get in. The new media course was to cover composing, podcasting, and video editing, so instead of taking the course, David decided to learn how to do it all himself. He already had a home studio facility, so now it was just a matter of being willing to experiment, research, and ask questions to find his way. David recalls starting a YouTube channel about movies and video games. He would often incorporate original compositions into his videos, hitting two birds with one stone (composing and video). He also began podcasting in 2009, with the eponymous David Andrew Wiebe Podcast. The podcasts kind o

Now that we’ve had the opportunity to see just what AI is capable of, many of us are starting to wonder about our futures, our work, our financial lives, and more. So, how concerned should we be? What is the right attitude to have toward AI? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David passes the mic with Karlo Keet, who shares his creative passions, business pursuits, spiritual practices, and why he’s embracing AI in creativity. Sponsors: Digital NO-Mad: Exposing the Lies of the Freedom Lifestyle and Grass is Greener Syndrome. David’s new book on designing the life you love through your passion is coming. Pre-order TODAY. Highlights: 00:17 – Today’s guest, Karlo Keet 00:37 – How did Karlo get into photography? 03:15 – Karlo’s involvement with graphic and web design 04:45 – Aurora conspiracies? 07:22 – Digital marketing for artists, creatives, and creators 08:47 – How has Karlo’s work changed with the emergence of Artificial Intelligence? 11:31 – In the next 10 years, AI will overtake humanity in logical processing 19:46 – How Karlo got into tarot reading, Reiki, and all things spiritual 23:49 – Karlo and David’s comedic collaborations 26:37 – Karlo’s book and course recommendations 28:47 – What Karlo is looking to accomplish next 30:10 – Closing thoughts Summary: Coming soon.

It’s not necessarily a fun thing to think about, but 2024 could be your final year. If your life were to end this year, would you be happy with everything you’ve accomplished? Or would you be leaving something on the table? This episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion is a must for anyone looking to make a difference in the world. Join David and Amos Bracewell to learn about the Catapult opportunity, the challenges Amos overcame, and the difference this program can make for you. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Catapult: If you’re ready to build a community of rabid fans who will happily hire you and buy everything you offer, this program is for you! Use the code “David Andrew Wiebe” to let Amos know I sent you his way, and he’ll give you a 10% DISCOUNT! Offer expires April 30, 2024. Contact Amos to set up your discovery call before then. Highlights: 00:17 – Some of the challenges Amos experienced while building his Facebook group 06:00 – Is building a Facebook group a “numbers game?” 09:02 – How to claim your 10% discount 09:53 – Closing thoughts Summary: What if you could achieve five years of business growth in just three to six months? Would you be willing to do anything it takes to get there? Or would you pan the opportunity if it didn’t fit into your idea of growth? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, Amos recaps the Catapult opportunity, shares the trajectory of his journey, what he’s been able to help his students accomplish, the value of living a purposed-based life, and more. What Challenges Did Amos Experience on the Way to Building His Facebook Group? Amos recounts how one day he was sitting at Good Kid Coffee in Abbotsford, BC, calling up David to share his new business idea with him. Amos didn’t have a coach. He didn’t have anyone guiding him. He had no idea what the results of his efforts were going to be. But he got started anyway, believing it was his purpose to create a movement with his Facebook group. 15 and a half months later, he hit over 10,000 members. Amos was excited about getting started with this project, but he was also scared. At the time, he had no idea that he would end up teaching others how to build their Facebook groups. There were times when he wanted to give up. He had no idea how he was going to monetize his group. On day 80 of building his group, the right idea finally showed up. In month four, Amos managed to earn $4,000 USD, and in month five, he exceeded $30,000 USD in revenue. Despite the challenges and difficulties faced, Amos knew deep down that if he waited any longer, 2023 would end up being another disappointing year. So, he leaped and stuck with the process. Today, his Catapult cohorts are the beneficiaries of the mistakes he’s made and the lessons he’s learned. Half of his students are doing well. The other half are doing amazingly. While Amos provides the structure and framework for his students to succeed, his students also bring amazing ideas to the table that make it work even better. Some of his students are now doing in two months what took Amos nine months to accomplish. Amos asks – is now the time to make a change in your life? Are you tired of the way you’ve been living? What do you want to accomplish in 2024, and if you have another year ahead of you, 2025? If there is a vision or a purpose your heart can’t shake, now might be the time to jump in. It may not be easy, and it certainly won’t be free, but if you’re ready to go all-in on your dream, Catapult is right for you. A Numbers Game? David acknowledges that many numbers have been discussed to this point in considering Catapult. So, he asks for Amos’ opinion on whether growing a community is just a numbers game. Amos answers by sharing that while some grow faster than others, the Catapult program is ultimately geared toward those who are looking to make an impact. But the opportunity to earn an independent income is real. Amos shares that one of his students recently picked up two clients, not because he was trying to, but because his community was looking him up and learning about what he does. The average group in Amos’ Catapult program grows by 100 members per week. His top-performing students, meanwhile, have been growing their groups by as many as 420 members per week. As Amos mentioned in a previous interview, 1 to 3% of new members end up converting to clients. Amos’ cohorts can also expect to land joint ventures, opportunities to speak, global connections, and other amazing perks. As the creator of your niche group, you will become a leader among leaders. Not everyone likes to serve or would necessarily want your job in that regard. In the short term, it means taking the attention off yourself and focusing on others, but the long term ends up paying off for you because people like to gather where they see a lot of momentum. Within three to six months, says Amos, your life can transform. It took Amos longer than his students, though he still managed to attract 5,200 me

What are your goals for social media in 2024? Are you thinking about phasing it out of your life? Or would you like to experience explosive growth as never before? Isn’t it time you got the kind of growth you truly deserve? If you’re ready for a change, listen carefully to this special message from David Andrew Wiebe. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Catapult: If you’re ready to build a community of rabid fans who will happily hire you and buy everything you have to offer, this program is for you! Use the code “Creativity Excitement Emotion” to let Amos know I sent you his way, and he’ll give you a 10% DISCOUNT! Highlights: 00:17 – A special message from David Andrew Wiebe Transcript: Imagine this: You’ve just set up a brand-new Facebook group. You show up for a couple of hours per day to have conversations with your tribe. Your people. You do it consistently for a month or two, and before you know it… BOOM! Your group is growing CRAZY. Now, you might be rolling your eyes right about now, and I get it. 🙄 First, you’re thinking to yourself, “Well, that sounds like A LOT of work.” Second, you’re thinking to yourself, “I have no idea how to grow a Facebook group, and I honestly don’t care that much about Facebook.” Third, you’re probably thinking, “What’s that going to do for me and my career or business?” You might even be thinking… “I don’t want to become a social media guru. I just want to focus on my art!” I know EXACTLY how you feel, and I’ve been there. So, let’s rephrase the question: What if, with just a couple of hours of effort per day, you could grow your Facebook group by 150 to 200 engaged members per week? And what if 1 to 3% of those people were eager to listen to your music, hire you for a gig, buy your merch, or collaborate with you? (That’s anywhere from 1.5 to six high-quality customers or clients per week for those who don’t do math.) And on top of that, what if you got a lot of other sweet perks on top – free swag, free books, free coaching sessions, homes to stay at in a variety of locations, opportunities to play across the world, and more? Would THAT be worth your time? And what if, on top of that, you didn’t have to do it all yourself? What if you had the support, coaching, and guidance you needed to be able to do the right things to grow your Facebook group consistently? This is exactly what my friend, Amos Bracewell is offering. And he and his student groups aren’t just growing by 150 to 200 members per week… Some are growing by as much as 400, 500, or even 600 members per week. How does a whopping 18 high-quality clients per week sound to you? Do you think you might be able to make it worthwhile? Do you think your musical, artistic, or creative career could benefit from that type of growth? Fast growth is not for everyone, and I get that… But if you’re the kind of person that LOVES to serve and make other people shine… You will LOVE this, and I haven’t seen anything else like it. But time is of the essence, because: Amos is only offering a 10% discount for those who sign up before April 30. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. There will be NO extension. So, yeah, there isn’t much time… Even if you’re just thinking about it and you’re not quite sure whether it’s for you yet… You can book a discovery call with Amos to talk it over. So, when you’re ready… >> Book your discovery call with Amos and let him know that I sent him your way for your 10% discount

When it comes to social media growth, we’re all hoping for consistent, reliable growth. Yet, most if not all creators struggle to get new followers each week. It could be because of their content. It could be because they’re nobodies. There are reasons too numerous to mention. But if you’re willing to approach things in a new way, you could experience unprecedented growth. The kind of growth that helps you build a sustainable income from your passion in a year or possibly even in a few months. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares a special message. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Catapult: If you’re ready to build a community of rabid fans who will happily hire you and buy everything you have to offer, this program is for you! Use the code “Creativity Excitement Emotion” to let Amos know I sent you his way, and he’ll give you a 10% DISCOUNT! Highlights: 00:17 – A special message from David Andrew Wiebe Transcript: From 0 to 5,200 members… in a year?! So, I’m not sure if you knew this but… Most effective Facebook groups only grow at a pace of 50 to 100 members per week. Again, that’s the most effective ones. Now, that’s nothing to scoff at, but it’s not what you would call… MEGA growth either. I know that if you don’t already have a Facebook group (or don’t even have Facebook in your crosshairs – because, after all, it’s so old man), you’re probably wondering whether it’s even worth your time. Well, stick with me here, because I think you’ll be amazed at what my friend, Amos Bracewell, has been able to do. His strategy has been helping him and his students grow their groups by 400, 500, and even 600 members per week! Even better, Amos says that 1 to 3% of people joining your group consistently become your clients. If your group is growing by 600 members per week, that means you’re converting anywhere from six to 18 clients per week! Now don’t get caught up in the terminology here… I know some of you aren’t looking for “clients.” You want streams or customers. You want gigs and exposure. You want to have an impact on your fans. You want to sell your eBook. I get it. I have very good news for you… Amos’ method for building Facebook communities doesn’t rely on you monetizing your group through clients… You don’t even need a product! Honestly, you don’t even need to be thinking about monetization! People will read, listen, watch, or buy WHATEVER you have because they will see you as a leader in your niche. But that’s not all (sorry for the cliché here). Amos and his clients have landed themselves all kinds of great opportunities, and I have witnessed it firsthand: A couch or bed to crash on Free products Free coaching Free plane tickets High-profile collaborations Joint ventures Opportunities to speak across the world And more... small stuff and BIG stuff! If you did this… Could you land yourself some great gigs? Sync and licensing opportunities? A record contract? Look, I’m not giving you any guarantees here. But the bottom line is, you won’t know unless you try. And while it would be great if there was all the time in the world to make up your mind… Amos is only giving us until the end of April to get a 10% discount on his Catapult program. Maybe it’s right for you, maybe it’s not. But if you’re the kind of person who loves to support and help others… If you love the idea of leaving an impact and a legacy… And you’re at least entertaining the idea of earning a good income from your passion… I haven’t seen anything else like it. So, don’t delay… >> Get the Catapult program and mention “Creativity Excitement Emotion” to get your 10% discount

How’s the social media game going for you? Are you winning? Let’s face the facts. Most people working their butts off aren’t going to win any medals any time soon… Are you done trying to figure it out all for yourself? If so, tune into this special episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Catapult: If you’re ready to build a community of rabid fans who will happily hire you and buy everything you have to offer, this program is for you! Use the code “Creativity Excitement Emotion” to let Amos know I sent you his way, and he’ll give you a 10% DISCOUNT! Highlights: 00:17 – A special message from David Andrew Wiebe Transcript: Have you been trying and failing to crack the code on social media? So, does any part of this sound familiar to you? Some expert online tells you “Hey man, all you’ve got to do is A, B, C and you’re going to be a social media rockstar.” But you go out there and test their tactic in the real world for a month… And it doesn’t do anything? So, you start to feel frustrated, angry, and eventually, defeated. Come on, we’ve all been there. We’ve all been promised the world when it comes to social media. But in practice, it feels as though getting any kind of attention, let alone sustaining it, is a Herculean uphill climb to oblivion. And it is just so frustrating when you’re trying to put your best foot forward. It takes SO MUCH effort to pump out the content required to get attention… Yet most of it doesn’t do anything for you! I know something about you… I bet you didn’t get into social media hoping to become a digital marketer. But you’ve effectively been forced into a position where you’ve got to try and figure everything out for yourself… Scouring the web for disconnected information that’s only available in fragmented pieces. As if you were moving slowly down a path one inch at a time, as opposed to one stride. And hoping that somehow, tomorrow, you go viral. I mean, the rent was due yesterday man, come on. Well, some of my smartest mentors say you can’t deposit likes, shares, and comments at the bank, and they are right… Engagement falls under what clever people call “vanity metrics,” and I’m sorry to be the one to burst your bubble, but they don’t mean a thing (if they ain’t got that swing). But if you thought it was all for naught, think again. Because there is a way to crack the code on social media. My friend, Amos Bracewell, recently figured it out and has started teaching others how to do what he did. He supports his students at every leg of the journey… And when you hear what it is and how it works, you’ll be BLOWN AWAY. It’s so simple and yet so authentic and genuine. You’ll wish you thought of it first. If you haven’t watched my recent interview with Amos, that’s your homework for now… Come on, you know you’ve got 20 minutes to spare, especially if those 20 minutes change your life. So, don’t delay any longer, because as with anything worthwhile, there is an expiration date on this unique offer… >> Watch the video now

It has gotten harder than ever to grow your career or business organically. Dropping your desperate messages onto social media is like a loud fart at a bad party, noticed but annoying. Are you ready to cut through the stinky cloud of frustration and take a different approach to growth? Would you like to see how YOU can build an audience that will adore you and delight in your content? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David engages in a conversation with longtime friend, collaborator, and entrepreneur Amos Bracewell, who shares his new, amazing program to help you grow your audience and business organically. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Catapult: If you’re ready to build a community of rabid fans who will happily hire you and buy everything you have to offer, this program is for you! Use the code “Creativity Excitement Emotion” to let Amos know I sent you his way, and he’ll give you a 10% DISCOUNT! Highlights: 00:17 – A delicious meal in Pemberton 01:15 – Amos’ new program 04:23 – What have Amos’ students been able to accomplish? 09:36 – Amos’ next goal and the “secret sauce” to building a Facebook group 12:26 – Can the Catapult program work for any niche? 15:25 – Are there any other monetization opportunities? 17:33 – Are there different tiers to the Catapult program? 18:32 – Reach, Relationship, and Riches 21:41 – What makes Catapult the right opportunity? 23:26 – Closing thoughts Summary: Digital marketing is an ever-changing landscape, and it has gotten harder than ever to attract, engage, and retain an audience on content alone. This has forced many artists and entrepreneurs to turn to advertising as the solution. The only problem is… Advertising has risen in cost, it’s more competitive than ever, and without the help of an expert, creating effective ads can be a crapshoot. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David and Amos discuss the solution. A Delicious Hamburger David and Amos briefly bond over their love of food. Amos recently had an incredible burger and fries combo in Pemberton, BC, just north of Whistler, and he says he would recommend the place to anyone. Amos’ New Program David shares that for as long as he’s known him, Amos has been great at building communities – especially Facebook groups. Amos recently turned his knack for growing Facebook groups into a program called Catapult. Amos began building his Facebook group, ENTV Today, in January 2023. In one year, he grew the group from 0 to 5,200 members. By month 11, he’d started to clue in that his group was growing faster than most others out there. He suggests that growing your Facebook group by 50 to 100 members per week is a good pace. But he noticed that his group was growing by 400, 500, and even 600 members per week, completely organically! That’s when he decided that he should begin showing others how it is that he was able to accomplish what he accomplished. One of the keys to creating ongoing engagement, says Amos, is bringing people into your house. If all you’re doing is blasting your message into the void of social media, it’s going to be difficult to get noticed and create a connection with your audience. But if you bring them into your Facebook group, you’re better positioned to interact and connect with your audience continually. This also enhances income opportunities. His first Catapult student started building their Facebook group on February 19. Most of his students are growing by 200 to 300 members per week. Amos has found that roughly 1 to 3% of your group members will become your clients. That means if you have 100 members joining per week, you can expect to land one to three new clients per week. Since his students are growing at 200 to 300 new members weekly, they are landing two to six clients per week. If you have four to 24 clients coming in per week, your sales and marketing challenges should be solved, would you agree? What Other Results Have Amos’ Students Achieved? Amos has grown ENTV Today to over 9,300 members in a little over a year. Meanwhile, his students have only been a part of his program for one to two months, and already, some of them have 1,000 members, 1,500 members, 2,000 members, and even 2,500 members. All students are growing by an average of 200 members per week, with 1 to 3% becoming clients. The goal of Catapult, shares Amos, is to help people attain five years of business growth in three to six months. No wonder some of his students have been getting questions about how they’re growing so fast. Creating a relationship with your leads and customers is paramount to fast growth, and a niche-based Facebook group is going to outclass random and sporadic posting to social media. Well, let’s face it – it’s going to outclass well-planned, organized strategies too. After the growth phase, explains Amos, comes the monetization phase. Because your audience has had the opportunity to feed on your “appetizers” for a while, when you roll out your “entrée,” people a

Would you like to spend more of your time doing what you love to do? Would you like to be able to pick and choose the projects you want to work on? Are you thinking about becoming a digital nomad? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David interviews Evan Price, who shares the steps he took to create his freedom lifestyle. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Returning guest, Evan Price 00:31 – How do you package your creative skills to create a viable business? 03:08 – Streamlining you and your customer’s focus 09:26 – The value of being unfocused for a time 10:19 – Improving your product vs. improving your marketing 13:48 – Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich 15:11 – How do you identify your ideal customer? 17:40 – Evan’s best tips for building a team 20:24 – Content creation and giving away the keys to the kingdom 24:04 – Building trust with people 26:15 – The importance of networking 29:12 – What’s the right time to scale your business? 33:23 – How did Evan decide to take the leap of faith? 38:59 – What is it like to live nomadically? 45:39 – How much money do you need to live a freedom lifestyle? 51:12 – Closing thoughts Summary: The very idea of trying to create a freedom lifestyle can sometimes appear an uphill battle. You’ve got to get your finances in order. You’ll probably need a passport. On top of that, you’ve got to plan the logistics of where you’ll be going and when, where to stay, whether to bring your car with you and more. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David and Evan break down and simplify the process of becoming a digital nomad. Bundle Up Your Expertise and Sell it Evan emphasizes the value of the DLB (Do Less Better) offer model. Nowadays, many businesses are a little bloated – they offer dozens if not hundreds of products and services, and this scatters the focus of the business owner as well as the prospects and customers who might otherwise be interested in buying. Evan suggests that you should find something you can do that no one else can. The more specific, the better. This allows you to create what Evan calls a “luxury” offer, something that can be sold for thousands of dollars rather than pennies. Evan says this is how he streamlined his business. David offers that minimizing and optimizing seems to be the direction things are going in now. As opposed to having dozens of websites and products, marketers are creating central portals and leading prospects on different journeys depending on their interests. David also shares an example from his life, stating that when he had one or two books, his customers knew what to buy and were happy. But as his catalog increased, his customers became paralyzed and bought fewer books. Which explains why he’s only promoting his latest book on his website. Spreading Yourself Thin Evan shares that it’s easy to spread yourself thin. When you’re young, and you’re not sure what you want to focus on, you feel like you could take on the world and try your hand at dozens if not hundreds of different things. At the time, Evan was learning how to use Facebook ads, managing acts, booking tours, and more. But he noticed that none of the things he was working on were reaching the tipping point of success. If you keep on that path, says Evan, you will eventually reach a point of burnout. So, he stopped doing what he was doing, made an assessment of his strengths and weaknesses, and bundled up his expertise to streamline his business. David admits to having too many things to fulfill in recent years, including Members Only Audios, which he quickly realized was akin to running two podcasts at the same time. He would often think to himself, “I’m a superhero, and I can do it!” But he would either end up disappointing himself or his prospects and customers by trying to do too much. Evan adds that this principle applies to social media and content channels as well. You can easily take on too much, becoming a Jack or Jill of all trades, never mastering any. There are more than enough people on any of the main channels for you to be able to build an audience. There is no need to take the Gary Vee approach of “being everywhere,” says Evan. David summarizes that one content channel and one offer can be enough to scale to seven figures, at least according to marketer Russell Brunson. But… You Should Also Try Everything Despite everything just covered on focus, if you’re just getting started, says Evan, spreading yourself out and trying a bunch of different things might be the right approach. You need to figure out what you’re good at and what you enjoy, and if you have no idea, there is wisdom in experimentation. Making Your Products Better vs. Making Your Marketing Better David shares some of the challenges he’s had in getting the word out about his books. Evan responds that the

Do you struggle with confrontation? How does it make you feel? Does it hold you back from expressing yourself? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares about the challenges he’s experienced in confronting others. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Labels 01:17 – Sensitive-intuitive 02:16 – Avoiding confrontation 06:11 – You need to speak up Transcript: I'm not a very confrontational person and I have a feeling it's one of those things that has held me back in my life. My friend Maveen Kaura always said, “Don't give yourself labels.” You might've heard a little bit of that kind of conversation on Using Your Power. And I agree with him. I never labeled myself as something permanent. We’re not all fixed. We're all changing. The only reason a label would stick is if you’re telling the story over and over. Even as I say that I think I'm kind of realizing the insanity a little bit in what I'm saying, which is helping. I'm trying to identify or distinguish something in the way that I've been so that I can be freer. And I think that's what today's conversation is about. Why I’m sharing this with you, is because of what I understand about being a sensitive-intuitive… I'm not saying that description fits me to a T or exactly. All I'm saying is there was a period in my life where that was something that I needed to hear and it helped me heal in a very difficult situation where I was feeling very depressed and I don't use that word casually at all. It was the summer of 2014, and my prayers were hitting the ceiling, and I didn't feel like living anymore. So, I was in that state and that's when I discovered “sensitive intuitive,” what that meant, and that made a difference for me. So that's where the identification originally comes from. Like I said, it doesn't have to be set in stone and it doesn't even have to be permanent. It's just something that helped me through a period of my life. But what I know about being sensitive-intuitive is we have trouble with confrontation. There is something physical that happens. When the need for confrontation arises, usually it's in our gut. We feel pain when there's something that needs to be said to another person. Now, throughout my life and my personal development journey, I have gained a lot of ground in terms of self-expression. I'm more self-expressed than I've ever been. But if there's a part of me or there's an aspect of myself that has held me back from being everything, I think I'm capable of being, and from being totally and completely free, it's probably this – confrontation. Now, when you hear “confrontation” you might immediately think to yourself, “Okay, so like yelling and shouting matches and that types of scenarios.” And yes, that can apply, but it can be something as insignificant as “There's something I need to tell someone,” but knowing that you have to go and tell them makes you feel nervous. So, that's the physical reaction that I'm talking about. It’s not just some minor butterflies in your stomach. You feel pain. That's the kind of physical reaction that I'm talking about. So, are there situations where I've stepped through pain, the butterflies, the fear to tell people things? Absolutely. That's a deviation from the norm. That's a deviation from how I've described myself. That’s why I say, “Labels are a moving target.” So, at times, I have been able to be fully self-expressed in these scenarios, but there've been scenarios where I also wasn't able to express myself in the way that I needed to. I have tended to get away from those scenarios as quickly as possible. And there are situations where maybe I wasn't fearing for my life, but a little bit. At least fearing for my possessions and my finances because of the people I met who are sociopaths, psychopaths, drunkards, and people with chemical imbalances, no doubt. And I'm not judging by saying that. I think there are people close to me who've struggled with various conditions. So, I understand. I would consider myself very compassionate, or at the very least understanding of people with different conditions. In situations where you feel as though you could be in harm's way, getting away from the situation is the right reaction. You can confront crazy people if you wish, but it’s not always a great decision. You could put yourself in danger. I also think I’m a pretty likable guy. Maybe because of that, some people hate me. I've sometimes been told, “You're too smart for your good.” I'm like, “I have no idea what that means,” but people didn't like me for those reasons. Anything can come up. We ca

We interrupt this regularly scheduled program to bring you an important update. There are several great announcements in this episode, and you won’t want to miss out! In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David shares essential updates concerning his business as well as the podcast. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Podcast update 01:17 – David’s grandfather passed away 02:18 – How DavidAndrewWiebe.com is transforming 03:54 – The launch of MusicHackers.org 06:23 – The launch of Better Ways to Survive 07:28 – The future of the Creativity Excitement Emotion podcast 08:29 – Closing thoughts Transcript: Welcome to Creativity Excitement Emotion. I know this is one of the few times I’ve even given an intro like that, and there is a reason for it. I began recording episodes for Creativity Excitement Emotion in July 2023, so aside from the interview with Jody in episode 9, as well as episode 30, in which I talked about why I deleted Music Entrepreneur HQ, you’ve been hearing episodes I recorded months ago The last few episodes, specifically, were captured around October of last year. But today’s episode is more current, meaning I’m capturing it at the end of March 2024, to give you a timely update. And I know it’s April 1, but I’m letting you know at the outset that what’s covered in this episode is not an April Fool’s joke – we truly are moving forward with the things talked about here. Either way, there is much to talk about today, so let’s go item by item. The Passing of David’s Grandfather Last weekend, I got the news that my grandfather had passed away. So, I decided to honor him with a week of silence – you may have noticed that I didn’t post any new podcast episodes last week. I know that may sound kind of convenient, but they say everyone mourns differently, and the main way it’s been showing up for me is exhaustion, so I’ve been resting a lot and taking things slow. There has been no reason to overexert myself, and in fact, I’ve kind of been enjoying more of a relaxed pace lately. I’m discovering more and more that I don’t need dozens of projects in my life to sustain or fulfill me. Anyway, I plan to honor my grandfather in the written word, and I’m going to write something for the man who never taught me anything but showed me several things, like how to fish, how to drive a lawn tractor, or how to drive a truck. And yes, I will be sharing that piece publicly, so keep an eye open for it on DavidAndrewWiebe.com. DavidAndrewWiebe.com’s New Look and New Focus Speaking of DavidAndrewWiebe.com, I needed to make some decisions concerning how I wanted to continue to build my brand. There were a couple of big considerations, with the first being that I hadn’t brought the styling of the website fully up to date. I got some great photos done in February, and I hadn’t gotten around to using them across the entire website yet. So, it was time to get on top of that. We also chose the specific fonts and colors I’m to be using on the website. If you go to the website now, while it’s still somewhat of a work in progress, you’ll find that we’ve largely implemented the new style. The second consideration was deciding on a specific direction for my site. It was far too general to appeal to anyone, and that put me in a position of having to work for attention and business instead of attracting and earning it. So, I now have a very simple sentence explaining exactly the purpose the site serves: Here I document my journey of music, starting businesses, and personal growth. It took some time to land on that one, but that’s almost exactly what the site already is, so I’m very happy we were able to condense it into that. Additionally, I’ve warned in the past, but let me say it again – we’ve already archived dozens if not hundreds of posts, and that trend is going to continue. So, if you’re not already subscribed to my email list, go to DavidAndrewWiebe.com and sign up now to stay informed of all the ways you can still gain access to the content you want. Introducing… MusicHackers.org For all those artists out there who’ve been watching what I’m up to, wondering whether I had any plans of continuing to serve artists… Well, you’ll be glad to know that today I’m announcing the launch of MusicHackers.org. Music Entrepreneur HQ, Content Marketing Musician, and Productivity for Musicians now all redirect there. I happen to own another domain, which is IndieCareerFormula.com – that domain now redirects to MusicHackers.org as well. The concept of the site is simple – we either dissect the strategies of successful independent artists or crash-test the strategies of expert marketers. For example, I’ve heard both Peng Joon and Myron Golden say that if they were a musician today, they would post covers of Top 40 songs to YouTube all day long. That will be a very good t

Thanks to the proliferation of social media and smartphones, attention- and approval-seeking behaviors are at an all-time high. In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David explains the pros and cons of being an approval seeker. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – Can you do life without constantly having to be validated? 00:55 – Getting the results you’re looking for 01:58 – Getting results for yourself first 02:12 – It’s not just about being independent 03:08 – What lengths are you willing to go to? 04:03 – Short-sightedness is a problem 04:36 – Approval seeking is beneficial to those who are willing and able to do it 05:04 – Not everyone is going to like you 06:19 – The upsides and downsides of being an approval seeker 07:27 – Know thyself Transcript: I don't think I'm much of an approval seeker. There's something that came up in my reflections and I think that's the ideal… if you can be independent… and don't get me wrong, it's always nice to get compliments. It's always nice to get praise. And I think we're all deserving of it to greater or lesser degrees, and we all need it as well. But if you can be as independent as possible and not have to run on compliments or praise as fuel to do life, I think that's the ideal. You’ve got to take care of yourself first before you worry about taking care of anybody else. If you're doing things in life, it doesn't matter what area, relationships, business, music, or anything else that you might be taking on. If you're not getting the results that you're looking for, it means that some aspect of what you're doing is not working, right? I can tangibly see, since February [2023], when I started working out again, that I am getting results. I am looking trimmer, fitter, more in shape, gaining muscle, and losing fat. So, there's proof right there that it's working. If someone wanted to get the results that I'm getting right now, there would be good reason to listen to me. If I wasn't getting those types of results, and I was merely advising people from my armchair, that's a whole other situation. So, we want to be mindful of where results are showing up before we worry about trying to advise others on the direction that they should go in. First look at whether our method is working at all, in any capacity. I'm not talking merely about being independent, though. I think culturally speaking, North America has a lot to learn from a country like Japan. People often come back to me and say, “Everything has its pros and cons,” and yeah, that is true. Japan has some odd bits of culture that can be a little bit hard to understand or process. You could get thrown in jail for rather bizarre reasons, but I think every country has that. If you start looking into the law, like, there's almost no country that doesn't have some bizarre rules that could get you into trouble. So, I think there's something to be learned about community culture. It's something that Japan does so well, and I'm sure it happens in other countries, too. I just haven't seen it. So, I’m not just talking about being independent, although that is important. I think with approval seeking, it's almost your tolerance for what lengths are you willing to go to, to get people's attention. It's exactly what we're seeing with influencer culture. It's exactly what we're seeing with creator culture. People are running around in tiny little bikinis, or if you're an OnlyFans model, then naked. There's ASMR, there's video games, there's all this stuff… Look, some people genuinely love what they do and are good at it. I'm not going to take that away from them. But you will also find some people do this just because they think it will get them a lifestyle. In some cases, it does. You can get advertising money. You can get sponsors. And if you're smart, you eventually dovetail your influence into a business, something that will have lasting value. Chances are, especially in the case of models, will you have a career 10 years from now? Will you have a career 20 years from now? There’s a lot of short-sightedness. And we tend to do that. Give undue praise to influencers who don't have much foresight as far as when their thing could end, why their thing could end, and what are they going to do after they're no longer able to do what they're doing right now, because they don't have the facility to do it, or they're not as young as they used to be. I guess my point is approval seeking is so beneficial right now to people who are willing and able to do it. People who get a kick out of constantly seeking validation. And there is a dark side to it, too. I h

What are you putting up with? Health challenges? Financial problems? Relationship issues? The fact that you’re putting up with anything goes to show how resilient you truly are. But are you wasting your precious resiliency on people and things that don’t matter? In this episode of Creativity Excitement Emotion, David why it’s important to be willing to change. Download the PDF Transcript Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: Get a free copy of the “Definitive Guide to Productivity for Artists and Entrepreneurs.” Highlights: 00:17 – People are better at coping and dealing with things than they realize 01:30 – You are more resilient than you realize 01:52 – You can’t change anything you’re willing to put up with 02:34 – What are you putting up with? 03:09 – Make a new commitment 03:45 – What have you been tolerating? Transcript: The human ability to cope and put up with things is a marvel. It's incredible. I think almost everyone is better at coping and putting up with things than they even realize. Like, “We have a noisy upstairs neighbor and they're always partying on Thursday and Friday. But now that we know, we can plan around that and it's no big deal.” No big deal. Really? And it could even be an injury. It's like, “Yeah, I damaged my foot about a month ago and just letting it heal on its own, not going to see the doctor.” Just think of all the situations, right? “Yeah, I gained 500 pounds and it’s fine. I'm just going to continue eating and enjoying myself and no big deal.” And that's not a judgment on anyone. I think we all do this to greater or lesser degrees. “My financial situation is out of control, and I've been going into debt for 24 months. I haven't been able to pay my credit card bills except for minimum payments.” People just don't understand how bad of a situation that is, because they haven't investigated it. “I put up with it, it's a fact of life, no big deal.” So, understand that your ability to cope with change and put up with things is far greater than you realize. You may fear change, and many people do, but at the same time, you are so strong, and you are so good at putting up with it. What is most likely to happen is the event will happen and you'll figure out a way to put up with it or work around it. Your ability to cope with change and put up with things is far greater than you realize.Share on X Here's the point. We can't change anything that we're willing to put up with. If it's like, “Yeah, it's okay. No big deal. I'll figure it out.” If it's like that, then we can't go and make a difference in that area in any significant way. And usually, that's where we want the biggest breakthrough. And we're sitting there going, “Yeah, credit card bills, no big deal.” And they've got like three credit cards, each maxed to the hilt. And they're barely making minimum payments. You're in a much, much worse situation than you even realize right now. And there are some actions to take. There are some things to do. So, where are you putting up with things? If you're putting up with them, it means that you're not willing to do anything about them. You must change that to something else. You must change the context. You’ve got to say, “I'm not willing to put up with this anymore. I'm going to get into action. I'm going to do something about this. I'm going to start working out tomorrow,” or “I'm going to start looking at my finances every single day and start cutting expenses that I no longer need.” Or, “I'm going to start seeing a doctor or a naturopath or someone who can help me with my health.” These areas where we're putting up with things are an invitation to make a new commitment, make a new decision, try something else, try something out of the ordinary. People get easily stuck in their ways, not recognizing that they have. a near-limitless set of options in front of them. Maybe it's not infinite, but it's a much bigger pool of decisions and options than they even realize. Even if they don't have huge financial resources to invest in the areas that they're thinking about changing. Sometimes merely cutting expenses from things you no longer need will free up the finances to be able to do the things you want to do. Understand that sometimes we put up with things because we're lazy. Sometimes we put up things because we're scared. Like “Oh, I'm scared of what the doctor's going to say and what they're going to have to do to me.” And sometimes we put up with things that we must put up with. We have no choice and that's life. And there are things like that too. Don't get me wrong. But if you start looking at your music career or your entrepreneurial endeavor and think about what you’ve been tolerating. What are some things that you've been tolera