This is How We Create

The This is How We Create podcast digs deeper into the creative life of contemporary artists of color. Discover what feeds their creativity and how they found (or are finding) their artistic voice. Through these intimate and candid conversations, you will gain insights into the lives of creative professionals of color that are hard to find anywhere else.

189. The Creative's Guide to Screening Your First Hire - Martine Severin 11/18/2025

188. Think you need to hire someone? Your exhaustion might be lying to you - Martine Severin 11/13/2025

187. What an Afro Comb Can Teach You about Design - Jomo Tariku 11/11/2025

187. What an Afro Comb Can Teach You about Design - Jomo Tariku What does it take to change an entire industry? Thirty years ago, Jomo Tariku, then an industrial design student, noticed something profound missing in his university library: contemporary African furniture designers. This observation sparked a decades-long journey of persistence and vision. I sit down with Jomo to discuss his path from sketching designs in his garage while working other jobs to having his celebrated work featured in The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. He shares how his father's incredible story as a refugee gave him the hubris to persist through a 27-year wait for recognition. Tune in to learn how he translates his heritage (from the horns of the Nyala antelope to the powerful symbolism of the Afro-comb) into functional, modern art. Tune in to this story about patience, process, and the fight to redefine the creative canon. Chapters 02:22 The Collector's Home: Early Influences from a Father's Travels 05:13 Breadcrumbs: From Drawing Objects to Industrial Design 09:34 The Missing Narrative: A Thesis on African Furniture 14:14 The "Hubris" of an Orphan: A Father's Legacy of Courage 18:59 The Story of the Mito Chair: Connecting Continents with an Afro-Pick 24:37 A Commission for Seneca Village: The Met Afrofutures Room 26:08 The Designer's Process: Collaboration and Master Craftsmanship 31:40 The Balance of Beauty and Function 33:41 How 3D Printing Changed the Game 39:36 The Cost of a Prototype 42:18 The Nyala Chair: "The One That Put Me on the Map" 42:48 The 27-Year Wait and the Rise of BADG 45:10 Advocating for a More Inclusive Canon 47:33 Redefining Success: Joy, Research, and Community Connect with Jomo: Follow Jomo on Instagram: Jomo’s Website: Support the Show Website: Follow on Instagram: | Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives /episode/index/show/66777cf6-cb75-448f-b994-e91bd4acf808/id/38996860

186. The Quiet Persistence of Creativity - Martine Severin 11/06/2025

185. The Courage to Trust the Process - Bria Gladney 11/04/2025

184. How to Find Your Own Creative Mantra - Martine Severin 10/30/2025

183. The Art of World-Building as an Author - Navi' Robins 10/28/2025

182. How Creatives Really Make a Living - Martine Severin 10/23/2025

181. Capturing Authentic Emotion in Photography - Sage East 10/21/2025

180. More Slices, More Freedom: The Income Streams of a Multipassionate Creative - Martine Severin 10/16/2025

180. More Slices, More Freedom: The Income Streams of a Multipassionate Creative - Martine Severin Turns out most successful creative careers are funded by multiple streams. If you've ever felt that cobbling it together means you haven't truly arrived, this episode is a reminder that you're building something sustainable, resilient, and entirely your own. Chapters 00:00 - The Secret Feeling of Being a Fraud 02:17 - The "Income Pie" Revelation 04:37 - Why Your Pie is a Source of Freedom, Not Failure 06:55 - How Bridge Work Sustains the Dream Work 09:09 - Homework: How to Draw Your Own Income Pie 11:34 - You Are Building Something Sustainable Book Recommendations on Building a Multifaceted Creative Career If the idea of an "income pie" resonates with you, here are a few books that explore how to build a sustainable and multifaceted creative life: The Multi-Hyphen Life by Emma Gannon: This book is a celebration of the modern portfolio career. Gannon argues that having multiple work streams isn't a distraction but a way to build a more resilient, passion-fueled, and future-proof career. Art, Inc.: The Essential Guide for Building Your Career as an Artist by Lisa Congdon: A practical and inspiring guide for artists, this book covers everything from setting goals to diversifying income. Congdon is a master at turning creative passion into a thriving business and shares how multiple revenue streams (like licensing, teaching, and print sales) are key to a sustainable practice. Real Artists Don't Starve by Jeff Goins: Goins debunks the myth of the "starving artist" by showing how successful creators throughout history have embraced an entrepreneurial mindset. The book provides a framework for thriving, not just surviving, by strategically building multiple income sources that support your creative work. Company of One: Why Staying Small is the Next Big Thing for Business by Paul Jarvis: While not exclusively for artists, this book is perfect for any creative who wants to build a profitable, enjoyable, and sustainable business on their own terms. It challenges the traditional growth-at-all-costs mindset and champions a smarter, more intentional approach to work, which often involves focusing on a variety of profitable endeavors rather than scaling into a massive operation. Support the Show Website: Follow on Instagram: | Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa. /episode/index/show/66777cf6-cb75-448f-b994-e91bd4acf808/id/38610690

179. Freelance Illustration: Opportunities and Challenges - Violeta Encarnación 10/14/2025

179. Freelance Illustration: Opportunities and Challenges - Violeta Encarnación Discover how Violeta Encarnación balances freelancing, illustration, and creative evolution. She reflects on her journey from growing up in Cuba to becoming a book illustrator, her experience at SVA, and her shift into tattooing. Violeta opens up about the realities of freelancing, managing carpal tunnel syndrome, and honing her distinctive color palette. She also shares how nature inspires her work, the significance of personal connections in art, and her upcoming projects. We talk with Violeta Encarnación, a freelance illustrator, about her creative journey and experiences in book illustration. She shares memories of growing up in Cuba, the impact of her artistic family, and her transition to life in the U.S. Violeta reflects on her time at SVA, her path into tattooing, and the lessons she has learned as a freelancer. She opens up about managing an unpredictable schedule, coping with carpal tunnel syndrome, and staying authentic in her work. Violeta also discusses her distinctive color palette, nature’s influence on her art, and the role of personal connections in creative careers. Episode Highlights Childhood experiences and cultural background. Learning a new language and adapting to a new culture. Book illustration involves collaboration, patience, and the ability to convey complex emotions through images. Developing a unique color palette takes time and experimentation, and it can be influenced by nature and personal experiences. Finding one's voice in art and maintaining personal connections are essential for success. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction: A Collage of Moments Frozen in Time 02:45 - A Journey of Belonging: From Cuba to the U.S. 06:30 - The Language of Emotion: Finding Your Voice in a New Tongue 10:15 - Reclaiming Art as a Safe Space 13:05 - The Unexpected Path to Tattooing 17:01 - Illustrating a New Chapter: Breaking into Picture Books 22:30 - The Resilience of a First "No": Redrawing Her Way to a "Yes" 28:15 - Juggling the Freelance Life: Cash Flow and Creative Burnout 36:00 - A Journey with Color: From Fear to Harmony 42:50 - What's Next: Ceramics and Storytelling Connect with Violeta: Follow Violeta on Instagram: Violeta’s Website: Support the Show Website: Follow on Instagram: | Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives /episode/index/show/66777cf6-cb75-448f-b994-e91bd4acf808/id/38577695

178. How to Dance with Fear in Your Creative Life - Edwidge Danticat 10/10/2025

177. The Power of Community in a Creative Career - Nolis Anderson 10/07/2025

176. What To Do When Your Creativity Fades - Martine Severin 10/02/2025

175. The Making of an Artist: Passion, Persistence, and Profit - Alexandra Craig 09/30/2025

175. The Making of an Artist: Passion, Persistence, and Profit - Alexandra Craig Have you ever wondered how to turn a lifelong passion for art into a real, thriving career? In this episode, I'm delighted to sit down with Alex Craig, a self-taught artist, painter, and illustrator who embodies the spirit of creative determination. Alex shares her journey, from a childhood surrounded by artists to launching her first clothing line to eventually showcasing her work at prestigious events such as the Black Girl Art Show. This conversation explores perseverance and authenticity that transform passion into purpose. We dig into: The practical steps of building an art business, We talk about how to digest critique, How to open an Etsy shop and Tips to find the right printer and pricing for your work. Alex’s story is a reminder that with a strong support system and an unwavering belief in your own voice, you can build the creative life you've always envisioned. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alex Craig 01:21 Growing Up Creative: A Family of Artists 03:40 The College Hustle: From Custom Jackets to a Clothing Line 07:25 Taught by Experience: Lessons from a College Art Class 11:11 The Art of Critique: Learning to Let Go of Ego 19:23 Finding Your Voice with a Little Push from Family 22:05 The Practical Hustle: Starting and Growing an Etsy Shop 28:27 Bridging Worlds: How Digital Sketches Inform Physical Paintings 33:20 The Art of Pricing: On Accessibility and Value 36:54 The Signature Palette: A Love Story with the Color Blue 40:13 What Sets Her Heart Ablaze: The Drive to Keep Creating Connect with Alexandra: Follow Alexandra on Instagram: Alexandra’s Website: Support the Show Website: Follow on Instagram: | Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives /episode/index/show/66777cf6-cb75-448f-b994-e91bd4acf808/id/38413320

174. Advice to Your Younger Self 09/25/2025

173. The Secret to Getting Collectors Without Selling Out Online - Darnell Scott 09/23/2025

173. The Secret to Getting Collectors Without Selling Out Online - Darnell Scott How do you move from showing your art in group exhibitions to building a loyal circle of collectors who not only buy your work but champion it? In this conversation, we dive deep into the lived experience of an artist who has done exactly that. From humble beginnings in group shows to being invited into exhibitions in New York, Japan, and Europe, our guest shares how community, consistency, and serendipity shaped a career sustained not by social media clicks but by human connection. We explore: Building Collectors: How early supporters became long-term champions who now buy new work before it’s public. Real-Life vs. Social Media: Why genuine conversations and showing up in person often outperform online likes. Printing Philosophy: Why Moab Luster paper brings photography to life like a “window into reality.” Archiving & Editing: A practical system in Lightroom to organize decades of work while leaving space for rediscovery. Film Revival: How DSLR scanning revolutionized archiving film—fast, precise, and surprisingly affordable. Creative Tools: From smart collections to Google Earth, the surprising ways digital tools fuel analog creativity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Accidental Photographer 05:10 From Marine Biology to a High School Darkroom 07:29 Finding a Focus in Skate Photography 14:59 The Evolution of a Creative Eye 17:10 Photography as a Way to Preserve the Present 21:37 A Deep Dive into Landscape and Nature 27:28 The Process: Planning, Gear, and Google Earth 33:41 The Creative Dance of Fatherhood 39:28 Building a Collector Base for Your Art 43:33 The Art of the Archive: Lightroom, Keywords, and DSLR Scanning 52:39 Final Thoughts on a Winding Journey Connect with Darnell: Follow Darnell on Instagram: Darnell’s Website: Support the Show Website: Follow on Instagram: | Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives /episode/index/show/66777cf6-cb75-448f-b994-e91bd4acf808/id/38331950

172. Is Money Your Friend or Your Worst Enemy? - Martine Severin 09/18/2025

172. Is Money Your Friend or Your Worst Enemy? - Martine Severin What's your relationship with money? Is it your friend, your enemy, or something much more complicated? In this episode, I discuss a topic we all think about but rarely talk about: money. We'll explore the science of how money stress affects our creative brains and unpack the family stories that shape our financial habits. We’ll guide you through actionable steps and a few mindset shifts, including the powerful "Honey Money" concept, that have helped me build a healthier, more abundant relationship with my finances. This episode is for any creative who's ready to rewrite their money story and build a life that feels not just creatively fulfilling, but financially safe and expansive. Chapters 00:00 - My Money Story: From Haiti to a Scarcity Mindset 03:05 - The Science of Money Stress: How Scarcity Affects Your Brain 05:15 - Unpacking Your Family's Money History 07:00 - The Five-Step Journey to a New Mindset 11:10 - Books That Will Change Your Relationship with Money 15:30 - Meet 'Honey Money': A Simple Practice for Abundance 18:18 - A Gentle Warning and Where to Find Help Here is the list of books and resources to help you reframe your relationship with money: Lower Ed by Tressie McMillan Cottom The Color of Money by Mehrsa Baradaran Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond Get Rich, Lucky Bitch! by Denise Duffield-Thomas The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel Overcoming Underearning by Barbara Stanny The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D. Happy Money by Ken Honda Mental Health & Crisis Resources Please remember, your well-being matters more than any amount of money. If you are struggling, please reach out to these resources for support. Crisis Text Line: For immediate support, text HOME to 741741. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: You can call or text 988 to connect with the prevention line. Psychology Today: A resource to help you find a therapist in your area. Support the Show Website: Follow on Instagram: | Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives /episode/index/show/66777cf6-cb75-448f-b994-e91bd4acf808/id/38270085

171. The Unavoidable Path of a Creative Soul - Diana Hendrix 09/17/2025

170. Why Your Clients Want a Discount (And Why You Do, Too) - Martine Severin 09/11/2025

170. Why Your Clients Want a Discount (And Why You Do, Too) - Martine Severin Have you ever found yourself frustrated with a client who wants top-tier, champagne-level results on a beer budget? We've all been there. But what happens when you realize you do the exact same thing in your own life? We are digging into the messy, human psychology of why we all want more than we can sometimes afford. I explore the powerful "first impression effect" that sets our expectations and the tricky mental shortcuts we use that equate price with quality. I will share actionable steps for managing expectations, setting your "non-resentment rate," and protecting your creative energy, especially when you really need the money. Chapters 00:00 - The Contractor Story: Champagne Taste on a Beer Budget 02:18 - The Psychology of Why We Want Expensive Things for Cheap 04:45 - More Than a Budget: The Human Need for Quality and Joy 07:04 - For Service Providers: 4 Ways to Manage Client Expectations 10:11 - For Clients: How to Get Better Results on Any Budget 11:54 - The Hardest Part: How to Set Boundaries When Money is Tight 15:37 - Your "Non-Resentment Rate" and Why It’s a Game-Changer 19:06 - Breaking the Race to the Bottom & Final Recap Check out the full Video Podcast on our YouTube Channel! https://youtu.be/YR449TnmbrI Support the Show Website: Follow on Instagram: | Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives Resources to Support This Topic Here are a few resources that dig deeper into the concepts discussed in the episode: "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman: This book is a masterclass in understanding the cognitive biases that shape our decisions, including the "anchoring effect" or "first impression effect" I discussed. It’s a fantastic read for anyone who wants to understand the "why" behind our choices. "Pricing Design" by Dan Mall: While focused on design, the principles in this book are invaluable for any creative professional. Dan breaks down how to price your work based on value, not just time, helping you build a more sustainable and profitable business. "Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself" by Nedra Glover Tawwab: Setting boundaries is crucial for protecting your creative energy, especially when dealing with pricing and client expectations. This book offers practical advice on how to establish healthy boundaries in your professional and personal life, which is essential for long-term creative health. /episode/index/show/66777cf6-cb75-448f-b994-e91bd4acf808/id/38169315

169. The Unseen Gaze: Art, Technology, and Redefining Womanhood - Yannie Gu 09/09/2025

168. Are You Showing Up for Your Future Self? - Martine Severin 09/04/2025

167. Why This Lion King Star Says 'Happy Is a Swinging Pendulum.’ And Why That Matters for Creatives - Rashada Dawan 09/02/2025

166. Lessons From Our Creative Mentors - Martine Severin 08/28/2025

165. Painting for a Paycheck vs. Painting for Self-Discovery - Gina Tyquiengco 08/26/2025

164. How to Secure Grants for Your Art - Martine Severin 08/21/2025

163. How to Build a Design Business with Structure and Soul - Beth Diana Smith 08/19/2025

163. How to Build a Design Business with Structure and Soul - Beth Diana Smith Have you ever felt a divine nudge? Or maybe a full-on nudge that pushed you toward a life you didn’t plan for? In this episode, I’m talking with the incredible interior designer Beth Diana Smith, who made the courageous leap from a successful career in corporate finance to founding her own celebrated design firm. Beth shares the story of how she went from being the kid who organized her toybox and dreamed of becoming an accountant to a leading voice in contemporary design, known for her bold, eclectic, and maximalist style. We get into the pivotal moment of peace that led her to leave her stressful corporate job and how the skills she honed with spreadsheets and budgets became the secret weapon for her creative business. This is a candid conversation about listening to the signs, redefining your path, and the magic that happens when a client points out your signature style before you’ve even seen it yourself. Chapters 00:00 - From Aspiring Accountant to Acclaimed Designer 06:56 - Juggling Two Worlds: The Hustle of Corporate Life and Design School 12:50 - The Divine Slap: Finding Peace and the Courage to Quit 18:40 - Building a Business: First Clients and Finding Momentum 22:15 - Discovering a Signature Style by Accident 28:08 - The Psychology of Design: Creating for a Client’s Future Self 34:20 - How Corporate Skills Shape a Creative Business 38:30 - On Pride, Passion, and Finding the Right Collaborators Check out the full video interview on our YouTube channel! https://youtu.be/JJ9aqXU1J74?si=2bPo8ZEwIQTFpEcv Connect with Beth: Follow Beth on Instagram: Beth’s Website: Support the Show Website: Follow on Instagram: | Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives /episode/index/show/66777cf6-cb75-448f-b994-e91bd4acf808/id/37877710

162. Navigating Growth Without Losing Yourself - Martine Severin 08/14/2025

161. Building a Sanctuary for BIPOC Writers - Lori Tharps 08/12/2025

161. Building a Sanctuary for BIPOC Writers - Lori Tharps What does it take to leap into the unknown for the sake of your creative calling? In this episode, I talk with Lori Tharps, a writer, educator, and creative catalyst who did just that. Lori shares the powerful story behind her decision to leave a tenured professorship at Temple University to start a new life in Southern Spain. We explore her journey to create The Sanctuary, a vital community for BIPOC women writers, and dig into her profound belief that storytelling is a tool with the power to change the world. This conversation is a moving testament to the magic that unfolds when you have the courage to build the life you've always imagined. Chapters 00:00 - Introducing Lori L. Tharps 02:52 - The Childhood Friendship That Sparked a Creative Life 07:25 - From "Lying" to Storytelling: The Gift of a Typewriter 09:47 - What Truly Makes a Good Story? 16:04 - "Watch Me": Defying the Myth That Motherhood and Writing Don't Mix 17:47 - The Physical Feeling of Purpose: Flow vs. Frustration 21:17 - The Leap of Faith: Why She Left a Tenured Professorship for Spain 28:28 - Making Time to Create, Inspired by Our Literary Ancestors 32:53 - The Birth of The Sanctuary for BIPOC Women Writers 37:04 - The Myth of the Solitary Writer and the Power of Community 47:17 - What Does a Real Writing Practice Look Like? (It's More Than Just Writing) 53:34 - The Gospel of Storytelling: How New Narratives Can Save the World Check out the full video interview on our YouTube channel! Connect with Lori: Follow Lori on Instagram: Lori’s Website: Support the Show Website: Follow on Instagram: | Subscribe to the Newsletter: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives /episode/index/show/66777cf6-cb75-448f-b994-e91bd4acf808/id/37758545

160. A Week in a Creative’s Life - Martine Severin 07/31/2025

This is How We Create

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