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.
info_outline
The Sea Glass Principle - Martine Severin
05/13/2026
The Sea Glass Principle - Martine Severin
If you’re constantly told that time is a predator and a scarce resource to conquer, you may need a perspective shift. The Sea Glass Principle may just alleviate the pressure that leaves you trapped in a cycle of measuring your life against an impossible moving target. Tune in to hear how this principle and a new book may just change the way you look at your work and your worth. Chapters 00:00 The Urgency of Time and Productivity 03:00 The Gap and the Gain: A New Perspective on Time 05:56 Transformative Power of Time: The Sea Glass Principle 08:48 Measuring Growth: From Gap to Gain 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/41281855
info_outline
The "New Black Look" Redefining Interior Design - Sierra Glasgow
05/07/2026
The "New Black Look" Redefining Interior Design - Sierra Glasgow
Most creators would have folded under the pressure of the "beige box" industry, yet Sierra doubled down on a signature style that fuses modern curvature with the vibrant, ancestral pulse of Black culture. This episode uncovers the friction of being a risk-taker in a world that fears color and how she transitioned from the technical rigors of building construction to painting emotional landscapes within four walls. If you have ever felt pressured to dilute your aesthetic or lowball your worth to fit in, Sierra’s journey is the blueprint for setting boundaries that protect your sanity and your specialized "sauce." Chapters 01:02 Early memories of drawing faces and the transition from fine art to interiors 02:04 The unexpected educational shift from architecture to building construction technology 03:35 Landing the first client through social media and early industry exposure 05:28 How the cultural landscape of Richmond shaped an African-modern aesthetic 08:02 The philosophy of the "New Black Look" and the symbolism of Birds of Paradise 10:25 Confronting the "Beige Box" and the challenge of being a professional risk-taker 11:32 The Virginia Beach high-rise: Lessons in pricing and self-worth 14:49 Cultural authenticity and the balance of minimalist-maximalist design 16:38 Hard boundaries: Revision limits and preventing client-led design sabotage 18:57 Advice for finding your "special sauce" through research and mood boards Connect with Sierra: Follow on Instagram: 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/41195225
info_outline
Here's Exactly How to Start Your Newsletter - Martine Severin
04/29/2026
Here's Exactly How to Start Your Newsletter - Martine Severin
If you’ve wanted to start a newsletter, let’s get into it! We break down the technical barriers of platforms like Substack and Kit, while stripping away the myth that you need to be perfect to start. Stop letting your wisdom gather dust and discover how trusting your own voice creates the body of work you were always meant to lead. Chapters 00:00 Opening the private vault of creative insights 01:45 Breaking the cycle of fear in a Vancouver bookstore 03:15 Understanding why you hesitate to share your voice 04:30 Choosing the right platform from Substack to Kit 06:35 How to build a subscriber list with integrity 07:50 Offering deep value instead of a sales pitch 09:15 Committing to the first ten issues Listen to the show on your favorite streaming platform! Apple Podcast: Spotify: iHeart Podcast: 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/41054255
info_outline
The Truth About Success Nobody Prepares You For - Mei Tao
04/23/2026
The Truth About Success Nobody Prepares You For - Mei Tao
What does it actually feel like to build the career you always wanted — and then realize the hard part isn't over? Photographer Mei Tao has spent decades behind the lens for Apple, J.Crew, and major publications. But in this conversation, she gets honest about what commercial success doesn't tell you: that the work stays hard, that achievement keeps moving the goalpost, and that the most meaningful art she's ever made has nothing to do with her biggest clients. We talk about growing up as an immigrant in Brooklyn, finding herself in candy store magazine racks, and the moment she realized her father's private recordings were her most precious inheritance. And we get into the question every working creative eventually has to answer — how do you feel like yourself in your work? Chapters 00:00 - Defining the Radical Art of Care 03:44 - Cultural Shock and the Move to New York 05:52 - Magazines as a Gateway to Fashion 08:05 - Navigating Parsons and the Practicality of Art 09:14 - Technical Mastery and the Business of Artistry 12:39 - Success as a Series of Failures 15:44 - Redefining Professional Achievement 18:15 - The Cost of Code-Switching 21:00 - Documenting Family and Artistic Influences 24:45 - Processing Grief and History Through the Lens 27:28 - Financial Freedom and Fine Art Discipline 29:19 - Diving into Motion and Radical Storytelling Connect with Mei: Follow on Instagram: 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40981465
info_outline
Your Website Is Losing You Clients (Here's What to Fix) - Martine Severin
04/16/2026
Your Website Is Losing You Clients (Here's What to Fix) - Martine Severin
There's a particular kind of dread that comes with sending someone to your website — you hit send on your portfolio link and immediately think: wait, is that still up? Did I ever update that bio? In this episode, we get into why your website might be the one thing standing between you and the clients you actually want, and the specific work of making it do what it's supposed to do: make the right people feel something, and then reach out. We cover what makes a compelling bio, the psychology behind why visitors stay or leave, and why hiding your personal projects is quietly costing you your biggest opportunities. Chapters 00:13 The invisible artist at the gallery. 02:34 Losing a job over an outdated portfolio. 04:52 Crafting your digital handshake and bio. 07:16 The secret power of personal projects. 09:42 Podcast reviews and the Creative Matters newsletter. 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40900045
info_outline
How to Think, Write and Create Like a Pro - Eve L. Ewing
04/08/2026
How to Think, Write and Create Like a Pro - Eve L. Ewing
If you have ever stared at a blank page and wondered whether you are actually a writer or just someone who wishes they were one, circle 'round. Dr. Eve L. Ewing (sociologist, poet, and Marvel Comics writer) offers an honest look at what a serious creative practice actually requires. Learn how she builds a community that sharpens her work, and hear exactly how she develops a new project from the first spark to the finished page. You'll leave this conversation with less mystery about what's been standing between you and the writer you want to become. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Eve L. Ewing and her latest work, Original Sins 02:16 Growing up in Chicago: Artistic accessibility and public investment 05:24 Values and the necessity of chosen family 08:14 Multi-generational service: The Black church and mutual aid 10:21 The origin story: From fan fiction to being "seen" as a writer 15:14 The "Capital W" Writer: Nourishing craft and moving toward the light 17:32 Community and mimesis: Learning through the work of peers 21:21 Wrangle the idea: How poetry, prose, and comics demand different approaches 23:46 Stress-testing the argument: The anatomy of persuasive prose 26:11 Churning out the joints: The liberating structure of comic book writing 29:13 Pop culture overthinking and final reflections Connect with Eve: Follow on Instagram: 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40775290
info_outline
On Sales and Marketing as an Artist - Martine Severin
04/01/2026
On Sales and Marketing as an Artist - Martine Severin
Have you ever felt that once the masterpiece is finished, the rest of the journey should belong to someone else? Many of us wait in the shadows of the "found artist" myth, hoping the right gallery or agent will simply stumble upon our genius. But what happens when the knocking never starts? Today, we dive into the systems that turn cold outreach into warm relationship-building and explore why your story is the most valuable product you will ever sell. If you are ready to stop apologizing for your ambition and start owning your space in the industry, this conversation is your roadmap. Chapters 00:13 The Artist's Role Beyond Creation 01:50 Dismantling the Myth of the Found Artist 02:38 Becoming Your Own Champion 04:00 Marketing Monday: Outreach as Relationship Care 05:01 Lessons in Networking and Relationship Marketing 06:50 The Reality of Representation and Agents 08:40 Selling the Sizzle: Tips for Product-Based Creatives 09:40 Owning Your Values and Your Sales Script 10:50 Three Actionable Steps for Your Creative Week 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40696955
info_outline
How to Grow an Art Practice Without Losing Yourself - Lex Marie
03/25/2026
How to Grow an Art Practice Without Losing Yourself - Lex Marie
In this episode, I sit down with Lex Marie, an artist whose work confronts the uncomfortable truth that Black children in America are often denied the luxury of innocence. She transforms the everyday remnants of her son's childhood into confrontation disguised as portraiture, and the materials she chooses will stop you in your tracks. We talk about building a career on your own terms, staying multidisciplinary, and what it really means to refuse the boxes the art world tries to put you in. Chapters 00:19 Introduction to Lex Marie 03:26 Realizing a Different Viewpoint Through Motherhood 05:11 The Decision to Pursue an MFA 06:23 Using Her Son as Muse and Material 08:00 Choosing Which Clothing Gets Immortality 10:31 Balancing Inspiration with Intimate Boundaries 12:12 Processing Big Feelings into Artwork 14:08 Knowing When a Piece is Finished 15:15 Cultivating Relationships in the Art World 16:47 The Lifelong Journey of an Art Practice 18:51 The Intentional Choice Behind the Name Lex Marie Connect With Lex Marie: Follow on Instagram: 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40620050
info_outline
A Guide to Moving Through Creative Paralysis - Martine Severin
03/18/2026
A Guide to Moving Through Creative Paralysis - Martine Severin
Have you ever had a to-do list as long as your arm but couldn’t bring yourself to do the tasks on that list? What about your dreams to accomplish this or that? How many of them have you ignored? Whether you call it procrastination, a lack of discipline, or simple laziness, the truth behind our creative paralysis often hides in plain sight. In this episode, we explore the high cost of big dreams and why the very visions meant to inspire us might be the ones locking us in place. If you have ever felt like a deer caught in the headlights of your own ambition, this conversation offers a gentle way to thaw the ice and reclaim your momentum. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Deer and the Moment of Freeze 01:11 The Common Experience of Freezing in Goal Setting 02:10 Why Big Goals Cause Overwhelm and Paralysis 03:08 Misconceptions About Paralysis and Overwhelm 04:24 Reframing Goals: Focus on Inputs, Not Outcomes 05:20 The Power of 45-Minute Focus Sessions 06:18 Trusting Small Actions to Lead to Big Results 07:15 Practical Tips to Overcome Freezing and Start Small 08:09 Moving Forward Despite Fear and Uncertainty 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40404550
info_outline
Finding Your Authentic Design Voice - Tiffany Brooks
03/12/2026
Finding Your Authentic Design Voice - Tiffany Brooks
Have you ever wondered what it takes to build a creative empire from the ground up? In this episode, I sit down with the remarkable Tiffany Brooks, an interior designer whose journey is as inspiring as her stunning creations. From a bet that launched her career to designing for icons such as LeBron James, Tiffany's story is a powerful lesson in trusting your creative instincts. Join us as we explore how she cultivated her signature style, navigated the pressures of building a design company, and redefined success on her terms. This conversation is a candid look into the life of a design powerhouse, offering invaluable insights for anyone daring to build their own creative legacy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tiffany Brooks and Transformative Design 02:09 Engineering a Creative Brain and Childhood Influences 04:35 The Big C versus Little C Creativity 06:36 Property Management as a Design Superpower 08:11 The Model Home and the Bet That Launched a Career 11:10 The Design Star Journey and Trusting the Timing 13:05 Taught by Experience and Finding an Artistic Voice 14:56 Trends and the Evolution of Style 16:47 Redefining Success through Choices and Peace 19:04 Managing Elective Stress and Client Expectations 21:04 The Walkthrough and Shuffling the Design Puzzle 23:26 Current Projects and the Season of Rejuvenation Connect With Tiffany: Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffanybrooksinteriors/?hl=en Tiffany’s Website: https://www.tiffanybrooksinteriors.com/ 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40412255
info_outline
Rethinking Imposter Syndrome - Martine Severin
02/25/2026
Rethinking Imposter Syndrome - Martine Severin
Have you ever walked into a room where you belonged, yet felt like a total intruder? Even when surrounded by friends or longtime colleagues, that whisper of inadequacy—the one that claims you are "running a game" on everyone—often grows loudest just as you are about to shine. In this solo episode, I pull back the curtain on a recent, that forced me to confront my own "elaborate dance of diminishment". We explore the terrifying possibility that we aren't actually afraid of being incompetent, but rather, we are terrified of being seen as someone who knows they are truly good at what they do. If you have ever felt the need to offer a disclaimer before sharing a brilliant idea, this conversation is your invitation to stop shrinking and start taking up the space you have already earned. Chapters 00:13 The anatomy of an uninvited guest 01:15 Six seats and a drop in the stomach 02:34 The hammer in my chest 04:10 Why we make space for everyone but ourselves 05:50 Maya Angelou and the fear of being seen 07:14 Potholes, grandmothers, and unexpressed brilliance 09:37 Trading disclaimers for bravery 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40227830
info_outline
Funding Your Dreams on Someone Else’s Dime - Karl Ferguson
02/18/2026
Funding Your Dreams on Someone Else’s Dime - Karl Ferguson
Karl Ferguson Jr. never planned to be a photographer. He picked up a camera because he was following his interest in the burgeoning Hip Hop Scene. Years later, his portraits of Black culture have appeared in Vibe, Billboard, and The Hollywood Reporter. In this conversation, Karl talks about what it really takes to build a creative life on your own terms, why he spent two decades at Verizon while quietly becoming one of the most sought-after photographers in entertainment, and what it means to be a visual historian when representation is still a fight. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Karl Ferguson and the "Visual Historian" 02:20 From The Bronx to the Music Industry 04:02 Picking Up the Camera Out of Necessity 06:26 The First Byline: Validation from Vibe Magazine 08:32 Mastering the Art of Networking and Relationships 15:07 The Responsibility of the Visual Historian 17:07 Creating Intimacy in Celebrity Portraiture 23:31 Building Community at The Grand Studio 25:48 Demystifying the Role of the Digital Tech 31:40 Breaking the Starving Artist Myth: The Verizon Years 43:40 The Importance of Personal Work and Creative Play 49:55 Redefining Success Through authentic Connection Connect with Karl: Follow Karl on Instagram: Karl’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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40151285
info_outline
How to Communicate Your Creative Worth - Martine Severin
02/11/2026
How to Communicate Your Creative Worth - Martine Severin
Have you ever wondered why a client chooses your lens over a thousand others? In this solo session, I dive into a transformative conversation that shifted my entire understanding of why I am hired as a photographer. We explore the "economy of vision" and how your unique cultural position creates a value that no standard rate card can capture. If you are ready to stop defending your fees and start educating your clients on the specific promise only you can deliver, this episode will help you reclaim your worth. Chapters 00:00 The Ritual of the Ceramic Plate 01:30 More Than a Service: Why People Actually Hire You 02:31 Thelma Golden and the Economy of Vision 03:40 Defining Your Aesthetic Universe and Cultural Value 04:53 Moving Beyond Objects to Your Specific Promise 08:40 Productive Discomfort: Teaching People How to Want Your Work 10:00 Rehearsing Your Position Over Your Price 12:00 Homework: Identifying the Five Values of Your Work 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/40075580
info_outline
Art as a Language of Resistance - Phoebe Boswell
02/04/2026
Art as a Language of Resistance - Phoebe Boswell
What if art could serve as both a mirror to injustice and a sanctuary for the soul? What happens when the world tries to fit your identity into a narrow predetermined box? I sit down with multi-disciplinary artist Phoebe Boswell to explore the "porous space" between heritage and headline. From the lush landscapes of Kenya to the structured life rooms of London, Phoebe shares how she navigated a "rude awakening" in the West by building a visual language that refuses to be simplified. We delve into the power of multidisciplinary storytelling and the radical act of reclaiming one's voice after it has been challenged by the gatekeepers of industry. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Identity Through Art 03:47 Childhood Influences and Cultural Displacement 07:05 Navigating Racial Identity in England 09:14 Finding Artistic Voice and Overcoming Criticism 16:48 The Complexity of Storytelling in Art 20:08 Community Engagement and Collaborative Art 26:34 Reclaiming Water and Personal Healing 31:51 The Evolution of Artistic Success 36:43 Redefining the Role of the Artist Connect with Phoebe: Follow Phoebe on Instagram: Phoebe’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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/39994635
info_outline
The Struggle to Find Your Original Voice as an Artist
01/28/2026
The Struggle to Find Your Original Voice as an Artist
What does the advice, "Just be yourself," mean when you are still figuring out who you are as an artist? In this episode photographer, Martine Severin, shares her "prickly" journey to discovering her creative voice and why the path from imitation to authenticity is rarely a straight line. We discuss the "gap" between our taste and our abilities, the pressure artists of color face to be original yet palatable, and why a simple concept changed how she approaches her work. If you are tired of performing for applause and ready to find a voice that feels like home, this episode is for you. Chapters 00:13 The Taste Gap 02:29 The Portfolio Review 04:40 Imitation vs. Authenticity 07:02 The Trap of Originality 09:20 The Burden of Representation 11:38 Voice as a Garden 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/39910040
info_outline
When Your Biggest Failure Becomes Your Signature Style - Shaina McCoy
01/21/2026
When Your Biggest Failure Becomes Your Signature Style - Shaina McCoy
Have you ever felt like your inability to master a technical skill was a sign you should quit? In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant painter Shaina McCoy, who transformed a moment of classroom frustration into a profound artistic breakthrough. Shaina opens up about the courage it took to bypass traditional art school to protect her voice, the surprising way she colors her memories, and why she believes making a viewer feel is the ultimate measure of success. If you are struggling to embrace your unique limitations, this conversation might just change your perspective on what it means to be a master of your craft. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shaina McCoy and Her Visual Language 02:16 Early Creative Roots and The Dream of Art School 05:54 The Assignment That Changed Everything: 30 Paintings in 3 Weeks 09:00 Finding Validation in Unexpected Places 11:09 The Choice to Avoid Art School to Protect the Work 15:33 Developing “Blind Faith” in Your Creative Voice 17:16 The Breakthrough: Permission to Stop Painting Faces 19:18 Sculpting with Oil: Mastering the Impasto Technique 20:56 Pop Pop’s Archive: The Keeper of Family History 24:29 Color Theory and The emotional Weight of Memory 29:27 Redefining Success: Connection Over Prestige Connect with Shaina: Follow Shaina on Instagram: Shaina’s Work: 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. Podcast show art is designed by Violetta Encarnación. Music by Timothy Infinite. 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/39804355
info_outline
Welcome to Season Six: A New Look and a Bold Vision - Martine Severin
01/14/2026
Welcome to Season Six: A New Look and a Bold Vision - Martine Severin
Welcome back, friend. We are stepping into Season Six with a fresh energy that I have been dying to share with you. Over the last nine months, my team and I have been working quietly behind the scenes, from the vibrant streets of Medellín to the design studio, to reimagine how this show looks, sounds, and feels. In this episode, I am pulling back the curtain on the major changes we have made, from our stunning new visual identity to the strategic shifts in our programming. I also share why we are pivoting away from our old format and the ambitious goals we have set for growing this community. If you have ever wondered what it takes to evolve a creative project while staying true to its core, this look ahead offers a glimpse into the joyful, sometimes messy work of leveling up. Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back: Kickstarting Season Six from Colombia 01:30 A Visual Renaissance: Collaborating on Our New Identity 03:28 Sonic Shifts: Choosing the New Sound of the Show 04:25 The Strategic Pivot 06:10 The Mission: Growing an Audience to Support Artists 07:45 Season Preview: Creative Crushes and Upcoming Guests 09:15 Solo Episodes: Tackling Paralysis and Finding Your Voice 10:30 Behind the Scenes: Batch Recording and Team Dynamics 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/39732660
info_outline
How to Do the Scary Things in Life - Martine Severin
12/18/2025
How to Do the Scary Things in Life - Martine Severin
Want to find out the secret to doing the scary things in life? Are you waiting for the right time or for a surge of confidence to finally send that pitch or apply for that residency. In this episode, we explore the psychological traps of "waiting to be ready" and share research-backed strategies to move from stagnant avoidance to meaningful action. If you have been keeping a scary dream on hold, this conversation might be the gentle push you need to start before you feel brave. Chapters 00:00 The internal draft: Why we wait for the right time 01:05 A snowy reflection on the dreams we haven't touched 02:17 The confrontation: When "someday" meets the calendar 03:10 Unlearning the fear patterns that keep us stuck 04:39 The "No Fear Month" challenge and the science of action 05:40 Why feelings follow actions: Insights from cognitive behavioral therapy 06:20 Utilizing temporal landmarks for a fresh start 08:00 Step-by-step: How to schedule your breakthrough 10:30 Keeping promises to yourself: A lesson from my son 12:50 The Pomodoro technique and the power of twenty-five minutes 14:40 Overcoming the discomfort of the "not right now" 16:26 Body doubling and shifting your creative environment 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/39460940
info_outline
Letting Go with Grace: When It’s Time to Make the Hard Call - Martine Severin
12/11/2025
Letting Go with Grace: When It’s Time to Make the Hard Call - Martine Severin
In our ongoing series about the creative process of building a studio, we’ve covered when and how to hire a team. But what happens when a hire isn’t the right fit? I’m pulling back the curtain on a lesson that cost me months of energy and a piece of my confidence as a leader. You'll often know by week three or four when a new hire isn't going to make it, and waiting six months to act isn’t just costly, it's a failure of leadership. I share the difference between a coachable skill gap and a fundamental values misalignment. Discover the two questions that immediately clarify your next move and the three clear, documented conversations you must have before making the final decision. This episode provides a clear, direct process to protect your creative work and act with grace and clarity, because your vision is worth protecting. Chapters 00:00 - An Expensive Lesson in Waiting: Why I Didn’t Act for Six Months 01:30 - The Six-Month Rule: Knowing When It’s Time to Make a Clear Decision 02:40 - Coaching vs. Cutting Loose: When to Invest in Skill vs. Values 04:05 - Making It Better or Just Different: The Two Defining Questions 04:55 - The Three Clear Conversations Before You Let Someone Go 07:05 - How to Have the Firing Conversation: Clarity is Kindness 08:45 - The Cost of Waiting and Why Acting Fast is Great Leadership 10:40 - Am I Coaching Because I Believe or Because I’m Afraid? 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/39373370
info_outline
From Solo Hustle to Successful Delegation: The Art of Onboarding - Martine Severin
11/25/2025
From Solo Hustle to Successful Delegation: The Art of Onboarding - Martine Severin
You’ve made the hire and the contract is signed. Yay. Now we can begin the real work. In this final installment of our mini-series on hiring your first assistant, I’m pulling back the curtain on the first crucial 90 days and the art of proper onboarding. I’ll be sharing the systems and intentional frameworks, honed from years of building teams in my photography business and overseeing a 120-person team in a co-owned company, that help a new hire fully absorb your vision, not just your tasks. I’ll walk you through the 30-60-90 framework for ensuring your new team member is set up for success. Learn why the first 30 days are purely for learning, when to flip the script on task ownership, and what to watch for by day 60 to prevent costly misalignments. This episode will provide you with the blueprint for creating an operating document, using tools for clear process transfer, and course-correcting early to ensure your future self (and your entire creative business) is amplified, not diluted. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Series Recap 02:23 - The Crucial 90 Days: Onboarding vs. Orientation 04:44 - Breaking Down the 30-60-90 Framework 07:04 - Why You Must Encourage "Dumb" Questions 09:16 - Honesty Check: Are You Micromanaging? 11:37 - A Concrete Example: Onboarding for Client Communication 14:02 - Creating Your Operating Document and Role-Playing Scenarios 16:21 - The Week Eight Check-in and the Importance of Documentation 18:48 - Setting People Up for Success: Coaching Versus Cutting Loose 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/39166560
info_outline
The Creative's Guide to Screening Your First Hire - Martine Severin
11/18/2025
The Creative's Guide to Screening Your First Hire - Martine Severin
Hiring your first helper is exciting, but it can also be terrifying. After keeping the wrong person on my team for far too long, I realized I had been focusing on all the wrong things. Skills on a resume are table stakes, but you cannot teach someone to care about the details the way you do. In this episode (Part 2 of our hiring series), I am pulling back the curtain on the screening process that saved me from making that mistake again. I share the specific, behavioral questions I now ask to uncover a candidate's true values, the red flags that signal a poor fit, and the single most important step I take before making any commitment: the paid trial project. This is the guide I wish I had when I started building my team. Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back & The Hiring Journey 00:45 The Mistake I Made With My First Hire 02:05 Looking Beyond the Resume: Skills vs. Values 03:00 Why "Culture Fit" Is Everything for a Small Creative Business 04:00 The Pre-Screening Trick for Attention to Detail 05:50 How to Ask About Past Work (The "Prioritization" Question) 07:45 Asking About Mistakes and Listening for Ownership 09:30 How Do They Handle Critical Feedback? 10:30 The Importance of a (Paid) Trial Project 11:50 The Truth Revealed in the Trial 12:20 Red Flags: Badmouthing and Vague Answers 13:00 Why the Questions They Ask Matter 13:30 The One Question I Wish I Had Asked 14:00 Final Thoughts: Aligned, Not Perfect 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/39082290
info_outline
Think you need to hire someone? Your exhaustion might be lying to you - Martine Severin
11/13/2025
Think you need to hire someone? Your exhaustion might be lying to you - Martine Severin
Some creatives hire when they're overwhelmed, not when they're ready to lead. Before you bring on that intern or assistant, you need clarity on what you're handing off, bandwidth to train them, and rock-solid values they can execute on. I’m pleased to share the hiring frameworks that rocked my world when it came to bringing on new team members. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Four-Part Series on Hiring 01:06 The Mistake: Hiring When You Are Not Ready to Lead 02:08 Question 1: What Specific Work Are You Handing Off? 02:49 Question 2: Can You Afford to Train Someone (With Time)? 03:31 Question 3: Do You Know Your Non-Negotiables? 04:30 The EOS Framework and The People Analyzer 05:07 The Three Parts of the People Analyzer: Get It, Want It, Capacity 08:08 Journaling Prompts: Defining Your Core Values 10:30 The Key Advice: Hire for One Job, Not to Replace Yourself 13:10 Coming Up: The Interview Process 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/39028225
info_outline
What an Afro Comb Can Teach You about Design - Jomo Tariku
11/11/2025
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
info_outline
The Quiet Persistence of Creativity - Martine Severin
11/06/2025
The Quiet Persistence of Creativity - Martine Severin
I have been thinking a lot lately about the difference between the loud hustle culture of constant visibility and the profound power of simply refusing to give up, even when it feels like nothing is happening. Join me in this episode as I share unexpected lessons in persistence, inspired by Death Valley. Chapters 00:00 - The Unlikely Pairing: Death Valley and Dehydrated Shrimp 01:50 - The Persistence of Fairy Shrimp and Resurrection Moss 02:30 - Redefining Persistence: Why Dormancy is Not Failure 03:40 - When Your Rain Comes: Being Ready to Rise 04:30 - Nature’s Pep Talk: The Audacity of a 50-Year Wait 05:30 - A Call to Action for Your Quiet Creative Work 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/38941975
info_outline
The Courage to Trust the Process - Bria Gladney
11/04/2025
The Courage to Trust the Process - Bria Gladney
Every so often, we come across an artist whose journey reminds us that creativity is a promise of transformation. What started as a project to design graduation caps (that then went viral) evolved into a story of artistic evolution, mental health healing, and finding purpose through creativity. In this episode, mixed media textile artist Bria Gladney reveals how the most meaningful art comes from the intersection of personal healing, community impact, and the courage to trust the process. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bria Gladney and Her Journey 03:02 From Class Clown to Pencil: Early Creative Exposures 08:46 The Viral Spark: Designing Graduation Caps in College 11:06 The Decision to Become a Full-Time Artist 11:37 The Spiritual Journey and the Humbling Transformation 17:05 From Canvas to Crochet: The Genesis of the "Dear Cleo" Bears 21:08 Redefining Success: From Chasing Fame to Seeking Impact 23:10 The Craft: Creating Mixed Media Textile Art 24:41 Full-Time Art: Income Streams and Pricing the Work 27:47 The Healing Power of the 'Lovie': Bears as Adult Comfort 29:50 Finding Inspiration Through Conversation and Designated Thinking Time 36:37 Art as Philanthropy: Partnering with the Too Fly Foundation 41:36 Advice on Finding Your Artistic Voice: Stay True to You Listen to the show on your favorite streaming platform! Apple Podcast: Spotify: iHeart Podcast: Connect with Bria: Follow Bria on Instagram: Bria’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/38909120
info_outline
How to Find Your Own Creative Mantra - Martine Severin
10/30/2025
How to Find Your Own Creative Mantra - Martine Severin
I recently spent time hiking the Four Corners (you know, the area in the US where the states of Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico form corners). After pushing my body to its limits, I ended up on a massage table where an unexpected mantra changed my perspective. This mantra made me ask: if we have mantras for meditation and our bodies, why not for our creative practice? We, as creatives, spend so much time battling imposter syndrome and the endless feelings of "not enough". Why not use mantras to help us dip into the springwell of our creativity. Chapters 00:00 Welcome: A Mantra I Didn't Know I Needed 00:40 Hiking the Four Corners and a Body at Its Limit 01:20 The Mantra: "I Am Grounded in the Earth" 02:15 The Realization: Why Not a Mantra for Our Work? 02:45 Battling the "Not Enough" Voice 03:20 This Isn't Toxic Positivity 04:15 How to Find Your Own Creative Mantra 05:20 My Mantra (Right Now) 06:30 Your Turn: Let It Ground You 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/38850685
info_outline
The Art of World-Building as an Author - Navi' Robins
10/28/2025
The Art of World-Building as an Author - Navi' Robins
How does a creative professional build a portfolio of 18 books? My guest today, Navi' Robins, is a Chicago-born author and graphic designer who does just that. His creative perspective was shaped by a childhood spent living across five continents. In our conversation, Navi' shares the inspiration behind his new Black Lotus trilogy, a futuristic world where men have been eradicated, and how real-world political events sparked the idea. We dig into his process as a "freestyle writer", his secrets to dynamic world-building, and the fearless habit he relies on to push the boundaries of his imagination. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Navi' Robins 01:47 - Releasing the Black Lotus Trilogy 03:08 - The Inspiration: From Trump's Escalator to Roe v. Wade 04:41 - Inside the Black Lotus: A World Without Men 07:56 - Early Influences: Reading Stephen King in Secret 10:31 - Writing the First Book: Combining 10 Stories into One 15:32 - The Approach to World-Building 19:00 - What Frightens People the Most? 20:38 - The Habit of Being Fearless 22:17 - Daily Routines: Afrobeat and Freestyle Writing 26:39 - Overcoming Writer's Block 28:00 - Finding an Artistic Voice Connect with Navi: Follow Navi' on Instagram: Navi’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/38808820
info_outline
How Creatives Really Make a Living - Martine Severin
10/23/2025
How Creatives Really Make a Living - Martine Severin
Have you wondered about the gap between the beautiful work on artists’ websites and the reality of making a living off of your creative work? Join three incredible artists: illustrator Andrea Pippins, illustrator Alex Cabal, and photographer Chris Charles, who share their "income pie." They reveal that making it is a result of royalties, commissions, speaking gigs, and consulting that supports their creative life. Chapters 00:00 - The Reality of Paying Rent as an Artist 02:15 - Understanding the "Income Pie" (Feat. Andrea Pippins) 04:28 - Andrea Pippins Shares Her Income Pie Breakdown 06:29 - Alex Cabal on a Fluctuating Creative Income 09:45 - The Importance of Asking for Help and Avoiding Burnout 10:30 - Chris Charles on Diversifying with Consulting and Film 12:07 - Final Thoughts 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/38761705
info_outline
Capturing Authentic Emotion in Photography - Sage East
10/21/2025
Capturing Authentic Emotion in Photography - Sage East
Ever feel trapped shooting the same bright, clean images everyone expects? Photographer Sage East knows that struggle. After landing her first big Puma campaign with perfectly lit, commercial-ready shots, she realized something was missing - soul. In this episode, the photographer behind campaigns for Nike, Google, Netflix, and Dior reveals how she transformed her work from safe and sterile to moody and magnetic. Learn how she developed her mantra "I don't shoot what it looks like, I shoot what it feels like" and discover the specific techniques she used to find her signature warm, Caribbean-influenced style that makes clients like Don Cheadle and Simone Biles feel vulnerable in front of her lens. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sage East’s Vision 04:04 From the Medical Field to a Camera 05:30 Starting Out: Finding a Muse and Shooting Weddings 06:29 The First Big Gig: PUMA 09:10 The Motto: "I Don't Shoot What It Looks Like, I Shoot What It Feels Like" 10:25 Evolving a Signature Style: Moody, Warm, and Experimental 15:15 The Power of Color Theory and Jamaican Heritage 17:30 How to Communicate Your Vision: The Art of the Treatment 24:43 Adding "Director" to the Title 28:51 Creating Vulnerability with High-Profile Talent 31:30 Defining "Main Character Moments" Connect with Sage: Follow Sage on Instagram: Sage’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/38728235
info_outline
More Slices, More Freedom: The Income Streams of a Multipassionate Creative - Martine Severin
10/16/2025
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