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.
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The Mistake That Cost Me My Brand Name - Martine Severin
07/22/2026
The Mistake That Cost Me My Brand Name - Martine Severin
If you want to start a podcast but are paralyzed by the fear of sounding stupid, you may be paying the high price of waiting. In this episode, learn the steps to start your podcast. Stop letting the illusion of readiness stall your momentum; tune in to claim your voice, launch your project, and find and build your dedicated tribe today. Chapters 00:13 - Confession: Ten Years of Stalling and Fear 02:10 - The Hidden Power of Podcasting for Creators 04:15 - Finding Your Unique, Obsession-Driven Topic 07:02 - The Power of Hyper-Specificity: Niche Down 08:15 - Naming Your Show: The 50-Name Exercise 09:55 - The Five-Day Warning: Register Your Brand Immediately 11:15 - Fast Artwork and Brand Photos on a Budget 11:58 - Demystifying the Gear: The Twenty-Dollar Microphone Rule 14:24 - Embracing the Bad First Episode and the Dunning-Kruger Effect 15:58 - Your Action Plan for This Week Listen to the show on your favorite streaming platform! Apple Podcast: Spotify: YouTube: 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
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How to Unlock Your Truest Creative Voice - Nicole A. Taylor
07/15/2026
How to Unlock Your Truest Creative Voice - Nicole A. Taylor
What does ultimate creative freedom look like? What boundaries do you need to have in your life for this freedom to propel you forward? In this conversation with cookbook author Nicole A. Taylor, we talk code-switching, what it takes to write a book, and how personal ethics might be the fuel for your career. Hit play to hear how drawing your own hard lines can unlock your truest, most powerful creative voice. Chapters 00:18 - Introduction to Nicole A. Taylor 01:05 - Sponsor Spotlight: iCode School 01:48 - Finding Freedom in a Georgia Kitchen 04:03 - The Power of Early Confidence and Family Grace 07:59 - The Origin Story of Watermelon and Red Birds 12:01 - Non-Negotiables and Embracing Your Authentic Vernacular 17:10 - The Unvarnished Truth of the Cookbook Publishing Process 22:37 - Rituals, Discipline, and Protecting Your Peace 24:53 - Closing Notes and Substack Support Connect with Nicole: Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodculturist Website: https://www.nicoleataylor.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. show Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives
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The Ancient Answer to Your Burnout - Martine Severin
07/10/2026
The Ancient Answer to Your Burnout - Martine Severin
What should you do about burnout? In this episode, I pull back the curtain on nearly 200 episodes to reveal the psychological shifts and structural changes that rescued me from burnout. These shifts transformed how I approach delegation and audience building. Listen to this milestone episode to discover the practical, battle-tested blueprints you need to stop merely surviving your creative career and start building a sustainable artistic framework that thrives over the long game. Chapters 00:13 The Bedside Book That Challenged My Excuses 02:35 Finding Practical Wisdom Under Fire 04:57 The True Purpose of This Podcast Journey 07:18 Breaking the Cycle of the One-Person Operation 09:38 Shifting Mindsets Through Lived Knowledge 11:59 The Long Game of Building True Community 14:24 Ancient Solutions for Modern Creative Struggles 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
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Build an Unstoppable Creative Career - Justin Q. Williams
07/01/2026
Build an Unstoppable Creative Career - Justin Q. Williams
Atlanta interior design powerhouse Justin Q. Williams built a celebrated empire by launching his business at just eighteen, but the glittering television features and custom furniture lines mask years of grueling midnight grinds, raw psychological battles with clients, and a devastating early rejection that completely altered his trajectory. I strip away the glossy highlight reel of creative entrepreneurship to expose the exact operational shifts required to transform an exhausting side hustle into an aligned, impactful brand. Run to your favorite app and hit play to discover how to navigate your own professional rejections, anchor your evolving creative voice, and design a business that truly honors your soul. Chapters 00:00 Redefining Artistic Authenticity 02:18 Dream Drives and Early Design Software 04:38 Launching a Business at Eighteen 05:27 The First Client and Viral Twitter Fame 07:12 Hustling Between the Church and the Side Business 08:53 Mastering Client Psychology and Expectations 11:14 Why Function Trumps Fashion in Interior Design 13:04 Cultivating an Evolving Design Voice 15:19 Business Lessons from Iconic Mentors 17:09 Paying It Forward and Mentoring the Next Generation 19:25 The Truth Behind the Polished Instagram Grid 24:13 Protecting Mental Health as a Creative Empath 25:16 Enhancing Black Representation on National Television 28:07 Sourcing Global Inspiration for Retail Collections 29:42 Measuring Real Success Beyond the Paycheck Connect with Justin: Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinqwilliams/ Website: https://www.trademarkdesignco.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. show Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives
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What Clients Actually Mean When They Say They Have No Budget - Martine Severin
06/25/2026
What Clients Actually Mean When They Say They Have No Budget - Martine Severin
Every creative hits the wall where a dream client utters the four words: "we have no budget." In this special community Q&A episode, I pull back the curtain on the subtle business traps that quietly drain your bank account and compromise your artistic integrity. You will discover the psychological pricing trick that forces clients to pick your ideal rate, the hidden meanings behind sudden timeline demands, and the exact response that shuts down scope creep before you spend hours animating for free. Stop letting the fear of rejection dictate your pricing strategies and master the insider boundary shifts required to protect your labor while elevating your creative profit. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction: Flipping the Script on Creative Struggles 00:30 - Dissecting the "We Have No Budget" Dilemma 02:32 - The Psychology of Tiered Pricing for Photographers 04:20 - Protecting Your Energy with a Non-Resentment Rate 06:00 - Sponsor Spotlight: iCode School 06:33 - The Four Hidden Reasons Clients Hide Their Budgets 07:16 - Defusing Fake Urgent Deadlines Without Losing the Project 09:05 - Shutting Down Scope Creep in Creative Proposals 12:40 - Creative Encouragement and Substack Invite Listen to the show on your favorite streaming platform! Apple Podcast: Spotify: YouTube: 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
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From Couch Surfing to Hollywood Sets - Aleia Kristene
06/18/2026
From Couch Surfing to Hollywood Sets - Aleia Kristene
Screenwriter and coach Aleia Kristene survived grueling hustle, but she walked away questioning whether the narrative of the suffering artist is actually a badge of honor or just unexamined trauma. In our conversation, she reveals how she transformed twenty years of family tragedy into a limited series. She also shares the exact pacing mistakes that instantly tank amateur scripts. If you feel stuck behind a wall of perfectionism or lost in a quiet season of your own creative journey, this episode delivers: an insider guide to reclaim your voice, how to master the production realities of Hollywood, and how to get your biggest ideas onto the page. Chapters 00:00 - Redefining the Artist's Struggle 01:23 - Reclaiming Creativity with iCode 02:08 - Writing a Male Cinderella at Nine Years Old 04:17 - Realism over Cartoons: The Influence of Black Cinema 06:35 - Turning Family Tragedy into a Sellable Script 11:15 - Demystifying the Hollywood Table Read 12:47 - Brutal Production Realities from Major Film Sets 17:43 - The Biggest Mistakes Amateurs Make in Action Lines 20:06 - Balancing Mentorship with Personal Creative Output 23:15 - Overcoming the Perfectionism Trap of First Drafts 27:55 - Aleia’s Ultimate Dream Project Listen to the show on your favorite streaming platform! Apple Podcast: Spotify: YouTube: https://youtu.be/4ekuzVLC8_M Connect with Aleia: Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aleiakristene/ Website: https://aleiakristene.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. show Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives
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Learn to Spot the Invisible Rules Controlling Your Creativity - Martine Severin
06/10/2026
Learn to Spot the Invisible Rules Controlling Your Creativity - Martine Severin
For six years, I built this podcast while secretly measuring my worth against exhausting, invisible standards I could not even name. To break out of this vicious cycle, I turned to four paradigm-shifting books that dismantled my view of success and identity. These texts exposed the hidden systems dictating my creative choices and revealed a radical mindset shift that shrunk my negative self-talk. If you constantly feel like you are falling behind or trying to fit a mold that rejects you, this episode will give you the exact permission you need to burn the old blueprints and build a thriving practice entirely on your own terms. Chapters 00:00 The Exhaustion of Invisible Standards 02:18 Sponsor Break: iCode 02:35 Building Your Own Archive (Crafted Kinship) 06:33 The Power of Measuring Backwards (The Gap and the Gain) 09:21 Questioning Your Creative Framework (Decolonizing Language) 11:39 Navigating Identity and Double Consciousness (All the Women Are White...) 14:11 Why Naming the Problem Gives You Power 16:32 Closing Thoughts and Substack Newsletter Listen to the show on your favorite streaming platform! Apple Podcast: Spotify: Books mentioned on this episode: Crafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practices of Contemporary Black Caribbean Makers by Malene Barnett The Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy Decolonizing Language and Other Revolutionary Ideas by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o All the Women Are White, All the Blacks Are Men, But Some of Us Are Brave edited by Akasha (Gloria T.) Hull, Patricia Bell-Scott, and Barbara Smith 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
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Which Invisible Forces Are Sabotaging Your Creative Voice - Cauleen Smith & Danielle A. Scruggs
06/03/2026
Which Invisible Forces Are Sabotaging Your Creative Voice - Cauleen Smith & Danielle A. Scruggs
Filmmaker Cauleen Smith and photographer Danielle A. Scruggs join me to unpack how classical media subconsciously trains audiences to accept biases. In this episode, we discuss the radical frameworks required to dismantle these frameworks. Listen to this conversation to discover how to identify the hidden forces limiting your own vision, walk away from spaces that drain your genius, and master an ethics of regard that anchors your ultimate creative purpose. Chapters 00:19 - Decoding the Invisible Grammar of Cinema 04:11 - Actively Flipping the Mainstream Cinematic Script 06:07 - Visual Glow, Legacy, and Rejecting Respectability Politics 08:34 - Dismantling the Myth of Objectivity in Photojournalism 12:51 - Mapping Radical Feminist Utopias and Shared Spaces 22:19 - Weaponized Institutional Care versus the Ethics of Regard 26:55 - Why Walking Away from the Industry Saves Your Art 29:55 - Building Authentic Creative Communities Beyond the Screen Connect with Cauleen: Follow on Instagram: Website: Connect with Danielle: 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. show Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives
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The Secret Bridge To Your Best Creative Work - Martine Severin
05/28/2026
The Secret Bridge To Your Best Creative Work - Martine Severin
In this week’s episode, we talk about the importance of rituals and why they are the key to you performing at your best. Learn how to design your own five-minute transition and how to turn chaotic energy into a focused flow. Chapters 00:00 - The Musical Bridges of Childhood 03:32 - Waking the Creative Mind 05:03 - The Quirky Habits of Famous Artists 06:21 - The Reality of Productivity Routines 08:24 - The Science Behind Predictability 10:24 - Sacred Traditions and the Threshold Listen to the show on your favorite streaming platform! Apple Podcast: Spotify: YouTube: 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
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The Perfect Cure for Your Creative Block - Tiffani Glenn
05/20/2026
The Perfect Cure for Your Creative Block - Tiffani Glenn
What if the thing standing between you and your best work isn't talent but the pressure you keep putting on yourself to produce? Painter Tiffani Glenn has built a body of work around a radical idea: Black women deserve to be seen in their full confidence and color. In this episode, Tiffani shares how mentorship opened the door to her first gallery show, why self-love is the foundation of everything she puts on canvas, and the one thing she does every time creative block hits. Chapters 00:00 Question the Mirror 02:12 Saturday Morning Masterclasses 04:58 Pivot from Pixar 09:13 Paint the Confidence 11:31 The Fenty Formula 13:54 Beyond the Gallery Walls 20:40 Surrender to the Block 23:33 Off the Canvas Connect with Tiffani: 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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