The Breakthrough Creative
The Breakthrough Creative with host John McDavitt is for the Creative Entrepreneur as we look behind the scenes at the ‘business of art’ and the ‘art of business!’
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107. Vacation, Perspective and Some Thoughts on AI
07/27/2023
107. Vacation, Perspective and Some Thoughts on AI
It's been a little while since I've released an episode but I am back to reintroduce myself and this show and to give you some thoughts on: The Importance of Vacation The Perspective it Brings Some thoughts on artists and how to respond to the new world of Artificial Intelligence
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106. Kids Murals with Andy Pinder
03/15/2023
106. Kids Murals with Andy Pinder
Andy Pinder is an amazing muralist. After leaving Art College, Andy began working in London as a Visualiser, Designer and Art Director, before relocating to Kent. Having spent many years creating illustrations and storyboards for film and television, painting wall murals became a natural development through which Andy could channel his creative and artistic skills. Naturally, this working method was, far, far away from the world of computers. However, Andy does still generate most of his mural designs using modern technology, before painting a Kids Art Mural. You can follow Andy online at: Please follow to The Breakthrough Creative and share with the artists in your life. You can email [email protected] with any comments, guest suggestions or questions.
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105. Pete Marin: Airbrush T-Shirts and Airbrush Events
01/03/2023
105. Pete Marin: Airbrush T-Shirts and Airbrush Events
Pete Marin is the owner of Airbrush Events, revolutionizing private event entertainment through airbrushed party favors, providing take-home gifts and party entertainment activity, all in one! Pete’s story begins in Maine where he first encountered airbrushed T-shirts at his local mall. He pursued that aspect of airbrushing for much of his career and eventually ran his own retail venture. Over the past 10 years, Pete has niched down to events and entertainment making “Airbrush Events the perfect entertainment solution for any occasion”. Learn more about Pete and Airbrush Events at: Website: Instagram: Links: Links to the episodes Pete and I mentioned in his interview: Ep 35. How I made $11k in One Month Airbrushing T Shirts Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-breakthrough-creative/id1499200068?i=1000500802524 YouTube: Ep 33 The Airbrush T-Shirt Business with Pat Gaines Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-breakthrough-creative/id1499200068?i=1000499914308 YouTube: Please follow to The Breakthrough Creative and share with the artists in your life. You can email [email protected] with any comments, guest suggestions or questions.
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104. Muralist, Hood Liner Artist & Airbrusher: Corrado Mallia
12/04/2022
104. Muralist, Hood Liner Artist & Airbrusher: Corrado Mallia
Corrado Mallia is a Toronto area muralist celebrating 25 years in the industry. Since a young child, Corrado has been drawing and painting since childhood. At the age of 23, he began his career painting murals, where the larger scale gives more space and freedom to transform a wall or whole room. A blank wall is just a blank canvas begging for some paint! Follow Corrado at: Please follow to The Breakthrough Creative and share with the artists in your life. You can email [email protected] with any comments, guest suggestions or questions.
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103. FLASHBACK: Alec Gillis, Special Effects Makeup Career - Predator, Aliens, Pumpkinhead, It
10/25/2022
103. FLASHBACK: Alec Gillis, Special Effects Makeup Career - Predator, Aliens, Pumpkinhead, It
Alec Gillis is the co-founder of the Studio ADI, one of the largest practical effects houses in the film industry. Alec shares stories from his early career at Roger Corman's New World Pictures, his time at Stan Winston Studios (working on Aliens, Predator and more), how he and his partner, Tom Woodruff, Jr, formed ADI and his foray into writing and directing the 80's retro-monster movie, Harbinger Down. Alec talks about his chance encounter with James Cameron, how luck and preparedness go hand-in-hand, lessons from Dick Smith and we share memories from the food truck! You can follow Alec on or visit his . Please subscribe to this podcast and share it with the artists in your life! Follow The Breakthrough Creative on You can contact The Breakthrough Creative by emailing:
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102. Kim Witte, SFX Artist & Cookbook Author (Knowing When to Pivot)
10/18/2022
102. Kim Witte, SFX Artist & Cookbook Author (Knowing When to Pivot)
I love when I get to catch up with old friends like Kim Witte. Kim was one of my first guests on The Breakthrough Creative and I invited her back to catch us up on all she has been doing since we last spoke. Witte Artistry, LLC is a media company that specializes in creating educational and entertaining content around special effects makeup & traditional art mediums. Established in 2016 with the goal of encouraging others to pursue their artistic endeavors through education, encouragement, and positive messages. You can find Kim at Please follow to The Breakthrough Creative and share with the artists in your life. You can email with any comments, guest suggestions or questions.
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101. Mark Enright: Pop Culture Mask Maker
09/19/2022
101. Mark Enright: Pop Culture Mask Maker
Mark Enright is a freelance artist, sculptor, house haunter & pumpkin carver who started Mortar Heads in 2004 with a series of bas relief, Star Wars characters sculpted in mortar. A former intern of Make up & effects labs and former employee of MEL products. In 2020, Mark took the skills and experience learned while working in the FX industry and decided to focus full time on his own company, Mortar Heads. Specializing in latex masks of vintage action figures, toys & Halloween decorations with a vintage sensibility paying tribute to classic mask studios such as Don Post, Be something studios, & Death studios. The first release being a collaboration with NECA colllectibles was a set of Monster masks based on the Remco Universal mini monsters from the 80’s and this partnership continues on in 2023 with a yet to be revealed project. Mark's Links: Instagram: @mortarheads Please subscribe to The Breakthrough Creative show and share with your creative friends! Contact with questions, comments or guest suggestions.
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100. Greg Nicolett: Film & TV Composer
07/30/2022
100. Greg Nicolett: Film & TV Composer
My guest today for our 100th episode is film & TV Composer, Greg Nicolett. Greg shares about his career, finding mentors and growing his business. Greg's television work includes the Disney animated series - T.O.T.S, Goldie and Bear and Pupstruction - as well as additional music for Smallville, The Vampire Diaries, Video Game High School and Puppy Dog Pals. His video game work includes Voracious Games’ “Potionomics,” additional music for Kinect Disney Adventures, and orchestrations for Star Wars: First Assault. Before scoring films full time, Greg had a successful career scoring commercials, working with brands such as Microsoft, Old Navy, and Best Buy. Find Greg: Twitter @GregNicolett Insta @GPnicolett For more info about the show Contact [email protected]
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99. The Costs of Starting Your Creative Business
07/05/2022
99. The Costs of Starting Your Creative Business
Anytime you decide to do something worthwhile it comes at a cost - energy, resources, pain. AND, if you stick with it, there are so many benefits - success, relationships, new skills and becoming a resource for clients to solve their problems. I share about how I stuck it out and found success.
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98. Learn Public Speaking Skills and Become Unstoppable
06/21/2022
98. Learn Public Speaking Skills and Become Unstoppable
If you learn the Skill of Public Speaking you will be able to represent yourself to individual clients (super important), work in small groups (brainstorming) and persuade large groups (keynote speaking). You need this skill! I explain the benefits and break down how you can learn to speak to large groups with competence and confidence (and how you can get over embarrassment) BONUS: if you email me or DM me on Instagram I will send you my notes from this episode.
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97. The extraordinary benefits of FLEXIBILTY in Business (recorded by the ocean)
06/17/2022
97. The extraordinary benefits of FLEXIBILTY in Business (recorded by the ocean)
Flexibility is an underrated and under appreciated resource. Why you should intentionally work to have flexibility in your professional life. email Follow at:
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96. Thoughts on Licensing Art, Working in a Studio Environment and Stories from the Working World
06/11/2022
96. Thoughts on Licensing Art, Working in a Studio Environment and Stories from the Working World
It's been a little while... I wanted to check in on the episode to share my thoughts on licensing, social media, the benefits of working in a studio environment and flexibility in work/life. https://www.instagram.com/thebreakthroughcreative/
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95. FLASHBACK: Kate Sartorious, Cake and Sugar Artist
05/09/2022
95. FLASHBACK: Kate Sartorious, Cake and Sugar Artist
I interviewed Cake and Sugar Artist, Kate Sartorious, about her career in March of 2020 and wanted to share it again in this Kate is a the owner and operator of Kate's Cake Design where she makes unique cake toppers for her clients. Kate also teaches an online Cake Topper course called 'Top Tier Cake Topper Masterclass.' You can find Kate and her work on Contact us at
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94. Licensed Star Wars Artist, Dawn Murphy
05/04/2022
94. Licensed Star Wars Artist, Dawn Murphy
Dawn Murphy is a freelance artist currently residing in the Chicagoland area. She specializes in portraiture and costume illustration with a focus on pop culture. She has created numerous officially licensed artworks for Lucasfilm/Star Wars, Topps Trading Cards and RRParks Cards. Her work has been featured in the Star Wars Celebration Art Show, Star Wars Insider Magazine, the sci-fi anthology book Contact Light, and book four of the War of the Seasons series. When she isn't drawing she loves to play video games with her son and husband, reading, sewing costumes and trying not to burn dinner. Follow Dawn at: You can contact with comments and questions. Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebreakthroughcreative/
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93. Are you a professional or a hobbyist? (you need to know)
03/14/2022
93. Are you a professional or a hobbyist? (you need to know)
It’s cool if you want to be an artist. It’s cool if that’s your hobby. But you need to be honest with yourself if it’s something to make money or something that’s simply personal enjoyment. If it’s a hobby - great! Enjoy yourself. If it’s a business - get to work.
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92. 7 Great Reasons to Work for a Company Before You Start Your Own Business (and join the new Facebook group)
03/04/2022
92. 7 Great Reasons to Work for a Company Before You Start Your Own Business (and join the new Facebook group)
Please join . I'm looking forward to meeting you there. Episode 92: There are lots of good reasons to begin your career by working for a company BEFORE you start your own thing because there are so many things you don't know that you don't know. Why not make it a bit easier on yourself and learn on the job while you plan and even start your own business. My thoughts on the topic in this episode.
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91. Apprentice to Pro: Tattoos with Mikey Wheeler
02/16/2022
91. Apprentice to Pro: Tattoos with Mikey Wheeler
Mikey Wheeler is a professional tattooist who shares his journey from sandwich maker to apprentice to pro! Mikey also goes into the details of the business side of Tattooing. You can see Mikey's work and find him at: You can contact John at
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90. Finding Your Style with Kunal Kundu: Crumpled Paper Artist
01/31/2022
90. Finding Your Style with Kunal Kundu: Crumpled Paper Artist
How does one find their creative style? How does one achieve their first published book? Kunal Kundu has done both! An animator, illustrator and sculptor, Kunal took leave from his career to find his 'style' and shares his process in this episode. Kunal also reveals his gritty approach to publishing his first book. For more on Kunal check out the links below: https://www.instagram.com/kunalkunducrumpledpaper/ You can reach John at [email protected]
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89. Why you should become an ARTIST & DESIGNER, SCOPE CREEP & SOFT SKILLS
01/07/2022
89. Why you should become an ARTIST & DESIGNER, SCOPE CREEP & SOFT SKILLS
I share my thoughts on... (1:22) The Benefits of Becoming an ARTIST & DESIGNER (15:55) Managing SCOPE CREEP (22:12) SOFT SKILLS: Showing Clients Grace & Generosity Please share this episode with the pre-pro and professional creatives in your life. Contact me at [email protected]
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88. BEST OF 2021: How to Price Your Work, Managing Your Workload & Finding Your Niche - A Q&A Coaching Episode
12/30/2021
88. BEST OF 2021: How to Price Your Work, Managing Your Workload & Finding Your Niche - A Q&A Coaching Episode
This is The Breakthrough Creative's most dowloaded episode of 2021. Worth another listen - Ep 44 (2021) In my first Q&A Coaching episode, I answer questions from my guest, Jason de Knegt. We talk about Pricing, Managing your Workload and Finding your professional Niche. Jason de Knegt is a bartender & illustrator who balances his official ‘day job’ crafting cocktails with creating digital paintings for his clients. Like many hoping to make a full-time career shift into the art world, he hopes to blend his professional experience with his creative pursuits… in this case applying what he’s learned in the service and hospitality industry to providing unique portraits for those who enjoy his work and particular style. You can check out Jason's art (& even a few bonus cocktail recipes) and follow Jason on instagram at or his website Please subscribe to The Breakthrough Creative and share with the artists in your life. You can reach us at [email protected]
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87. How Airbrushing Changed My Life (and how it can change yours, too)
12/20/2021
87. How Airbrushing Changed My Life (and how it can change yours, too)
Hey Breakthrough Creative Friends! This episode is about how my experience with airbrushing led to so many different opportunities in my life AND HOW the PROCESS I WENT THROUGH can do the same for you... whether it is an airbrush, a piano, acting, writing or WHATEVER YOUR THING IS. You can learn more about my AIRBRUSHING PAST by listening to... Ep 35: How I Made $11,000 in One Month Airbrushing T-Shirts Please share these episodes with the artists in your life! For more info or questions contact [email protected]
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86. Carlos Huante: The Creature Design process on MIB, Prometheus & IT
12/07/2021
86. Carlos Huante: The Creature Design process on MIB, Prometheus & IT
Carlos Huante, master creature concept designer, is back! You have seen his amazing creature designs in some of the biggest movies made. In this episode, Carlos shares his experiences working directly with Rick Baker on MIB, Ridley Scott on Prometheus and Andy Muschietti on IT. Listen to my first interview with Carlos: You can follow Carlos at: Please share this episode with the artists in your life. You can reach me at
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85. THREE MUST-DO Practices with NEW CLIENTS
11/29/2021
85. THREE MUST-DO Practices with NEW CLIENTS
There are 3 MUST-DO practices you need to know and do with each new client to nurture your business relationship. Don't miss these. They are the secret sauce of building client relationships, ongoing business and increased income! [email protected]
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84. Latitude, Attitude & Gratitude
11/25/2021
84. Latitude, Attitude & Gratitude
Hi dear listener... This episode is about how our ups and downs, our attitudes and our gratitude along the way can enrich or derail our creative, professional and, yes, even our personal lives. I am grateful for my journey and I am grateful for you. Cheers - John Please subscribe to this podcast and share with the artists in your life. [email protected]
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83. I Explain my Disappearance (Covid) and Share My Haunted House Story
11/10/2021
83. I Explain my Disappearance (Covid) and Share My Haunted House Story
I explain my recent disappearance (Covid) and share my Haunted House Story (Art work and Income involved). Missed you all.
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82. Paul Katte, co-founder Make-Up Effects Group (The Matrix, I, Frankenstein and Childhood's End)
10/18/2021
82. Paul Katte, co-founder Make-Up Effects Group (The Matrix, I, Frankenstein and Childhood's End)
Paul Katte is the co-founder of MEG, Make-Up Effects Group, in Sydney, Australia. Paul and his partner, Nick, have created make-up FX for The Matrix, I, Frankenstein, Childhood's End and many more films and commercials. Paul shares the details of his creative and professional journey including stories of working with Marlon Brando and John Frankenheimer on The Island of Dr. Moreau, working with Tom Savini on REDD, INC., the importance of mentors and much more! You can learn more about Paul at: http://megeffects.com.au Tom Savin FX direction clip of REDD, INC.: https://bit.ly/3AScbUS ____________________________________________________________________ You can now support the show on Patreon and receive some amazing benefits! Coaching for Artists with John: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebreakthroughcreative https://www.instagram.com/john_mcdavitt_art
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81. Ray Villafane: Halloween Pumpkin Carver and Master Sculptor
10/11/2021
81. Ray Villafane: Halloween Pumpkin Carver and Master Sculptor
Ray Villafane is a master sculptor and pumpkin carver. He shares his journey the mindset it takes to become a highly sought after sculptor. Ray has created toys and collectibles for DC and Marvel, appeared on the Food Network and created sand sculptures across the globe. You can learn more about Ray and his work at:
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80. Michael Spooner: Animation World Design for Hotel Transylvania 2
10/04/2021
80. Michael Spooner: Animation World Design for Hotel Transylvania 2
Michael Spooner is an Animation World Designer. You can hear more about Michael's career in the previous episode (#79). In this episode Michael shares about: - working on the short film test footage for 'Popeye' - working with an animation director and on the team for Hotel Transylvania 2 - and specific designs for the film. Lots of amazing behind-the-scenes info in this episode. Enjoy! You can learn more about Michael by visiting his website: _____________________________________________________ You can now support the show on Patreon and receive some amazing benefits! Business Coaching for Artists with John: Instagram:
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79. Michael Spooner: Animation Video Development Designer
09/27/2021
79. Michael Spooner: Animation Video Development Designer
This interview first aired in February of 2019. Michael Spooner is an Animation Visual Development Designer for the film and entertainment industry (he is also one of my closest friends). His credits include projects for Disney (The Emperor's New Groove, Lilo & Stitch), Dreamworks (Shrek), and Sony (Hotel Transylvania 2, Smurfs: The Lost Village). He has worked with Ralph Bakshi on 1978's animated version of Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings' and spent some time with He-Man in the 1980's. You can learn more about Michael by visiting his website: _____________________________________________________ https://direct.me/johnmcdavitt You can now support the show on Patreon and receive some amazing benefits! Business Coaching for Artists with John: Instagram:
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78. Creative Chats with Mike Brennan - Storyteller, Podcaster and Visual Artist
09/20/2021
78. Creative Chats with Mike Brennan - Storyteller, Podcaster and Visual Artist
Mike Brennan is a storyteller who uses spoken work and visual art to bring life to his audience and to fellow creatives. In this episode Mike shares about his creative journey into advertising design, then into ministry and then back into art as an encourager of other creatives. Mike is the host of the podcast, Creative Chats (Great show! Please find, subscribe and listen to it) and visual artist with a flair for popular culture. IG: Facebook Group: ________________________________________ https://direct.me/johnmcdavitt You can now support the show on Patreon and receive some amazing benefits! Business Coaching for Artists with John: Instagram: ohn_mcdavitt_art
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