This is How We Create 4c14z

Ever find yourself stuck in decision limbo, saying "maybe" to opportunities that deep down you know aren't right for you? In this episode of "This is How We Create," Martine Severin unpacks her game-changing "Waffle Rule," a powerful framework that will transform how you make decisions in your creative career and beyond. You'll discover: Why indecision is actually a form of decision-making (and what your brain is trying to tell you) How to interpret that "static" feeling when you're waffling between choices The surprising connection between hesitation and your true values A practical 5-step plan to build your "no muscle" and reclaim precious creative energy Real-world examples from creatives like photographer Anastassia Withey and web designer Elsa Omri who made tough choices to honor their creative voices the workbook that goes along with this episode: Waffle Rule Workbook This episode grew from one of our most popular Creative Matters newsletter pieces, proving that decision paralysis is something so many of us struggle with as creative professionals of color. Whether you're considering a career pivot, evaluating collaboration opportunities, or simply trying to protect your creative time, the Waffle Rule offers the clarity you've been searching for. Hit play to reclaim your decision-making power and discover why sometimes your most powerful creative tool is simply saying "no.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Life 00:25 Understanding Indecision 05:12 The Waffle Rule Explained 07:42 Applying the Waffle Rule 09:09 Conclusion and Call to Action the Show Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.  

What happens when a medical student abandons her stethoscope for a camera, moves to a foreign country where she knows no one, and transforms an abandoned garage into a thriving art collective?   In this episode, we explore the multifaceted world of communication designer and photographer Ankita Das, whose work transcends traditional medium boundaries to create powerful narratives around identity, health, and community. Ankita shares how being the daughter of academics (a mathematician mother and surgeon father) initially set her on a medical path before discovering her artistic talents. She discusses her unique professional identity, describing herself as "juggling between a designer who photographs and a photographer who designs." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ankita Das and Her Creative Journey 02:56 The Duality of Identity in Creativity 05:56 Artistic Influences from Childhood 09:07 Exploring Dating Culture Through Art 11:55 The Intersection of Performance and Design 15:14 Navigating PCOS Through Artistic Expression 18:02 Creating Community Through Espace Tricote 21:01 Understanding Space and Communication Design 24:05 Collective Chimera: Building a ive Community 27:01 Funding and Sustainability of Artistic Spaces 29:55 The Impact of Community on Creativity 32:52 Sharing Work Beyond the Community 36:05 Balancing Work and Personal Life 38:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts    CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Website: https://ankitadas.com/ Instagram: Herecomesthepotato   the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.  

In this mini-episode, we dive into something we ALL struggle with as creatives - the hidden cost of context switching. Ever feel like you've run a mental marathon without actually finishing anything substantial? Turns out there's a name for that overwhelmed feeling: attention residue. Martine shares her personal struggles with toggling between creator, marketer, and business manager modes - and how neuroscience shows our brains simply aren't designed for these rapid-fire transitions. (Did you know it takes an average of 23 minutes to fully regain focus after an interruption? Whew!) But don't worry! This isn't just about naming the problem - we’ve got practical solutions in her context switching survival kit: Time-blocking with buffers (separate your maker days from your manager days!) The two-minute reset ritual for those unavoidable transitions The threshold technique that creates clean breaks between work sessions If you're a creative entrepreneur feeling stretched in a million directions, this episode is your nudge to protect your creative focus.  the Show Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.  

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In this episode, we pulls back the curtain on our creative process, revealing the digital ecosystem that brings the podcast interviews to life. If you've ever felt intimidated by the technical side of podcasting, tune in to discover a your new favorite tool. Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to the Creative Journey  00:27 Behind the Scenes of Podcasting  02:53 Tools of the Trade  05:46 Visual and Interactive Elements  09:10 Editing and Publishing Process  11:59 The Courage to Create the Show Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Tools mentioned   Riverside.fm Lately.ai Napkin.ai Canva.com Veed.io Audacity.com   the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives  

We chat with Kyra Wells, a graphic designer and advocate for creative community and mentorship. She reflects on her path from a young artist to her role at American Greetings and leadership at AIGA Cleveland. Kyra explores the role of playfulness in design, ing emerging creatives, and her course, You Are Not an Imposter, which helps designers gain confidence in their careers.   Episode Highlights   Kyra's journey reflects the value of mentorship. She started her own business during the pandemic. Injecting fun into work is a core value at American Greetings. Kyra emphasizes the importance of community in design. Sustainability in design is a growing focus for AIGA Cleveland. The course 'You Are Not an Imposter' addresses common struggles Balancing personal projects with professional responsibilities is essential.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kyra Wells and Her Creative Journey 05:12 Kyra's Early Inspirations and Path to Graphic Design 12:23 Navigating the Job Market and Building a Career 18:34 The Importance of Community and Mentorship 23:03 Finding Creative Voice Through Client Work 26:33 Creating Fun and Engaging Content at American Greetings 29:11 AIGA Cleveland: Building Community and Opportunities 32:21 Inspiration from Local Designers and Educators 34:10 Creating the Course: You Are Not an Imposter CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Kyra's website: https://kyrajwells.com/ Connect with Kyra on Instagram: @kyrajwells   the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives    

In this mini episode, we reflect on our progress with the creative goals you set at the beginning of the year. We discuss the common challenges of procrastination and hesitation while offering practical strategies to overcome these barriers and reconnect with creative intentions. Key Points Take time to honestly assess your progress on goals set earlier in the year Recognize that people approach their creative journeys differently - some change directions like rivers, others face procrastination Transform obligation into joy by infusing your creative journey with playfulness Consider seeking ability partners to witness your struggles and celebrate victories that these challenges are universal - even the host creates these episodes based on her own struggles Quote "We are not our delays, nor are we our detours. Some of us manifest our intentions with natural grace, and other people they discover that certain goals like jumping from great heights don't really align with their inner, their deeper wisdom." Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on Goals and Progress 02:52 Overcoming Procrastination and Hesitation 06:08 Embracing ability and Personal Growth Closing Message "Whatever approach you choose, let it resonate with your spirit and with your gut. You have full permission to embrace whatever you choose... Please stay creative and above all, be tender with your magnificent self." Connect With Us: Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack Watch the Youtube Version of this video This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.   Production Credits: Martine Severin produced and edited this episode of This is How We Create. Previous Episodes in This Series: Episode 112: Roy de Carava Episode 114: Margaret Burroughs  

In this illuminating episode of "This is How We Create," host Martine Severin sits down with Ube Urban, a multifaceted creative leader who brings his Pacific Islander heritage to the forefront of his design practice and mentorship approach. Born in Hawaii with Japanese, Black, Native American, and Filipino roots, Ube shares his journey from island life to becoming a head of customer experience in corporate America. Through candid conversation, he reveals the challenges of maintaining cultural identity while navigating mainland expectations and professional environments where he is often "the only one." In this episode, you'll discover: How Ube's upbringing in Hawaii shaped his approach to organization, presentation, and identity The concept of "invisible work" in both design and cultural navigation Ube's framework for mentorship helps others discover and maintain authentic personal brands The struggles of cultural displacement and the pressure to compartmentalize identity in professional settings Why "authenticity" can be a complicated concept for those with multicultural backgrounds Ube offers valuable insights for creatives navigating multicultural identities, providing a compelling perspective on maintaining cultural roots while forging new professional paths. His story reminds us that true decolonization of design means embracing the full intersectionality of our experiences. Quotes from the episode: "When I came to the mainland, I was essentially this person kind of holding this gem... and then I had battle balloons over time and my shiny diamond turned into this rough rock." "Being in Hawaii, you're just like, 'This is who I am, this is who we all are.' I don't have to prove to you my existence or my family or pride. We all share that." "How can you control something that a corporation, an agency, or a company cannot control? That is the hardest part." Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Ube Urban and His Work 03:31 Ube's Background and Identity 10:07 Navigating Cultural Identity and Professional Spaces 16:49 The Journey of Self-Discovery 23:24 Transitioning from Hawaii to the Mainland 26:21 Ube's Framework for Authentic Branding 31:17 Questions for Self-Discovery 38:10 The Challenge of Individuality in a Conformist Society 46:08 Reflections on Growth and Future Generations CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Website: https://www.ubeurban.com/ Linkedin: ubeurban   the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.  

What if the biggest creative breakthroughs come from breaking your own rules? In this Black History Month mini-episode, we explore the remarkable artistic journey of 97-year-old sculptor and painter Lillian Thomas Burwell, whose creative evolution spans nearly a century of American history. Episode Highlights: Growing up during the Great Depression, Burwell learned transformative creativity from watching her mother turn silk shipping sacks into elegant curtains Her artistic journey from realism to bold abstract expressionism during the Civil Rights era Her innovative techniques combining canvas, wood, and heated plexiglass Burwell's intuitive creative process: "I don't know what the second step is until the first step is completed" Key Quote: "I've always believed in taking chances and going into unexplored territory." - Lillian Thomas Burwell Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Artistic Resilience 01:27 Lillian Thomas Burwell: A Journey Through Time 03:54 The Evolution of Artistic Expression 06:30 Transformation and Creative Courage   About the Artist: Lillian Thomas Burwell's work represents a lifetime of artistic innovation, from her early influences during the Depression to her current sculptural pieces that seem to grow from walls "like living things." Her art demonstrates the power of transformation and creative courage. Connect With Us: Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack Watch the Youtube Version of this video This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Production Credits: Martine Severin produced and edited this episode of This is How We Create. Previous Episodes in This Series: Episode 112: Roy de Carava Episode 114: Margaret Burroughs  

Ever wonder how top creatives land those dream campaigns with GEICO, Target, and Old Navy? In this episode, art director Ashley Bozeman pulls back the curtain on the art of the perfect pitch. In this episode of This Is How We Create, host Martine Severin sits down with art director Ashley Bozeman for an intimate conversation about creative collaboration, client presentations, and the art of the pitch. Ashley shares invaluable insights from her journey through major agencies including Martin Agency, Mother New York, and currently Mullen Lowe Los Angeles, where she's worked with brands like GEICO, DoorDash, Old Navy, and Target. Key Highlights: How the Creative Circus transformed Ashley's approach to collaboration by replacing "I" with "We" The essential elements of a winning client deck: simplicity, clear hierarchy, and purposeful design Bringing personal stories into professional work, including featuring her activist mother in an Old Navy campaign Practical tips for creating impactful presentations and mood boards Applying creative direction skills to personal projects, including wedding planning Memorable Quote: "Let's just try it out. I never want to be a person that's already knocking stuff down before we even get to present it. If somebody feels very ionate about an idea and they have a lot of excitement behind it, a lot of love - okay, great. How can I help you better it?" Connect with Ashley Bozeman: Website: https://ashleybozeman.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleycierraa/ the Show: Follow Host Martine Severin on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to Martine's Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com/ Visit our Website: https://martineseverin.com/ Credits: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help other creative professionals find our community. Next Episode: Tune in next week as we continue our conversation with creative professionals who are reshaping the industry.  

This week on our Mini Episode of This Is How We Create, we unpack the revolutionary story of Dr. Margaret Burroughs, who transformed her first-floor living room into the DuSable Museum—one of America's most significant institutions of African American history. This episode explores how creating the spaces we need can spark cultural movements that ripple through generations. In This Episode - The power of starting where you are - even if it's your living room - How Dr. Burroughs built cultural institutions without waiting for permission - The journey from home museum to Smithsonian-d institution - Why representation matters in preserving and sharing Black history - The lasting impact of creating spaces for community art and culture Key Moments 00:00 - Introduction and setting the scene - Welcome to "This Is How We Create" - Introduction to Dr. Margaret Burroughs (formerly Victoria Margaret Taylor)   02:30 - Early Years - Born in Louisiana - Migration to Chicago - Marriage to Charles Burroughs in 1949   05:00 - Building Cultural Spaces - Co-founding the Southside Community Art Center at age 22 - Hosting artists like Langston Hughes - Eleanor Roosevelt's dedication of the center   08:00 - The Living Room Revolution - Converting their first floor into a museum in 1961 - Growth into the DuSable Museum - Current collection of over 13,000 artifacts   Notable Quotes "I just couldn't see myself standing in front of a group of eager-eyed young Black people and not being able to tell them something very positive about themselves." - Dr. Margaret Burroughs   Resources Mentioned - Southside Community Art Center (Still active today) - DuSable Museum - Dr. Burroughs' linocuts and paintings   Episode Takeaways 1. Don't wait for perfect conditions - start where you are 2. Community spaces can grow from humble beginnings 3. Personal spaces can become cultural institutions 4. Art and history preservation are acts of revolution 5. Creating space for others is a form of legacy building  KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.  

Want to know the real secret to turning your biggest fear into your greatest success" Reed II is a Miami-based artist whose work has captured the attention of major brands like Nike and initiatives led by Michelle Obama. His murals at Wynwood Walls have become cultural landmarks, and his unique approach to storytelling through art has established him as a leading voice in contemporary Black American culture. ABOUT THIS IS HOW WE CREATE: host Martine Severin as she explores the creative journeys of contemporary artists of color, uncovering the hidden stories and strategies behind their success. Produced and edited by Martine Severin. 🎧 New episodes drop every Wednesday! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review. #CreativeSuccess #ArtistInterview #Creativity #PersonalDevelopment #FearlessBranding #ArtistLife #CreativeBusiness #ThisIsHowWeCreate #MojoReed #MartineSeverin Did you get value from this episode? Screenshot & share it on Instagram - tag @thisishowwecreate_ and @martine.severin so we can thank you!

In this special mini-episode, we explore the extraordinary legacy of Roy DeCarava (1919-2009), one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century. From the streets of Harlem to the stages where jazz giants performed, DeCarava revolutionized how we see through photography, especially in his groundbreaking representation of Black life and culture. Listen in to hear how you can apply some of his lessons to your own work. Roy DeCarava Roy DeCarava Fresh Air NPR Roy DeCarava Charlie Rose  A Radical Vision: Roy DeCarava’s "The Sweet Flypaper Of Life KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.  

This week's episode reminds us why authenticity is essential to artistic vision. Martine sits down with Adrian Octavius Walker, a mixed-media artist and photographer whose journey from St. Louis to the Smithsonian will inspire you to think differently about your creative path. A note from the content team: In this episode, we discuss grief and the loss of a parent. Episode Highlights Collaboration and networking are essential in the creative industry. Taking care of oneself physically and mentally is crucial for success. Balancing work and family requires prioritization and setting boundaries. Music can be a powerful source of inspiration and motivation for artists. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Adrian Octavius Walker 03:02 Childhood and Early Influences 05:56 Navigating Grief and Loss 09:13 The Role of Photography in Healing 12:04 Transitioning to College and Career 14:57 The Journey of a Mixed Media Artist 17:46 Touring with Lupe Fiasco 21:09 Becoming a Photo Editor and Beyond 24:56 The Journey Begins: From Editing App to Career 29:20 Building a Community: The Power of Connections 34:37 Artistic Growth: Discovering My Voice 39:41 Collaboration and Self-Care: Balancing Life and Art 46:27 Advice to My Younger Self: Financial Wisdom and Mental Health 48:50 The Role of Music: A Creative Lifeline QUOTABLE GEMS: "I wouldn't necessarily say I'm giving up anything. What I am doing is giving in and giving grace to life itself." - Adrian Walker  CREATOR'S TOOLKIT: Adrian shares his secret weapon for staying creative and centered: music! Stay tuned for his curated playlist dropping soon. REAL TALK MOMENT: When Adrian talks about scheduling his long runs before family time [42:30], he drops some serious wisdom about how to show up for your art AND your family. This conversation is a must-listen for any creator trying to balance it all. MARTINE'S TAKEAWAY: "What struck me most about Adrian's journey is how he's turned every experience – even the painful ones – into fuel for his artistic vision. His work reminds us that there's beauty everywhere, even in unexpected places." THE CONVERSATION: What resonated most with you from Adrian's story? Share your thoughts with us using #ThisIsHowWeCreate #Photography #ArtistJourney #CreativeLife #MixedMediaArt #ThisIsHowWeCreate PS: Like what you heard? Share this episode with a fellow creator who needs to hear it! 🎨✨   Get to know Adrian Octavius Walker Website: Adrian Octavius Walker Follow on Instagram: Adrian the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives Tags #Photography #MixedMediaArt #BlackCreativity #Storytelling #ArtisticJourney #CreativeEntrepreneur #VSCO #WorkLifeBalance #MusicInspiration #Collaboration  #FreelanceLife #ArtistInterview #BlackArtists #VisualStorytelling #CreativeProcess  

This episode unpacks a powerful truth about creativity: your path isn't linear, and that's exactly how it should be. Host Martine Severin breaks down how three groundbreaking artists navigated multiple streams of life while building their creative practice. Elizabeth Catlett: Merged modernist training with accessibility Charles White: Combined Chicago labor movement work with mastering his craft Mary Sully: Dakota artist who challenged Western conventions   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Journeys 01:52 Exploring the Lives of Influential Artists 06:11 The Importance of Technical Skills and Commitment 08:09 Conclusion and Call to Action KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.  

In this episode, photographer and U.S. Army veteran Chris Charles shares his remarkable journey from military service to creative entrepreneurship. His story is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and the unexpected ways our past experiences shape our future success. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: How military discipline can transform your creative business The power of systems and automation in preventing burnout Why diversifying income streams is crucial for creative entrepreneurs The importance of establishing clear boundaries and rest days How to transition from service provider to strategic business owner RESOURCES MENTIONED: Acuity Scheduling Square Payment Systems Model Mayhem Flickr   Episode Timeline 00:00 Introduction to Chris Charles' Journey 02:55 From Military to Creative Entrepreneur 06:10 Childhood Influences and Early Artistic Exposure 08:48 Transitioning from Military to Photography 11:45 Experiences as a Paratrooper 14:58 Rediscovering Photography in Iraq 17:53 Building a Creative Career 20:54 The Role of Education in Chris' Career 24:04 Combining Graphic Design and Photography 27:08 Military Precision in Creative Business 28:59 Establishing a Seamless Booking Process 34:29 Navigating Burnout and Work-Life Balance 39:30 The Importance of Delegation and 45:00 Rethinking Business Models and Income Streams   Connect With Chris Website: Chris Charles Follow on Instagram: Chris Charles the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.  

"Trust Your Art in Troubled Times" - When democracy makes you uncertain, should you create or doom-scroll? Host Martine Severin draws wisdom from Black artists who've turned constitutional tension into enduring work - from Baldwin to Amy Sherald. Perfect for: Artists, writers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their creative practice while building sustainable success. #CreativeStrategy #ArtistsOfColor #CreativeBusiness #PersonalDevelopment KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.

Want to hear an honest conversation about what it really takes to build a creative career while staying true to your roots? Today's guest, Kieron Lewis, shares his remarkable journey from a kid in South London to becoming one of the most sought-after editorial designers in publishing. His story will inspire you to embrace change, trust your instincts, and build success on your own . You'll learn: Why listening to your gut (and your mom!) might lead to your true calling The REAL breakdown of freelance life: 85% business, 15% creativity How becoming a parent transformed Kieron's approach to work and success A powerful framework for handling client with confidence The unexpected way Kieron uses humor to build stronger professional relationships During the pandemic, while planning a wedding AND buying a house, Kieron took the leap into freelancing. That same week, he landed two major opportunities: a publication with HarperCollins and a hosting role with Adobe. Sometimes the universe has your back when you trust your instincts! Think you need to have it all figured out? Kieron's story proves that embracing the unknown – whether in your career or as a new parent – can be surprisingly liberating. It's not about controlling everything; it's about being open to where life takes you. ✍️ The Culture Code by Clotaire Rapaille - Game-changing insights on cross-cultural communication 🎨 Strategic project organization tips that will save your sanity 💪 The confidence to say no to weekend work when family time matters more. Success isn't about having everything perfectly planned – it's about being brave enough to pivot when something doesn't feel right, and confident enough to bring your authentic self to every opportunity. In This EpisodeEpisode Timeline [00:00] - Introduction and show premise  [01:49] - Growing up in Brixton and early creative influences  [04:02] - Educational journey and transition to graphic design  [06:20] - First job experience in advertising  [08:43] - "Still Breathing" book project with HarperCollins  [13:21] - Teaching experience and freelance insights  [20:24] - Advanced freelancing strategies  [25:05] - Tools of the trade and Adobe expertise  [27:29] - Balancing parenthood and creative work  [31:59] - Personal life and creative inspiration Connect With Kieron Website: Kieron Lewis Follow on Instagram: Kieron Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.

In this episode, host Martine Severin shares her proven 10-year framework for creative reflection that treats your artistic journey with the gentleness it deserves. Through the lens of "creative archaeology," discover how to uncover patterns, celebrate progress, and set meaningful intentions for your creative practice. This episode is part 3 of our three-part series on reflections and gaining clarity. Quick Links 📋 the Companion Workbook 📮 Subscribe to Creative Matters Newsletter 🎧 Listen to Part 2 (Episode 104) 🎧 Listen to Related Episodes (102) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Reflection and Goal Setting 01:32 The Gentle Art of Looking Back 02:27 Creative Archaeology: Digging into Your Year 05:14 The Three Crossings: Mapping Your Journey 08:52 Money and Meaning in Creative Practice 11:57 Final Thoughts and Creative Commitments Perfect for: Artists, writers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their creative practice while building sustainable success. #CreativeStrategy #ArtistsOfColor #CreativeBusiness #PersonalDevelopment KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.

We sit down with Alex Cabal, a Los Angeles-based illustrator whose vibrant work celebrates cultural identity and diverse representation. From movie posters to YA book covers, Alex shares her journey of finding authentic artistic expression and building a sustainable creative career. Episode Highlights Growing up in a strict household and using art as an escape Transition from movie poster concept artist to independent illustrator How embracing Filipino heritage transformed her artistic practice The journey of overcoming colorism and celebrating darker skin tones Building a successful illustration career without traditional networking Managing multiple income streams as a creative professional Chapters 00:00 Finding Artistic Voice 03:06 Journey of Self-Discovery 12:06 Breaking Free from Constraints 20:40 Embracing Cultural Heritage 30:16 The Art of Portrait Illustration 37:27 Navigating Income Streams Key Insights for Illustrators Create work that's true to your voice, even if it doesn't fit current trends Don't underestimate the power of online platforms (Instagram, Pinterest, Behance) Consider multiple revenue streams: client work, art markets, online shops Build strong foundational skills in traditional art techniques Know when to ask for help and build a system CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: https://www.alex-cabal.com/ Instagram @acaballz the Show Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.