When Weird Works: Finding Success Through Pure Authenticity

In this episode of the "Creatively Ever After" podcast, host Cat Alvarado interviews visual artist Kii Arens about his creative journey and successful career spanning decades. Kii shares stories about his artistic beginnings in Minnesota, his breakthrough moment designing for Woodstock '94, and his impressive work with music icons like Dolly Parton, Ringo Starr, and Lady Gaga. The conversation explores Kii's creative process, his keys to success (including creating work on spec and following his intuition), and his experiences photographing and designing album covers for major artists.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cat Alvarado interviews accomplished choreographer, Dana Wilson, discussing what it takes to make it in dance, and the future of creative careers sharing the world with AI. Los Angeles-based performer Dana is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, combining versatile dance expertise with innovative choreography and movement direction. A three-time world tour veteran with Justin Timberlake—including performing at the Super Bowl Halftime Show—Dana has made her mark in film (appearing in "La La Land" and providing movement reference for animated characters in "Shrek 4" and "Trolls"), television, and live performances at prestigious events like the Oscars and Grammys. Beyond performing, she's established herself as a sought-after choreographer for major artists and brands, co-created the "Mime Technique for Dance" master class series, founded creative initiatives like "The Seaweed Sisters" and "The Bureau of Nonverbal Communication," and teaches internationally, all while pioneering work with emerging technologies from motion capture to 360-degree video. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Sethward, the viral sensation known for his outrageous animal transformations on America's Got Talent. From childhood bug collector to professional clown, discover how embracing his unique perspective and learning to love failure helped him build an international career in character performance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, host Cat Alvarado sits down with Jon Pack, a former software salesman turned content creator known for his viral character sketches and comedy videos. Jon shares his journey from NYU theater student to Comedy Central assistant to successful software sales executive, all while nurturing his creative passions on the side. The conversation explores the advantages of maintaining a day job while pursuing creative endeavors, the evolution of comedy in the social media age, and the importance of building authentic connections in the creative community. Jon offers valuable insights about patience, self-compassion, and finding the right timing to pursue creative dreams.For more:Follow @creativelyeverafterpod on IGFollow @catalvaradocomedyFollow @jonpackSupport Cat Alvarado on Patreon! www.patreon.com/catalvarado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Creatively Ever After, Cat Alvarado talks to writer/producer Koji Sakai about what it takes to make it as a professional screenwriter. Koji's work has appeared on major streaming platforms including Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. He has written twelve produced feature films and produced nine features, working with talent like Cuba Gooding Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, and Randall Park. Beyond screenwriting, Koji co-hosts The Unofficial Official Story Podcast and teaches at UCLA Extension and New York Film Academy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this debut episode, comedian Seth Lawrence opens up about his journey from corporate contract law to stand-up comedy, challenging traditional gender roles as a stay-at-home dad along the way. Seth and host Cat Alvarado dive deep into the complexities of balancing creativity with family life, the importance of having a supportive partner, and how our biggest insecurities can become our greatest assets. From Mormon expectations to comedy club stages, Seth's story reminds us that sometimes the most fulfilling path isn't the one society prescribes. Whether you're considering a career pivot or struggling to embrace your authentic self, this conversation offers honest insights about finding your voice and living creatively ever after. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.