Ricky Zhang, Creator of Prince of Travel for Miles and Points

In this episode of *Your World of Creativity*, host Mark Stinson chats with renowned photographer Enzo Dal Verme about creativity as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth. enzo's Website @enzodalverme on Instagram enzo's Facebook page From his illustrious career in celebrity photography to teaching meditative retreats, Enzo shares how art can foster deeper connections with both subjects and oneself. Here’s a glimpse into the conversation:- Creative Shift: Enzo describes moving from high-profile photography to using photography as a tool for self-awareness and mindfulness.- Meditation & Photography: How Enzo integrates his 35-year meditation practice into photography to create calm and focus during photoshoots.- Teaching Philosophy: Enzo explains his unique approach to photography retreats, focusing on the emotional connection between photographer and subject, not just technical skills.- Creativity Tips: Enzo suggests balancing exposure to inspiring work with moments of silence to unlock creativity.- Self-Care for Creatives: He emphasizes the importance of being kind to oneself, particularly when balancing creativity and personal limits.“When a bottle is full, there is no more room for anything else.” — Enzo Dal VermeSponsored by: White Cloud Coffee Roasters—crafting rich, flavorful roasts to inspire your creative journey.

In this episode of Your World of Creativity, Mark Stinson welcomes back David Page, the creator of *Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives*, to discuss his new podcast *Culinary Characters Unlocked*. DAVID's Facebook page David shares his passion for storytelling in the food world and how he’s using this platform to highlight the diverse personalities behind the culinary industry. The conversation dives into the art of podcasting, the beauty of open-ended conversations, and why passion matters in any creative venture.- David’s new podcast features open-ended, deep conversations with chefs and food innovators.- He reveals fascinating backstories of culinary legends like Nancy Silverton and emerging talents like Christina Nguyen.- Passionate local chefs are equally important as Michelin-starred legends in keeping great cooking alive.- David shares insights into how food culture in America is constantly evolving and why authenticity doesn't mean rigid tradition.- The beauty of long-form storytelling: letting characters express themselves fully beyond a 30-second soundbite.Pull-out Quote from David Page:"Anybody who cares deeply about doing something better than good enough—that is a personality that explains to me who you are."Special thanks to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee Roasters.

In this episode, we sit down with 25-year veteran actor Russell Andrews, known for his roles on TV, film, and stage. He shares his journey from acting to writing his debut novel, *Shoes*, a story inspired by a family he observed 38 years ago that has stayed with him all his life. Here's what we covered:- From Acting to Writing: Russell discusses the transition from acting out others' stories to creating his own, with *Shoes* marking his debut as an author.- The Origins of "Shoes": The inspiration came from a brief but impactful encounter with a family in a Salvation Army store, a moment Russell never wanted to forget.- Creative Courage: Russell reflects on overcoming the fear of writing such a simple story without dramatic elements like drugs or violence.- The Power of Storytelling: We explore how Russell's career has been centered around telling meaningful stories, whether on stage, screen, or in print.- What’s Next: Russell shares upcoming projects, including a short film adaptation of "Shoes" and ongoing auditions.Key Quote: "I just didn’t want to forget that young man. He’d be 49 right now, and I never saw them again, but that moment has lived with me ever since." — Russell Andrews

Welcome to a special episode of Your World of Creativity! This week, we’re bringing you a New Country Music Sampler featuring a selection of fresh tracks released over the summer from some incredibly talented independent singer-songwriters. Summer can be a busy time, and it’s easy to miss new music. That’s why we’re thrilled to showcase these artists and their creative work, offering you a chance to discover some great songs that might have flown under your radar.Featured Songs and Artists:1.    Robert Ross, Canadian/Australian Country Chart-Topper, released “Mamma’s Song” on July 26. It’s from his upcoming sophomore album, “Better With Time.” We also feature a song from his debut album, “For You Girl.”2.    Ohio Country Music Hall of Famer Richard Lynch released his highly anticipated new album, “Pulling Up the Covers,” on July 26. This collection is not just a covers album; it is a heartfelt journey through the songs that have defined country music and shaped Lynch’s own life and career. We feature Richard’s cover of the Barry Gibb-penned, Conway Twitty country hit, “Rest Your Love on Me.”3.    Acclaimed songwriter and musician, Tim Tye and his project, Midnight Sky, released of the highly anticipated lyric video for their latest single, “Every Now and Then.” Following the success of their two Top 10 UK iTunes Country hits and two more Top 25 singles, Midnight Sky continues to captivate audiences with their unique blend of country and Americana.4.    Eddy Mann, the acclaimed Christian folk rock music artist, released his latest single, “I’m Coming,” from his album, “Turn Up the Divine,” on June 7. This powerful new single underscores the themes of divine presence and unwavering faith, offering comfort and inspiration to listeners worldwide.5.    Here's the new single from chart-topping, award-winning singer-songwriter, Jeremy Parsons. His innovative productions have won him critical acclaim and a place among today's most unique and exciting new country artists.6.    Cliff & Susan, the dynamic married country music duo, released of their rendition of Van Morrison’s timeless classic, “Into the Mystic” on all major streaming platforms July 5. The song was recorded at the legendary FAME Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Their version captures the soulful essence of the original while injecting it with their signature country flair.7.    Erin Enderlin is a force in the country music world, known for her storytelling and vocal prowess. Her accolades include multiple albums, performances at the Grand Ole Opry, and numerous awards from the ACMAs. Her recent songwriting credits include cuts by Willie Nelson and Trisha Yearwood. 8.    Country artist Lady Redneck, known for her high-energy performances and fun, tongue-in-cheek songs, released her latest single on June 7 -- a cover of The Police’s iconic hit, “Every Breath You Take.”Bonus Track9. Renowned for his profound musical prowess and heartfelt melodies, Michael Zuzek is thrilled to release his new single, "Graystone," June 21. This track promises to be a captivating addition to the pop-rock genre, merging nostalgic influences with a fresh and invigorating sound. The track is from his upcoming 2024 album release, “Everest,” encapsulating the essence of the 60s and 70s while infusing it with contemporary vibrancy.Special thanks to the artists for allowing us to share their music, and to their management for supporting our creative community, especially Michael at MTS Management Group.We appreciate you for tuning in to Your World of Creativity! We hope you enjoy these fantastic new country tracks as much as we do. Be sure to follow and support these...

In this episode of Your World of Creativity, we dive into the minds behind the new book *Assembling Tomorrow: A Guide to Designing a Thriving Future*, co-authored by Scott Doorley and Carissa Carter, with illustrations by Armando Veve. Scott and Armando discuss the collaborative process behind the book, which blends fiction, essays, and stunning visuals to address the role of design in an ever-changing world. The conversation touches on the challenges and opportunities posed by emerging technologies, the importance of creative partnerships, and the concept of thriving as a guiding principle for the future.Key Takeaways:1. Designing in an Unpredictable World: Scott emphasizes the need for flexibility and adaptability in design, especially in an era marked by rapid technological advancements and constant change.2. Creative Collaboration: The unique partnership between Scott and Armando highlights the power of integrating design and illustration from the start, allowing for a fluid exchange of ideas that enriches both the visual and textual narratives.3. The Role of Fiction in Design: Incorporating fictional elements into the book was crucial for exploring not just what is, but what could be, encouraging readers to think beyond the present.4. Human Touch in a Technological World: Armando’s hand-drawn illustrations provide a necessary human element in a book that grapples with complex technological themes, striking a balance between the organic and the mechanical.5. Thriving as a Design Goal: The book’s focus on thriving—rather than simply improving or progressing—reflects a holistic approach to the future, where harmony, sustainability, and individual potential are paramount.Pull-Out Quote:“In an unpredictable world, the goal isn’t to get it perfect, but to create something that’s changeable, something you can shepherd and adapt as the world evolves.” – Scott Doorley

In this insightful episode, host Mark Stinson sits down with Ben Gillenwater, a technology expert with a background as a CTO, former NSA contractor, and entrepreneur. Together, they delve into the critical topic of internet safety in the home, exploring the intersection of creativity, technology, and security. Ben shares his unique perspective on how the digital age's innovations come with significant privacy and security concerns that every family should be aware of. He offers practical advice on how to protect personal information and minimize risks, emphasizing the importance of staying vigilant in the face of increasingly sophisticated online threats.5 Key Takeaways:1. Understanding the Stakes: Internet safety extends far beyond physical threats; it includes privacy, emotional well-being, and protecting against the monetization of our digital behaviors. Major companies like Meta, Google, and Microsoft are financially motivated to collect and utilize personal data to enhance their advertising revenue, often at the cost of user privacy.2. The Hidden Dangers of Data Collection: Seemingly harmless online activities can lead to significant behavioral and information exposure. For instance, social media platforms like Facebook track user behavior across the internet, leading to data breaches like the Cambridge Analytica scandal, where personal data was exploited for political gain.3. Children and Internet Safety: Giving children unfiltered access to the internet is akin to leaving your home’s front door unlocked. Ben stresses the importance of monitoring and controlling internet access for children and gradually increasing their exposure as they mature and develop better judgment.4. The Illusion of Free Services: Many free apps and services are designed to capture and monetize user data. Ben advises listeners to be skeptical of "free" offerings, as they often come with hidden costs, such as compromised privacy and personal information being sold to third parties.5. Practical Solutions for Families: There are actionable steps that families can take to protect themselves, such as using child safety apps like Bark, which offer comprehensive monitoring of children’s online activities. However, as children grow older, it’s essential to balance technical controls with education on digital literacy and responsible online behavior.Quote:*"You are safer removing the locks in your house than you are giving your kids unfiltered access to the Internet." — Ben GillenwaterDon’t miss this episode if you want to learn how to safeguard your family’s digital life and navigate the complexities of internet safety in the modern age.Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with the latest episodes of Your World of Creativity by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform and following us on social media.

As we transition from summer to fall, we bring you a special episode featuring highlights from some of our most inspiring conversations this summer. Get ready to dive into creativity, innovation, and leadership insights from a variety of exceptional guests. Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll hear in this compilation:- Matt McLean (Uncle Matt's Organic Juices): Discover how Matt built a thriving business from humble beginnings and overcame the unpredictable challenges of agriculture.- Jeff Wetzler (Author of "Ask"): Learn how to tap into the hidden wisdom of those around you for unexpected breakthroughs in leadership and life.- Sustainability Book Panel: Explore the collaborative process of bringing together global authors and illustrators to tackle sustainability through creativity.- John Novello (Musician, Author): Journey through John’s evolution from a Grammy-winning jazz pianist to an author exploring metaphysical creativity.- Karin Hurt & David Dye (Leadership Experts): Uncover powerful phrases that can foster creativity and resolve conflicts in the workplace.- Geoff Thatcher (Experience Designer): Delve into the future of AI in storytelling and how it's revolutionizing experience design.- **Henry Alexander Wiencek (Historian/Author): Revisit the historical significance of North Louisiana’s oil cities and their impact on society and economy.- Alice Austin (Singer-Songwriter): Enjoy insights from a globetrotting musician who blends creativity with cultural exploration.Key Quotes:- Matt McLean: "If you love change, get into agriculture."- Jeff Wetzler: "We often overestimate sensitivity when people are dying to be asked a question."- Katja Schimmel: "Use creative thinking to approach the global goals in many different ways."- John Novello: "As we think and believe within, so without."- Karin Hurt: "On the other side of disagreement is often where the real creative breakthroughs happen."- Geoff Thatcher: "AI is just another arrow in my quiver of experience design."- Henry Alexander Wiencek: "The oil cities of North Louisiana were pivotal from both an economic and societal standpoint."- Alice Austin: "Music is a universal language that connects us to every corner of the world."Enjoy these highlights, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review *Your World of Creativity* on your favorite podcast platform. It’s the best way to stay inspired and support the show!Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by White Cloud Coffee Roasters. Enjoy 10% off online orders with the promo code CREATIVITY at checkout. Visit http://whitecloudcoffee.com to explore their artisan blends!

In this episode of *Your World of Creativity*, host Mark Stinson chats with singer-songwriter Alice Austin. From her Vermont roots to her eclectic musical journey in Los Angeles, Alice shares her insights on creativity, genre-defying music, and the challenges of being an indie artist. web: https://aliceaustinmusic.com/IG: @thealiceaustinYouTube: https://youtube.com/@aliceaustinHere are five key topics from their conversation:1. **Genre-Bending Music**: Alice discusses her approach to music, stating, “I just write songs and then figure out the rest later.” Her versatility spans from punk to soft rock to country, reflecting her belief in following the creative element first and foremost.2. **Finding Your Voice**: Emphasizing artistic authenticity, Alice says, “Finding your voice as an artist is key if you're going to do something like that.” Whether singing metal or Americana, her voice remains distinct and true to herself, similar to how Beck’s diverse music always sounds uniquely like Beck.3. **The Power of Collaboration**: Alice talks about the transformative power of collaboration, noting, “It's an exercise in surrendering the ego to something greater.” Working with others has pushed her creativity beyond her expectations, leading to richer and more innovative music.4. **Breaking the Spell**: Reflecting on her album *Break the Spell*, Alice reveals, “It was a departure from anything I'd done...more of a synth-pop album.” The project was a collaboration with producer Dave Drouin, blending 80s influences with modern production to create a nostalgic yet fresh sound.5. **Authenticity in Marketing**: Alice highlights the struggles of self-promotion as an indie artist, stating, “It's soul-sucking to put yourself out there on social media.” To stay grounded, she released an acoustic album, *Neon Pink*, with minimal marketing, focusing on the therapeutic aspect of creating music.Alice also shares her excitement for upcoming projects, including her band *Tears on Denim*, and her role as the lead singer for *Black Sabbitch*, an all-female Black Sabbath tribute band.To aspiring musicians, Alice offers this advice: “There are so many opportunities...keep your mind open and talk to people. There's a different path for you.” Her journey underscores the importance of staying true to oneself while remaining open to new possibilities and connections.

In this enlightening episode of "Your World of Creativity," host Mark Stinson delves into the fascinating intersection of imagination and technology with guest Jeremy Lasman. Jeremy, the founder of The Passion Company and a former SpaceX technologist, shares his vision of elevating humanity through what he calls "imagination technology" and leading a passion revolution. Jeremy's Website @1passioncompany on Instagram Jeremy on YouTube Jeremy's Facebook page - **Body, Mind, Spirit as Technology:** Jeremy introduces the concept of treating the body as hardware, the mind as software, and the spirit as the user interface, creating a holistic approach to human potential.- **Passion as Fuel:** Unlike the fear and negativity that drive the survival of the fittest, Jeremy advocates for passion as the primary energy source for human evolution.- **Scarcity vs. Abundance:** Jeremy discusses how creatives often struggle with scarcity mentality and how shifting to a mindset of abundance can transform their approach to work and life.- **Personal Development:** Sharing his personal journey, Jeremy emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and personal growth in overcoming negativity and embracing a passion-driven life.- **Imagination Technology:** Jeremy explains the new operating system he developed, which challenges the traditional survival of the fittest paradigm and promotes a cleaner, passion-driven energy.Pull-Out Quote:"Passion is the fuel of human energy, and especially what distinguishes humans from animals and machines." - Jeremy Lasman**Resources and Next Steps:**- Take the "Energy" Quiz at thepassioncompany.org to discover how you can optimize your inner energy.- Explore the manual and eBook on Imagination Technology for a deeper understanding of Jeremy's revolutionary approach.- Book a demo call with The Passion Company to see how imagination technology can benefit you.Jeremy's insights provide a thought-provoking perspective on how we can harness passion and imagination to drive personal and collective evolution. Tune in to learn more about this transformative approach and how it can impact your creative journey.**Connect with Jeremy Lasman:**https://www.thepassioncompany.org**Special Offer:**- Save 10% at White Cloud Coffee Roasters with the code "CREATIVITY" at checkout at https://www.whitecloudcoffee.com.Join us next time as we continue our global journey, exploring the minds of creative entrepreneurs shaping the future with their innovative ideas. Until then, keep unlocking your world of creativity with Mark Stinson.

Oil Cities: North Louisiana’s Oil Boom with Dr. Henry Alexander WeincekIn this captivating episode, we delve into the rich history of North Louisiana's early 20th-century oil boom with Dr. Henry Alexander Wiencek. His new book, "Oil Cities," offers a profound exploration of this transformative period, highlighting the social, economic, and environmental impacts on the region. Host Mark Stinson, with personal ties to North Louisiana, engages in a thoughtful discussion about the intersection of history, community, and industry.Oil Cities book publisher linkEpisode Highlights:- **Historical Context:** Dr. Wiencek explains how the discovery of oil in 1904 transformed North Louisiana from a sparsely populated agricultural area to a bustling industrial hub.- **Community Life:** The conversation explores the daily lives of those living in oil boom towns, highlighting the diverse communities that formed, including migrants from various parts of the world.- **Racial and Social Dynamics:** The discussion covers the racial tensions and societal changes brought about by the oil industry, including the story of Lily Gussie Taylor, one of America's wealthiest Black oil heiresses.- **Economic Impact:** Insights into how oil wealth was distributed and concentrated, particularly in urban centers like Shreveport, and the resultant infrastructural developments.- **Environmental and Political Factors:** The episode examines the environmental consequences of the oil boom and the political landscape that allowed for certain economic activities and racial segregation in the industry.Pull-Out Quote:"It's pretty striking that you've got a lot of these southern farmers from Arkansas, Texas, living alongside people from Sweden and Ireland and Russia. Pretty remarkable conglomeration of people in the tents."* - Dr. Henry Alexander WiencekThanks to our Sponsor: White Cloud Coffee RoastersJoin us as we continue to explore the fascinating intersections of history, creativity, and industry in various parts of the world. Tune in to discover how inspiration, organization, confidence, and connections drive creative work.