Author: Craig Constantine

Authentic with Paul Jones

August 30, 2021 · All posts on Aug 30

What deeper truths about human connection and self-discovery emerge from the pursuit of podcasting and other creative endeavors?

A journey through creative pursuits uncovers profound lessons about authenticity and overcoming self-doubt.

So we’ve got hands that we have to hold things in. But they have to be held lightly, because it’s about the connections that you and I make— that something is going to happen through the fact that you and I had this conversation today.

~ Paul Jones (19:06)

This conversation explores how podcasting serves as a means of personal and communal growth rather than just a technical or creative pursuit. Discussions touch on the inspiration drawn from others’ work, such as the significance of Seth Godin’s podcast episode, “It’s Not About the Chocolate,” and how it encapsulates using a passion as a vehicle to address broader, meaningful goals. Paul reflects on his journey with podcasting, revealing struggles with imposter syndrome, boundaries, and a lifelong pursuit of creative expression. He describes his experience of overcoming fears and how engaging in this medium has allowed him to uncover more about themselves.

The dialogue also highlights themes of human connection and the transformational power of shared experiences. Paul discusses the importance of resilience and authenticity, particularly in the context of navigating societal pressures and personal challenges. Reflections on art, self-improvement, and the value of community emerge as central topics, with emphasis on the balance between technical aspects of creative work and the deeper connections they foster.

Takeaways

Building connections through creativity — Podcasting is a medium that facilitates meaningful human connections beyond the surface.

Overcoming inner obstacles — Struggles with imposter syndrome and self-doubt are recurring challenges in creative endeavors.

Using passions as vehicles — Creative projects often serve as tools to explore broader life goals and purposes.

The role of community — Collaborating and sharing with others at different stages of similar journeys provides valuable perspective and support.

Authenticity over perfection — True creative expression requires embracing imperfections and focusing on genuine experiences.

Balancing ambition and self-care — Reflecting on personal limits is key to maintaining health and fulfilling creative goals.

Resources

Aardvark Chronicles â€” Paul’s podcast on SimpleCast, or you can subscribe over here if you’re feeling frisky.

Askinosie Chocolate â€” A chocolate company founded by Shawn Askinosie that uses chocolate-making as a vehicle for ethical and meaningful impact.

Seth Godin’s Akimbo podcast â€” A podcast exploring creativity, leadership, and change, referenced in the conversation.

David Allen’s Getting Things Done â€” A methodology and book mentioned in the discussion about productivity and work ethic.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Creativity with Dave Swillum

August 30, 2021 · All posts on Aug 30

How does podcasting empower individuals to express creativity, overcome barriers, and connect meaningfully with an audience?

Building immersive creative spaces can transform how artists and entrepreneurs thrive in their fields.

Sometimes it’s one singular person who will send me a message saying, ‘You got me to do it,’ and I’ll keep doing this because that one person matters.

~ Dave Swillum (21:49)

The conversation explores how podcasting democratizes creativity by removing barriers to entry, allowing anyone with a message to share their thoughts with the world. This accessibility has made podcasting a unique platform for authentic communication. There is also discussion about how podcasting compares to other creative mediums, with a focus on its audio format’s emotional resonance. The dialogue emphasizes the power of podcasts to amplify individual voices and foster real connections, especially in an era of technological ubiquity.

A significant portion of the conversation centers around building spaces conducive to creativity. Dave describes his work renovating a historic farm into a studio and living space designed for artists and entrepreneurs to immerse themselves in their work. This concept reflects a broader belief in the importance of reducing distractions to cultivate focus and innovation. Other topics include overcoming imposter syndrome, finding inspiration through collaboration, and maintaining momentum in creative endeavors. Dave shares practical strategies for overcoming creative ruts, emphasizing the value of persistence and connection.

Takeaways

Low barriers in podcasting — Podcasting provides an accessible platform for anyone to share their ideas and connect with a global audience.

Amplifying voices — A podcast acts as a metaphorical microphone, making individual voices heard on a larger scale.

Immersive creative spaces — Dedicated environments can help creators focus and develop impactful work without distractions.

Collaboration in creativity — Working alongside others often sparks better ideas and outcomes than working in isolation.

Rekindling motivation — Small connections, such as audience feedback, can reignite passion for a project.

Versatility in creativity — Anyone can be a creator by leveraging tools that align with their unique skills and passions.

Importance of focus — Deep, immersive workspaces or routines help foster meaningful and sustained creativity.

Practical strategies for creators — Journaling, setting specific goals, and pushing through fear can break creative blocks and maintain momentum.

Resources

Waking Up From Work Podcast â€” A podcast about pursuing passion and creativity in life.

Deep Work â€” Cal Newport’s book that explores the concept of focused, uninterrupted work as a key to achieving meaningful results.

Steven Pressfield’s books â€” Works exploring creativity, discipline, and the muse, including The War of Art.

Brooklyn Podcasting Studio â€” A professional podcasting space offering resources and support for creators.

Audio Engineering Society (AES) â€” A professional society for audio engineers, producers, and enthusiasts to connect and learn.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Execution with Angie Flynn-McIver

August 30, 2021 · All posts on Aug 30

What strategies can be used to overcome barriers to starting creative projects, particularly in podcasting and writing?

The conversation highlights how simplifying processes can make creative projects more achievable.

Just do the things. Stop talking about doing the things. Stop making lists about doing the things. Stop taking courses about doing the thing, and do the thing.

~ Angie Flynn-McIver (4:25)

The conversation examines the challenges of beginning and sustaining creative projects, such as podcasting and writing. One significant obstacle discussed is the tendency to overthink and complicate processes, which often leads to procrastination. There is an emphasis on embracing imperfect action by focusing on the essence of creating and publishing rather than getting caught up in technicalities or external validation.

Collaboration emerges as a crucial theme, drawing parallels to theater’s reliance on teamwork. The discussion highlights the benefits of seeking help and leveraging others’ expertise to overcome creative roadblocks. The importance of authentic, in-depth conversations as a tool for growth is also underscored, alongside reflections on how intentional dialogue can bridge differences and foster mutual understanding.

Takeaways

Creative work and perfectionism — Overthinking the technical details can prevent projects from starting.

The value of collaboration — Bringing in others’ expertise helps overcome creative hurdles.

Intentional conversations — Engaging in meaningful dialogue fosters growth and understanding.

Simplifying processes — Focusing on essentials reduces barriers to action.

Overcoming procrastination — Starting imperfectly is better than waiting for ideal conditions.

Accountability systems — Tools like scheduling and inviting others keep projects moving forward.

Iterative creation — Progress is achieved by producing and refining over time.

Resources

Ignite CSP â€” Angie’s coaching and speaking company, featuring her blog and other resources.

Angie Flynn-McIver on LinkedIn

Before You Say Anything â€” Angie’s book on improving conversations and communication skills.

Hindenburg — Mentioned as a tool for audio editing and leveling for podcast production.

Calendly — Used for scheduling conversations efficiently.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Family with Steve Mululu

August 30, 2021 · All posts on Aug 30

What role does storytelling and legacy preservation play in fostering family and cultural connections?

Cultural heritage is explored through the lens of podcasting as a modern storytelling tool.

The first time I listened to a podcast, it took me back to my very early childhood years because it reminded me how much my own father, how much my own grandfather, how much stories, how much history, they passed to us after every meal in the evening. It was traditional for us to sit down with our elders, for them to tell us about their upbringing, about our culture, about what kinds of foods to eat, how to relate with your brothers, how to relate to your sisters, what kind of future is expected of you as a man— all those things.

~ Steve Mululu (1:23)

The conversation explores how storytelling plays a central role in preserving cultural and familial legacies. Steve reflects on childhood memories of elders sharing wisdom and history after meals, emphasizing the importance of capturing these stories before they are lost. Podcasting emerges as a modern extension of this tradition, allowing such narratives to be recorded and shared across generations.

Other topics include family dynamics and the challenges of maintaining unity in a large family. Steve describes how the lessons and authority of parents can act as a binding force, providing a shared foundation amidst disagreements. This contrasts with the experiences of small families, which may lack this communal grounding. The conversation also touches on values like sacrifice and the transition from individualism to communal responsibility, highlighting cultural differences in these principles.

Takeaways

Storytelling and tradition — Exploring the role of storytelling in preserving cultural and familial legacies.

Podcasting as a tool — Utilizing podcasting as a means to capture and share wisdom in a modern context.

Family unity through shared values — Reflecting on the importance of shared parental guidance in resolving family disputes.

Contrasting family dynamics — Comparing the communal experience of large families to the introspective nature of smaller ones.

Cultural lessons on selflessness — Teaching sacrifice and community-centered values through everyday rituals.

Resources

Steve Mululu on LinkedIn

Movers Mindset â€” Craig’s platform exploring the intersection of movement, mindset, and personal growth.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Invincible

August 30, 2021 · All posts on Aug 30

The good man is invincible; for he engages in no contest where he is not superior. “If you want my land, take it, and take my servants, take my public post, take my poor body. But you will not cause my desire to fail to attain its end, or my aversion to fall into what it would avoid.” This is the only contest he enters into: How can he fail, then, to be invincible?

~ Epictetus

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What if I just did the thing a bunch more times?

August 30, 2021 · All posts on Aug 30

7. Consistent and repeatable results come from a process. “True style does not come from a conscious effort to create a particular look. It results obliquely—even accidentally—out of a holistic process.”

~ Shane Parrish from, 7 Things I Learned in Architecture School

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That articlette is about a book, 101 Things Things I Learned in Architecture School. The 7th point, in bold, is the penultimate of a best-of-the-best selection from the book. The inner-quoted part is Matthew Frederick, the book’s author.

This point about a holistic process—the idea that mastery isn’t some higgledy-piggledy mish-mash of throwing things together—is an idea I’ve held dearly for a long time. Every time I see it, like in this articlette, I want leap up, flipping my desk over and scream, “Hear! Hear! …and again, louder, for those in the back staring at their handheld devices.”

Every single time that I’ve decided to take a process, and repeat it in search of understanding, (for example, my 10,000 rep’s project,) the learning and personal growth has paid off beyond my wildest dreams. At this point, I’ve done nearly 200 recorded conversations—I’m not stretching the truth, it’s actually hard to figure out exactly how many I’ve done. I’ve started another show recently as part of the Podcaster Community (25+ episodes and counting) and I’ve set up all the moving parts for yet another show as part of Movers Mindset “shorts”. And I keep wondering…

What would happen if I did 500, 1000? …what about 10,000? Not because I want to be famous and whine, “but I did 1,000 episodes why doesn’t anyone love me?!” But because I can see, in myself, how much I’ve learned and grown after 200. What would happen if I did a lot more?

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Escalation, Part 2

August 29, 2021 · All posts on Aug 29

Three weeks ago—zoinks, time flies!—I wrote in Escalation that I didn’t want to turn this into a quote-a-day blog. That would also make my weekly email have 7 quotes, plus all the additional daily blog posts.

I’ve got to be honest: I was wrong. I really do want to publish all the quotes, and write all these blog posts. So, “All ahead flank-speed!” This week’s email will be even larger. …and onward thusly we shall proceed.

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Epochs of problems

August 28, 2021 · All posts on Aug 28

Avoiding problems avoids the opportunity for growth. Most of the time, problems don’t go away, instead they grow.

~ Shane Parrish from, The Four Tools of Discipline

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It seems to me that there are epochs of problems. In the early days of my journey, I made dumb mistakes. Slowly I learned through stubbed toes, hurt feelings, expensive mistakes and bridges burned that life is hard, yes. But it’s much harder if you’re stoopid. More time passed.

I resolved the internal issues that led to bad impulses and choices. I learned the Kastanza Lesson of opposite day; If every instinct you have is wrong and causes things to turn out badly, one should at least trying doing the opposite. In short, I intentionally crafted a moral compass. Effectively gone—unless I just jinxed it—are any problems which are my fault. I’m not talking about errors here; I drop things, make wrong turns and forget things, of course. More time passed

And I’m left wondering how I move beyond my current problem: The setting of unrealistic expectations for myself, and of setting expectations [of any sort] of other people. I’m reminded of my thoughts on Discovery, Reflection and Efficacy. Perhaps if some more time passes? That seems to have worked twice now.

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In care of my own faculty of choice

August 27, 2021 · All posts on Aug 27

What would you like to be doing when you are overtaken by [disease and death]? For you surely will be, whatever you are doing. If you think you could be doing something better than this when you are overtaken, go and do it. For my own part, may death overtake me while I am engaged in nothing other than the care of my own faculty of choice, so that it may be unhindered, unrestrained, serene, and free.

~ Epictetus

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The ice age persists

August 27, 2021 · All posts on Aug 27

The algific talus slopes where relic species persist are steep, built atop limestone—itself a relic from a time, half a billion years ago, when a shallow tropical sea covered what’s now the Driftless. The porous limestone is easily eroded by even slightly acidic water, including rain. As a result it holds numerous caves, sinkholes, cracks, and fissures. These networks of open spaces deep in the hillside were never compromised by glacial steamrollers, and are crucial for the “breathing”—slopes’ respiration.

~ Gemma Tarlach from, The Ice Age Persists in the Upper Midwest, Where the Hills Breathe – Atlas Obscura

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There seems to be something special about Iowa. Pockets of Ice Age biodiversity, and Vonnegut, must somehow mean something. Atlas Obscura started as an ecclectic collection of interesting points scattered about the Earth. It’s grown to—in my opinion—rival Wikipedia in the context of places. And then it started producing these place-specific, in-depth articles.

In the endless sea of click-baity, bullet-listed, double-spaced individual sentence fragments posing as a “post” on some social network… because, honestly, a paragraph block of text just scares the shit out of too many people, so we’ll just

space out the phrases

so our feeble minds understand

what the bite-sized thoughts are supposed to be.

I digress. Over decades, I’ve found sources on the Internet that are continual fonts of wonder and joy. I follow them using RSS, and I’m better off for it.

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Magic with Vivian Carrasco

August 26, 2021 · All posts on Aug 26

How does embracing meaningful connections, shifting perspectives, and holding space enhance the experience of podcasting and personal growth?

The conversation explores the transformative power of vulnerability and shifting perspectives in podcasting and beyond.

I think when we are vulnerable, when we let our guard down—and that’s what happens for me when I turn off the video—I let my guard down, and I’m just immersed in the experience.

~ Vivian Carrasco (7:03)

The conversation reflects on the evolving dynamics of podcasting, emphasizing the significance of pre-call moments as spaces for connection and preparation. Vivi and Craig explore how turning off video during recordings can enhance vulnerability and authenticity, allowing for deeper engagement. They highlight how these seemingly small decisions, such as opting for audio-only interactions, create a more relaxed and immersive environment. This shift not only impacts the podcaster but also fosters a more intimate experience for listeners.

Another theme revolves around the transformation in personal and professional approaches over time. The conversation highlights the playful curiosity that replaces the initial weight of overthinking and perfectionism, making podcasting more enjoyable. The discussion also touches on broader ideas, like creating space for meaning and magic, and how reducing the noise—both literally and metaphorically—enables creative breakthroughs and personal growth.

Takeaways

Creating meaningful pre-call connections — A pre-call sets the tone for authentic conversations and builds trust between participants.

Audio-only podcasting — Turning off video promotes vulnerability, intimacy, and a relaxed environment for both hosts and guests.

Shifting perspectives over time — A journey from overthinking tools and techniques to embracing playful curiosity transforms the podcasting experience.

Holding space for magic — Leaving room for silence and presence allows meaningful and unexpected insights to emerge.

Focusing on what matters — Prioritizing meaningful elements enhances both personal growth and professional output.

Letting go of perfectionism — Reducing effort and embracing the flow of conversation creates deeper and more authentic exchanges.

The role of technology — Tools and gadgets are still valued, but they no longer overshadow the essence of meaningful storytelling.

Resources

The Within (U) Podcast — Vivian’s podcast explores what it means to turn inward and find the answers within us instead of seeking external approval or validation.

Zoom H4 and H6 recorders â€” Mentioned in the discussion as tools for mobile podcasting and audio recording.

Circle Practice â€” A method for fostering connection and communication in group settings.

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. series â€” A Marvel series that explores teamwork and resilience through fictional storytelling.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Storytelling with Heather Morrison

August 26, 2021 · All posts on Aug 26

What factors influence the transition from podcast listener to podcast creator, and how can individuals overcome challenges in this journey?

Discover how a passion for storytelling leads to a new creative journey in podcasting.

Your voice, your story—I’m all about story, obviously. It’s why I’m working on this new project to help people write about their lives in journaling.

~ Heather Morrison (21:26)

The conversation explores the transformative journey from being a passionate podcast listener to becoming a creator. Heather shares how her lifelong love of stories and books inspired their enthusiasm for podcasting. She describes her initial struggles with self-doubt and technical know-how, highlighting a pivotal moment when a structured course helped bridge the gap between idea and execution. Reflecting on her creative journey, she emphasizes the importance of embracing enthusiasm and pushing through the discomfort of starting something new.

The discussion also touches on creative challenges, such as narrowing down podcast themes and managing self-imposed pressure. Heather candidly shares her experience of developing a niche podcast about community theater, which later evolved into broader topics. She stresses the value of persistence, self-awareness, and embracing imperfections. The conversation concludes with insights into how personal stories and authentic voices can create meaningful connections and inspire others.

Takeaways

Starting a podcast — Transitioning from listener to creator requires enthusiasm, structure, and persistence.

Creative struggles — Self-doubt and perfectionism can hinder progress but are part of the creative process.

Niche exploration — Developing a focused podcast theme often involves trial and adjustment.

Technical considerations — Equipment and preparation significantly impact the auditory experience.

Personal storytelling — Authentic voices and personal stories resonate deeply with audiences.

Journaling and reflection — Writing about life experiences can be a powerful tool for storytelling and growth.

Resources

Geeks in the Green Room â€” Heather’s podcast focusing on community theater and related creative endeavors.

The Podcast Fellowship â€” A course and community that supports podcast creators.

RadioLab â€” A podcast mentioned as a source of inspiration.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Creativity with Teresa Mitchell

August 26, 2021 · All posts on Aug 26

What motivates and sustains a creative journey into podcasting as a medium for personal and professional expression?

Explore the intersection of financial empowerment and creative storytelling through podcasting.

You know this isn’t very original, but it really is the journey. It’s the day-to-day experience and that for me has been sterling-platinum amazing.

~ Teresa Mitchell (8:00)

The conversation explores the intersection of personal passion and professional purpose through podcasting. Teresa discusses her journey from a career as a financial planner to creating a podcast, highlighting how podcasting became a creative outlet for self-expression after retirement. She describes podcasting as a space to break traditional rules and pursue ideas freely, emphasizing how the medium supports deep connection and personal growth. The challenges of mastering the technical and creative aspects of podcasting are framed as part of the rewarding journey of experimentation and learning.

The discussion also touches on financial coaching, particularly addressing the needs of women and encouraging financial confidence. Teresa explains her approach to making financial topics more accessible, combining mindfulness and practical advice to empower listeners. She envisions blending financial topics with other interests like cooking to create innovative content that mirrors real-life integration of passions. This conversation underscores the potential of podcasting as both a platform for impactful storytelling and a means to explore multidimensional ideas.

Takeaways

Podcasting as a creative outlet — Embracing podcasting as a space to break rules and explore self-expression.

Journey of learning — Emphasizing the importance of growth through technical and creative challenges.

Financial empowerment — Using podcasts to make financial topics accessible and engaging, particularly for women.

Balancing passion and profession — Combining personal interests like cooking with professional themes to create meaningful content.

The value of connection — Highlighting how podcasting fosters deep human connections in a unique way.

Mindfulness and purpose — Stressing the role of mindfulness in achieving financial and personal well-being.

Resources

Teresa Mitchell on LinkedIn

Lady Money Podcast â€” A podcast blending financial advice and practical coaching aimed at empowering women.

Podcasting Workshop â€” A workshop that helps creators develop their podcasting skills.

Suzy Orman â€” A suggested collaborator for blending financial planning and lifestyle advice.

Mindfulness Resources â€” General mindfulness practices discussed as part of financial and personal growth.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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drip drip drip

August 26, 2021 · All posts on Aug 26

This is post number 3,000 — What a long, strange trip it’s been!

My very first post here, “Hello world,” was written on August 13, 2011. That marked the beginning of this second incarnation of my home on the Web. It’s been a sublime decade of tap-tappity-tapping away. I’ve learned a lot about werd-slingin’, and obviously developed my own way of doing things. Looking back, I believe I’ve settled into a comfortable melange of: posting photography rarely enough that they have real impact when they appear, and often enough that I feel I’m actually doing something with the digital photography I manage to shoot; quotations that inspire, conspire, and aspire to be helpful; random linking to the effectively limitless wonderful things created by humanity; working on my own thinking by exposing my reflection; pointing out interesting connections among people, places, and things.

I’ve collected a surprisingly small number of posts tagged “Meta”, (19 to be exact,) which share more of the what-and-how of this blog.

I spent the last year preparing for this little milestone by currating a collection of posts tagged “Apogee”, which are the best-of-the-best. I was hoping to find 100, and without paying attention as I was finding and tagging, I ended up with 96.

Finally, this blog is a labor of love, and the front of the blog acts as the central-most “start here” for my presence on the Internet. It would mean a lot to me if you shared something with anyone you think would also enjoy it.

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If I’m being honest

August 26, 2021 · All posts on Aug 26

So the worst-case scenario is someone who’s both naturally bitter and extremely ambitious, and yet only moderately successful.

~ Paul Graham from, Fierce Nerds

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Graham is one of that vanishingly-rare type of blogger: One who posts stellar ideas, very infrequently and is being heard. Follow that link, take a trip back to the 90s-blogs, and learn something about nerds.

If I’m being honest, I’m not sure if I’m a nerd or a geek… I mean, I don’t actually know the definitions of those nouns. Sure, I can go look—here’s a good definition-and-how-to-tell… but the words simply don’t stick in my head as standing for something. Worse, I can tick boxes on both columns of that how-to-tell page. On the other hand, this page has a nifty graph and I think I’m over on the nerd side.

On the other, other hand, looking for “nerd” versus “geek” here on my own blog, isn’t very helpful. Maybe… just maybe… I was a geek, but there’s a natural half-life to Geeknadium, after which a certain percentage of geeks spontaneously transform into Nerdomium?

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