How You Create

In this episode of "How You Create," I’m joined by Niko Kampouris, a creative with experience in social media, community management, and content. In addition to all the skills that come along with this experience, Niko is my resident web 3 and NFT geek. In this convo we talked about the rise, the fall, the stagnation, and the next chapter for NFTs.

In this episode of "How You Create," I am joined by documentary photographer Wesaam Al-Badry, 2023 Google Pixel & Aperture Creator Labs Photo Fund grant recipient. Wesaam, born in Nasiriyah, Iraq, fled to Saudi Arabia and lived in refugee camps for 4 and half years at the outset of what became known as the Gulf War. In late 1994, Wesaam and his family were relocated to Lincoln, Nebraska. Both his time in refugee camps, his working class upbringing in Nebraska, and late his attainment of master’s in New Media journalism at the University of California, Berkeley, and his BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute culminate in his work which depicts honest moments of the lives of those often absent from art institutes, and a deep belief in the integrity and responsibility of his work. Wesaam urges any listeners who have questions or needs advice about work and grants to reach out to him directly at wesaamalbadry@gmail.com. We talked deeply about the responsibility photographers has to the people in the communities photographers use in their art, why more more negatives makes more sense to him than more posting on Instagram, and how relationship and community is the most essential skill for photographers Wesaam has worked for global media outlets, including CNN and Al-Jazeera America. His photographs have been featured in the New York Times, Rolling Stone Magazine, The Atlantic, NPR, Fortune, The Nation, and Mother Jones. Al-Badry has received The John Collier Jr. Award for Still Photography, Dorothea Lange Fellowship, the Jim Marshall Fellowship for Photography, The National Geographic Society fellowship, Magnum Foundation, and The Emerson Collective, and is currently a fellow at The Center for Visual Documentation.

In this episode of "How You Create," I am joined by Ramie Ahmed, Photographer and Google Pixel & Aperture 2023 Creator Labs Photo Fund grant recipient. Ramie, now working out of New York, describes himself as a documentary photographer focussing on marginalized communities, specifically the LGBTQ, Queer, and Trans spaces. In this episode, Ramie discusses growing up in New Jersey, his responsibility in capturing communities without telling stories for others, while putting out meaningful work. Primarily a film photographer, we discuss the permanence of film versus digital, and the power of storytelling the medium offers.

Welcome to another episode of "How You Create" this time we’re joined by friend of the pod and fellow creative, photographer, and Director of New Business at Bullhorn Creative Tim Harris! Today we discuss the future of every creative’s frenemy Adobe, Tim’s disappointment with Netflix, and the How You Create live event. Don't miss out on all the banter, hot takes, and endless discussion on the future viability of Threads.

On this episode of "How You Create," Host Ben Terry is joined by photographer and longtime friend, David Kasnic. After moving from his home in a small town in the Pacific Northwest to study at Western Kentucky University, Dave finished his formal photography education with a MFA at Columbia College Chicago in Photography. Additionally, Dave has worked with national and internationally recognized brands such as The Atlantic, The New York Times, and Barron’s. On this in depth episode, Dave discusses as an artist, what we can learn by revisiting home, the pros and cons of a MFA program, and the endless perils of playing “the game” when it comes to making money from creative work, while maintaining artistic integrity.

On this episode of How You Create your favorite group of creatives is back! I’m joined today by Tim Harris, Josiah Bice, and Andrew Granstaff. Andrew and Josiah are both photographers as well as the Operational Specialist and Production Manager at State Film Lab in Louisville. Tim Harris is a photographer, and Director of New Business at Bullhorn. In this episode, we talk the true definition of “artistic integrity”, how to know when the time is right to charge your audience, and what concerns and advantages working creatives see in emerging AI technology. We also discuss the hot topic of Taylor Swift at the Kansas City Chiefs game.

On this episode of How You Create, Tyler Deeb is back as a guest, Tyler is the owner, designer, and CEO of Misc. goods. Tyler is a seasoned leader, strategist, and designer with over two decades of experience. His collaborative approach involves working closely with partners to assess their challenges, craft compelling brand identities, and set a clear roadmap for success. Whether the project is in its infancy or a well-established endeavor, Tyler's mantra remains constant: "be smart, be nimble, and be creative." His passion for every project mirrors the excitement he had when he embarked on this journey two decades ago, infused with the wisdom of today.In this episode, Tyler shares wisdom gained through his years of experience. He advises young professionals to harness their curiosity and dedicate their time to learning how to capitalize on those skills as they gain more experience. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of achieving a healthier work-life balance.Tyler also delves into the intriguing topic of valuing your services as you age, shedding light on the evolving nature of expertise and the changing dynamics of pricing your skills over time. Additionally, he imparts essential insights on protecting your designs and assets, a critical consideration for any creative professional. Join us for an enlightening conversation that spans a lifetime of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship, with Tyler as our guide.

On this episode I am joined by a panel featuring Joshua Jean-Marie, Tim Harris, and Andrew Granstaff. Together, we go on a deep dive into the dynamic realms of freelance work versus agency engagements. With a wealth of collective experience, we attempt to shed light on the intricacies of pricing services according to one's seniority in the field, a topic that often bewilders many aspiring professionals. We dissect the nuances of leveraging LinkedIn for career growth and networking, then shift the spotlight to an innovative budgeting tool, the Copilot app, and delve into its multifaceted benefits for both financial planning and personal growth. As the episode unfolds, we explore the ever-evolving landscape of photography trends. From the resurgence of point-and-shoot cameras to the nostalgic revival of film photography, we dissect the driving forces behind these shifts and what they signify for the creative community. Join us for a riveting discussion that traverses the worlds of freelancing, finance, and visual artistry, all in the company of seasoned experts sharing their invaluable insights.

I'm thrilled to be joined by Todd Balsley, the visionary behind Clever Supply, your go-to retail destination for camera-related accessories. They've garnered a distinct reputation for their meticulously crafted leather camera straps. Notably, Todd brings to the table a rich background in photography, coupled with an understanding of marketing dynamics. What's more, he has a tenure of almost 6 years at Buffer, a beloved name in the realm of social media management. In this episode, Todd and I embark on an exploration of his intertwined journey through the realms of photography and marketing. We uncover the genesis story of Clever Supply, tracing its evolution from a concept to a thriving reality. We delve into Todd's growth as a leader and the foundational company values that have become the cornerstones of Clever Supply's identity. Tune in and gain invaluable insights from a true industry expert and my friend, Todd Balsley. This is an episode you won't want to miss.

On this episode of How You Create I am joined by a few friends from the creative community, Tim Harris, Josiah Bice, and Andrew Granstaff. Andrew and Josiah are both photographers as well as the Operational Specialist and Production Manager at State Film Lab. Tim is a photographer as well and the Director of New Business at Bullhorn. In this installment, we dive deep into the dynamic world of social media and its influence on creative exposure. We peruse through the evolution of social platforms, exploring the best mediums to harness in today's digital age. Will Threads surpass Twitter, or ‘X’?  The four of us have an animated exchange of opinions as we discuss the impact of the record breaking duo-releases Barbie and Oppenheimer, or “Barbenheimer”, as they call it. Furthermore, we address intriguing questions, such as the Gen Z fashion trends that are currently taking the world by storm and a lighthearted comparison of social media platforms as if they were sports. Don't miss out on all of our banter, on How You Create.

On this episode of How You Create, I dive into the journey of Josh Ong, an influential figure in the digital space. With his extensive background in journalism, communications, and marketing, Josh brings a unique perspective to the table. As a co-founder of Bored Room Ventures and Chief Strategy Officer of Kreatorhood, he has been at the forefront of advising brands, startups, and creatives on navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape, particularly the decentralized internet known as web3. Josh's expertise lies in his deep understanding of both brand dynamics and the power of language. He shares his insights on how brands operate in the digital realm and the nuances of effective communication in this new era. Listeners will learn about his transition from journalism to the world of communications and marketing, discovering the reasons behind this pivotal shift and how it has shaped his approach to helping others thrive in the digital space. Join us as we explore the intersection of technology, storytelling, and branding with Josh Ong on this thought-provoking episode.

In this episode, I sit down with a dear friend of mine, Britt Bass Turner, an Atlanta native and abstract artist known for her vibrant and playful paintings. Britt's love for color and design blossomed at a young age, influenced by her interior designer mother and her exploration of fabric samples and color swatches. With her refined eye for aesthetics and design, Britt brings a sense of curiosity and exploration to her captivating work. Britt shares her experiences of balancing her artistic pursuits with being a dedicated mother to three children. Discover how she embraces her art as a liberating space where she can break free from the confines of structure and expectations, allowing her creativity to flow freely. We delve into Britt's journey of restructuring and reimagining her artistic practice. She opens up about taking time off to be a full-time mom and her decision to step away from social media during the COVID-19 pandemic. We explore how she rebrands herself and redefines her artistic identity after her well-deserved break, as well as some exciting ideas coming into fruition in the future.

Clara Shuku Mokri, a Los Angeles-based visual storyteller, is on the podcast this week to talk about life as a photographer and videographer. Growing up in a family of surfers along the beautiful shores of Malibu and Topanga Beach, Clara's early connection with nature and adventure shaped her artistic sensibilities. She discovered her true calling and decided to delve deeper into the world of photography throughout her studies at Yale University, where she played basketball and studied political science. Receiving her Masters in Documentary Filmmaking at the UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism, where she coined herself a photojournalist, Clara's journey allowed her to explore her own memories and document them for generations to come. Clara talks about the inspiration behind her hyperfixation on capturing life's fleeting moments. The experience of witnessing her beloved grandfather battle Alzheimer's disease ignited a profound desire to preserve memories and cherish the precious moments that make up our lives. Clara's artistic approach is truly remarkable, with her diverse portfolio from sports photography to portraits. Clara nestles herself excellently in the niche of emphasizing the power of stillness and the emotions evoked by frozen moments.  Visit Clara's website at claramokriphotography.com to explore her stunning portfolio and witness the extraordinary way she captures life's fleeting moments. Don't miss our inspiring conversation with Clara Shuku Mokri, where we delve into artistry, personal growth, and the power of visual storytelling.

We are joined by Andy Miller AKA Andy J Pizza. Andy is a storyteller, illustrator, podcaster, and public speaker. He’s worked with clients like Nickelodeon, Warby Parker, Google, and The New York Times. Andy is also creator and host of Creative Pep Talk, a podcast for creatives that was early to the podcast scene. Ben and Andy discuss Andy’s upbringing and how that influences him, neurodiversity, self-reflection and how that relates to self-expression, how to balance compromise and creative liberty, the role of confidence in a creative career, Andy’s new book, Invisible Things, and so much more. Tune into this episode of How You Create, Interpreting Day Dreams With Andy J Pizza.

On this episode of How You Create, Ash Adams joins Ben and Joshua. Ash is a photojournalist and photo editor. She started photography as a teenager, studied photojournalism at Ohio University, and moved to Alaska to pursue photojournalism. They discuss the process Ash has when shooting a photojournalism story, what draws her to photography, her relationship with Alaska, and so much more. Sometimes photojournalism means sleeping on the floor, going awhile with food, long sleepless days, or exposing yourself to uncontrollable situations. Ash talks about what it means to surrender to those elements and how the passion of storytelling motivates her to continue on the grind and hustle of a career in photojournalism. Learn more on this episode of How You Create, Photojournalism: A Story of Beauty and Sacrifice with Ash Adams

We are joined by Devin Allen on this episode of How You Create. Devin is a photojournalist and activist from Baltimore, Maryland. Photography and activism go hand in hand for him. Devin is a self taught photographer who shot photographs from the Freddie Gray and George Floyd protests that were both published as covers for Time Magazine. He shares about his catapult into his photography career as an amateur, navigating the industry, and how to always keep your values at the forefront. Hear more about Devin Allen’s journey on this episode of How You Create, Art and Activism with Devin Allen.

On this episode of How You Create, we’re talking about NFTs. Ben is joined by Jalil Wahdatehagh, creator of Scapes and developer of Checks. Stepping in for Joshua this episode, is friend of the pod, Niko Kampouris. The three discuss the ins and outs of the NFT communities, how Jalil got involved in the web3 world, and thoughts on the future of NFTs.  Learn all about it on this episode of How You Create, Proof of Work with Jalil Wahdatehagh.

On this episode of How You Create, Ben and Joshua are joined by Brian McDonald and Jesse Bryan. In the words of Jesse, Brian is the best storyteller alive today. Aside from being Brian’s biggest hype man, Jesse is Founder and CEO of Belief Agency. Brian and Jesse work together at Belief Agency, which is a full-service creative agency and story consultancy that believes the truth is enough. Things don’t always have to be so arduous, and oftentimes people use big words and over-complicate things to come off as experts. These two live by Einstein’s “If you can't explain it to a six-year-old, then you don't understand it yourself.” And with their deep understanding of storytelling, it all just makes sense. The four discuss armature, a concept that Brian learned from his time working alongside sculptors. They would start with a wire skeleton to support the weight of the clay. It holds everything together, everything is built upon it, and it’s one of the most important elements of the sculpture, but it’s not what people see or pay attention to. The four discuss how that concept applies to almost everything, including storytelling. They also get into what it means to survive - culturally, spiritually, emotionally, communally and more. This is not an episode you want to miss. Learn more by listening to this episode of How You Create, You Are a Storyteller with Brian McDonald and Jesse Bryan.

On the pod this week, Ben and Joshua talk about a multitude of topics from kickstarter projects, to Joshua’s new personal newsletter and thoughts on the e-commerce world, what Ben’s been focusing on with his two big projects, Hidden Ventures and Mosaic, and quite a bit more. Keep on the lookout for an upcoming event in Louisville and subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on all the things.

Alex Matisse is here with Ben and Joshua this week on the podcast. From potter to Founder and CEO, Alex has been shaping East Fork Pottery both literally and figuratively for the past ten years. He shares about the values he holds and how he brings that to the business at East Fork; he’s passionate about his local community, about bringing a human-centeredness to both his craft and the environment he creates for the employees of East Fork, and about not just defaulting to the most traditional approach to something, but doing things differently