These last few weeks have been as busy as ever. I spent Monday prepping and flying out to San Antonio for a shoot, wrapping up on Wednesday night and flying back Thursday. The next day, I dived into editing projects from earlier shoots. On Saturday, I recorded a podcast that stretched over three hours, and on Sunday, I filmed a scene for a short documentary I'm working on. I was up early on Monday to shoot another scene for that film. More exciting things to come about that film. I spent time this last week on other editing projects. Oh, and I almost forgot to mention our run club! We had our third meetup last week, and it went really well. With everything going on, it’s important for me to set aside time to rest on days like today.
It’s Sunday as I write this. I’m watching my sister’s dog, relaxing. Going to dive into scripture, play some guitar and hit a workout later on today.
As Jordan Peterson says, “What’s interesting about being alive is that you are all in. No matter what you do, you are all in. This is going to kill you. So I think you might as well play the most magnificent game you can while you’re waiting. Because, do you have anything better to do?”
This quote resonates with me. As a creative, I pour a ton of energy and passion into what I do. It’s hard for me sometimes to find a true balance of creating and living. For creatives who are deeply passionate about their work, the act of creating isn't just a job, it's a fundamental part of who they are. If you’re reading this, you’re a creative. No matter if you’re a mathematician, scientist, doctor, lawyer, in construction or work at a coffee shop. I truly believe that we were all created to create. Whether it’s to create a family, a body of work that inspires or even the next best invention.
Story #2 - No Matter What You Do, You’re All In. So Be Present With People.
It doesn’t matter how many projects I have going on. I always try to remain as present as I can be with people. During my shoot in San Antonio, we had 4 models that we were shooting various scenes with. Each of them had a different background. One of the actors, Casey, was doing this for the first time. You would have never been able to tell. He was so present and leaned into any feedback or guidance. Naturally, in between scenes or during lunches I’d ask him questions about his life. He served 14 years in the Army and has done a handful of combat deployments. Now he’s just trying to do different things. One of them being acting. I also connected with Desiré, one of the actresses. After the trip, she took the time to provide feedback about the crew on the shoot, including me. Her comments highlighted my expertise and other qualities, but what really resonated with me was her mention of my "reassuring presence." I really appreciated that acknowledgment.
As Peterson puts it, being "all in" is essential, and something I try to practice, whether on a shoot or just hanging out with friends, is to be fully present and engaged. You never know the impact you might have from simply leaning in.
In other news
Do y’all remember that Mumford and Sons story I shared in the first newsletter? That story continued this last week. My twin sister Anna was in town with her husband Tyler so I met up with them at my other sister Erin’s apartment. I don’t have any notifications on my phone from social media. It’s always distracted me too much. But as we were hanging out, I decided to check my Instagram. As soon as I opened the app, I was flooded with likes, comments, messages and some new followers. Confused, I headed to my notification center and, to my surprise, I discovered that Mumford and Sons, along with Marcus Mumford, had shared the content I shot! The coolest part? They hadn't shared anything else, just my work.
I had the biggest grin on my face when I found out that I was recognized by my favorite band in the world! Ever since high school, I’ve always had this motto, “do it for the shot” or “it’s all about the shot”. From my main point earlier, none of this would have happened if I hadn't gone all in at that moment to capture the shots I felt compelled to get. I'm so glad I did. Of course, I capitalized on that moment by sending an email to their management and messaging both Mumford and Sons and Marcus Mumford on IG. We'll see if anything comes from that.
The podcast
I also have a podcast, The Live Authentic Podcast. The overall goal is to bring awareness of other people’s stories and take a deep dive into whoever comes on. That episode I mentioned recording earlier, it just released this morning too. It’s the longest conversation I’ve had to date and I think you’ll enjoy hearing it! Check it out here -
My song pick -
I’ve been on an Odesza kick recently especially this one song which I adore. So much so that I’m actually using it for my new podcast intro music! I love their blend of electronic and cinematic vocals/synths. Check it out here -
Creative Club tees
If you were curious, the Creative Club tees will be released and made available for purchase in the next newsletter. 👀
As always, have a great day.
Best,
Blake