Yeah, I know I know. I’ve been slacking on here! Been a little over 2 months since I’ve written on this newsletter. But I’m glad I’m getting back into it. Here are some things I’ve been doing in the last few months -
A lot more traveling for content shoots around the country.
Began a men’s group + bible study that meets bi-weekly.
Ran a 10 mile race in Philadelphia, one of the country’s largest.
Ran a full marathon a week later in Denver.
Did a full murph 5 days later in Phoenix.
Signed a lease for an apartment in Tempe, committing another 15 months to Arizona. I’ll be moving into my new place in a few months.
Traveling more for content shoots
Work has had me on the road a lot more recently, traveling across the country for different content shoots. It’s been mostly content that’ll be used for paid advertisements and streaming and while it’s exhausting at times, I’ve been grateful for the creative growth and the new environments. Beginning to pace myself out as we head into the Summer months for the very busy season. At the same time, I’m continuing to be intentional in my leadership.
Started a men’s group + Bible study
Back home, I started something that’s been on my heart for a while. A men’s group and Bible study that meets every other week. It’s a space for honest conversation, encouragement, and growth. It’s small for now but intentional, and I’ve already seen how meaningful it’s been for everyone (myself included). It’s reminded me how important consistency and brotherhood are in this season of life.
Ran a 10-mile race in Philadelphia
Earlier this month I ran the Broad Street Run in Philly, which is actually the largest 10 mile race in the country. I had been training for a bit and it was wild to finally experience the energy of the city and the sea of people moving together down one long road. I wasn’t planning on racing it, thinking I would do around an 8 min per mile pace. But I ran a strong time, holding a 7:30 average. More than that though, it was just an amazing way to kick off a full couple weeks of racing.
Ran a full marathon in Denver a week later
One week later I ran a full marathon in Denver. That race was my original plan and I wasn’t looking to lay down a crazy personal record. Really wanted to enjoy this one. Altitude made it a little tougher but that wasn’t my main concern. My legs were still feeling the 10-miler and my stomach wasn’t keeping any food down during the race which made for a tough day but I was proud of how I pushed through mentally. The course was beautiful, and it was a reminder of just how much endurance is built in every part of life, not just running.
Did a full Murph workout five days later
Five days after the marathon, I did a full Murph in Mesa for Memorial Day. If you don’t know, that’s a 1-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another mile run, all while wearing a weighted vest. It’s brutal, but it’s meaningful. Every rep is in honor of fallen soldiers. I do it every year with my sister Tara and it’s become a tradition. We’re on year 5! Doing it with others in the Arizona heat made it one of the most powerful workouts I’ve done in a while.
Signed a lease and re-committed to Arizona
After a lot of back and forth in my head about where I want to live next, I decided to stay in Arizona a little longer. I signed a lease for a new apartment in Tempe and committed another 15 months here. I’ll be moving in a few months, and while part of me still feels drawn to other places, I know there’s still something here for me in this season. People, opportunities, and a foundation I’m continuing to build.
New Creative Club Merch
I’m working on a new hoodie drop for Creative Club, and I’m really excited about this one. We’ll be offering two colorways: vintage black and cobalt blue. These are heavyweight 14oz pullovers with an intentionally oversized fit. Crafted for comfort, built to last.
I’ve been focused on sourcing high quality blanks because I want these to feel as good as they look. With that level of quality comes a more premium price point, but trust me, you’ll understand why. Can’t wait to share more details with you soon. We’re doing a shoot of these tomorrow but in the meantime, here are some mock ups -
Lately, I’ve been thinking about inspiration and how, as creatives, we’re often searching for it, chasing it, hoping it strikes at the right time. But sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is shift the focus outward.
So here’s a question to carry with you into this week:
Who in your life is doing bold, excellent creative work? How can you encourage them?
Sometimes, the best way to get inspired… is to give inspiration away.
Let your words lift someone up. Let your support remind someone that their work matters. And in doing so, you might just find the fire you’ve been looking for.
More soon. Stay creating. Have a great day.
Best,
Blake