Standout Creatives: Business, marketing, and creativity tips for solopreneurs launching their ideas

Kevin Chung
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Standout Creatives: Business, marketing, and creativity tips for solopreneurs launching their ideas

Feel stuck in the endless juggle of running a creative business? I'm Kevin Chung, your creative business host, and this podcast is your guide to thriving without losing your spark. This podcast is for you if you find yourself asking questions like: - Are you juggling creative work and the demands of running a business? - Do you feel overwhelmed by launching a product or course? - Struggling to find a marketing strategy that feels authentic to you? - Looking for ways to grow without burning out? - Wondering how to balance business success with your creative passion? Each episode dives into practical strategies, inspiring stories, and actionable tips from fellow creative business owners—whether you’re prepping for a big launch, scaling your business, or simply trying to sell with integrity. Learn how to stand out, grow with intention, and build a business that feels as good as it looks. (Formerly known as Cracking Creativity Podcast)

  1. APR 23 · BONUS

    I Just Turned 40!

    Today is my 40th birthday so I wanted to do something a little different. I started thinking about what I’m grateful for, so I wanted to bring back the idea of my gratitude journal to celebrate. Here are 40 things I’m deeply grateful for, broken down into themes that matter the most to me. Personal Relationships This is where everything starts. My wife, Anita — she’s my favorite person, a creative sounding board, and my biggest cheerleader.My dog, Pookie — he never lets me down, is a master of napping, and the cutest thing you’ll ever see.My family — laid the foundation for my growth and let me dream about weird, wonderful, things.My Friends — people who’ve cheered me on, created with me, and cared about me.Creative business friends who just get it — it’s a special kind of magic when people speak the same language.'Jeff Wirth, Matt Moeller, Lauren Morris — for introducing me to improv, and creating amazing spaces to explore creative storytelling.All my collaborators — whether we made a zine, recorded a podcast, or just worked on fun creative projects. And a special shoutout to Marc Cordon, my Creativity Parties partner in crime.The Central Florida Fruit Society — for turning me into someone who geeks out about pineapples and permaculture.Jacques Ho and Stephanie Graham — Amazing accountability partners, wildly creative humans, and even better friends. Creative Work & ExpressionThe stuff that lights me up from the inside. My podcast — and everyone who’s tuned in, shared it, or sat down to record. Your creativity inspires me.Captivate + Riverside — two platforms that make it possible to connect with people from across the world.My Substack — and the beautiful weirdos who read along, reply, and remind me why I write in the first place.That spark when an idea turns real — from random scribbles to something I can share with the world.Helping other creatives launch — it’s such a gift to help someone spread their joy and creativity with the world.Discovering new ideas on the fly — some of my best breakthroughs didn’t come from thinking harder, just from thinking out loud.Past-me, who quit but never gave up — even when things got hard, you still kept the spark alive.My notebooks — half-thoughts, doodles, dreams, and reminders that messy is magic. Vision & Life GoalsZooming out a bit and get a bird’s eye view. This slow-building path to Costa Rica — for teaching me how to follow a dream step by step.The idea of mountain life — simpler, slower, closer to the Earth and living among the plants.Creating a life driven by curiosity, not just productivity — this one’s a work in progress, but it feels good.Freedom to try things — even if they don’t "make sense" on paper.Designing a business that feels like me — something real. Not some copy and paste formula like everyone else.Non-hustle income streams — because I love creative work, but I don’t want to live in burnout mode anymore. Tools, Tech & Tiny MiraclesA love letter to the behind-the-scenes magic. The internet — for letting me meet people who change my life without leaving my desk.Notion and ChatGPT — my digital brains that keep

    7 min

  2. APR 17

    17: Finish Your Book Without Burning Out with Cynthia Morris

    What if the key to unlocking your creativity as a writer wasn't about perfection, but about embracing the messy process, taking risks, and finding support along the way? Cynthia Morris is a writer, artist, and certified coach who has spent over two decades helping creatives finally get their ideas out of their heads and onto the page. As the founder of Original Impulse, she's guided countless writers to focus, follow through, and finish their books without burning out. In this episode, Cynthia talks about how to stay committed to your writing, why accountability is key, how to handle rejection without losing your spark, and what it really takes to finish your book. The Vulnerability of WritingCynthia talks openly about the vulnerability involved in writing. She believes that writing requires a deep level of self-expression, and sometimes, the best stories come from embracing our imperfections. "Writing is an act of generosity," she says. It’s about sharing your story with others, even when it feels scary. Try this: Write without worrying about how it will turn out. Just let the words flow. Bonus idea: Reflect on a moment where you felt vulnerable in your own work. What did you learn from it? The Role of Accountability in WritingWhen it comes to staying on track with your writing projects, accountability is a game-changer. Cynthia shares how having the right support system, whether through coaching or writing groups, has helped her stay focused and motivated. "You can’t do anything alone," she says, underscoring the importance of collaboration in the creative process. Try this: Find someone to check in with on your writing goals. Whether it’s a coach or a fellow writer, accountability helps you stay committed. Bonus idea: Join a writing group or community where you can share your progress and get feedback. Embracing Rejection and Building ConfidenceRejection is a part of every creative’s journey, and Cynthia opens up about how it has shaped her growth. You have to try and lot of things and be unafraid of rejection. "You never know what’s going to happen," she says, because big risks can lead to big rewards. Try this: Reframe rejection as part of the learning process. What can you take from each "no"? Bonus idea: Make a list of past rejections that later led to something better. You might be surprised by what you uncover. The Art of Writing a NovelCynthia’s journey to writing her first novel, Chasing Sylvia Beach, took 12 years and 17 drafts. But for her, it was more than just the end product. It was about the growth that happened along the way. "Writing a book is quite the thing," Cynthia says. It’s a slow, humbling process that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to fail. Try this: Break your writing into smaller tasks. What’s one scene or chapter you can focus on today? Bonus idea: Set a timer for 15 minutes and write freely, without editing. Let go of perfection. Marketing Your Book: A Continuous JourneyWriting a book is one thing. Getting it out into the world? That’s a whole other challenge. Cynthia talks about the importance of ongoing marketing efforts, and how it’s not just about pushing your book at launch time. "Marketing is an ongoing effort," she says. It’s about building relationships and staying consistent over time. Try...

    1h 39m

  3. APR 10

    [Re-air] Starting Messy, Building Confidence, and Finding Your Creative Voice with Bob Baker

    What if success as a creative wasn’t about being the best—but just showing up, experimenting, and giving yourself permission to start messy? Bob Baker didn’t start out with a perfect plan or a polished resume. He was a former musician and “non-traditional” marketer who slowly found his groove by helping creatives find confidence, consistency, and clarity—without needing to go viral or wait for permission. This episode originally aired on Cracking Creativity back in 2017, but the wisdom still hits today. Especially if you're feeling behind, overwhelmed, or unsure how your creativity fits into your life (or business) right now. From Self-Doubt to Self-Published Bob didn’t wait to feel ready—he just got started. One book turned into several. One small action led to a creative career helping artists, writers, and performers believe in their work and get it out into the world. “You don’t have to wait for someone to choose you. You can choose yourself.”This convo is a reminder that you don’t need a giant audience or fancy credentials. You just need to care enough to keep showing up—and to share what you’re learning along the way. Try this: Think of one tiny project you’ve been putting off. Could you take one step toward it today? Bonus idea: What’s one way you could “choose yourself” this week—without waiting for anyone else’s permission? The Real Talk Behind Building a Creative Career There’s no one path. Bob talks about how he followed curiosity, stayed consistent, and built a sustainable creative business that’s helped thousands of artists over the years. “I didn’t feel qualified at all. But I kept doing it anyway.”We talk about fear, procrastination, and why so many creatives get stuck in their heads instead of sharing their work. Bob doesn’t sugarcoat it—but he does make it feel doable. Try this: Instead of waiting to feel ready, try doing something before you feel ready. Bonus idea: Write a list of 3 things you have done creatively. Let that momentum fuel your next step. How to Stay Consistent Without Burning Out Spoiler: it’s not about grinding harder. It’s about making your creative practice feel like a natural, enjoyable part of your life—not a chore. “It’s okay to start small and imperfect. The key is to keep going.”Bob shares how he approaches writing, marketing, and showing up online in a way that feels aligned—not exhausting. Perfect if you’ve been spinning your wheels or stuck in perfectionism mode. Try this: Set a 10-minute timer and do something creative—without pressure, expectations, or goals. Bonus idea: Let yourself be a beginner again. Pick something you’ve never tried and just play. Quick Recap You don’t need to be an expert to get started.Sharing your creativity can open unexpected doors.Small steps lead to big changes—especially when you stay consistent.Permission doesn’t come from outside. It comes from you. Ready to Start Messy and Make Progress Anyway? Bob’s story is proof that you don’t have to have it all figured out. Just take the next small step. If you're ready to stop overthinking and start sharing your creative work with more ease, let’s talk. Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com Spots are limited—grab yours while they’re open. Let’s get you moving again.

    1h 16m

  4. APR 3

    16: From 20-Year Art Hiatus to Creative Success with Steven Light aka SLART

    What if the key to reigniting your creativity wasn't just talent, but embracing fear, experimentation, and community? Steven Light, known as SLART, walked away from art for two decades. A single blog post reignited his passion, sparking a journey of artistic self-discovery, personal branding, and creative business growth. Now, he's sharing the lessons he's learned about self-publishing, collaboration, and balancing art with commerce while navigating social anxiety and the ever-evolving role of technology in creativity. From Creative Hiatus to Artistic RevivalAfter 20 years away from art, SLART found his way back through an unexpected spark of inspiration. His journey proves that creativity never truly disappears it just waits for the right moment to resurface. "I just bought some pen and ink from Amazon." A simple act that reopened the door to artistic expression and self-discovery. That return to creativity wasn't just about making art again. It was about finding new ways to navigate the challenges of an art career mentorship, community, and financial sustainability. Actionable Insight: Creativity is always there. If you've stepped away, find a small action today to reignite it. Bonus: Set aside 15 minutes to explore an old passion without judgment. The Art of Balancing Creativity and CommerceMaking art is one thing. Making a living from it? That's a whole different challenge. SLART has wrestled with the tension between creative expression and financial stability, finding ways to sustain his work without compromising his vision. "It's a real internal struggle." Every artist faces the push-and-pull of passion vs. profitability. The solution? Diversifying income streams, building an engaged audience, and treating art like a business without losing the love for it. Actionable Insight: Think beyond galleries explore self-publishing, commissions, or digital products as income streams. Bonus: Identify one new way to monetize your art without sacrificing creativity. The Power of Mentorship and CommunitySuccess in the creative world doesn't happen in isolation. SLART credits much of his growth to mentorship and surrounding himself with like-minded artists. "We're not alone as artists." By seeking guidance and supporting others, artists can build momentum, stay motivated, and expand their opportunities. Whether through formal mentorship or organic connections, having a creative community makes the journey more fulfilling. Actionable Insight: Reach out to one fellow artist today whether for advice, collaboration, or just to connect. Bonus: Join an online or local artist community to surround yourself with creative energy. Experimentation, Technology & The Role of AI in ArtAI is shaking up the creative world. Some fear it, some embrace it but SLART believes it's just another tool in an artist's arsenal. "There's no rules in art." The key? Use technology to enhance your creative process rather than replace it. Experiment, adapt, and stay ahead of the curve. "We need to embrace AI." Whether it's automation, digital tools, or new ways of reaching audiences, technology can empower artists rather than hinder them. Actionable Insight: Try a new creative tool or technique this week whether AI-powered or not. Bonus: Research an artist who's successfully integrated technology into their work. Key TakeawaysCreativity never dies it just waits for the right spark.Balancing art and commerce is possible with the right mindset.Community and mentorship make the artist's...

    1h 51m

  5. MAR 27

    15: Empowering Black and Brown Designers Through Community and Support with Dominique Jones

    What if the secret to success in book design isn’t just talent, but community, intention, and breaking through industry barriers? Dominique Jones is a senior designer at Dutton Penguin Random House and president of Blk + Brwn Book Designers. She turned her passion for graphic design into a powerful movement of representation in the publishing industry. In this episode, Dominique shares her creative journey, showing how she turned a passion into a mission. She takes us behind the scenes of book design, unpacking the challenges of representation, the power of community, and the art of visual storytelling. From Passion to PurposeSince Dominique was a child, she had a passion for books and book cover design. But once she was in the industry, she wasn’t satisfied with her own success. She wanted to help other designers of color get into the industry too. Through Blk + Brwn Book Designers she was able to create a space for designers of color in an industry that’s often closed off to them. She built something bigger than herself and something that’s reshaping the landscape of book design. Actionable Insight: Your creative passion can be a pathway to meaningful change. Start by looking for opportunities to make space for others in your field. Bonus: Spend 10 minutes today researching communities that support diverse creative professionals. The right community can change everything. Building a Creative CommunityDominique didn’t just succeed on her own. She created Blk + Brwn Book Designers, a group that goes far beyond basic networking. It’s about building genuine relationships that open doors for designers who might not have access to traditional resources. "We all love graphic design and books," she says. This group isn’t just a space for advice. It’s a home for creatives seeking mentorship and support. It’s about connection, not just business. Actionable Insight: Community is your greatest asset. Look for groups that align with your values and creative goals. Real connections are everything. Bonus: Reach out to one person in your creative field this week for a meaningful conversation. You never know where a single connection can lead. The Realities of Creative CareersDominique’s journey shows that creative success isn’t just about raw talent. It’s about resilience. Feedback, rest, and continual growth are crucial elements that helped her along the way. "Taking breaks is important," she shares. "It helps my brain get a rest." From internships to the professional world, Dominique’s story is a reminder that creative careers are about learning, adapting, and, most importantly, staying energized. Actionable Insight: Embrace feedback as a tool for growth. Use criticism to fuel improvement, not discourage you. Bonus: Create a simple system for collecting and processing constructive feedback in your creative work. It can be a game-changer for growth. Designing with PurposeDominique’s design philosophy goes beyond making things “look good.” It’s about understanding the deeper meaning behind every project. Storytelling, representation, and crafting experiences that resonate with people are all important elements of good design. Her approach shows that great design doesn’t just communicate. It connects. It’s about creating something that leaves a lasting impact. Actionable Insight: Your creative work is more than just a product. It’s a form of communication. Bring more intention to your next...

    1h 4m

  6. MAR 20

    14: Embracing Creativity, Courage, and Service with Brian Perry

    What if your biggest creative block isn't talent, opportunity, or resources, but the fear of being fully seen? Brian Perry's journey is a testament to transformation, moving from struggling with depression and feeling like an outsider to becoming a communication coach, singer, and songwriter. Through his music and coaching, he's found a way to bridge creativity and personal growth, while helping others do the same. His path wasn't linear. Critical moments, personal setbacks, and the constant tension between art and business shaped a powerful philosophy: "The value of creating is its own unreasonable reward." Brian now shares the hard-earned lessons that helped him find his true voice and how you can embrace yours. Creativity as a Sacred SpaceFor Brian, music was more than a hobby; it was a lifeline. It provided a way to process emotions, connect with others, and build the foundation of his coaching practice. "I just picked up a guitar and started writing songs." "It was like going home." This act of creation became more than self-expression; it transformed into a tool for service, helping others find clarity and meaning in their own stories. Actionable Insight: Treat creativity as a sacred space, not just a means to an end. Protect your creative time without the pressure of monetization. Bonus: Spend 10 minutes journaling about why you create. What draws you to your art? Creativity, Courage, and Finding Your True VoiceBrian believes the most impactful creativity emerges from a place of truth. The more personal the work, the more universal it becomes. "Authenticity is being you unabashedly, unapologetically." By embracing his unique path, including neurodiversity, he discovered that discomfort is part of the process. Creativity is about navigating uncertainty and reframing setbacks as integral parts of the journey. Actionable Insight: Instead of trying to fit into an existing mold, lean into what makes you different. That's your greatest asset. Bonus: Identify one aspect of your creative process that feels uniquely you and amplify it. Balancing Art and Business Without Losing Your SoulThe intersection of creativity and business is complex. Many artists fear selling their work might compromise their integrity. Brian's perspective? Stop trying to sell. Focus on serving. When creating with the intent to serve, marketing becomes about connection rather than pushing a product. Actionable Insight: Shift your mindset from selling to serving. Who benefits from your work? How can you show up for them? Bonus: Write down three ways your creative work has positively impacted someone else. Creating Space for Quiet ReflectionIn a noisy world, Brian emphasizes the importance of stillness. Your deepest yearnings are directing you toward your greatest joys, but only if you take the time to listen. "Create room for quiet. Our deepest yearnings are guiding us." In moments of uncertainty, instead of forcing answers, allow yourself the space to hear them. Actionable Insight: Make space for creative silence. Whether it's meditation, long walks, or simply stepping away from distractions, quiet moments allow your best ideas to emerge. Bonus: Try a "silent session"—30 minutes of intentional quiet before diving into your creative work. Key TakeawaysCreativity should be nurtured, not pressured to generate income.Courage and self-expression lead to deeper connections.Your unique path is your greatest asset—embrace it.Serve through your art instead of focusing on...

    1h 29m
  7. 13: How Two Indie Authors Built a Sci-Fi Brand and Empire from Scratch – The Forbidden Origins Story

    MAR 13

    13: How Two Indie Authors Built a Sci-Fi Brand and Empire from Scratch – The Forbidden Origins Story

    What if the secret to building a successful multimedia company wasn’t just talent, but persistence and collaborative storytelling? Armani Salado and Eric Martinez started Forbidden Origins as a childhood passion project. Through sci-fi storytelling, collaboration, and strategic brand-building, they transformed it into a growing multimedia company spanning books, comics, and potential animated adaptations of The Old Universe. But success didn’t happen overnight. Years of indie publishing, creative entrepreneurship, and relentless dedication—while juggling full-time jobs—taught them invaluable lessons about creative control, audience growth, and turning passion into a business. Now, they’re sharing the wins, struggles, and key insights that helped them build Forbidden Origins from the ground up. From Passion Project to Growing BusinessWhat started as two friends creating stories has turned into a full-fledged multimedia venture. Their first book series, The Old Universe, explores themes of father-son relationships while setting the foundation for an expanding storytelling universe. At one point, they realized they had so much content. Then they went viral for the first time and thought, "Let’s just see what happens!" That moment wasn’t luck—it was the result of years of creative work, strategic marketing, and a willingness to take risks. Actionable Insight: Start with a clear vision but stay adaptable. Consistency over time builds momentum in creative businesses. Bonus: Spend 10 minutes today identifying a small, consistent habit that can push your creative project forward. The Power of Creative Control in Indie PublishingBy choosing self-publishing, they maintained complete creative control over their stories and business decisions. They built their own platform, ensuring that contributing writers receive 100% of their royalties while fostering a collaborative creative environment. "Those writers get paid 100% for their work." They’ve made it a priority to create an “official look” while keeping full ownership of the creative process. Actionable Insight: Creative control means more responsibility. Identify one area where you can take full ownership of your creative work. Bonus: Research an indie creator who successfully built their audience through strategic engagement. Building a Brand & Expanding an AudienceSuccess isn’t just about creating—it’s about getting seen. Through targeted social media strategies, understanding algorithms, and consistent engagement, Forbidden Origins steadily grew its fanbase. "Brand recognition is key!" It takes strategy and investment—"You got to spend money to make money!" That investment—whether in marketing, design, or community-building—helped them gain visibility and traction. Actionable Insight: Your audience won’t find you unless you put yourself out there. Post consistently and track what resonates. Bonus: Set a goal to engage with 10 potential audience members this week across different platforms. Balancing Day Jobs and Passion ProjectsTurning a creative dream into a sustainable business requires sacrifice. The team behind Forbidden Origins juggles full-time jobs while dedicating every spare moment to growing their vision, proving that creative entrepreneurship is a long-term game. "It’s a long-ass marathon, not a sprint." Building something meaningful takes time and certain sacrifices. From late nights to reinvesting earnings back into the business, success is built on delayed gratification...

    2h 13m

  8. MAR 6

    12: How to Break Through Creative Blocks & Share Your Work with Confidence with with Melissa Dinwiddie

    What if the secret to unlocking your best creative work wasn’t more discipline but more play? Melissa Dinwiddie started her creative journey as a calligrapher and ketubah artist. But she didn’t stop there. By following her curiosity and embracing play, she unlocked new creative paths that she never saw coming. Now, as a corporate creativity consultant, she helps others break free from perfectionism and create with confidence. With years of experience in creativity training, Melissa helps individuals and teams rediscover the power of play to overcome perfectionism, spark innovation, and build a sustainable creative practice. Rediscovering Play in CreativityAfter a 15-year creative hiatus, Melissa reignited her artistic spark while planning her wedding. She realized that creativity thrives in a playful, low-pressure environment. Actionable Insight: If perfectionism is holding you back, set aside time for low-stakes creative play. Focus on the process, not the outcome. Bonus: Work on a five-minute improvisational exercise today. Try something like doodling, free-writing, or playing with a new artistic medium. Creative Confidence in Corporate SpacesMelissa didn’t just reclaim her creativity. She built a business around helping others do the same. She now works with corporate teams to integrate play, improvisation, and communication techniques to build an environment for innovation. Actionable Insight: Creativity isn’t just for artists. Identify one way you can introduce more curiosity or experimentation into your daily work. Bonus: Research one company known for its creativity and innovation. What strategies do they use that you could apply in your own practice? Overcoming Perfectionism & Creative BlocksWhen confronting a blank slate, making a mark, any mark, can be the hardest step. Melissa’s philosophy, The Creative Sandbox Way, encourages exploration over perfection. This method helps creatives and professionals alike break free from creative paralysis. Actionable Insight: Set up a dedicated “sacred creative time” each week where the goal is to create without judgment or expectation. Bonus: Make a list of your top three creative roadblocks and brainstorm one playful way to challenge each one. The Intersection of Art, Business & Self-ExpressionMelissa’s work bridges the gap between art and business. She's proven that creative expression can be personally fulfilling AND professionally valuable. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or corporate leader, embracing your unique strengths is the key to standing out. Actionable Insight: What creative strengths do you overlook because they come easily to you? Leverage them instead of dismissing them. Bonus: Write down one way you can turn a perceived weakness into a creative advantage. Key Takeaways:✅ Play is essential for sustained creativity. ✅ Perfectionism kills innovation. Embrace exploration instead. ✅ Creativity is a business asset, not just a personal practice. ✅ Willpower isn’t the answer. Structured play is. ✅ Your unique strengths are what make your work stand out. Transform Your Creative Barriers into BreakthroughsAs Melissa reminds us, the journey to uncovering your creative power is through play, curiosity, and the courage to defy perfectionism. Want to transform your creative blocks into stepping stones. Visit TheStandoutCreatives.com to book...

    1h 41m
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5
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

Feel stuck in the endless juggle of running a creative business? I'm Kevin Chung, your creative business host, and this podcast is your guide to thriving without losing your spark. This podcast is for you if you find yourself asking questions like: - Are you juggling creative work and the demands of running a business? - Do you feel overwhelmed by launching a product or course? - Struggling to find a marketing strategy that feels authentic to you? - Looking for ways to grow without burning out? - Wondering how to balance business success with your creative passion? Each episode dives into practical strategies, inspiring stories, and actionable tips from fellow creative business owners—whether you’re prepping for a big launch, scaling your business, or simply trying to sell with integrity. Learn how to stand out, grow with intention, and build a business that feels as good as it looks. (Formerly known as Cracking Creativity Podcast)

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