In our fast-paced world, staying ahead creatively means rolling with the punches. This week on the podcast, host Scott Sourdough Power, founder of NOT REAL ART, talks with Mark Brickey, host of the acclaimed arts podcast Adventures in Design. Mark, who started as a musician, has made a name for himself as a content creator with a successful podcast and a YouTube channel, Hey Brickey, which focuses on Disney-themed content and boasts over four million views.
During the episode, Mark shares his story and talks about how important it is for artists to be resilient and adaptable in today’s ever-changing creative landscape. He also dives into the power of storytelling and explores the challenges artists face in staying true to themselves while also trying to make a living. With over a thousand interviews under his belt with artists, designers, and makers, Mark brings a ton of experience and insight to the table.
Scott and Mark go on to discuss how to balance the passion for art with the reality of making money, stressing just how vital it is to have a community of support among artists. Mark’s transition from music to podcasting and design is a powerful reminder of how we can embrace our creative roots while also welcoming new opportunities. This episode isn’t just an exploration of the creative process; it’s also a motivating nudge for our listeners who might be feeling stuck.
If that sounds like you, tune in and hear how Mark’s approach to creativity and community helps him navigate an ever-evolving world.
Quotes From This Episode
“[Gen X has] all these new tools that we understand how to make life easier and more efficient, but we are also blessed with that hard work ethic. And I think that it's a really interesting moment to be in time to have a life that really exists between the old world and the new world.” — Mark Brickey [13:54]
“If you're out there in the world and you're smiling, laughing, doing something creative, putting yourself out there, people are going to be attracted to that and good things are going to happen.”— Mark Brickey [30:47]
“If you're passionate about YouTube, get involved. It is very rewarding. I'll also give you a heads up, it will break you. It is the hardest social media platform. It's so tricky, it's so complicated. But if you get in there and you just stay consistent with it, you can find your audience, and there's a good reward in there for you if you stick to it.” — Mark Brickey [33:48]
“Every minute in one of my videos, essentially, I'm introducing an idea, I'm giving you supportive pieces of information to back that idea, and then there's a big sort of reveal. And so to keep people's attention, you can't just tell one long story. You literally gotta think about it as 15 small stories.” — Mark Brickey [39:45]
Links Mentioned in This Episode
About Mark Brickey
Mark Brickey is a dynamic content creator and host of Adventures In Design, a pioneering podcast that delves into the creative process. Since 2012, Mark has engaged with over a thousand artists, designers, and makers, sharing their stories and insights. With more than 4 million views on his YouTube channel, he combines his passion for Disneyland with entertaining content that captivates both Disney fans and casual viewers alike. Mark is a true strategist in the realm of content creation, wielding expertise in brand design, identity, illustration, and brand strategy. As a public speaker, podcast producer, and YouTube optimization expert, he demonstrates how to turn passion into a rewarding career. Mark’s ability to inspire those around him makes him a valuable figure in the creative community, showcasing how skills truly pay the bills.
All images published with permission of the artist(s); featured graphic: David Schwartz.