Logo
    Search

    ECD Christian Carl On Staying Creative Outside of Work and the Journey From Good to Great

    en-usJune 26, 2023

    About this Episode

    On today’s episode of Creative Space,  we have the pleasure of chatting with Christian Carl, executive creative director, copywriter, artist, author, musician and entrepreneur.

    He most recently served as the Global Executive Creative Director for 160/90, with a client roster that included Lowe’s, Anheuser-Busch, University of Arizona, Marriott, Audi and Reebok.

    Apart from his 32-year career in advertising so far, Christian has a number of creative projects outside of work, including his children’s book series, Land of Lots.

    We cover a lot of ground in this episode, including how to lead creatives, the importance of having a creative outlet outside of agency life, and Christian’s creative process. 

    For more on Christian Carl, visit: thechristiancarl.com.

    And for more on Land of Lots, visit: thelandoflots.com.
    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit:
    eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    SHOW NOTES:


    0:00—Introduction

    1:53—Growing up in Elkhart, Indiana

    4:38—Early influences: cartoons, fashion and sports

    7:30—Losing gracefully, winning gracefully and the importance of hard work

    9:00—How Christian ended up in advertising 

    10:25—From selling car phones door to door to his first agency job

    12:13—The creative path is a scribble

    13:51—”I know it’s right when it’s easy to write.”

    16:00—There’s a reason you’re hitting that block. 

    17:45—How to tell you have a great idea

    19:00—Doubting yourself is part of being creative. 

    20:35—Rick Rubin and Steven Pressfield shoutout

    21:13—Getting to work on Volkswagen 

    27:13—Christian’s definition of creativity

    30:15—Advertising is like archaeology 

    32:00—Christian’s creative process

    35:00—The struggle in advertising for a creative

    39:30—The work can never come before the people

    45:45—The importance of staying creative outside of work

    50:36—Two decades of working with PETA

    55:33—The power of a great idea

    58:00—Getting inspired to create ‘Land of Lots’

    01:08:00—”Everything doesn’t have to be amazing and everything can’t be.”

    01:12:00—Where Christian sees advertising going

    01:18:00—What’s next for Christian





    Recent Episodes from Creative Space with Jennifer Logue

    "The Artist's Way"—Week 6: Recovering a Sense of Abundance

    "The Artist's Way"—Week 6: Recovering a Sense of Abundance

    On this week’s episode of Creative Space, we’re diving into Chapter 6 of Julia Cameron’s seminal book on creativity, “The Artist’s Way.” The focus for this week is “Recovering a Sense of Abundance,” and it’s all about examining our ideas around God, money and creative abundance.

    There is so much to cover but there are three core principles we’ll talk about: the Great Creator, Luxury, and Counting.

    My favorite quote from this chapter: “Creativity lives in paradox: serious art is born from serious play.”

    If you’re interested in reading "The Artist’s Way" and/or following along with the podcast as you complete the work, you can purchase it here.

    For more on me, your host and creative coach, visit: jenniferlogue.com.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit:
    eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.

    "The Artist's Way Week 5"—Recovering a Sense of Possibility

    "The Artist's Way Week 5"—Recovering a Sense of Possibility

    On this week’s episode of Creative Space, we’re diving into Chapter 4 of Julia Cameron’s seminal book on creativity, “The Artist’s Way.” The focus for this week is “Recovering a Sense of Possibility,” and it continues to expand on the theme of letting go of preconceived limitations and finding flow.

    There is so much to cover but there are three core principles we’ll talk about: limits, finding the river, and the virtue trap.

    My favorite passage from this chapter: “Dependence on the creator within is really freedom from all other dependencies. Paradoxically, it is also the only route to real intimacy with other human beings. Freed from our terrible fears of abandonment, we are able to live with more spontaneity. Freed from our constant demands for more and more reassurance, our fellows are able to love us back without feeling so burdened.”

    If you’re interested in reading "The Artist’s Way" and/or following along with the podcast as you complete the work, you can purchase it here.

    For more on me, your host and creative coach, visit: jenniferlogue.com.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit:
    eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.

    The Artist's Way"—Week 4 Recovering a Sense of Integrity

    The Artist's Way"—Week 4 Recovering a Sense of Integrity

    On this week’s episode of Creative Space, we’re diving into Chapter 4 of Julia Cameron’s seminal book on creativity, “The Artist’s Way.” The focus for this week is “Recovering a Sense of Integrity,” and it’s all about letting go of previously accepted limits and experimenting with spiritual open mindedness.

    There is so much to cover but there are three core principles we’ll talk about: honest changes, kriya, and reading deprivation.

    My favorite passage from this chapter: “Be prepared for bursts of tears and laughter. A certain giddiness may accompany sudden stabs of loss. Think of yourself as an accident victim walking away from the crash: your old life has crashed and burned; your new life isn’t apparent yet. You may feel yourself to be temporarily without a vehicle. Just keep walking.”

    If you’re interested in reading "The Artist’s Way" and/or following along with the podcast as you complete the work, you can purchase it here.

    For more on me, your host and creative coach, visit: jenniferlogue.com.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit:
    eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.


    "The Artist’s Way” Week 3—Recovering a Sense of Power

    "The Artist’s Way” Week 3—Recovering a Sense of Power

    On this week’s episode of Creative Space, we’re diving into Chapter 3 of Julia Cameron’s seminal book on creativity, “The Artist’s Way.” The focus for this week is “Recovering a Sense of Power,” and it’s all about letting go of previously accepted limits and experimenting with spiritual open mindedness.

    There is so much to cover but there are three core principles we’ll talk about: Anger, Synchronicity, and Shame.

    My favorite quote from this chapter: “Never ask whether you can do something. Say, instead, that you are doing it. Then fasten your seatbelt. The most remarkable things follow."

    If you’re interested in reading "The Artist’s Way" and/or following along with the podcast as you complete the work, you can purchase it here.

    For more on me, your host and creative coach, visit: jenniferlogue.com.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit:
    eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.

    "The Artist’s Way” Week 2—Recovering a Sense of Identity

    "The Artist’s Way” Week 2—Recovering a Sense of Identity

    On this week’s episode of Creative Space, we’re diving into Chapter 2 of Julia Cameron’s seminal book on creativity, “The Artist’s Way.” The focus for this week is “Recovering a Sense of Identity,” and it’s all about self definition and setting boundaries as our desires and new interests come to light.

    There is so much to cover but there are three core principles we’ll talk about: how outside forces block our creative growth (poisonous playmates and crazymakers), how inner forces block our creative growth (skepticism), and the tools available to us to grow in our creativity (attention).

    My favorite quote from this chapter: “The quality of life is in capacity, always, to the capacity for delight. The capacity for delight is the gift of paying attention.”

    If you’re interested in reading "The Artist’s Way" and/or following along with the podcast as you complete the work, you can purchase it here.

    For more on me, your host and creative coach, visit: jenniferlogue.com.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit:
    eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.


    “The Artist’s Way” Week 1—Recovering a Sense of Safety

    “The Artist’s Way” Week 1—Recovering a Sense of Safety

    On today's episode of Creative Space, we're addressing topics from Week 1 of Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way," which is all about recovering a sense of safety.

    There are three core ideas that I cover in this episode: shadow artists, core negative beliefs, and affirmations.

    From my own past as a journalist to the nuanced struggles of being a shadow artist, we peel back the layers of suppressed creativity and the impact early discouragement can have on us later in life.

    I also dive into an exercise from "The Artist's Way" that illuminates the power of affirmations in silencing our inner critic or "Censor."  By transforming negative commentary "blurts" into positive affirmations, we can move from being creatively blocked to unleashing a fulfilling creative life. If you've ever been haunted by a sense of creative inadequacy or felt like your artistic voice was stifled, this episode offers a beacon of hope and actionable steps towards claiming the creative life you deserve.

    Here's a link to purchase "The Artist's Way."

    For more on me, your host and creative coach, visit: jenniferlogue.com.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit: eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.

    Diving into "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron

    Diving into "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron

    Have you ever had a book cross your path multiple times, only to finally pick it up and realize it holds the wisdom you've been searching for all along? That's exactly what happened to me with Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way."

    Join me on "Creative Space" as I embark on a 12-week journey of creative rediscovery, guided by Cameron's revered process. This adventure isn't just personal though—I've formed a creative cluster with folks from across the U.S. and Canada to go on this adventure together.  Our first session was a blend of intention-setting and an introduction to the core principles of "The Artist's Way."

    In this episode, I'll go over two fundamental concepts in the book: morning pages and the artist date.

    And if you'd like, you can purchase your own copy of the book and do the course alongside the podcast or form a creative cluster of your own.

    Here's a link to purchase "The Artist's Way."

    For more on me, your host and creative coach, visit: jenniferlogue.com.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit: eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.




    Making the Most of What You Have as an Artist

    Making the Most of What You Have as an Artist

    On today's episode of Creative Space, we're exploring the importance of making the most of what we have as artists. There's an unexpected alchemy that happens when we work within our means, and what we think of as limitations can transform into opportunities for innovation and authenticity.  I'll share how embracing simplicity in tools and approach not only rekindles our love for the craft but also leads to art that is unmistakably 'you'.

    This episode is a solo journey—no guests, just us and a conversation about why scarcity can be platform for our next breakthrough and growth. We'll touch on five powerful reasons why working with what’s already at your fingertips can be your artistic edge. From the beauty of a single voice and instrument to breaking free from the shackles of perfectionism, we're looking at the ways constraints can spur us to deepen our skills, appreciate our journey, and produce work that has an individual stamp of originality. So, grab your notepad (or that guitar you've been neglecting), and prepare to be inspired by the art of doing more with less.

    For more on me, your host and creative coach, visit: jenniferlogue.com.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit: eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.

    Tony Savant On The Journey To Acting and Betting On Yourself

    Tony Savant On The Journey To Acting and Betting On Yourself

    On today’s episode of Creative Space, we have the pleasure of speaking with Tony Savant, one of the most respected acting teachers in the country and the Director of Playhouse West Philadelphia.

    He’s helped train some of the most successful actors working in the industry today, including: Ashley Judd, Scott Caan, Jim Parrack, Jean Elie, Charisma Carpenter and many, many more.

    Along with Robert Carnegie and Jeff Goldblum, Tony is one of only a handful of teachers to observe Sandy Meisner teach after his move to Los Angeles. Tony also served as the Artistic Director of the Playhouse West Theater Company in LA for over 20 years.

    Tony created, directed, and co-wrote the critically-acclaimed production, “Welcome Home, Soldier,” which ran for 25 years in Los Angeles and for a time, was the longest-running drama in the country.

    In August of 2012, Tony moved from Los Angeles and founded the east coast branch of Playhouse West—Playhouse West-Philadelphia, where he now trains a new generation of actors.

    We cover so much ground in this episode, including Tony’s journey to becoming an actor and teacher as well as the importance of betting on yourself. Whether you’re an actor or not, the wisdom Tony shares in this episode is valuable no matter what industry you’re in.

    I hope the conversation inspires you as much as it inspired me. Enjoy!

    For more on Tony Savant and Playhouse West, visit: playhousewest.com/philadelphia.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit: eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    https://bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.

    0:00—Introduction

    3:15—On loving life and learning

    6:21—Tony’s early life in Pottstown, PA

    9:09—Getting his start with acting

    10:29—A life-changing flight from Orlando

    12:37—Tony’s “moment of madness”

    16:33—The steps Tony took to become an actor

    19:27—Finding Sanford Meisner and Playhouse West

    21:12—”Become the kind of person everyone is dying to work with.”

    26:20—Getting his start as an acting teacher

    34:40—Tony’s favorite memories from LA

    38:00—The story behind “Welcome Home, Soldier”

    47:00—Sandy Meisner’s response to the play

    48:04—Tony’s definition of creativity

    1:05:00—Taking risks and betting on yourself

    1:13:00—It takes bravery to be an artist. 

    1:18:00—You have to have a higher purpose as a teacher. 

    1:23:56—Launching Playhouse West Philadelphia

    1:28:32—The greatest challenge 

    1:29:59—The greatest reward 

    1:31:51—What’s next for Playhouse West?



    The Key to Achieving Your Goals in 2024

    The Key to Achieving Your Goals in 2024

    Ever find yourself dreaming big but struggling to take the first step? On today's episode of Creative Space, we tackle the art of turning those dreams into reality. I get personal, sharing my journey of how a simple schedule adjustment led to an extraordinary leap in my vocal skills. We'll dissect the mantra "Think big, start small," and I'll show you how this philosophy isn't just a feel-good slogan but a practical, actionable strategy that can help you, too, make significant strides towards your creative aspirations.

    This episode is your toolkit for weaving your passions seamlessly into the fabric of everyday life. I'll guide you through the importance of aligning your daily routine with your grandest goals, whether you're penning a novel or honing your guitar skills. Get ready to be inspired by the power of consistency and find out how even 30 minutes a day can accumulate into a wealth of progress. So join me, as we explore how each small step is a crucial part of the journey to becoming the creator you've always envisioned. And don't forget to share your plans for carving out creative space in 2024—I'm all ears at: info@jenniferlogue.com. Let's grow together in this year of creativity.

    For more on me, your host and creative coach, visit: jenniferlogue.com.

    To sign up for the weekly Creative Space newsletter, visit: eepurl.com/h8SJ9b.

    To become a patron of the Creative Space Podcast, visit:
    bit.ly/3ECD2Kr.