Chaos and Creativity
51 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 3 years ago - ★★★★★ - 12 ratingsMusician Kimi Recor and award winning photographer/writer Lou Lesko discuss the elations, frustrations, glam, and gloom of being a professional creative.
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Episodes
The Hangry Bar: A Tale of an introvert + extrovert navigating these times
April 20, 2021 04:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MBIn this episode, Kimi and Lou talk about their individual experiences through this pandemic + the world opening back up. Diving into the world of extro/introvert personality traits, our two fearless hosts examine what it feels like to experience a year of forced social distancing + what it feels like now that the world is repopening. They also touch upon the cultural changes that are here to stay post-COVID + how maybe some of them aren't that bad!
Virtual Production: A Conversation between Lou + Hannah Soto
February 23, 2021 05:00 - 49 minutes - 34.3 MBLast week, Hannah Soto, founder of Grey House Productions, and Lou Lesko talked about The Future of Virtual Production: the two distinct meanings of virtual production, what you need to know about them, and how they are going to change your future as a creative professional. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- More info: Grey House Productions (https://www.greyhouseproductions.com) BlinkBid (https://www.blinkbid.com) Watch the we...
How to be a creative in a time of chaos.
January 11, 2021 22:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MBHappy New Year! We took the rest of 2020 off to rest, digest and figure out how to move forward with a podcast about being creative for a living during a time when half the world is stuck at home. In this episode Lou + Kimi talk about their personal experiences with pandemic-related creative blocks, and how they've both made progress. Kimi explains how she uses the following productivity hacks to be creative rather than productive: Monday Hour 1 The Pomodoro Method Time Boundaries In ...
Understanding Your Artistic Worth: Pricing Yourself As A Photographer
August 13, 2020 04:00 - 49 minutes - 33.7 MBIn the inaugural episode of Chaos and Creativity Season 3, Lou tackles the tough (and often taboo) subject of pricing yourself as a photographer. He discusses why there are no rules on pricing your photographic skills and how this offers a distinct opportunity to advance to your career. This is a great look at the photography industry + assigning worth to your work. A must-listen for aspiring and working photographers alike.
The Future of Production with Elise Connett and Philip Pavliger
July 03, 2020 04:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MBOn this episode of Chaos and Creativity, Lou hosts top producers Elise Connett and Philip Pavliger to unpack the production industry’s response to COVID-19 measures in the workplace. They discuss how to manage risk, keep people safe, and deal with uncharted territory. Listen in to hear how the production realm is moving forward with care for both people and projects.
Creativity in Lockdown: 5 Steps for Creating During Quarantine
May 25, 2020 19:00 - 19 minutes - 13.3 MBOn this episode of Chaos and Creativity, Kimi + Lou discuss boredom as fuel for the creative process. They explore the different stages of boredom, as well as productivity, routine, and innovation as ways to cope with quarantine. Listen in to hear about how the last several weeks of confusion and dis-order can be the perfect storm for creativity to strike. Article on Teen Creativity and Rebellion: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/04/quarantine-creative-teenagers-genz-coronavirus-covid1...
Loneliness + Belonging with Connection Cure Founder Lisa Grossman
May 05, 2020 04:00 - 30 minutes - 21 MBLisa Grossman is the founder of The Connection Cure, a nomadic project that seeks to understand human connection. Three years ago, she packed up her Brooklyn apartment and set off on a cross-country road trip to destigmatize loneliness. On this episode of Chaos + Creativity, Lisa talks to Kimi about how micro moments of connection with both friends and strangers can change a person’s life. Lisa’s Connection Cure workshops offer a place for honest conversations about love, radical change, tru...
In Conversation with Katharine Blake of Miranda Sex Garden and Mediæval Bæbes
April 23, 2020 04:00 - 23 minutes - 16.3 MBIn this episode of Chaos + Creativity, Kimi and Lou invite musician Katharine Blake to the microphone. Blake, founder of the bands Miranda Sex Garden and the Mediæval Bæbes, talks about her journey from classical musician to goth music icon to creator and arranger of film soundtracks. Her unique ethereal sound is both haunting and captivating, inspired in part by what Katharine describes as the “psychedelic vein.” She spoke to C + C from Scotland where she’s sheltering-in-place with her part...
Silver Linings in The Time of Covid 19
April 02, 2020 04:00 - 25 minutes - 17.3 MBIn this episode of Chaos and Creativity, Kimi + Lou discuss how COVID-19 affects the creative industry. They cover how to adapt to the new world, where to find optimism, and the importance of the arts, especially during this time. https://www.voguebusiness.com/companies/communicating-under-covid-19-coronavirus-china-e-commerce-advertising-livestream https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultalbot/2020/03/19/how-the-coronavirus-pandemic-impacts-marketing-strategy/#451808964dc2 https://www.theverg...
High Spirits - An Interview with Jeff Burkhart (The Bar Fly)
March 12, 2020 04:00 - 30 minutes - 20.6 MBIn this episode of Chaos and Creativity, Kimi + Lou chat with Jeff Burkhart, author of Twenty Years Behind Bars, about his life as a bartender and writer. Tune in to hear Jeff's take on how to keep creativity going, the evolution of his career, and his idea of the perfect drink. Jeff's website: https://jeffburkhart.net Books: https://jeffburkhart.net/books/
The Minimalism Minisode
February 20, 2020 05:00 - 19 minutes - 13.2 MBIn this special mini-episode, Kimi and Lou discuss Kimi's venture into the "Minimalist Challenge" and the very real feeling of consumer burnout. If you want to learn more about this challenge visit www.theminimalists.com.
Behind the Camera: An Interview with Jaron Presant
February 03, 2020 14:00 - 44 minutes - 30.2 MBIn this episode, Lou interviews director of photography Jaron Presant. The two talk about the process of transforming a script into a movie, the future of cinematography, and how it feels to get "the shot."
Behind the Camera: An Interview with Jaron Presan
February 03, 2020 14:00 - 44 minutes - 30.2 MBIn this episode, Lou interviews director of photography Jaron Presant. The two talk about the process of transforming a script into a movie, the future of cinematography, and how it feels to get "the shot."
Porn and Creativity- An Interview with Joone of Digital Playground
January 16, 2020 05:00 - 37 minutes - 25.7 MBIn this episode of Chaos and Creativity, Lou interviews Joone- formerly of Digital Playground. Listen as the two discuss the creativity behind porn, and how the evolution of the internet changed the business model forever.
The Wellness Episode
November 29, 2019 05:00 - 26 minutes - 17.9 MBIn this episode, Kimi and Lou discuss their wellness and brand new format. Listen in to hear thoughts on the Dr. Junger’s book, Clean, as well as Kimi’s strange obsession with office supplies.
The Great Return
October 31, 2019 04:00 - 37 minutes - 25.8 MBKimi returns from her journey to Europe just as Lou leaves for his. <P> Listen to find out more about why Kimi didn't really like Iceland, what it feels like to return to your childhood home after 17 years, and more on this episode of Chaos and Creativity.
How to be a Digital Nomad
September 19, 2019 04:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MBKimi and Lou discuss how to be a digital nomad. Kimi's jet lag app: Time Shifter. The Electronic Frontier Foundation's Border Security Guide. Panic Software's Transmit.
Life's a Circus
September 05, 2019 04:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MBIn this episode, Kimi + Lou catch up after a long week. Take a listen to find out what these two have been up to, their favorite way to waste time, and more.
Should you quit your artistic career for stability?
August 22, 2019 04:00 - 25 minutes - 17.2 MBIn this episode, Lou + Kimi tackle the intricacies of being an artist in a world that values stability, financial success and normalcy.
Routines: Yay or Nay?
August 08, 2019 18:00 - 28 minutes - 19.8 MBIn this episode, Kimi and Lou discuss the merits of having a routine + how creating a plan for your day can inspire your creativity.
That's Crazy: How to survive embarrassing moments + a story about a 18-year reunion
July 25, 2019 04:00 - 27 minutes - 18.7 MBIn this episode Lou tries and fails at beatnik poetry. Kimi reveals a star crossed coincidence. And the duo discuss how to survive embarassing moments. As always this episode brought to you by BlinkBid bidding and producing software.
Is Owning Your Art A Privilege or a Right?
July 11, 2019 04:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MBIn this episode of Chaos and Creativity, Kimi and Lou discuss Taylor Swift's record deal debacle, and weigh in on the state of the music business, and the creative industries in general. Listen in to find out the difference between owning your master vs owning your publishing, and why we are in a prime time for a new state of normal. Follow us on Instagram.
Absolutism, Moby and Free Bourbon
June 27, 2019 04:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MBIn this episode, Kimi and Lou discuss the pitfalls of absolutism, Moby's Mishap and more. Listen carefully to see if you can spot the Easter Egg that will win you a bottle of free Bourbon!
A Case of Unrealistic Expectations
June 13, 2019 04:00 - 23 minutes - 10.6 MBIn the episode, Kimi and Lou discuss unrealistic expectations, and how they can be detrimental to your life, career, and well-being.
Why being a good observer makes you a better artist.
May 24, 2019 17:00 - 24 minutes - 11.1 MBIn this episode, Kimi and Lou discuss the merits of being a good observer and how this can serve you in your career as a photojournalist. Here is the Celeste Headlee TED talk Kimi references in the episode.
How To Change Your Life
May 02, 2019 04:00 - 25 minutes - 11.6 MBKimi is back from her European travels. In this episode, Kimi and Lou talk about traveling, uprooting your life, and the importance of making small sacrifices. In this episode, Lou references the Abigail Disney interview on The Cut.
Don’t Jump the Gun
April 11, 2019 04:00 - 19 minutes - 9.15 MBIn this episode, Kimi and Lou talk about the downfall of talking about something you want to do before you actually do it- and why jumping the gun can actually keep you from doing anything at all. Check out Lou's amazing short story, The Ghost of Communism.
Super agents and where to find them: A chat with Heather Elder
March 28, 2019 04:00 - 51 minutes - 23.5 MBIn this special episode of Chaos and Creativity, Kimi and Lou chat with renowned agent Heather Elder about finding talent via social media, the future of the photography business and why creativity isn't just for artists. To see some of Heather's work, visit her website. Heather also has a super insightful blog called Notes from a Rep's Journal + has recently launched a podcast called Dear Art Producer.
Tall Poppy Syndrome and how relationship drama affects your art.
March 14, 2019 13:00 - 35 minutes - 16.1 MBIn this somewhat two-subject episode Lou and Kimi return to the topic of the pitfalls of success in the modern world of socials media, as well as discussing the effect relationship drama can have on your art.
Street Cred vs. Social Media Stats? They're not the same thing.
February 28, 2019 11:00 - 32 minutes - 14.9 MBIn the day and age of the internet, many young artists think the way up is by gathering hundreds of thousands of followers, no matter what they have to concede artistically. But like everything, there's a price to pay. In this episode of Chaos and Creativity, Lou and Kimi discuss why building an online brand is not the same as building street cred, and how doing great work is still the best currency as an artist. Here are some of the articles mentioned in this podcast: Patti Smith's Advi...
Taking A Wrong Turn - How to Bounce Back from a Mistake
February 14, 2019 05:00 - 28 minutes - 13.2 MBHave you ever made a mistake that was so big, you didn't think you could come back from it? In this episode, Kimi and Lou discuss some of the wrong turns they took in their careers and what helped them bounce back.
There Are No Rules
January 31, 2019 05:00 - 30 minutes - 14.1 MBLou and Kimi debate over the merits of self-help books, agree on the rules of creativity (hint: there are none) and talk about the downfall of the artist. The meditation book Kimi talks about is called 10% Happier by Dan Harris.
New Year Episode: Decluttering, New Habits and Kimi agrees to start saving for retirement.
January 17, 2019 05:00 - 22 minutes - 10.3 MBIt's a New Year, and Kimi and Lou have lots to catch up on post-vacation. Topics range everywhere from decluttering via Marie Kondo to why it's important to start saving, even if you're nihilistic and think the world will end tomorrow.
The Productivity Myth
November 29, 2018 05:00 - 26 minutes - 12.3 MBIs being productive, actually productive? Does more equal more? Kimi and Lou discuss the ins and outs of the productivity myth, and what actually feels productive vs. what society tells us IS productive.
Dangers of Feeding The Machine
November 02, 2018 04:00 - 17 minutes - 8.2 MBOn the surface, YouTube and other social media channels appear to be an extraordinary opportunity for artists with entrepreneurial ambition. What are the hidden costs of keeping up with the tacit demands of the algorithmic engines that run social media? In this episode, Kimi and Lou discuss the pitfalls of social media and living in the age of content.
Self-Health for the Creative Person
October 19, 2018 04:00 - 19 minutes - 8.91 MBDISCLAIMER: This episode was actually recorded before Dangers of Feeding the Machine, but due to an upload error is getting uploaded just now. Yay technology:). In this episode, Lou and Kimi discuss the importance of self-care, especially for those who freelance and own small businesses.
The Art of the Meeting
October 05, 2018 04:00 - 25 minutes - 11.5 MBEver walk into a meeting and feel like you're super unprepared? In this episode Kimi and Lou discuss the art of the meeting and the perfect pitch.
Kill Your Darlings
September 24, 2018 04:00 - 14 minutes - 6.73 MBKimi and Lou wrap up Season 1 of Chaos & Creativity by talking about the pitfalls and mistakes they made in the first season, and how they want to improve in Season 2.
When Do You Pull The Plug
August 28, 2018 04:00 - 26 minutes - 12.1 MBIn this episode Kimi and Lou talk about when to pull the plug on your own work. The evolution of creative skills. And why oh why are some your first attempts at an art-form better than your sophomore efforts after you start learning technique.
Breaking the Habit Update!
August 21, 2018 04:00 - 18 minutes - 8.42 MBKimi and Lou fill each other in on the progress they've made with breaking their bad habits. Here are some tools Kimi used to try and break her social media addiction: Books: How to Break Up with Your Phone: The 30-Day Plan to Take Back Your Life (Catherine Price) Bored and Brilliant (Manoush Zomorodi) Articles: This article from Tristan Harris: http://www.tristanharris.com/2016/01/distracted-in-2016-welcome-to-mindfulness-bootcamp-for-your-iphone/ And the Moment app to track how m...
Breaking The Habit
July 24, 2018 04:00 - 11 minutes - 5.22 MBIn this episode Kimi and Lou discuss some of their bad habits, and come up with a plan to break them. Kimi decides to try and face her social media addiction head on, using techniques from author Catherine Price, and app philosopher Tristan Harris. Lou vows to spend less time reading useless content and getting rid of digital distraction. Check back in two weeks to see how this little experiment goes and how well our two heroes fare in their quest to slay their bad habit.
Budgeting is Sexy
July 11, 2018 04:00 - 20 minutes - 9.34 MBIn this episode, Kimi and Lou discuss finances, budgeting, and some of their past financial mishaps. Here are some of the apps Kimi uses to maintain her finances: www.creditkarma.com www.mint.com www.acorns.com
There's No Shame in Having A Day Job
June 19, 2018 04:00 - 18 minutes - 8.32 MBIn this episode, Kimi and Lou discuss day jobs. Referencing author Sara Benincasa's incredible essay, "Real Artist have Day Jobs", Kimi talks about her experience of always having the safety net of a day job to support her, and how it keeps her from feeling any pressure on her art. There's even ways to make your day job work for you. Listen to this episode to get tips, tricks and find out why there's no shame in working a day job.
Creative Burnout
May 23, 2018 04:00 - 16 minutes - 7.68 MBIn today's episode, Kimi and Lou discuss the dreaded CREATIVE BURNOUT and how to combat it. If you have any questions or stories for us, you can email us at [email protected] Follow us on instagram at @chaosandcreativity Follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/chaosandcreativity
How to Be Sick
May 01, 2018 04:00 - 18 minutes - 8.64 MBYou got the big job, you're gearing up for the day, and all of the sudden you feel a tickle in your throat. Next thing you know you have the full blown flu/cold/food poisoning. You can't control things like this but you can prepare for them. In this episode Kimi and Lou share some of their experiences in dealing with sickness during important jobs + their tips for getting through it. SHOW NOTES: Here are some tips from Kimi + Lou on how to keep your cool when you're not feeling so hot. Fro...
When To Break Free
April 17, 2018 04:00 - 17 minutes - 7.83 MBIn this weeks episode, Lou and Kimi discuss when it's time to break free from your influences and follow your own artistic voice.
The Booze Episode
April 03, 2018 04:00 - 27 minutes - 12.8 MBIn this episode Lou + Kimi tackle the topic of booze and business. How many glasses of wine make you a creative genius? How does one tackle social situations that mix networking + boozing? Find the answers to this (and life perhaps) on this weeks episode of Chaos and Creativity.
The "Girly" Episode
March 13, 2018 04:00 - 27 minutes - 12.8 MBThe generation gap breaks wide open in this episode of Chaos and Creativity. Things get slightly heated between Lou and Kimi as they discuss shades of feminism particularly around the use of the word “girly.” As easy as it is for them to raise to aggressive bouts and arguments, they demonstrate how important it is to bridge the age gap through conversation, comprehension and respect. This episode is as much about feminism and respect as it is about the importance of having a conversation wit...
Lou Interviews Kimi
February 19, 2018 05:00 - 17 minutes - 7.83 MBIn this episode of Chaos and Creativity , Lou interviews Kimi about her band ( DREAMINGS), how she got started in music, and what advice she has to give to aspiring artists.
Interview with Lou Lesko
January 30, 2018 05:00 - 24 minutes - 11.3 MBIn this episode of Chaos + Creativity, Kimi interviews Lou about his 20-year career in photography, his venture into the tech entrepreneur world, and his advice for aspiring photographers.