• CF EP 60 - Beau Oyler
    37 mins
  • Tricks of the Trade in Creativity
    Apr 25 2024

    Join host Ward Andrews as he explores innovative tools and strategies to enhance creativity in this insightful episode of "Create Forward for Elite Creators." Ward dives into the "Creativity Wheel," a dynamic framework designed to spark inspiration and navigate common creative hurdles. In this episode, Ward addresses a multitude of challenges that creatives regularly face. Learn how to overcome creative block by discovering new sources of inspiration and motivation, even when you're stuck. Ward offers practical advice on maintaining originality in a world saturated with content and explores effective time management techniques that help balance creativity with daily responsibilities. Ward also tackles the tough issues of resource constraints and skill gaps, providing tips on how to excel creatively within limitations and how to swiftly acquire new skills necessary for ambitious projects. Additionally, he discusses how to handle the fear of failure and decision fatigue, offering strategies to boost confidence and streamline creative decision-making. The episode doesn't stop there; it delves into overcoming collaboration challenges, maintaining consistency in your work, and engaging audiences in meaningful ways. Ward shares innovative solutions for scaling ideas to match resources and addresses the critical issue of intellectual property concerns. Further enhancing the toolkit for creatives, the episode covers technological challenges, how to utilize feedback effectively, and the importance of sustainability in creative careers. From personal productivity hacks and transforming living spaces creatively to managing finances innovatively and boosting wellness through personalized fitness routines, Ward provides a comprehensive guide to thriving as a creator. "Tricks of the Trade in Creativity" promises to be a treasure trove of actionable insights and creative solutions, empowering you to turn obstacles into opportunities and elevate your creative projects to new heights. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode is designed to inspire and equip you to push the boundaries of what you can achieve creatively.

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    30 mins
  • Elite Creators Create
    Apr 22 2024

    In this episode of Create Forward we delve into the psyche of elite creators, exploring the mindset and barriers that distinguish the exceptional from the ordinary. Our journey begins with a discussion on the inherent dangers of denying one's elite capabilities. Why do some highly talented individuals hesitate to acknowledge their potential, and how does this self-doubt impede their success?

    The conversation then shifts to the concept of permission—what makes us think we don’t have the right to step up and stand out? We examine societal norms and the pressures that often discourage individuals from deviating from the status quo. The episode features real-life anecdotes of people who faced backlash for "breaking the mold" and how they navigated these challenges.

    We also compare different domains of elitism: athletes and business people. Each group perceives their elite status differently, and this segment explores these nuances and the impact of their mindset on their performance and self-conception.

    Highlighting the transformative power of mental commitment, the episode emphasizes that anyone can elevate themselves to an elite level by embracing an elite mindset. We wrap up with various inspiring stories of successful elite creators from diverse fields, illustrating how this elevated mindset has been a pivotal element of their success.

    "Elite Creators Create" not only seeks to inspire but also to equip our listeners with the understanding that to forge ahead creatively and successfully, sometimes the first permission slip you need to sign is your own.

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    31 mins
  • Using Creativity Wheel in Life
    Apr 9 2024

    In this episode of Create Forward for Elite Creators, host Ward Andrews leads us on a journey into the transformative power of the Creativity Wheel, a dynamic framework designed to enhance creative problem-solving across all facets of life. Ward begins by exploring the concept of 'Copy,' where the journey starts by understanding and imitating the creations of others. This foundational step sets the stage for 'Remix,' a phase where diverse ideas are amalgamated, setting the groundwork for innovation. As we progress, Ward guides listeners through the 'Evolve' stage, encouraging a deeper refinement and expansion of ideas, pushing the boundaries of originality. The journey reaches a pivotal moment with 'Originate,' where all the accumulated knowledge and inspiration culminate in the birth of something truly unique and original, solving problems in ways never before imagined. The final destination on this creative odyssey is 'Inspire,' where the fruits of one's creative labor serve as a beacon, encouraging others to embark on their own journeys of discovery and innovation. Throughout the episode, Ward emphasizes the importance of starting with a clear intent and systematically navigating through the Creativity Wheel's stages to unlock unparalleled solutions to life's myriad challenges. Join us on Create Forward for Elite Creators as we explore how the Creativity Wheel can not only revolutionize your creative endeavors but also inspire a ripple effect of innovation and originality across the creative community.

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    39 mins
  • Happiness is Easy
    Apr 2 2024

    In this enlightening episode of "Create Forward for Elite Creators," host Ward Andrews delves into the nuanced landscape of happiness and how it intertwines with the creative process. Titled "Happiness is Easy," this episode explores the intriguing concept that while elite creators (EC) find themselves in a state of flow 75% of the time, there's a remaining 25% where external factors or internal emotions might disrupt this harmony. Ward discusses the importance of recognizing that happiness isn't a constant state, but rather a dynamic experience that ebbs and flows.

    Listeners will be guided through the understanding that it's natural not to feel happy all the time, and more importantly, that these moments of sadness, fear, doubt, or worry are transient. Ward emphasizes the danger of dwelling on these negative emotions, explaining how it can expand their impact and inadvertently feed into them, turning a temporary feeling into a seemingly permanent state.

    The episode challenges the notion that happiness is hard to achieve, suggesting instead that the effort should not be in avoiding unhappiness but in committing to happiness. Ward shares insights on how the perspective with which we view our world - our "happy eyes" or "glasses" - can fundamentally change our experience of it. By celebrating what works and consciously choosing happiness over misery, we can navigate the creative journey with resilience and joy.

    Tune in to "Happiness is Easy" for a thought-provoking discussion that not only sheds light on the emotional landscape of elite creators but also offers practical advice on embracing happiness as a choice, not a chance occurrence. Whether you're deep in your creative flow or navigating the challenges outside of it, this episode is a reminder that happiness, indeed, can be easy.

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    29 mins
  • Going Analog in a Digital World with Casey Watters
    Mar 27 2024

    Ward Andrews sits down with Strap Co-Founder Casey Watters about creating an analog film company in todays digital first wold.

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    21 mins
  • Pessimism vs Optimism
    Mar 19 2024

    In this episode of the Create Forward Podcast, host Ward Andrews delves into the debate between pessimism and optimism in the creative world. We start by questioning why society often labels pessimists as realistic and tends to overlook optimists. The discussion moves on to debunk the myth of the "tortured artist," highlighting that creativity isn't solely born from despair and anger. It's a revealing conversation that shows struggle and failure are not just inevitable but can be valuable lessons for growth, without falling into the trap of playing the victim.

    Ward also touches on the power of energetic vibes and how they can lead to both incredible creations and challenges. He makes a case for optimism in creativity, suggesting that carrying a positive outlook can lighten the load of emotional baggage that often comes with pessimism. This part of the conversation encourages listeners to see the world through a lens of feelings rather than just thoughts, advocating for a more hopeful and constructive approach to creative work.

    The episode wraps up with practical advice for creatives: to collaborate with those who bring out the best in us and to always look for the silver lining, even in tough times. It's a call to action for anyone looking to break free from the chains of negativity and to approach their creative endeavors with a sense of hope and possibility. Join Ward as he navigates these themes, offering insights that challenge us to rethink how our mindset affects our creative output.

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    35 mins
  • Expansion and Growth
    Mar 13 2024

    In this episode of Create Forward for Elite Creators, host Ward Andrews delves deep into the essence of personal and professional growth, exploring the pivotal concepts of expansion, abundance mindset, and the journey from vision to execution. With a special focus on Carol Dweck's groundbreaking work on fixed and growth mindsets, Ward illuminates how these mindsets shape our approach to challenges, learning, and success. Through engaging discussions and insightful analysis, this episode promises to equip creators with the tools and perspectives needed to foster a growth mindset, embrace resilience, and unlock their full potential in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Ward also navigates the practical applications of these concepts in the realm of content creation and audience engagement, offering actionable strategies to expand your reach and impact. Join us on CreateForward for Elite Creators as we embark on a journey to transform your creative vision into reality, fostering an environment where growth, abundance, and collaboration pave the way to achieving greatness.

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    24 mins