In this episode, Chris and Bernie Youngblood explore the intersection of faith, business, and personal well-being. They begin with a passionate discussion about the importance of love and God's plan in everyday life, critiquing how modern corporate environments have excluded artists who bring innovation. The conversation later moves into the domain of personal health, criticizing big food, pharma, and healthcare systems while promoting natural nutrition and holistic living. Finally, they share personal testimonies and Christian beliefs, encouraging listeners to seek a deeper understanding of faith and have open conversations about it.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Faith-Driven Business Must Value Creativity: The episode argues that modern corporate environments often stifle innovation by excluding "artists" and creative thinkers. A business guided by faith should instead champion these individuals and integrate principles like love and purpose into its core operations.
• Question Mainstream Health Systems: A significant portion of the conversation is a critique of "big food," "big pharma," and conventional healthcare. The speakers advocate for skepticism towards these systems and encourage listeners to take personal responsibility for their health.
• Embrace Natural and Holistic Well-being: As an alternative to mainstream systems, the episode promotes a lifestyle centered on natural nutrition and holistic living. This approach connects physical health directly to one's personal and spiritual life.
• Live Your Faith Openly: The discussion concludes with a call to action for listeners. It encourages them to move beyond a passive understanding of faith by actively sharing personal testimonies and engaging in open, honest conversations about their Christian beliefs.

QUOTES

• “For God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son… so that we may have eternal life.”
• “He lived without sin and He knew that when He faced His death on that cross, the Lamb of God that sacrificed, covered all of your sins.”
• “It is finished… means that this control that the enemy has of your life, that need to continue to try and earn your salvation, was done. He paid the price for you. Paid in full.”
• “Love is something you do—without expecting anything in return. Regardless of whether you’re in the mood. Regardless of all the noise and trouble of the world around you.”

Connect with Bernie Youngblood across all platforms:"

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernieyoungblood/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bernie.youngblood.1/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bernieyoungblood/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bmyoungblood
X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/YoungbloodBM
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bernieyoungblood

Timecodes

00:00 The Unlimited Supply of Love
01:03 The Role of Faith in Business and Life
03:42 The Importance of Artists in Innovation
22:21 The Impact of Nutrition and Health Systems
30:10 The Journey of Faith and Understanding
33:41 Misquoting the Bible and Intellectual Honesty
34:21 Jesus Christ: The Source Code and Light
34:58 Signals Jammed: The Importance of Stillness
35:33 Personal Testimonies and Miracles
36:24 The Power of Love and Patience
38:28 Science and Faith: A Harmonious Journey
40:25 Health and Spiritual Warfare
43:54 The Dangers of Fluoride and Tap Water
46:04 Hot Logic: A Microwave Alternative
49:07 God's Plan and Human Worthiness
57:17 The Greatest Love Story: Jesus' Sacrifice
01:02:14 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode of the Creative Potential Podcast, host Chris Decker welcomes Frank Ziede, a seasoned automotive trainer and former actor, to discuss the importance of clarity and consistency in messaging. Frank shares insights from his 22-year career, emphasizing that clarity comes through repeated refinement. They explore topics such as handling imposter syndrome, defining success beyond financial metrics, and the significance of personalization in customer service. Frank also reflects on his journey from an aspiring actor to a renowned trainer and highlights the value of maintaining a servant's heart. The episode touches on the creative process, the impact of leadership, and the necessity of perseverance in honing one's craft.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Clarity Requires Consistent Refinement: Frank Ziede emphasizes that clear messaging is achieved through repetition and ongoing improvement.
• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: The conversation explores how to face self-doubt and stay grounded in one’s purpose.
• Success Is More Than Money: Frank challenges the idea that success is solely financial, encouraging a more holistic view of achievement.
• Personalization Builds Stronger Connections: Tailoring customer service to individual needs makes a lasting impact.
• From Acting to Training - A Unique Journe: Frank shares his transition from aspiring actor to respected automotive trainer, showing how diverse experiences shape expertise.
• Lead with a Servant’s Heart: Humility and service are central to effective leadership and personal fulfillment.
• The Creative Process Takes Perseverance: Crafting excellence—whether in communication or creativity—demands dedication and time.

QUOTES

• "Personalization is not just a customer thing. Personalization is a people thing. It's got the word ‘person’ in there."
• "Leadership is only hard for good leaders."
• "Money is a lag indicator. It’s a non-controllable outcome."
• "You have to find a way to make a living—but don’t give up on that creative muscle."
• "Creativity is a muscle. Talent is innate, but creativity is something you have to practice."
• "Know who you are, be honest with who you are—that is the best path."
• "If a leader hears 'I’m under-skilled for this role' and responds with 'You're fired,' that’s not a leader worth working for."
• Intent and effort—that’s what turns creativity into something refined."

Connect and learn more about Frank Zeide.

Timecodes

00:25 Introduction
01:16 Frank's Journe
02:08 Finding Clarity Through Repetition
06:34 Defining Success and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
10:52 The Universe Unfolds as It Should
14:05 Creating Impactful Content
17:08 David Fincher's Creative Mantra
18:15 The Hidden Effort Behind Great Art
19:10 Collaboration and Respect in Creativity
20:22 Leadership and Creativity
23:44 The Pitfalls of Promoting Top Performers
26:02 Self-Awareness in Career Choices
32:27 The Importance of Creativity and Practice
34:42 Final Thoughts and Appreciation

In this episode of the Creative Potential Podcast, host Chris Decker discusses creative leadership with Vincent Wanga, author of 'The Art of Direction.' The conversation focuses on the importance of soft skills and emotional intelligence in leadership roles, the need for mentors, and the challenges of managing diverse teams. Wanga emphasizes the necessity of preparing for leadership roles by developing empathy, understanding business metrics, and fostering a culture that creates new leaders. He also highlights the delicate balance of innovation and business objectives, and the significance of a servant leadership mindset.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills in Leadership: Effective leadership requires more than technical skills. Soft skills, like empathy and emotional intelligence, are essential for understanding and motivating teams.
• The Importance of Mentorship: Mentors play a crucial role in helping leaders grow, offering guidance, support, and insight based on experience.
• Managing Diverse Teams: Leading teams with different perspectives and backgrounds comes with challenges, but it's also a chance for creative leaders to foster an inclusive and innovative environment.
• Preparing for Leadership Roles: Aspiring leaders should focus on developing emotional intelligence, understanding business metrics, and cultivating a culture that encourages leadership growth.
• Balancing Innovation and Business Objectives: Creative leaders must navigate the fine line between pushing for innovation and aligning with business goals to ensure sustainable success.
• Servant Leadership Mindset: A leader's primary role is to serve their team, providing support, guidance, and resources to enable others to succeed. This mindset encourages collaboration and growth within the organization.

QUOTES

• "It's a complete mindset shift... you really have to learn soft skills, and sometimes you're learning those skills on the job, in a really difficult environment where you're thrown into the fire and have to figure it out."
• "If you don't have a mentor in your life who's actively preparing you for that, you are probably not going to make that transition very effectively because there's no guide for how to do that."
• "You are now a business stakeholder. You have to speak in the language of business... then take that information and translate it back to your team."
• Creativity translates into business outcomes... make sure that you have an eye on their goals and objectives while you're also trying to do great work."

Connect and learn more about Vincent Wanga.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-wanga/

Timecodes

00:00 Introduction
01:10 Discussing the New Book: The Art of Direction
02:38 The Path to Creative Leadership
03:43 Balancing Soft Skills and Business Goals
05:15 The Translator Role in Leadership
05:54 The Art vs. Science of Leadership
11:38 Preparing for Leadership
12:17 The Importance of Mentorship
17:05 Leadership is a Calling
23:14 Creating Future Leaders
24:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Creative Potential Podcast, host Chris Decker delves into the bravery inherent in artistic expression and the intersection of beauty and practicality with guest Brian Burkhart. The discussion highlights the Japanese art movement Mingei, the courage required to put oneself out there as an artist, and the importance of knowing and acting on one's core beliefs. Brian shares insights from his experience as a ceramic artist and corporate coach, emphasizing the concept of the 'zone of genius' and the value of genuine, heartfelt creation over mass production. Listeners will learn about the impact of one's beliefs on actions and how to identify and pursue their own zone of genius.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Artistic Bravery: The conversation highlights the courage required for artistic expression, particularly in sharing one's work with the world.
• Mingei Movement: The Japanese art movement Mingei, which celebrates the beauty of everyday objects and craftsmanship, is discussed as an example of balancing beauty and practicality.
• Zone of Genius: Brian Burkhart emphasizes the importance of identifying and working within one's "zone of genius" – a space where creativity flows naturally and authentically.
• Genuine Creation Over Mass Production: The value of creating with heartfelt intention is stressed, contrasting it with the often impersonal nature of mass production.
• Core Beliefs: The discussion emphasizes how understanding and acting upon your core beliefs can guide your actions and influence the work you create.
• Personal Impact: The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their beliefs, discover their zone of genius, and embrace their true creative potential.

QUOTES

• "I believe in elevating people and I think it's way too easy to send a text. It's way too easy to leave a simple email. I like the action of writing with a pen on a card that goes in the U.S. Mail that someone receives in their mailbox. They feel it a lot more."
• "When you can recognize those patterns, you suddenly now have a game plan, you've got a set of rules that you can easily live by, it becomes way easier to find your path."
• "Going deep, it can really reveal a lot. It can also be a lot. Like call your therapist sometimes it could get real ugly, but life isn't always a bed of roses."
• "I love game tape feedback, being able to watch that go through the uncomfortable process of watching yourself do the thing that you want to be better at and just like study yourself. And it's remarkable how hard and simple that is at the same time."
• "She saw the deeper truth and that was very revealing and it really helped me change how I went into some things."

Connect and learn more about Brian Burkhart.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/briancburkhart?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Timecodes

00:00 The Bravery of Artists
00:25 Introduction to the Creative Potential Podcast
01:40 Exploring the Mingei Movement
02:51 Balancing Art and Practicality in Business
15:17 The Zone of Genius
20:29 Finding Your Core Beliefs
26:06 The Power of Self-Reflection
28:07 Conclusion and Where to Find More

In this episode of the Creative Potential Podcast, host Chris Decker interviews Richard White, the founder of Fathom, an app for Zoom calls that records, transcribes, and highlights conversations. Richard shares insights on the importance of using authentic content both internally and externally to build credibility with customers. He emphasizes the power of authentic customer feedback, the role of early adopters, and the benefits of longer-form content. Richard also discusses his experience with content marketing, the effectiveness of using real-time Zoom clips, and the high ROI of podcast interviews for brand building and tribe building.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Authentic Content Builds Credibility: Richard White emphasizes the importance of using authentic content both internally and externally to establish credibility with customers.
• Customer Feedback is Valuable: Authentic customer feedback plays a crucial role in building trust and shaping the brand’s message.
• Early Adopters Are Key: The role of early adopters is highlighted as crucial for gaining initial traction and credibility.
• Long-Form Content Pays Off: Richard discusses the value of longer-form content in creating deeper connections and providing more meaningful insights.
• Real-Time Zoom Clips for Content Marketing: Using real-time clips from Zoom calls is an effective method for content marketing, offering a personal and engaging way to share insights.
• High ROI of Podcasts: Richard talks about the significant return on investment (ROI) that podcasts can provide, especially for brand and tribe building.

QUOTES

• "What gets me up in the morning is we get a lot of messages every day from people that are really happy that Fathom exists in the world. And that, honestly, that's the currency of filling up my soul cup every day."
• "It's really important to us that people not only like the product, they actually love the product and they like the team behind the product."
• On every podcast I go into, I get two, three, four kind of good connections... It's been a really high ROI for a very small amount of time commitment on my part."
• "We’re in this era where content is gravitating towards this more highly authentic... less polished, less edited five times... people enjoy getting that kind of unvarnished, unfiltered, authentic voice."
• "You show an engineer someone talking about a problem, so much more impactful than just hearing the great final product."
• "Sometimes it's a lot easier to start this tribe-building exercise by tapping into existing audiences."

Connect and learn more about Richard White.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rrwhite/

Timecodes

00:00 Introduction
01:09 Meet Richard White: Founder of Fathom
02:06 The Power of Recorded Conversations
04:47 Using Fathom Internally and Externally
07:05 The Journey and Motivation Behind Fathom’
10:24 The Importance of Early Adopters
12:38 Content Creation and Authenticity
15:19 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of the Creative Potential Podcast, host Chris Decker speaks with sales expert Walker McKay. They discuss the importance of developing a healthy business relationship with clients rather than seeking friendships. Walker outlines a four-step process commonly experienced in consultative sales, emphasizing the need to set boundaries and manage expectations to avoid free consulting and failed deals. They share personal stories, highlighting the importance of recognizing when a prospect is not the right fit and how to regain control by professionally closing files. Walker also introduces his book, which conveys his sales philosophy of 'Some will, some won't, so what? Who's next?'

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Healthy Business Relationships Over Friendships: Walker McKay emphasizes the importance of developing professional, healthy relationships with clients instead of seeking personal friendships. This approach keeps the business dynamic clear and productive.
• The Four-Step Process in Consultative Sales: Walker outlines a four-step process for consultative sales that helps professionals navigate client interactions. The focus is on managing expectations, setting boundaries, and avoiding offering free consulting.
• Setting Boundaries and Managing Expectations: It’s essential to set clear boundaries with clients to prevent the situation from devolving into unpaid consulting. Managing expectations early in the process helps avoid failed deals.
• Recognizing Bad Fits and Closing Files: Knowing when a prospect isn't the right fit is critical. Walker shares the importance of professionally closing those files and moving on, rather than continuing to pursue non-ideal clients.
• Walker’s Sales Philosophy: He introduces his book and sales philosophy: “Some will, some won’t, so what? Who’s next?” This mindset helps to stay focused and avoid frustration after a failed deal.

QUOTES

• “You can breathe. It's a beautiful moment because you were honest. Honest. You don't have to compromise.”
• “We’ve got to manage people’s expectations. We have to set boundaries and manage expectations about everything…”
• “One of the things that’s very empowering is to recognize at the beginning of your sales call that there should be a decision made at the end about something.”
• “I believe a lot of times trust isn’t earned. I think trust is given and I’m just going to assume people give me trust.”
• “If they trusted you completely, surely they could do that.”
• By selling, using the No BS process that I created, it gets some power back, right, it makes it a whole lot more fun, you’re not victimizing yourself anymore, you're not becoming a victim.”

Connect and learn more about Walker McKay.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/walkermckay/

Timecodes

00:00 Introduction to Creative Potential Podcast
00:34 Understanding Business Relationships
01:10 A Fun Failure Story
02:00 Introducing Walker and His Sales Methodology
04:25 The Four-Step Sales Process
10:49 Building Genuine Business Relationships
19:14 Setting Boundaries and Managing Expectations
24:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Let's go back to an enlightening conversation with Brian Holtz, CEO of Compass, a ministry dedicated to teaching people how to manage finances according to biblical principles. Host Chris Decker and Brian dive into the intersection of creative pursuits and financial management, the emotional impacts of debt, and how left-brain thinking can be applied to creative fields. Brian shares his personal journey from skepticism about faith to a fulfilling career in both business and ministry. You'll hear practical insights on managing irregular incomes, creating financial stability for creative professionals, and aligning financial decisions with your spiritual calling. This episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the heart behind financial choices, and how generosity and proper financial stewardship can unlock true creative potential.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Debt and Creativity: How debt can stifle creativity by creating fear and anxiety, and why operating without debt can lead to greater freedom and success in creative endeavors.
• Left Brain Meets Right Brain: The importance of combining logical, problem-solving skills with creative thinking to achieve effective solutions in both business and life.
• Biblical Financial Principles: Understanding that financial questions often stem from deeper heart issues, and how aligning financial decisions with biblical principles can lead to greater peace and purpose.
• The Power of Generosity: How practicing generosity, even in small ways, can shift your mindset from fear to abundance and open doors for unexpected blessings.

QUOTES

• "Nobody does well when they're afraid... by getting out of debt, we free ourselves to be who we are called to be."
• "We ask financial questions, but what we're really asking about is the heart behind the money question."
• "When we're in debt, we've promised income from the future to pay off what we bought in the past. That can result in anxiety, which impacts our ability to be creative."
• "In the act of giving, something happens in my heart... that greed starts to lessen, and I start to become a little bit less afraid."

Connect and learn more about Brian Holtz.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-holtz-2728bb53/

Timecodes

00:00 Intro
00:34 Financial Challenges for Creative Professionals
01:13 Meet Brian Holtz: A Journey of Faith and Finance
04:12 Left Brain Meets Right Brain: Creativity and Logic
10:43 Biblical Perspectives on Money and Debt
27:41 Practical Financial Advice for Creatives
36:56 Closing Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of the Creative Potential Podcast, host Chris Decker addresses the pervasive issue of fear, specifically the fear of being rejected for showing one's true self. Chris reflects on his own experiences with vulnerability and the liberating power of sharing personal stories and being authentic, both online and offline. He also discusses the importance of good quality relationships and how they translate from the real world to the digital space. Chris emphasizes the significance of being real and transparent in professional settings, arguing that standing up for beliefs is crucial even if it comes with risks. He closes the episode by stating that true creative potential is unleashed by achieving a relaxed and happy state of mind.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Overcoming Fear Through Authenticity: Chris Decker delves into the fear of rejection that arises when showing one's true self, emphasizing the importance of embracing authenticity to overcome this common challenge.
• The Power of Sharing Personal Stories: Reflecting on his experiences, Chris highlights how vulnerability and sharing personal stories—both online and offline—can be freeing and help foster deeper connections with others.
• Quality Relationships Across Real and Digital Worlds: The episode explores the value of strong, genuine relationships and how these bonds translate seamlessly from the physical world to digital spaces, enriching both realms.
• Standing Up for Beliefs in Professional Settings: Chris underscores the significance of transparency and standing firm in one’s beliefs in the workplace, even when doing so involves risks.
• Unlocking Creative Potential Through a Positive MindsetAchieving a relaxed and happy state of mind is presented as the key to unlocking true creative potential, allowing individuals to flourish personally and professionally.

QUOTES

• "The fear that people will think that others are going to reject them when they get to see behind the curtain of who you really are."
• "In order to understand how the machine of my brain works, and my psychology from development that became who I am today, the kind of freedom that comes from that lifts your life."
• "Good quality relationships built over time are the best variety."
• "The more that you can bring to light, in your own appropriate way, I think it liberates you from the past."
• "Your online presence today is kind of also a reflection of the way that you're growing in real life."
• "The thing that unleashes creative potential is learning how to relax because good ideas come from a happy, relaxed state.""You become a magnet for who you are. Be careful about what you say to yourself, who you say you are."
• "Don't let your past define you in that way, especially if you are a follower of Christ, because He came for all of it and He loves you."
• 
  

Connect and learn more about Chris Decker:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/decker-christopher/

Timecodes

00:00 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Authenticity
00:25 Introduction to the Creative Potential Podcast
00:38 The Importance of Being Real
01:20 Marketing as a Connection Tool
02:09 Personal Vulnerability and Growth
08:00 Building Quality Relationships
10:03 The Power of Radical Transparency
13:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts