The MOOD Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

”What if the stories that shape us are the ones we can't remember?"

Marshall To, a photographer whose photobook 'Blank Notes' explores ancestry, memory, and identity through a deeply personal lens, grew up in rural Canada, the son of Chinese immigrants and a Taoist family who ran a small restaurant. His family believed the physical and spiritual worlds overlapped - that we live among spirits of our ancestors, those waiting for rebirth, and those still wandering, restless and vengeful.

In Taoist tradition, during the fifteenth day of the seventh lunar month, the Gates of Hell open - releasing the 'Hungry Ghosts' back into our world to seek food and remembrance. Families burn paper offerings, pray for protection, and leave food for the dead. It’s both a celebration and a warning: walk gently, because the ghosts are hungry.

In his debut monograph, Blank Notes, published by Charcoal Press, Marshall explores the space where the natural and supernatural meet - where photography becomes ritual, and images serve as offerings to both the living and the dead. His work blurs culture, memory, and the unseen, inviting us to question how the spiritual and the physical intertwine in our everyday lives.

What we discussed:

• The origin story behind Blank Notes
• Grief, Taoist ritual, and ancestral storytelling
• Making art from illness, memory, and dual identity
• The power of “noticing” in photography and cooking
• Creative process behind sequencing a photobook
• How to honour invisible subjects through visual storytelling
• Why Marshall believes creativity is compulsion, not choice
• The intersection of food, art, and healing

Pre-orders and signings with Charcoal Press at Paris dates: I arrive in Paris November 10th and I'm there until the 17th

Follow Marhsall and his work:
Website: www.marshalljamesto.com
Instagram: @marshalljamesto

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This episode is sponsored by Strata Editions - use discount code MOOD for 10% discount on their store - visit strata-editions.com to shop and see their collections.

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Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

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Phil Sharp, an award winning British portrait photographer, talks about the human core of portrait photography and why music, language, and time can turn performance into truth. We challenge received wisdom about headshots, explore photography books and business, look ahead to portraits in an AI world, and attempt to dismantle the myth that great images come from gear, tricks, or perfectly controlled sets. Phil's work relies on a deeper element: the moment a person stops performing.

What's discussed in this episode:

• Portraiture as human connection, not just technique
• Creating safe space with empathy and careful language
• Using music to trigger sincere emotion
• Balancing performance and authenticity in front of camera
• Session pacing, energy, and knowing when to stop
• Pricing, packages, and word-of-mouth workflow
• Books, prints, and the pros and cons of publishing
• AI’s impact and why presence still matters
• Finding voice over style through repetition and reflection

I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation with Phil - a long time fan of his, it was good to have a conversation about photography as human connection, not necessary technical domination.

Subscribe to the MOOD Podcast for more conversations with the world’s leading creative thinkers.

Follow Phil and his work:
Website: www.philsharp-photo.com
Instagram: @philsharp

___________________________________________

This episode is sponsored by Strata Editions - use discount code MOOD for 10% discount on their store - visit strata-editions.com to shop and see their collections.

___________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

The MOOD Insiders Community
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If you're building something and wondering how to do it without losing yourself, or if you're a creative caught between vision and survival, this one is for you.

Joining me today on The MOOD Podcast is Shane Vitaly, the rebellious designer and founder behind Clocks and Colours, Vitaly, and Etah Love. His jewelry brands have built a cult following by rejecting the polished and embracing the raw.

We go back to where it all started—a few dollars left on a student credit line, a solo trip to Bali, and a handful of handmade rings. Shane shares how that moment turned into a creative empire, and why success often comes at the cost of your nervous system.

This conversation digs into what most people never see. 

The anxiety of being a CEO. 
The risk of turning passion into a product. 
The struggle to stay authentic when the business starts demanding more than you can give. 

Shane opens up about stepping away from the top seat, reclaiming his creative voice, and why every great brand starts with a clear archetype.

Follow Shane
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shanevitaly/
Website: https://www.clocksandcolours.com/

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(00:00) Intro
(02:58) How Shane Got Into Jewelery Design
(05:52) Shane’s Biggest Inspirations
(09:07) Was Formal Education Worth It?
(14:10) Pivoting to Entrepreneurship
(20:14) The Reality of Scaling a Business
(24:44) Shane’s Most Valuable Learning Lessons
(29:18) The Real Impact of AI
(33:47) Managing The Creative Side of Business
(42:36) Finding Purpose in Chaos
(46:48) Balancing Creativity and Business
(51:47) Exploring The Creative Dilemma
(56:33) Shane’s Vision for The Future
(59:49) The Mistakes I Won’t Repeat…
(01:04:51) Dealing with Anxiety

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Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

The MOOD Insiders Community
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This is a conversation with Martin Bailey, a Tokyo-based photographer known for capturing the enchanting beauty of nature and wildlife. Martin's journey is not just about perfect shots; it's a story of resilience, creativity, and finding beauty even in the most challenging times.

My conversation with Martin takes us on an inspiring journey of his life, from his early experiences with photography, the launch of his podcast and blog (back when podcasting and blogging were not everywhere) to his business experiences and workshops. The discussion shifts to a more personal note as Martin shares his terrifying ordeal of a brain tumor diagnosis and how it significantly changed his life post-recovery. 

Martin shares with me some invaluable wisdom on finding inspiration, appreciating originality, and the critical role of one's own creativity. We also talk about his preferred equipment for his nature and wildlife photography and discuss the future of technology and AI in photography.

Tune in for this compelling episode, filled with inspiration, life lessons, and some insightful photography tips.

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

The MOOD Insiders Community
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Do you crave to see the world anew, with a fresh, vibrant perspective that only a seasoned photographer can offer? Join me for a conversation with the immensely talented Giovanna Aryafara, whose story unfolds from an unassuming black and white photography studio in New Zealand to an inspiring home living decor brand in sunny Bali. We walk through Giovanna's creative labyrinth, explore her artistry, delve into her perspective on AI technology's impact on photography, and discover the symbiotic relationship between her photography and interior design.

Our conversation takes a detour across the globe to the heart of East Africa, where Giovanna shares her many experiences with the people of Ethiopia and Kenya. Through her lens, we gain an insight into their struggles, their heritage, and the imminent threat to their existence. Giovanna’s journey is not merely about capturing beautiful images but about preserving these transient moments and cultures for posterity. 

Will she collaborate with other passionate photographers? What's the story behind her upcoming book? What awaits visitors at her Bali photography gallery? All these questions and more are answered as Giovanna invites us all to see the world through her eyes. I hope this fascinating conversation can inspire and stir the curiosity within you. 

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

The MOOD Insiders Community
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Ever wondered what it's like to travel the world, capturing its diversity and beauty for a living? Join me for an enlightening conversation with Kyle Vollaers, an acclaimed South African adventure and lifestyle photographer. We journey through his captivating career, delving into his unique cinematic style, the intricacies of his travel photography, and the gear he swears by. 

From his early days exploring street painting, to his stint in the super yacht service arena, and finally mastering the art of photography, Kyle's journey is nothing short of fascinating. We shed light on the evolution of his aesthetic, the influence of colors and minimalism, and the value of choosing the right equipment for travel photography. I venture into the complex aspects of the industry with him, and we discuss the world of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), the potential implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the art of promoting brands on social media.

As we unravel Kyle's story, we venture beyond the lens to understand his take on the balance between digital media and personal well-being, the magic of capturing stories that make a difference, and the power of setting goals in line with your life's dreams. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or an aspiring enthusiast, this conversation with Kyle Vollaers is a treasure trove of insights, experiences, and inspirations that will hopefully ignite your passion for the world of photography and travel.

Enjoy!

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

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Prepare to be transported as we share an engaging conversation with the imaginative Gabriella Morton. Her journey in photography is one of surrealism and evolution, manipulating everyday situations into captivating artwork that challenges your perspective.

Gabriella's personal narrative holds a potent story of resilience born from a traumatic experience a few years back; a harrowing experience that led her to ponder at length on the difference between physical and emotional pain and how they can be expressed. When it comes to applying this resilience in her art, we also explore how limitations aren't always constraints but opportunities for creativity, such as using a strict brief or limited resources.

And last but not least, we got to sit with her puppy for a few hours - a true pleasure all round!

Find Ella’s incredible artwork on her platforms below:

Linktree: linktr.ee/gabriellamorton
Instagram: @gabriellamorton
Twitter: @gabriellamort
______________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

The MOOD Insiders Community
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Prepare to be captivated by the immensely talented and resilient Caragh Creative. Her journey is an infusion of creative entrepreneurship, passion for photography, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference. From owning a greeting card business at 13 to her passion for photography, Caragh's narrative is a testament to resilience and an unyielding love for art. She extends this conversation to discuss her struggles with mental health and the role her art played in her healing process.

The digital age, with its complex algorithms and the ever-present social media, provides both opportunities and challenges for modern artists. Caragh shares her personal trials and tribulations, discussing the frustrations with the Instagram algorithm and the struggles encountered with online trolls. However, it is not all gloom. She highlights the power and influence of a loyal following over an extensive one and the importance of being true to yourself and your art. Also, we explore the integral role of art in activism and philanthropy.

In a world dominated by capitalist tendencies, the power of art to inspire hope and instigate meaningful conversations is invaluable. Our conversation further delves into Caragh's aspirations for full-time conservation photojournalism, her struggle with the modelling, and her ambitions of driving mission-based work. The story of Caragh is an intricate blend of passion, perseverance, and the power of art. No doubt, her journey will spark a flame in both seasoned artists and budding creatives.

It was a genuine privilege to have a one-on-one conversation with Caragh. I strongly recommend you to stay updated with his endeavors on the following platforms:

Website: www.caraghcreative.com
Instagram: @caraghcreative

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

The MOOD Insiders Community
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This is a different episode of The MOOD Podcast, this time with me as the guest on Martin Bailey Photography's podcast. 

We talk at length about my journey into photography, as well as some of the journeys I've taken through places like Mongolia, Uganda, Indonesia and many others, painting images of nomadic lifestyle with my stories and experiences. 

From discussing technical aspects of photography to cherishing the beauty of human life, we cover a wide range of engaging topics. We delve into the technical use of light in capturing faces and cultures, and the experiences of photographing unique landscapes. 

We also unravel the spiritual ties of different cultures and their deep-rooted beliefs, with stories about animist beliefs in Bromo Valley and the Japanese religion of Shintoism. This was a very enjoyable podcast with Martin and I look forward to speaking with him again, this time with roles reversed.

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

The MOOD Insiders Community
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Have you ever wondered how you can transform everyday life into something profoundly meaningful? How about using the art of photography to capture moments brimming with significance, not just images? 

Mindful Photography is all about being present, connecting deeply with our environment, and finding beauty in the ordinary. It encourages us to form deeper connections with our subjects and environments, allowing us to reflect on our personal motivations, inspirations, and philosophies. I discuss the power of aligning our inner vision and values with our external expressions. This practice becomes much more than an art form; it's a gateway to a deeper appreciation of life and a profound connection to the world around us...

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Support the show

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can listen and watch full extended and ad-free episodes in my community - The MOOD Insiders - where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as meet with the community on book club weekly events, special guest features, bonus content, open forum access, free resources and so much more.

The MOOD Insiders Community
https://www.mattjacob.co/insiders

Learn with me
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