Have you ever been told that in order to succeed, you need to pick one lane and narrow your focus?

Meet Natasha Pearl Hansen. She’s a touring comedian and startup founder who is successfully embracing two worlds unapologetically. From launching her own tech company to navigating the business side of entertainment, she has always been intentional about creating her own path. Pretty unconventional, hmm?

In this conversation, Natasha shares how she manages relationships and networking, stays productive without burning out, and makes smart decisions about which opportunities to pursue. She also talks about the moment she turned her canceled wedding into a comedy special, her approach to producing shows, and what it really means to build a portfolio-style career.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How to maintain relationships and build your network (even when you are super busy)
• How to make strategic moves: Knowing when to say “yes” and when to say “no.”
• How to create a “portfolio career” (balancing entrepreneurship with a creative career)

CONNECT WITH NATASHA PEARL HANSEN:

• Website: nphcomedy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nphcomedy/
• Hustle and Chill: https://hustleandchillwithnph.beehiiv.com/subscribe

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/79

Feeling Overwhelmed by Too Many Ideas? Try This Trick Used by Professional Creatives

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How innovation thrives within structure
• Why setting rules can actually make you more creative
• How to use structure to grow your platform

EPISODES MENTIONED:

• Improve Your Short Form Video by Doing This | ‪@BrendanKane‬
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wiC8GU_ycmw&t=129s
• How to Produce Better Content as a One-Man Show | George Sidiropoulos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGBRZHeyFHo&t=17s
• The Creative Process of Adam Rose https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTsYFUMx5oU&t=2s

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/78

Feeling behind in your business or creative work? As the year wraps up, it’s easy to feel down if you didn’t meet your goals or feel off track from where you want to be. If that sounds like you, here’s a little pep talk for ya.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/60

If you struggle with telling your story—whether it’s fear of being judged or labeled, or maybe exposing others that you love—this episode is for you. Today, I connected with Irene from Irene’s Entropy, a musician and content creator. She’s built a big ol’ community around her journey of leaving Mormonism and rebuilding her life and career after leaving literally everything behind and having to start all over.

Although her story is complex, she has mastered a way to communicate it through her music and short-form content.

And my guess is, maybe you have a complex story too. There is a way to communicate it effectively, but it’s going to require something. Like Irene says, “It really all comes back to self-awareness, emotional awareness, and understanding your goals and where you’re headed. And then being okay if the public doesn’t see you for who you are yet—knowing that they will if you keep moving toward your goal.”

Well, this is a good one, y’all. This is Irene.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How to share your story despite fear of judgment or appearing like a victim
• How to share deeply personal experiences without exposing others
• How to keep your story engaging without it feeling gimmicky or repetitive

CONNECT WITH IRENE: https://www.instagram.com/irenes.entropy/

SERIES OF MUSIC VIDEOS SHARING HER STORY: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nj_qq_wDnHg&list=PLv49btAcOU0IMix14DxFZCpwlK9nCA-Y_

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/68

In today’s episode, we are answering a question from Conner: “How do you get your creative work ‘out there’?” I had a few thoughts and then brought in my friend Jay, who is an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, to help answer this question.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

• Previous Interview with Jay: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnKyZ92DXWo&t=1s
• Connect with Jay: https://www.instagram.com/jayworsley/

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/67

If you are ambitious, it can sometimes be challenging to relate to others who don’t share that ambition. You may also wonder how to maintain healthy relationships when you choose to work more than the average person.

In this episode, I sat down with Stefanos Sifandos, a relationships expert with an extensive background in psychology, philosophy, and ecology, to explore the delicate dance between ambition and connection. In this conversation, you’ll hear why Stefanos believes that "most people's ambition is a compensatory strategy to avoid the pain they don’t want to feel" and how "ambition doesn’t have to disappear, but it should evolve."

If you’re curious about how to reconcile the drive to build something amazing while maintaining healthy relationships, this episode is for you.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Topics from this Episode:

• Why ambitious people often feel misunderstood or unseen
• How to balance the energy required to build something big while nurturing relationships
• What to do when your partner doesn’t share your passion or enthusiasm

CONNECT WITH STEFANOS SIFANDOS: https://stefanossifandos.com/

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/66

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced lately as a creator is finding the balance between “being consistent” and not putting out something I don’t fully believe in. How do we stay professional and "show up," as Seth Godin says, while keeping our work honest and meaningful?

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Understanding why you're creating and who it’s for.
• Accepting that inspiration doesn’t come on demand—and that’s normal.
• Using structure and deadlines to create space for creativity.
• Reusing ideas in fresh, exciting ways to ease the pressure of constant innovation.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

Overview of the 4 Stages of Flow: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17xVsZbw3P/

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/65

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You might think content from a project management company would be dry, right? Think again.

Today I sat down with Chris Cunningham, a founding member of ClickUp and the head of their social media marketing, to explore their unconventional approach to content creation. Believe it or not, ClickUp isn’t just making business content—they’re breaking all the rules by taking inspiration from comedy and entertainment (think Saturday Night Live) while still delivering value to their audience.

Chris shared how their team takes their content strategy seriously—investing in talent, writing teams, and a creative vision that’s anything but boring. We also talked about how creators can adopt scrappier methods, why it’s important to “take bets off data,” and how reframing embarrassment can unlock your creative potential.

WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Scrappy ideas for content creators
• Documenting your journey and leveraging that content
• How to “think in pictures” to spark better ideas
• Ryan Reynolds’ approach to newsjacking (and what you can learn from it)
• How to reframe “embarrassment” as a creator and push through doubt

CONNECT WITH CHRIS CUNNINGHAM:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cunningham/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisclickup/

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/episodes/64

Jimmy asked for marketing advice, and I gave a couple of answers he might not have expected.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/episodes/63

There isn’t a straightforward career path for creatives. You’re often figuring it out on your own and facing resistance. When is it "too lofty" of a dream? Where’s the line between "This isn’t for me" and just needing patience?

Today, I connected with Jay Worsley, an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, here to share what it took to build a career (and life) telling stories. In this conversation, he shares his decision-making process and why he "says no as much as he can" (and sometimes says yes for reasons beyond the project). Jay also dives into finding emotion in a story, building a team, networking (even if you’re not extroverted), and his bold ideas about marketing indie films. And he shares why it’s crucial to get still and ask, How does this move me?

This, my friends, is Jay Worsley.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• When should you say “no” to a project?
• Developing a strong vision in your work
• Finding and conveying emotion in a story
• You might not need social media (try this instead)

CONNECT WITH JAY WORSLEY: 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayworsley/
• Website: https://sonderstorytelling.com/

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access Full Show Notes Here: https://www.heatherparady.com/episodes/62

Today, I'm answering a question from William about what to do when friends and family are critical of your dreams.

Clips Mentioned:

• Dan Martell TikTok Clip: https://www.tiktok.com/@money.secretx/video/7424834138139659538?_t=8qgENScavut&_r=1
• Lewis Howes with Jen Sincero: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FV7YCDfp5A&t=42s

WATCH Episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/episodes/60

The conversation around money and art is a tricky one. What do you do when folks aren't buying your work? How much should you really be charging? And why do so many people feel uncomfortable even talking about this?

Today, we have with us Amie McNee, the author of We Need Your Art and the voice behind the wildly popular community Inspired to Write, where she helps her global audience of creatives dismantle limiting narratives and start taking their work seriously.

In this episode, you’ll hear why Amie believes that charging for art is “ANTI-Capitalist,” the conspiracy around keeping artists “small and poor,” and why, as a creative, you might want to ignore traditional marketing advice and… f*ck the niche.

WATCH Episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Why making money with your art is “anti-capitalist”
• What you should consider when folks AREN’T BUYING your art
• A unique approach to MARKETING (that’s actually kinda fun) 
• Why ”NICHING DOWN” is NOT good advice

CONNECT WITH AMIE:

• Order ‘We Need Your Art’: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/761126/we-need-your-art-by-amie-mcnee/
• Website: https://www.amiemcnee.com/ 

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/episodes/60

A year ago, I started watching a ton of celebrity interviews, hoping to understand how actors, directors, and producers built successful careers in such an oversaturated industry. What I didn’t expect, though, was to be captivated by the person interviewing them all.

Today, I connected with Jenelle Riley, an Emmy-winning journalist, playwright, and editor at Variety. She started out in Oregon with no industry connections but built her career through her brilliant writing and natural ability to connect with people.

Today Jenelle shares with us how to become an exceptional interviewer, from research and preparation to making a real connection with A-list guests. Whether you're aspiring to be a professional storyteller or just need some encouragement, you'll love this conversation with Jenelle Riley.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Putting yourself out there while building organic relationships
• Asking better questions, getting guests to open up, and knowing when to go off-script
• How to stay present and grounded in any conversation

CONNECT WITH JENELLE RILEY: 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenelleriley/

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access Full Show Notes Here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/77

Negative comments. Some folks advise that you “just shouldn’t look at them.” What if there was another trick?

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/episodes/59

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Eric Petersen is an American actor, singer, and comedian – most recently known for his leading role as Kevin in Kevin Can F**k Himself. You may have also seen him in Kirstie, Modern Family, The Big Bang Theory, and even Broadway plays like School of Rock, Shrek, and Escape to Margaritaville. He also co-hosts one of the biggest Christmas podcasts – The Christmas Countdown Show. 

In this conversation, we dig into how to keep the magic of the creative spirit alive while navigating the business side, building traction in your creative career, calming nerves during performances, and the invitation “to be smarter” as a creative.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/episodes/NUMBER

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Keeping the magic of the creative spirit – even when there’s a business side
• Building traction in your creative career
• Calming nerves during performances
• Eric’s creative process for finding characters

Connect with Eric Petersen: https://www.instagram.com/ericpete/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Brandi asked, 'What are the three best books on tactical storytelling?' I share them here, along with examples of what they taught me.

Books Mentioned:

• Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks: https://amzn.to/4877Gs6
• The Best Story Wins by Matthew Luhn: https://amzn.to/4dMxHxQ
• On Writing by Stephen King: https://amzn.to/3XZ7g2d
• Save the Cat by Blake Snyder: https://amzn.to/4dGHQMI

Episodes Mentioned:

• Matthew Dicks:   
•  • How to be a Better Storyteller | @mat...  
• Matthew Luhn:   
•  • How to Tell Better Stories | Pixar’s ...  
• Rob Bell:   
•  • Rob Bell on Writing, Creativity, and ...  

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/57

Ask Heather a Question:

You may have worked hard to get the opportunity in front of you—whether it’s landing a speaking gig, getting cast in an independent film, or finally gathering the courage to post content online for the first time. Even though you genuinely want it, your body may be in full freak-out mode.

In today’s conversation, I sat down with Will Reynolds—an actor, writer, composer, and seasoned performer who has written songs for Central Park on Apple TV and Disney. We talked about why Will believes overcoming nerves requires stepping into service-based storytelling, how to reframe rejection by seeing art as medicine, and how to approach performing from a healed place, rather than using it to seek validation.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/56 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Service-based storytelling
• How to reframe rejection by seeing art as medicine
• Operating from a healed place → Not making art for validation
• Tools for calming nerves and preparing adequately for success

Connect with Will Reynolds: https://willreynoldsonline.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

Someone sent me an email the other day. The bottom of it said, “Sometimes I worry that I am too old to do X”.

My response? You are too old.

Here is why.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/55 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today’s episode is a solo one. Let’s talk about Apathy.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/54 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

Joshua Dixon is the founder of Admire Wear, a platform that explores issues around mental health and helps its community rediscover their self-worth. After surviving a life-threatening pit bull attack as a little boy, Joshua is on a mission to help others overcome deep struggles and find purpose in pain. In this conversation, you will hear how, as a grown man, Joshua has conceptualized what happened to him and used his story to impact the lives of tens of thousands of people.

Please support his work here: https://www.admirewear.com/ 

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/53 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Looking within to find validation
• How to use your story to connect with others and make an impact
• Making sense of faith after traumatic experiences

Connect with Joshua Dixon: https://www.joshuadixonarts.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Michael Jamin is a veteran TV writer and showrunner with over 20 years in the industry, known for his work on shows like Just Shoot Me, King of the Hill, and Beavis and Butt-Head. Michael is also the author of the bestselling collection of personal essays, A Paper Orchestra, which he tours as a one-man show.

In our conversation, we explored how to draw inspiration from small, relatable moments and the significance of writing through the lens of character. Michael shared valuable insights on the future of writers and performers, tips for avoiding oversharing in storytelling, and whether it's best to conclude a story with a joke or a serious note.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/52 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Michael’s writing process and the questions he asks himself when outlining a story
• Showing the “dark” side of yourself to connect with your audience
• Why he has chosen to build an audience on social media (while still working in television)

Connect with Michael Jamin: https://michaeljamin.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today, I connected with Cindy Zaweski, an award-winning journalist, storyteller, and content strategist. With over 15 years of experience in journalism, she left her job as an executive editor and content director for a luxury magazine in New York to open her own boutique content marketing agency.

Since then, she has built a loyal online community of over 80,000 people. She helps founders connect their expertise and passions through authentic storytelling—get this—all while rejecting conventional niche marketing. In today's conversation, you're going to hear the one thing that will kill a story, why the hero's journey is *%$# on social media, and why you and your audience all share a common enemy.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/51

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Identifying the key elements of the story & what’s important to share
• The #1 killer of stories & Why the hero's journey is sh*t on social
• Connect with your audience with the “common enemy”

Listen to Matthew Dicks’ episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lohwMR56bvA

Connect with Cyndi Zaweski: https://www.cyndizaweski.com/

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Dr. David Hindin is a trauma and critical care surgeon at Stanford University who is... obsessed with storytelling.

You heard me right—a surgeon who tells stories. In addition to serving as the Associate Chair of Innovation and Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery, and the Assistant Director of Stanford’s Biodesign Faculty Fellowship, he also developed a storytelling course at Stanford to help physicians and engineers enhance their communication skills, blending his passion for medicine with creativity. What?

I found him on Instagram, where I was intrigued by his storytelling skills, methods of communication, and advocacy for the arts in scientific fields. I had to have him on the show today, and I was lucky that he agreed (I think this is the first surgeon I’ve ever interviewed). I never would have imagined it would be about this…

In this conversation, you will hear:

• How he creates emotional connections in his storytelling
• The principles behind being “entertaining,” especially when you dont feel like you are
• How he finds the extraordinary in the “ordinary”
• How to deal with the fear of being “seen” as a creator in you profession

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/50 

Connect with David Hindin: https://www.instagram.com/thesurgeonlife/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Putting yourself out there—sharing your content, your ideas, your voice—can feel terrifying.

Over the past several years, I’ve interviewed over 1,000 people across different shows, and when it comes to confidence, three conversations stand out the most.

Each of these ideas is unique, but my hope is that one of them will be exactly what you need to push past fear and take action on what you know you're called to do.

🎥 WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: youtube.com/heatherparady

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBcAws9Byss
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRhWvciRCUc&t=71s
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRiKFGs7pck

• Stop waiting to feel confident. Confidence isn’t a prerequisite—discipline is.
• Confidence isn’t about the absence of insecurity. It’s about how you move through challenges and come out stronger.
• Leverage an alter ego. Stepping into a character can help you show up with more confidence.

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/76

If you look up the name “Neal Foard” on social media, you will see a man standing in front of a black background telling stories. No flashy edits, no animations or jump cuts. It’s just him, the camera, and while staring straight into the screen, delivering powerful, personal stories.

Guess what? It’s working.

As an award-winning advertising and marketing creative professional with over three decades of experience, Neal has crafted successful campaigns for global brands such as Budweiser, Lexus, and Sony. Recently, he has brought that skill online.

A few weeks ago, I asked previous guest Rain Bennett who one of the best storytellers he knows is. He said, hands down, it was Neal Foard. When I visited Neal’s pa lge, I was shocked to find him breaking so many social media rules and still knocking it out of the park. I had to have him on the show to pick his brain about storytelling.

In this conversation, you will hear:

• How he develops his storytelling style and becomes comfortable with his delivery
• How he uses intentional vocabulary and scripts his content
• How he connects with his audience by shifting his energy and intention

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/49 

Other Episodes Mentioned:

• Increase Your Content’s Engagement Through Sequencing | ‪Rain Bennett‬ | Episode 43
• How to Captivate an Audience & Be More Confident | ‪Rene Rodriguez‬ | Episode 10
• William Paul Young | Finding God Outside of Religion

Connect with Neal Foard: https://www.nealfoard.com/ or https://www.storyfire.net/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Alejo Porras is a graphic artist and storyteller specializing in sketchnotes. I met him at a conference where I was speaking a few months ago. Afterward, he walked up to me and handed me this—a summary of everything I had said, designed in this insanely cool graphic. WOW.

Apparently, this is a thing—artists who create pieces of art summarizing lectures, talks, etc., to help people remember what was shared. Cool idea, but how do you market something like this? What Alejo told me he does…is kind of surprising.

In this conversation, you will hear:

• How he uses “voluntary generosity” to grow his business
• Using active listening techniques to become a better creator
• A step-by-step walk-through of how he markets his sketchnotes

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/48 

Connect with Alejo Porras: https://www.alejoporrasart.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Elisabeth Wykert  is a stand-up comedian and actress, famously known for her leotard dance videos. Yes, you heard that right.

I’ve been following her since the pandemic when she decided one day, you know what, it's time to put on a leotard, dance in public, and put it on the internet. Definitely the type of person I want to know. What happened afterward is pretty mind-blowing.

Growing an engaged audience of over a million people over the past couple of years, I’ve been so curious about her creative process, how she’s merging her online content with her professional goals, and where in the world she learned all these dance moves.

In this conversation, you will hear:

• How she improves the quality of her content while maintaining relatability
• How she manages her energy and shows up full force on screen
• And she shares something she's very passionate about but doesn't talk about much (it has to do with confidence and some societal issues that need to be addressed)

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/47 

Connect with Elisabeth Wykert: https://www.instagram.com/elisabethwykert/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Susan George is the founder and CEO of Mediary, where she launches and scales top brands on TikTok through strategic influencer campaigns.

As a Pop/Soul recording artist herself, she knows firsthand that pursuing creativity seriously as a career makes you a business. You need to not only be creatively talented but also be intentional about knowing how to monetize.

During the pandemic, she started making videos on TikTok, landed big brand collaborations for herself, and eventually helped other creatives land deals and find unique ways to monetize, including, more recently, creating and selling products through TikTok Shop.

In this conversation, you will hear:

• How she negotiates and lands collaborations with big brands (Cliff bar)
• How she “made her husband an influencer”
• How she helps influencers create their own products

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/46 

Connect with Susan George: https://www.instagram.com/susangofficial/ or https://www.mediarymarketing.com/  

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today, I connected with Rivky Gross, a hypnotherapist and somatic practitioner for heart centered leaders.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/45

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• When “healing” is actually a defense mechanism
• “Feeling” again (when it feels uncomfortable)
• What “urgency” is a sign of...

Connect with Rivky Gross: https://www.rivky-gross.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Tyler Tometich landed his dream career, as a visual effects artist his career spanned Hollywood hits like Thor, Ant-Man, and Captain Marvel.

Transitioning from film production to content creation during the COVID-19 pandemic, Tyler quickly amassed a following of nearly 500,000 across social media platforms by producing viral videos that resonate with visual effects enthusiasts.

Tyler then shifted gears to focus full-time on his creator business, founding Viral VFX to teach aspiring creators how to build viral brands. His online courses have attracted over 1,200 students and generated six-figure revenue in just six months. 

In this conversation, we dig into his story as a young man overcoming addiction, building his dream career, and ultimately taking the unconventional path, to build his own business.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/44

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Tyler’s journey from conventional entertainment career to full time content creator 
• What to do if your product launch isn’t successful 
• Why you should probably cut the beginning of all your videos

Connect with Tyler Tometich: https://www.tylerjt.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today, I connected with Rain Bennett, a two-time Emmy-nominated filmmaker, writer, and competitive storyteller. In this conversation, we dig into how to increase retention and engagement in your stories through sequencing and developing a strong payoff.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/43 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How to properly sequence your stories
• Developing a strong payoff in your content
• Why you might want to put your CTAs in the middle of your story

Connect with Rain Bennett: https://www.rainbennett.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today I connected with Adam Ivy, who helps creative entrepreneurs develop raving fans through what he calls 'Attention Marketing.' In this conversation, we dig into how to apply attention marketing to our content, how to make CTAs less icky, and how to create entertaining content while building a deep connection with our audience.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/42 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• The 'Illusion of Productivity'
• Adam’s 'BRAVE' framework for Creators
• How to make content entertaining and engaging

Connect with Adam Ivy:  https://adamivy.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today, I connected with Reward Sibanda, a speaker, pastor, and content creator. In today’s conversation, we dig deep into our 'creative calling' and how we, as communicators, have a responsibility to not just be 'effective' but to raise others up to a higher standard. We also talk about how there is an existential crisis amongst the creative community, where we have to constantly 'make content,' and why it is actually 'divine wisdom' to slow down our output.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/41 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Thinking about story in the context of culture
• How to keep yourself 'pure and uncompromised' as a communicator
• The 'crisis of humility' and why we should protect the 'potency' of our purpose

Connect with Reward Sibanda: https://www.rewardsibanda.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

If you want to communicate more powerfully, become more magnetic with your message, and speak from a place of vibrational truth, turn this up. 

Today, I connected with Garrain Jones, who went from ex-convict to transformational coach, author, and founder of Artist Power—a global movement transforming the entertainment and personal development space. In this conversation, we explore finding 'seeds of peace' in an 'ocean of pain,' approaching challenging tasks from a place of ease, and transforming negative energy into a positive, life-giving force.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/40 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How to shift your energy (so you can stay 'lit up')
• How to deepen your belief in yourself
• Communicating from a place of vibrational truth"

Connect with Garrain Jones: https://www.garrainjones.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

If you've ever felt like you're on the sidelines, cheering for others while knowing deep down you're holding yourself back—this episode is for you.

I sat down with Rivky Gross, a somatic and subconscious-based practitioner, to explore the concept of the shadow artist—a term from Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way. A shadow artist feels the pull to create but hesitates due to fear, perfectionism, or self-doubt.

As Carl Jung said, “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” Suppressing creativity can manifest as perfectionism, anxiety, or a deep sense of unworthiness. Many creatives fear being misunderstood or judged, keeping them from sharing their work. But the world needs more creators who dare to be fully themselves. If you’ve been holding back, consider this your permission to create and share unapologetically.

SIGN UP FOR THE SHADOW ARTIST OUR WORKSHOP HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/shadowartistworkshop

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• What it means to be a shadow artist—and how to know if you are one.
• How unexpressed creativity can lead to anxiety, self-doubt, and fear of visibility.
• The role of shadow work in reclaiming your creative power.
• Why creative expression matters—even if it’s not loud or profitable.
• Actionable steps to move from the sidelines into full creative freedom.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

CONNECT WITH RIVKY:

• Website: https://www.rivky-gross.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rivkygross/ 

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/75

Today I connected with Sun Yi, an entrepreneur, storyteller, and the founder of Night Owls. In this conversation, he walks us through how to enhance your personal brand through storytelling. We discuss the ideation process, how to craft your story, and the importance of drawing a line in the sand to make a bigger impact with your message.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/39 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Understanding your triggers as a creative and how they affect your content
• How to find stories and develop the courage to make a stand in your content
• Using anchor words to make your content stronger

Connect with Sun Yi: https://sunyi.co/ 

Follow Sun on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sun.yi/ 

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

I found Leif Abel, also known as ‘RevisionFurniture,' on Instagram, where he has a unique storytelling style to market his business. As the founder of ReVision Restoration, Leif has restored and sold over $500,000 worth of high-end furniture, and he uses storytelling on Instagram specifically to market his business.

I had him on the show to talk about how he crafts his videos, how he finds 'the story' in restoring furniture, and to learn about his philosophy of looking at cues from TV shows to make his content more interesting.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/38 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Using perfectionism as a strength and making intentional decisions
• How to use cues from TV shows to make your content more interesting
• Walk through of several of his videos and how he made them

Connect with Leif Abel: https://www.revisionrestoration.com/

Follow Leif on IG: https://www.instagram.com/revisionfurniture/ 

Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Bea Chu is a YouTuber, tech enthusiast, sound designer, and filmmaker. She has set her career towards guiding the generation of DIY filmmakers and currently resides in Manila, Philippines. Additionally, she is a lactose-intolerant iced latte addict.

I originally came across her on Instagram and loved not only her fun personality and great content tips but also noticed that she stood out from many other creators. I mean, check out this vibe.

And it's working; hundreds of thousands of people are tuned in to what Bea is up to. I had her on the show to talk about how to develop a strong brand for your short-form content, tips on editing and achieving better sound quality in your videos, and how to improve production without compromising reliability. This, my friends, is Bea Chu.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/37 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How to Develop a Strong Brand for Your Short-Form Videos
• Tips on Editing and Achieving Better Sound Quality in Your Videos
• How to Improve Production Without Compromising Reliability

Connect with Bea Chu: https://www.instagram.com/beachutv/ 

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

I connected with Rachel Gibler, entrepreneur, manifestation coach, spiritual teacher, and host of the Top 15 USA Podcast It's F*cking Spiritual. In this conversation, we discuss somatic healing for creatives, how to balance both feminine and masculine energy, and how to create authentically while still healing.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/36 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• What is somatic healing, and how can it help our creative careers?
• How do you create while still healing from your past?
• How do you manage your masculine and feminine energy?

Connect with Rachel Gibler: https://rachelgibler.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today, I connected with Kent King, known as the 'Content Chemist.' In this conversation, we explore how to approach content creation from an entrepreneurial mindset, enhance your content's searchability, and efficiently use data to boost your online presence.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/35 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How to make your ORGANIC content reach and serve the right people
• Why we should focus on the “audience over platform  
• How to leverage data to boost your content (and make it more shareable)

Connect with Kent King: https://www.kentcultivate.com/

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

You probably grew up learning that “the ego” is bad. Today's guest, however, challenges that notion and encourages us to heal our relationship with the ego because, whether it's popular or not to admit it, that's how we accomplish great things.

Today, I connected with Jamie Gruber, an entrepreneur, multifamily investor, mastermind leader, and the host of the Tribe of Millionaires Podcast. In this conversation, he shares with us his spiritual journey reconnecting with the ego, partnering with it, and leveraging its guidance to make an impact in this world.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/34 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Why we shouldn't “put down the ego” but “partner with it” instead
• Gauging morality and the ego
• How to use  “solo weekends” and a “spiritual round table” to gain clarity

Connect with Jamie Gruber: instagram.com/thejamiegruber/ 

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

Today, I connected with Maha Abouelenein, the CEO and Founder of Digital and Savvy, who has more than 30 years of experience as a global communications strategist and is the author of 7 Rules of Self-Reliance. 

In this conversation, she shares with us the role of self-reliance in building your personal brand, communicating more effectively, and why mastering this skill can position you to make a much greater impact in your work.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/33 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Understanding what self-reliance is, what it is not, and how it can change your life
• How to be self-reliant while remaining strongly supported in your community
• How to create an authentic personal brand while protecting your private life
• The process of communicating effectively (when what you have to share is controversial)

Pre-order the 7 Rules of Self-Reliance here

Connect with Maha Abouelenein: https://www.mahaabouelenein.com/ 

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/

Today, I connected with Steven Bernstein—screenwriter, director, and cinematographer—about his creative process and the art of becoming a master storyteller. Steven guides us through his approach to ideation, uncovering the core truths of a story, and enhancing its visual appeal to captivate audiences more effectively.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/32 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How to give your ideas space to develop (while still being ambitious)
• The decision-making process of knowing which ideas to pursue
• How to craft a better story and tips on starting and concluding your narrative

Connect with Steven Bernstein: https://www.instagram.com/stevenbernsteindirectorwriter/ 

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today, I connected with Antonio ‘Tony Talks' Baldwin, a full-time content creator and social media personality. In this episode, we take a deep dive into topics such as balancing creativity as a creative, brand growth, ambition & humility and navigating relationships amid a growing career.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/31 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Getting over perfectionism as a creative
• How to level up your brand without losing the humanness
• Feeling guilty for ambition and navigating relationships as your life changes
• How to temper between humility/staying grounded and ambition

Connect with Antonio “Tony Talks” Baldwin: https://www.youtube.com/@iamtonytalks 

Throwback Episode: https://youtu.be/IUzbecQzxgw?si=S6ONNNgekmcmK1SF 

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

This is a throwback episode with Antonio 'Tony Talks' Baldwin on an episode titled 'Honor Your SPARK & Find VALUE in Your Gift' in 2021. Watch our conversation from 2024 here: https://youtu.be/1dg6vcRrutw 

Connect with Antonio “Tony Talks” Baldwin: https://www.youtube.com/@iamtonytalks 

2024 Episode: https://youtu.be/1dg6vcRrutw 

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

How can you tell a BIG Story in Less Time? Here are three tips from experts.

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How to break down big ideas using the “watermelon” method
• Why limiting your options will help you find the heart of the story
• How to start your story to get to the point faster

EPISODES MENTIONED:

• How to Make More SPACE in Your Life for Creativity & Impact | Tyler Moore @tidydad | Episode 71
• Overcoming BURNOUT and Finding the HEART of the Story | Filmmaker @CarlosAndresCuervo | Episode 27
• Matthew Dicks: How to be a Better Storyteller | @matthewjohndicks | Author of Storyworthy

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady 

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Ask Heather a Question: https://www.heatherparady.com/ask 
• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 
• Access full show notes here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/74

Today, I connected with Kary Oberbrunner, former pastor and now a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author and the founder of Igniting Souls Publishing Company. In this episode, we do a deep dive into healing from spiritual and emotional scars, and finding your unconventional calling.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/29 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Finding your calling after ministry
• How to share your story (when it might affect others)
• Breaking free from bitterness from religion

Connect with Kary Oberbrunner: https://ignitingsouls.com/

Easy IP: https://www.easyip.today/

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today, I connected with the founder of 365 Driven, Tony Whatley. As a successful entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience, Tony is breaking the mold in content creation within his industry. Whether it's adding sketch comedy or documenting his journey to skateboarding after age 50, he is paving the way for what it looks like to make an impact and leave a legacy while still integrating it all into our creativity.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/28 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How do you merge motivational business content with humorous, entertaining content?
• Shifting your identity from your current self vs. your ideal self
• How do you deal with embarrassment or hesitation?

Join us in Costa Rica: https://365driven.com/advance7/ 

Connect with Tony Whatley: linkedin.com/in/tonywhatley or 365Driven.com

Listen to our previous interview: https://tinyurl.com/yc2yyt9n

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today, I connected with Carlos Cuervo, a cinematographer, documentary filmmaker, and photojournalist. In this conversation, we dig into how to navigate burnout as creatives, how boundaries can help our creativity grow further, and how, despite not feeling like a leader, the fact that you’re effectively communicating your message may already make you one.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/27 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Reframing “Rest” (For Those Who Feel like They Should be Hustling)
• Find the Heart of the Story: 5 Questions to Ask
• Detaching from Expectations in Relationships
• Lessons from History: Is Creativity Leadership? 

Connect with Carlos Cuervo: http://carloscuervo.com/ 

‘Jump Start Your Brain’ by Doug Hall: https://amzn.to/4cOnEJk 

Follow Carlos on IG: ​​https://www.instagram.com/andrescuervo/

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/ 

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

Today, I connected with Joel Byars, stand-up comedian and the founder and host of Hot Breath Comedy Network. In this conversation, we discussed navigating ambition as a creative and developing a clear vision for your career.

ACCESS FULL SHOW NOTES HERE: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/26 

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How do you stay grounded while trying to build a career in comedy?
• How do you detach from the ambitious/work-centered life and allow yourself to be human and have fun?
• Going back to your goals and determining if you are on the right path

Connect with Joel Byars: https://www.instagram.com/joelbyarscomedy/ 

‘Be Useful’ by Arnold Schwarzenegger: https://amzn.to/3vyL6cS 

‘No More Mr. Nice Guy’ by Dr. Robert Glover: https://amzn.to/3PKz1YO 

Ask Heather a Question: www.heatherparady.com/ask 

Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/

WATCH Episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady