Brad talks with Jessica Hische who is known for her work ranging from illustrated children's books to designing iconic logos and her new venture, Studio Works, a software and community for creative professionals. We delve into a wide array of topics including the power of positivity, the challenges of ADHD and mental health, balancing personal and societal responsibilities, and fostering local community engagement. Jessica shares her personal journey, her insights about work-life balance, and her vision for the future of creativity.

Topics discussed:

• (00:00) - Introduction to Wake Up Excited
• (00:13) - Meet Jessica Hische
• (01:23) - Support Wake Up Excited
• (02:05) - What is Jessica Waking Up Excited About?
• (03:08) - Jessica's New Venture: Studio Works
• (06:01) - The Importance of Positivity and Local Community
• (13:36) - The Impact of Social Media Algorithms
• (23:26) - Parenting and Emotional Intelligence
• (29:44) - Mental Health and Medication
• (44:27) - The Impact of Psychedelics on Mental Health
• (47:27) - The Importance of Joy and Wonder
• (49:37) - Reconnecting with Music and Art Post-COVID
• (51:36) - The Role of Arts in Breaking Routine
• (54:17) - Fighting for Causes and Community Engagement
• (01:00:44) - The Challenges of Implementing Big Changes
• (01:04:37) - Balancing Personal and Community Financial Goals
• (01:17:16) - Future Plans and Creative Ambitions
• (01:20:53) - Parenting and Removing Obstacles for Kids
• (01:25:40) - Music Recommendations and Final Thoughts

• Studio Works (invoicing and payment software)
• Studio Works Community
• Brad Frost’s Online Courses
• Spotify BPM Playlists
• Band: Bronco
• Band: FIDLAR
• Jessica Hische’s “My First Book of Fancy Letters”
• Jessica Hische’s “I’m in Progress” Book (pre-order)
• Paradiso Event (by Off) (OFFF is a creative festival, Paradiso is an event by one of its founders)

Brad chats with Aaron Walter, co-host of the Design Better and Reconsidering podcasts, and author of several design books. We cover topics like personal growth, the significance of curiosity, the philosophy of 'super activities', the role of money in achieving life goals, and the importance of living an examined life. Aaron shares his journey from his time as UX Director at MailChimp to his exploration of new skills and creative endeavors.

Topics discussed:

• (00:00) - Introduction and Guest Overview
• (00:17) - Aaron Walter's Background and Influence
• (00:54) - Topics of Discussion
• (01:17) - Support and Online Courses
• (02:02) - Starting the Conversation
• (02:13) - Self-Improvement and Reflection
• (08:05) - The Pursuit of Mastery
• (14:33) - Creativity and Lifelong Learning
• (34:03) - Super Activities and Personal Growth
• (41:34) - The Importance of Attitude in Shared Activities
• (42:20) - Social Constructs and Parental Consent
• (45:47) - Financial Independence and Early Retirement (FIRE)
• (47:34) - Money as a Tool for Freedom and Growth
• (56:56) - Aligning Money with Personal Values
• (01:05:11) - The Examined Life and Seasons of Life
• (01:10:50) - Presence and Gratitude in Everyday Moments
• (01:16:56) - Final Thoughts and Resources

• designbetterpodcast.com
• reconsidering.org
• CodePen
• Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes
• Les Misérables by Victor Hugo
• The Power of Regret by Daniel H. Pink
• The Element by Sir Ken Robinson
• Rick Rubin's Book ("The Creative Act: A Way of Being")
• Kamasi Washington – The Epic (2015)
• Kamasi Washington – Fearless Movement (2024)

Brad talks with author Denise Jacobs. Denise shares her insights on restoring cast iron, building connections between past and present passions, and navigating today's challenging environment. They also delve into the importance of empowerment through creativity and highlight Denise's incredible backyard garden as a sanctuary. Additionally, Denise discusses her journey in teaching and her philosophy of sharing knowledge.

Topics discussed:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (00:12) - Meet Denise Jacobs: Creativity Evangelist
• (01:25) - Restoring Cast Iron: A New Passion
• (03:05) - The Process of Cast Iron Restoration
• (07:02) - Connecting Past and Present Passions
• (08:17) - Empowerment Through Creativity
• (12:59) - The Importance of Curiosity and Learning
• (21:48) - Teaching and Sharing Knowledge
• (29:38) - The Journey of Overcoming Inner Critic
• (31:21) - Creativity, Community, and Collaboration
• (35:28) - Starting Out: Teaching Soap Making
• (35:47) - Starting the Soap Making Class
• (36:38) - The Popularity of Soap Making Classes
• (37:02) - The Popularity of the Class
• (38:05) - The Joy of Teaching and Speaking
• (40:21) - Embracing Vulnerability and Curiosity
• (42:22) - Recognizing Opportunities and Serendipity
• (46:51) - Creating Safe Spaces and Community
• (53:18) - Transforming Spaces: The Edible Food Forest
• (56:32) - Upcycling and Creative Constraints
• (01:04:38) - Empowerment Through Creativity
• (01:10:02) - Music That Inspires: Moon Child
• (01:11:43) - Where to Find Denise Jacobs

• Banish Your Inner Critic (Book by Denise Jacobs)
• The CSS Detective Guide (Book by Denise Jacobs)
• Denise Jacobs' Website
• Brad Frost's Online Courses
• LinkedIn Learning Courses by Denise Jacobs
• Cast Iron Chris (Instagram)
• Josh Shapiro (YouTube/Instagram, Cast Iron Restoration)
• Moonchild (Band)
  • Albums mentioned: Little Ghost, Voyager, Please Rewind, and their first album
• OfferUp (Upcycling Materials)
• South by Southwest (SXSW)
• LinkedIn
• Instagram (Denise Jacobs)
• Facebook (Denise Jacobs)