Brad Frost welcomes Sydney-based artist and designer Gemma O’Brien to Wake Up Excited to discuss her work in murals, lettering, and calligraphy and her recent move to London to study at the intersection of art and neuroscience. Gemma shares what she learned shifting from “thinking like an artist” to “thinking like a scientist,” including the rigor of statistics and research, and describes her flow-state study with artists, where self-reported intuition in the creative process significantly predicted flow even after controlling for expertise. They explore how to foster flow through attention, intrinsic motivation, goals, and challenge-skill balance, plus the healing power of the arts, stepping outside comfort zones, collaboration, and optimism as a learned superpower.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 02:20 Neuroaesthetics Leap
• 03:31 Thesis Crunch Time
• 05:47 Artist Workflow Reset
• 09:09 Science Learning Curve
• 12:37 Studying Flow And Intuition
• 20:40 Why Art Moves Us
• 25:37 Arts Therapy And Healing
• 34:38 Optimism As Superpower
• 38:32 Helping Without Burning Out
• 42:04 Strengths Gratitude Daily Practice
• 45:56 Beginner Mind And Discomfort
• 51:55 Collaboration Ego And Delegation
• 01:00:57 Flow State Conditions And Attention
• 01:07:54 Intrinsic Motivation
• 1:12:07 Music Playlists
• 01:15:07 Wrap Up Links

Brad Frost welcomes Mike Rybachuk, founder of Ukraine-based design education platform The Projector Institute, to discuss living a positive, fulfilling life while Russia’s war impacts Mike’s family, friends, colleagues, and business in Ukraine.

From Prague, Mike shares practical, low-cost ways to improve daily life and spread positivity—working outdoors with a hammock and foldable chair, waving to strangers, and intentionally combining work, nature, and social time. They talk about making work fun without diminishing seriousness, prioritizing joy, and avoiding cultures of constant complaining. Mike emphasizes self-honesty, introspection, and personal responsibility, including his five-year commitment to becoming honest with himself, reframing emotions like fear as signals for action, and using simple techniques like counting to three before reacting. He stresses helping others from where you are with what you have, collaborating rather than starting alone, and choosing responsible work that improves the world.

Topics discussed:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (01:34) - Support the Podcast: Brad’s Courses + Discount Code
• (02:20) - Kicking Off in Prague: Why Mike’s Waking Up Excited
• (03:04) - Starting Skateboarding at 40
• (05:20) - Cheap Ways to Upgrade Your Day
• (08:25) - Why Can’t Work Be Fun?
• (11:30) - Not Waiting for Retirement to Live
• (16:11) - Priorities, Joy, and Escaping the “Complaining Communities” Trap
• (19:56) - Micro-Positivity in Real Life
• (30:11) - The 5-Year Project: Practicing Self-Honesty (and What It Changes)
• (37:19) - Subjective vs Objective Thoughts: Letting Go of Stress Triggers
• (47:51) - Stop Mind-Reading: Ask, Validate, and Communicate Clearly
• (52:00) - Emotions Aren’t Weakness
• (58:25) - Stoicism & Philosophy as Tools
• (01:08:48) - Ukraine’s Resilience on the Ground: Living Life Under Bombs
• (01:19:45) - Education as Resistance
• (01:28:00) - Choosing Work That Makes the World Better
• (01:33:33) - Collaboration Creates Magic
• (01:38:55) - Where to Find Projector Institute

Brad sits down with Christine Vallaure, a renowned designer, speaker, and founder of Moon Learning. Christine shares insights into living a balanced and fulfilling life, drawing from her experiences as a solo entrepreneur and author. The conversation explores the importance of agency autonomy, the difference between ambition and competition, and the joy of finding fulfillment in daily actions rather than future goals. Christine also emphasizes the value of enjoying mundane tasks, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and staying motivated through passion and interest. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a creative professional, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways on designing a life that excites you every day.

Topics discussed:

00:00 Introduction
01:25 Supporting the Podcast
02:19 What has Christine waking up excited?
04:16 The Struggle for Autonomy
05:29 Remote Work and Flexibility
08:02 Overcoming Creative Blocks
16:58 Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome
22:22 Ambition vs. Competition
28:45 Finding Inspiration and Community
36:12 Finding Joy in the Mundane
39:55 The Importance of Self-Awareness
49:18 Redefining Success and Ambition
53:24 Embracing Privilege and Opportunity
01:02:14 Encouraging Creativity and Exploration

Marc Thiele is the organizer of the Fantastic Beyond Tellerrand Conference that happens every year in Germany. I just got back from his event in Berlin, and I really feel like Beyond Tellerrand should be on every creative person's bucket list. The show is exceptional and balances practical knowledge with diverse creative inspiration. The curation, care craft, and effort that Marc puts into each show is so abundantly clear, and everyone has a great time as a result. Marc's conference holds a special place in my heart because back in 2013, I introduced Atomic design to the world at Beyond Tellerrand, and Marc is one of the kindest, most authentic and sincere people I know, and it's real privilege to call him a friend. In our conversation, Marc and I talk about the hard work behind creative projects, intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation, embracing vulnerability and sincerity, continuing to cultivate joy and satisfaction, even for long running creative endeavors. The value of community and relationships, learning from failure and a whole lot more.

Topics discussed:

• (00:00) - Introduction to Wake Up Excited
• (01:28) - Support Wake Up Excited
• (02:05) - Introduction to the Conversation
• (02:13) - Marc Thiele on Event Planning and Motivation
• (04:34) - The Reality of Social Media and Authenticity
• (05:05) - Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt
• (15:35) - The Joy and Challenges of Event Management
• (29:59) - Reflecting on Success and Authenticity
• (39:02) - Dealing with Self-Doubt and Finding Motivation
• (40:07) - The Power of Gratitude and Community
• (41:20) - Rebuilding Social Connections Post-COVID
• (42:10) - The Magic of Creativity and Community
• (46:38) - Curiosity and Creativity Across Mediums
• (54:08) - Maintaining Relationships in a Digital Age
• (01:02:02) - Balancing Work and Passion
• (01:07:46) - Exploring New Music and Breaking Boundaries
• (01:12:15) - Conclusion and Event Promotion

• Beyond Tellerrand Conference
• Brad Frost's Courses
• Kirby CMS
• Hans Zimmer
• Sleep Token
• 12 Foot Ninja
• Mr. Bingo

I talk with Cameron Moll, a veteran web designer, leader, consultant, maker, and family man. Our wide-ranging conversation covers longevity in a fast-moving industry, diverse management and design styles, the power of authenticity, the importance of diversity, how Cameron's faith informs his values, and the significance of cultivating hobbies. Join us as we explore what keeps Cameron excited about his career and life.

Topics discussed:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (01:05) - Supporting the Show
• (01:53) - Introducing Cameron Moll
• (06:13) - Balancing Design and Management
• (17:58) - The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership
• (26:59) - Family and Career Balance
• (32:22) - Diversity and Team Dynamics
• (38:09) - Faith and Professional Life
• (42:43) - Building Long-Term Relationships in the Industry
• (45:20) - The Nature of Competition and Collaboration
• (46:54) - Balancing Performance and Well-being
• (50:51) - The Role of a Good Manager
• (01:09:31) - The Importance of Hobbies and Creativity
• (01:22:32) - Music and Personal Joy
• (01:25:50) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

• AI and Design Systems course
• Brad Frost's Courses
• Cameron Moll's Website
• Cameron Moll's Shop (posters & doits)
• Zac Brown Band (Also available on Spotify and Apple Music)
• Miles Davis - Kind of Blue (Also available on Spotify and Apple Music)
• John Coltrane (Also available on Spotify and Apple Music)
• Spotify: "This Is Zac Brown Band" Playlist

I talk with Seth Casana, an entertainment consultant at BigWig Productions, DJ, and musician based in Fredericksburg, VA. At first glance, Seth appears unassuming, but his stage presence is unforgettable. He's known for his soulful funk performances in unique costumes, including a moped helmet with bowling trophies and samurai armor made from computer keyboards. Seth was a crucial part of my Frostapalooza concert, bringing both his band, Elby Brass, and infectious energy. We explore the power of live music, the importance of shared joyful experiences, the arts as a profession vs. a practice, the effort behind creating fun experiences, the role of humor and whimsy in tough times, and tips for cultivating creativity.

Topics discussed:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (01:49) - Supporting the Show
• (02:18) - Starting the Conversation
• (02:35) - Seth's Journey in Music
• (03:01) - Entertainment Consulting Explained
• (07:47) - Challenges and Decisions
• (12:45) - The Magazine Venture
• (18:04) - Pursuing Creative Passions
• (33:56) - The Role of Music in Society
• (38:54) - DJing vs. Live Performance
• (41:59) - The DJ's Litmus Test: Is My Set Working?
• (42:22) - The Power of Music in Human Connection
• (45:34) - Live DJing vs. Pre-recorded Sets
• (48:37) - The Impact of COVID on Live Music
• (56:30) - Creating Joy with the Walking Disco
• (01:02:10) - The Role of Humor and Levity in Creativity
• (01:07:38) - The Importance of Live Music and Community
• (01:15:43) - Music as a Universal Language
• (01:19:09) - Where to Find More About Seth and His Projects

Brad Frost sits down with the enthusiastic and ultra-talented Rebecca Garza Bortman. As a story designer, Rebecca is known for her contributions like the iconic red YouTube play button and her current role at the Chan Zuckerberg Institute. The conversation covers a broad range of topics, from the importance of family and the influence of music on immortality, to creative inspiration, career paths for young people, and the significance of playing in everyday life. Rebecca also shares about her unique rock opera wedding and how her exuberance fuels her life and work. This episode is a joyful dive into the essence of creativity and the power of enthusiasm.

Topics discussed:

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (00:15) - Meet Rebecca Garza Bortman
• (01:05) - Conversation Overview
• (01:31) - Support Wake Up Excited
• (02:06) - Parenting Stories and Morning Routines
• (02:43) - What has you waking up excited?
• (07:32) - Creative Inspirations and Childhood Memories
• (12:18) - Rebecca's Design Journey
• (19:11) - How did Brad and Rebecca meet?
• (22:15) - Meeting Brian Garza
• (26:08) - The Exuberance of Life and Relationships
• (29:21) - The need to include others in exuberant parts of life
• (31:39) - The Importance of Play and Joy
• (35:55) - The Power of Storytelling
• (37:14) - Designing at YouTube
• (38:17) - Building from Scratch: Masterclass
• (39:03) - The Role of Exuberance in Problem Solving
• (40:46) - Reinforcing Systems vs. Starting Anew
• (41:55) - Balancing Enthusiasm with Judgement
• (53:39) - The Importance of Creativity
• (55:34) - Encouraging Others to Pursue Their Passions
• (56:41) - What is the last crafty thing you bought that you haven't utilized yet?
• (01:09:45) - What music do you want more people to know about?
• (01:11:38) - Concluding Thoughts and Reflections