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The Lightning Rod

The Lightning Rod

By The Creative Folks

What's up ya'll! We're two artists in Atlanta who decided one day to come together to answer questions and talk about the creative industry.

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www.thecreativefolks.org
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Finding and Defining Style Re-Do!

The Lightning RodFeb 10, 2020

00:00
16:05
Tips for Moderators: Interviews and Questions

Tips for Moderators: Interviews and Questions

Empower Asian America is one of our greatest projects to date. We've connected creatives and creators in one platform. Minh as a co-host has advice for you if you want to run your own interviews. Plus tossing in tips on coming up with questions!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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May 17, 202116:34
Raya and the Last Dragon: What Does It Mean For Asian America (Prediction)

Raya and the Last Dragon: What Does It Mean For Asian America (Prediction)

In honor of AAPI Month! We can't pass on talking about Raya and the Last Dragon! What does this Disney animated film contribute to the Asian American community? What does it mean moving forward with AAPI in animation?


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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May 10, 202114:10
Episode 100 Special

Episode 100 Special

In honor of AAPI Month, what a time to celebrate our 100th Episode! Today we're discussing the final updates with our Stop Asian Hate Campaign, express our gratitude, and talk about AAPI Month! The organization we chose to donate to: https://www.instagram.com/napawf_atl/

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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May 05, 202111:49
Story Time: The Worst Week at TCF

Story Time: The Worst Week at TCF

It's story time! Remember when we talked about protecting energies for 2021? Yeah...here's an update on how life is going at TCF! Let's talk!

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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May 03, 202115:18
Biz Fears Pt. 3: Clients & Obtaining Work

Biz Fears Pt. 3: Clients & Obtaining Work

Part 3 of our series, we're diving into client work and obtaining client work! One of the stressful parts of our careers as freelancers and creatives is finding the work so we can live, let's dive into a bit of the process and some advice!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Apr 26, 202110:16
Explaining Our Stop Asian Hate Art Piece

Explaining Our Stop Asian Hate Art Piece

Our campaign is well underway and we want to take this opportunity to explain the meaning behind the work itself. Today's episode is a deep dive into the main art piece, developed by TLR's Minh Huynh. https://www.etsy.com/listing/986768601/pre-order-stop-asian-hate-love-asian


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Apr 13, 202119:42
Stop Asian Hate, Love Asian People Campaign
Apr 12, 202114:35
So You Want to Public Speak + Pitch?

So You Want to Public Speak + Pitch?

A big part of our business is constantly public speaking and pitching our business. Whether that means to you guys on a podcast or to newcomers to TCF. Public speaking is a skill set we're all trying to improve on and we have some tips that helped us bit by bit along the way!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Mar 29, 202116:15
Been There, Done That, Business Fears! TAXES

Been There, Done That, Business Fears! TAXES

We got a name for the series! Been There, Done That, Business Fears! This week we're talking about taxes. Full disclosure that we are not professionals and not licensed. Today's episode will talk about our favorite accounting tool: Quickbooks! We encourage you to seek professionals to help you complete your business taxes.


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Mar 22, 202110:59
Tips to Moderating Panels

Tips to Moderating Panels

If you been catching up with us on social, we've been hosting our panel: Empower Asian America. Hosting panels or workshops is not all fun and easy as they seem. Minh has been working with Tammy to host Empower Asian America and would love to share some tips with you in today's episode!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Mar 15, 202116:44
Art Magazines

Art Magazines

Have you ever spent money on an art magazine? Was it a "worth it" spend? Minh shares their experience with Art Magazines and how it helped their career.


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Mar 08, 202113:29
Business Fears: Starting A Business

Business Fears: Starting A Business

As we know, business is not easy and there's a lot of fear. One of the biggest fears is starting a business, but let's chat. Today we're starting our series about business fears. Our first episode will be about starting a business and our advice on where do you start!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Mar 03, 202110:51
One Year of Social Distancing, What Did I Learn?

One Year of Social Distancing, What Did I Learn?

WHEW! A year already since the Pandemic and Social Distancing? Let's chat about some things Minh has learned!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Feb 23, 202116:59
Hiring a Creative

Hiring a Creative

Hiring a creative is something we're well versed in, additionally, we also get hired out as creatives for other companies too. Being on both sides of those tables, we're here to educate! Here are some tips for hiring a creative!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Feb 15, 202110:54
Imposter Syndrome Is Back!

Imposter Syndrome Is Back!

New Year, Same Fears. Let's talk a bit more about imposter syndrome today. With the new year in front of us, everyone is setting up their "new year resolutions", but why does it feel so odd this year? Tammy has some thoughts to share!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Feb 01, 202110:20
Setting Up Boundaries for 2021

Setting Up Boundaries for 2021

As 2021 is getting a bit more comfortable for us, don't let anyone ruin your new year's energy. Let's talk about clients today and setting up boundaries with those clients! Today is storytime with Tammy, so enjoy! Let's hustle!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Jan 25, 202110:48
New Year Update

New Year Update

Welcome back and welcome 2021! Here’s an update from Tammy about The Lightning Rod!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Jan 04, 202106:12
Have a Productive Holiday

Have a Productive Holiday

The holidays are no joke because it's all about the hustle. We get that work is work, but we want you to take you away from your work desk and instead reinvest the time back into yourself. Tips to have a productive holiday this season with Tammy!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Dec 14, 202012:46
Setting Goals for 2021

Setting Goals for 2021

2021 is getting closer and it's no better time than now to start setting your goals. Tammy has tips today on setting goals so that 2021 is prosperous for you!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Dec 07, 202014:55
Things We're Thankful For

Things We're Thankful For

2021 is making it's way around the corner. What a year it's been. We're excited for 2021 but we have a lot of thanks to give 2020. We know it's been a tough time this year, we want to bring some joy to our listeners - thank you for being on this journey with us this year!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Nov 30, 202012:06
Some Days We Want to Quit Too!

Some Days We Want to Quit Too!

You read the title, yup! We have days where we feel like we weren't meant for the space either. Let's talk about imposter syndrome today and some tips to get through the phase.


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org

Thanks for tuning in with us today!

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh

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Nov 23, 202018:10
Attitudes That Won't Get You Far in the Art World

Attitudes That Won't Get You Far in the Art World

The art industry like any other has its fair share of elitism, selfishness, and pride toward their craft. Here are a few pointers on adjusting our attitude when working in a creative field.

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Nov 16, 202017:57
What's it Like Being an Art Mentor

What's it Like Being an Art Mentor

While finding a mentor could be a scary journey, being one isn't as easy as one thinks. Minh as a mentor has tips & advice to help aspiring mentors.

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Nov 09, 202018:11
Finding an Art Mentor

Finding an Art Mentor

Finding an art mentor can be incredibly intimidating. Minh as an art mentor themselves share a few tips to find a good mentor! They could be anywhere!

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Nov 03, 202016:43
Wellness Wednesday

Wellness Wednesday

Content Warning: Today's episode is hosted by Minh who will discuss their panic attacks. At The Creative Folks, we believe that better mental health requires conversations. We want to be that platform to encourage conversations when YOU'RE ready. Feel free to skip today's episode if it's too much for you to hear, it will always be here for you to revisit.


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Oct 28, 202015:38
Automating Your Business

Automating Your Business

Automating your business sounds so good right? You no longer have to do the little tasks because it's all being done automatically. However, what is that doing to your business. Let's discuss!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Oct 26, 202013:04
4 Tips to Jumpstart Your Freelance Career

4 Tips to Jumpstart Your Freelance Career

The pathway of freelancing is obviously not easy, but it's also not crazy hard either. A lot of the freelance journey is time, place, and good practice. Today Tammy guides you on 4 tips to really start freelancing on the right foot!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Oct 19, 202012:17
Concentrating On One Thing

Concentrating On One Thing

When you're just starting out, is it important to stick to one thing? Tammy has some advice for you today using TCF as a business model. Enjoy today's episode!

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Oct 12, 202018:21
Tracing in Art. Ethical or Nah?

Tracing in Art. Ethical or Nah?

The right and wrong ways to trace art. When you trace it should be a learning tool. Tracing is also a common act in a lot of fields like Illustration, Graphic Design, and so forth that helps build the art as we go. Minh gives you advice today on tracing!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Oct 05, 202014:13
New Segment: Wellness Wednesday

New Segment: Wellness Wednesday

We're introducing a smaller segment to the show: Wellness Wednesday. Minh tackles wellness tips from experience (not professional advice). At The Creative Folks, we care a LOT about mental health. It's important to us as creatives who serve creators like you, to do wellness checks! We'll periodically push Wellness Wednesday episodes and maybe bring on a guest in future episodes 


Submit questions or let us know if you're interested by emailing us: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org


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Sep 30, 202017:00
Support Your Artist Friends, For Free!

Support Your Artist Friends, For Free!

While art is something we should all as creatives should invest into, especially if we know our friends are creatives/artists as well. However, it doesn't always have to be a monetary transaction. The key to today's episode is keeping your friends at the forefront and keeping them in mind. Tune in to today's episode to learn more.

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Sep 28, 202025:04
Is Perfectionism Good?

Is Perfectionism Good?

When it comes to getting things done. What is your mentality? Are you the type to make sure every detail is absolutely perfect or do you let things slide? Let's talk about perfectionism in today's episode!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Sep 21, 202012:21
Loneliness in Freelancing

Loneliness in Freelancing

The world of freelancing is not a smooth ride, even with pros of having creative freedom. The job of a freelancer is often involving the freelancer in a very lonely environment and there may not be support groups available all the time. Tips from Minh in today's episode!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Sep 14, 202015:51
Landing Your First Gig

Landing Your First Gig

The first step to anything is not easy, as you may know. Tammy's advice on landing your first gig so that it sets you up for your future ones!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Sep 07, 202020:43
Cons to Freelancing

Cons to Freelancing

Yep! To every pro there's a con! While we know there's a huge amount of creative freedom as a freelancer, but what about job and financial security. More advice in today's episode.


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Sep 04, 202020:22
Pros to Freelancing

Pros to Freelancing

Freelancer Lifestyle has a lot of creative freedom. You set your own pricing, you set your own schedule, and you work the clients you want to work. More pros to freelancing in today's episode!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Sep 04, 202021:31
Freelancing & Unpaid Internships

Freelancing & Unpaid Internships

We're introducing to you Freelancer month, where we really dive into our freelancer experiences. On top of that, everyone has to start somewhere. Our student creators have always battled the world of unpaid internships to begin their journies, but what about the bills? What about basic survival? We have some advice for you in today's episode!


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Sep 01, 202010:53
Do Creatives Need Awards?

Do Creatives Need Awards?

A flashy award is...well, flashy! It's great to have it under your belt, but is it a make it or break it point for creatives? Both Minh and Tammy are considered award-winning, tune in to hear how this impacted their creative journey.

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Aug 31, 202020:38
Creative Work for Family & Friends

Creative Work for Family & Friends

We've all had the case where friends are asking for creative favors, family too! Where do we set those boundaries personally as creators. We share with you the rules we set for ourselves, so if you're looking for advice you know where to start. We'd love to hear what boundaries you're setting for your business! Let us know!

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Aug 24, 202021:23
Personal Logos vs. Start Up Logos

Personal Logos vs. Start Up Logos

An essential to branding is the logo. The logo is the front-facing image for you as freelancers and startups in general. But! Just how important is it and when do we need to change it for personal brands & startups? Is there even a set timeline? We learn this in today's episode!

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Aug 17, 202027:42
Personal Branding vs. Start Up Branding

Personal Branding vs. Start Up Branding

Branding seems simple to the average because it's just colors & logos right? Today Minh & Tammy dive in to give you a closer understanding of branding on a personal freelance level versus branding as a start-up company.

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Aug 09, 202027:38
Should I Run That Ad?

Should I Run That Ad?

Putting up Ads has always been very common business advice towards anyone even those who are just starting up. But Tammy wants to talk more about how to give value to that Ad by giving value to your skills first. So let's dive into that, shall we?


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org  

Thanks for tuning in with us today!  

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh 


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Aug 03, 202016:21
Tips to Starting a Business (Different Advice!)

Tips to Starting a Business (Different Advice!)

Starting a business could get really confusing, overwhelming, and even frustrating especially when you don't know what in the world you're doing. Don't worry. We got you! We've been there and now we're here to light your way up with some simple tips in order for you to get going with your business.

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Jul 27, 202014:54
Critiquing JK Rowling

Critiquing JK Rowling

Should we separate JK Rowling from her art of creating the world of Harry Potter? A big fan favorite however she's been in the spotlight for controversial statements. Today we discuss. This is solely opinionated and we encourage you to listen with an open mind.  

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Jul 20, 202014:53
One of the Best Business Investments We Made

One of the Best Business Investments We Made

In the business world, connections are too vital to even say. Not just connections towards your audience but connections to your fellow businessmen/businesswomen wherein you can help each other grow in the business world. And so today, Tammy talks about a business group for women that she's very passionate about. Hear the reasons why she's passionate about them and find out what group that is! 

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org   

Thanks for tuning in with us today!   

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh   


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Jul 13, 202011:38
Colorism in the Art World

Colorism in the Art World

Colorism is not only a real-world issue, but it's prevalent in the art world as well. Today, Minh covers the topic as we acknowledge that colorism is real and affects artists across the board.

Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org

Thanks for tuning in with us today!

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh

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Jul 06, 202016:57
Do I Sound Cringey?

Do I Sound Cringey?

Ever had your own ideas, your own concept, your own passion but then thought to yourself, "Am I cringey for having such ideas?" DON'T! Embrace those thoughts because that's what makes you unique, original, and happy!  


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org  

Thanks for tuning in with us today!  

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh 


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Jun 29, 202014:58
Fan Art

Fan Art

Can you make a profit in doing fan art? Minh says it's definitely...YES! Tune in as we talk about the concept of fan art and original art as well. Which is better?  


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org  

Thanks for tuning in with us today!  

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh 


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Jun 22, 202014:33
Stay In Demand

Stay In Demand

Tactics, strategies, methods, and steps on how you can stay in-demand for the job market in these times or whatever times we'll be in, we got you covered on that! 


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org  

Thanks for tuning in with us today!  

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh 


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Jun 17, 202017:51
Art School

Art School

What are your thoughts on going to Art school? Can you benefit way more in going rather than learning for yourself? Is there a catch or is it more likely to have the same results to where you are now? Hear out our thoughts today as we discuss these and more!  


Submit a Lightning Question or an email about today's episode: letstalk@thecreativefolks.org  

Thanks for tuning in with us today!  

Your Hosts, Tammy & Minh Huynh 


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Jun 15, 202016:22