Nion Radio With Nick Onken

Creating moments is all about pushing yourself over that ledge into that uncomfortable zone. This past weekend, I was out in LA taking a workshop with my friends Quddus and Carmina (Camera Ready) about being in front of and behind a camera, interviewing, speaking on stage. I did this because I want to get better at my craft. I started this podcast as a way to push myself out of my comfort zone. One of my biggest fears is talking in front of people and communicating effectively, putting myself out there. Now, at 124 episodes, I am definitely feeling out of my comfort zone. I’ve been feeling a little stagnant with growing the podcast, so I wanted to refresh that passion and work on my skills, and this workshop definitely did that. It made me think about my commitment to the show, and how, once you push yourself to new places and to learn new skills, you really grow as a person. Put the camera down, put the iPhone down and get in there because that’s where the fulfilled richness of life comes from. Some things

What good collaboration should do is inspire you. Today on the podcast I’m talking to co-founder and creative director of Dannijo Jewelry, Danielle Snyder. Dannijo Jewelry has a unique aesthetic and breaks the mold that often restricts high end jewelry and accessories, and it has been worn by everyone from Beyoncé to Taylor Swift.  Danielle is a hustler - she started making jewelry when she was young with her father’s medical tools. She and her sister reunited after college and decided to pursue their passion to create this company. Listen in as we talk about her path to entrepreneurship, her creative process, how the company has used social media, the importance of collaboration, and so much more. I think all the most important aspects of running a business and being an entrepreneur are the things that aren’t necessarily work. Some things we learn in this podcast: When Danielle started making jewelry [5:00] How jewelry came back into her life in college [6:30] What happened when Beyoncé bought one o

I’ve finished more books in the last month than I have in two years. Today I’m sharing a new discovery with you. I’ve never been much of a reader, but I love learning more and educating myself and feeding my brain. So I’ve found a secret to help me read books quickly. Listen in to hear the three tools that have been helping me read more books in the last month than I have in two years. I also want to invite you to join the the Nion Life community on Facebook. It’s a great place to meet other creatives, share your work, and collaborate. I’m always on there and am inspired by the conversations with other artists. You can read books and feed your mind while doing other things like working out, editing, or creating art. Some things we learn in this podcast: What I missed in community college [1:30] I wish I loved and could focus on reading [2:00] My new secret weapon for reading books [3:00] Why I love the Apple AirPods [4:05] I listen to podcasts and audiobooks while I work out [5:05] How I listen

If you can master the way that you think, you can manifest and create greater results in your life. Today I’m talking about a challenge that every entrepreneur faces, especially creative entrepreneurs. This question and idea came from the Nion Life Community, which you can join to connect with other creatives to ask questions, get inspiration, and collaborate with others. Fear is something that every artist has to face: the fear that your work isn’t good, the fear that you won’t be able to make money with it, the fear  that you’ll have a creativity block. But today I’m giving you five tools to deal with fear as a creative entrepreneur that will help you move past your fear and master the power of your mind. Being curious catalyzes creativity. Some things we learn in this podcast: Fear is a common challenge for creative entrepreneurs [1:45] Why we have to master our thoughts [3:30] Being aware of your fear is the first step [4:30] How constantly creating can help you get out of your head [5:10] Th

I have a lot of drive and a lot of will power and I will stick to something and I will get it done. Today I’m talking to Jonas Blue, a major recording artist in the UK. Jonas is known for a tropical house cover of Tracy Chapman’s Fast Car and his single Perfect Strangers, which hit double platinum in Australia. He started pursuing music at a very young age and has never looked back. Jonas and I talked about his story and background, how he got started in the music industry, what his creative process is like, and how he goes with the flow. He also told me how he knows a song is going to be good, and why he sticks to his guns. If you’re new to Nion Radio and want to join a community of creatives, join the Nion Life group on Facebook. You can connect with other artists and asks questions and join conversations for answers and inspiration. I’ll see you there. I firmly believe that I’m going to be around in this business and passion for a long time because I love music and I love what I do - I live, eat, and bre

Your relationships and your network are huge key components of success. Today I’m talking about a question that was recently asked by previous podcast guest Andy Murphy, who teaches neurlinguistic programming for peak performance, in my Nion Life community on Facebook. How do you make friends when you arrive in a new place? Creating a community in a new city and meeting people can be a challenge, but I’ve got seven tips to help you get started. Having a global network can be really awesome, so it’s all about getting out of your comfort zone and becoming the person you want to meet. Building relationships takes time and effort and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. Some things we learn in this podcast: The importance of creating a network [1:50] Create a global network [3:05] Start with friends of friends [3:40] Drop a post on Facebook [4:30] Find meet ups or groups of common interest [4:45] Force yourself out of your comfort zone [5:05] Be the person that you want to meet [6:45] Ask

Whatever place you are in your career, I don’t think the struggle lessens. I think it’s just a different set of struggles. Today I’m talking to Emmanuelle Chriqui. You might know her as Sloan on the hit show Entourage, or from the film You Don’t Mess With The Zohan and In The Mix. She also just released her new show Shut Eye on Hulu. Emmanuelle is an amazing human being, and she was willing to get really open and vulnerable on this episode. Listen in as we talk about the emotional ups and downs of being an artist, how she uses meditation in her work, her creative process, and why everyone needs therapy. My joy is on set. Some things we learn in this podcast: Where Emmanuelle’s passion for acting came from [5:25] How she sustained herself in LA [13:00] What you need to get through the ups and downs [15:10] How meditation has helped her [16:10] When Emmanuelle started doing hypnotherapy [18:00] Why the struggle is worth it when she steps on set [22:40] The importance of knowing that there’s eno

It’s about being self aware of your own limiting beliefs that challenge your vision. Today’s topic was inspired by a question asked of a member of my Facebook group, Nion Community. How do you, as an artist, learn to trust your creative vision? What can you do to gain more confidence in your craft? Listen in as I give you some tips to help you trust yourself as an artist and create momentum in your creative journey. Do one thing every day that pushes you towards your vision and your goal. Some things we learn in this podcast: Why it takes time to trust yourself as an artist [1:20] The fine line when it comes to taking critical feedback [1:55] Why you should examine other people’s work [2:30] Why you have to be creating all the time [3:00] How to create momentum [3:30] Why you have to create momentum [4:00] It comes down to constant creation and finding confidents [5:00] Links mentioned: Join the Nion Life community on Facebook

The whole secret to being an artist and building a career is just being prolific. I’ve been thinking lately about creative momentum, and how important it is. It’s something I talked about with this week’s guest, Eric Ray Davidson. He’s a brilliant photographer who has been showing up more and more in the last few years, and he’s photographing hugely talented people. He’s constantly shooting for GQ, Cosmopolitan, Vanity Fair, Esquire, and more. Listen in to hear how Eric got his start in photography, the benefits of assisting on sets, what it’s like shooting celebrities, and - for the gear heads - what Eric likes to shoot on. And don’t forget to join the Nion Life community to connect with other creatives, share your inspirations, and be inspired by others. High functioning collaborative environments lead to your best work. Some things we learn in this podcast: How Eric got into photography [3:40] What it’s like going to art school [6:15] Why becoming a successful artist is a patience game [10:15]

You must use every asset of knowledge, every skill, everything that you can do to help generate time and money for you to create the sandbox for you to practice your craft. I was hanging out with some friends the other night when we started discussing the age old question of art and commerce. It really got me thinking of the delicate balance between working for money and working for yourself. There is art for sake of art and art that makes a living. As an artist, it’s important that you take jobs that will allow you to have the time and funds in the future to do work for yourself. Listen in to hear why I love the “one for them, one for you” method. Personal creative projects are the most important to my wellbeing as an artist. Some things we learn in this podcast: What are the beginning stages of the creative journey [2:50] Why you have to build a sandbox [3:25] What does “one for them” mean? [3:40] The balance between creating work for others and work for yourself [4:25] Why I love the “one for

Use everything you know to do what you love. Use it all. Today I’m talking to celebrity choreographer and creative director Luam. She works on events, concerts, music videos, galas, and more with celebrities like Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Janelle Monae, and Kelly Rowland. The list goes on and on. I love Luam’s story of transitioning from a life in corporate America to a full time dance career and artist’s way of life, and then taking it even further with her passion and creativity. Listen in as we talk about her creative process and how she used all of her resources and skills to sustain her while she practiced her craft. Don’t forget to head over to Facebook to join the Nion Life community. It’s a space I created for artists and creatives to connect with each other, share thoughts, and help each other. Your craft is born, not necessarily made. Some things we learn in this podcast: What is creative direction [3:50] How she got interested in dance, choreography, and creative direction [7:05] How to tr

To elevate your work, you must invest. Today I’m giving you a five minute takeaway about investing in your creative journey. It’s important not only when you are starting out, but also as you continue to build your career, you have to constantly invest back into your art with time, money, and more. This conversation was sparked by the new Nion Community I’ve created on Facebook. Join the group to be a part of the conversation, meet other creatives, pose questions, and find artists to collaborate with. If you don’t get yourself, your work, and your brand out there, then no one will know about you to hire you. Some things we learn in this podcast: The importance of continued development [2:20] Why you might want to invest time in unpaid projects [3:20] What tools to invest in [4:10] Why you should continue to educate yourself [4:50] Business is part of the craft [4:55] The value of interning for an artist you admire [5:05] Why you have to practice [6:25] The sacrifice of time [7:40] Why fai

If you put art or something creative out into the world, of course you want to see it do well. Today I’m talking to Jared Kleinert, a returning guest, and one of the youngest people I’ve had on the show. Jared has a new book out, 3 Billion Under 30, that he is self publishing and focusing on creating a community around. Listen in to hear him talk about how to use your network to amplify your creative projects and what his creative process for writing this book was like. I also wanted to tell you about a Nion Life Facebook group I started to build community for creatives. You can join the group and share your stories, your work, and your challenges. I also just wanted to foster a community of collaboration, to connect creatives with each other. We are still building this group, so if you join it and have ideas or suggestions, that would be awesome. I try to go deep with people when I’m with them so that that lives past our time apart. Some things we learn in this podcast: Why Jared wrote his new book [3:5

I lucked out into loving what I did enough that I was willing to deal with the scrappy moments. Today I’m talking to Sarah Jones, an extremely talented actress. Sarah has been on Broadway in a one woman play with over 20 characters, for which she won a Tony award. She has also won an Obie Award and given three Ted Talks. I love that Sarah creates her characters from a place of love and learning - they aren’t superficial, she really knows their story. In face, she knows these characters so well that once she assumes one of them, she can riff in that character. She’s so talented. Today we’re covering the gamut of being a performing artist: how she got her start, what it was like in the beginning when she had to be scrappy, and what her creative process is like for both her performing and her writing. We also learn about the personal development side and some of her rituals and practices that she does on a daily basis. My job is to be generous with my gifts, not to hold them back because I’m worried that they’

That’s what creating your moments is all about - taking a proactive approach to life. Welcome to the first episode of 2017! What a year it has been - there have been a lot of amazing moments, but I have also been put through the ringer, just like a lot of people I’ve talked to. I think it’s super important to acknowledge the things I’ve learned this year so that I can take action with them. I’ve learned a lot this year, and they were all very different lessons from last year. I want to kick off this year by sharing what I’ve learned with you. The more you rock the boat and create ripples in your ocean, the more opportunities will come back and find you. Some things we learn in this podcast: The importance of self care [3:10] Why you have to create for yourself, even in the slow times [4:50] Don’t be a victim [6:35] Why you should wear a helmet [7:15] Why reinventing is harder than starting [8:05] Change your state of mind [9:00] Be proactive [11:00] Why you have to let things go [12:15] M

Anything that could get me stronger, faster, smarter, more creative, I’m into it. Today I’m talking to my friend Matt Gallant, who is a poker champion, ex-rock guitarist, has a degree in kinesiology, and is the CEO of BiOptimizers. I really wanted to share with you some of Matt’s tricks for mind and body hacking. I’ve gotten really into this kind of stuff, how to optimize your sleep, water technology, neuro-feedback, light, nootropics. I’m all about hacking the mind and body to access higher levels of creativity and productivity. Matt mentions a lot of products that he uses, and we’ve linked all of those up in the notes below. And be sure to use the code NICK10 to buy something on Matt’s site BiOptimizers to receive 10% off! At the end of the day, your success will go to another level as soon as you figure out what your core essence is. Some things we learn in this podcast: How Matt got into biohacking [3:50] How to become more whole-brain [8:05] Why Matt started sleep hacking [10:40] The importan

People love to be appreciated. Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about showing appreciation and gratitude to those that help you. It’s not something that I have always been great at, but it’s something that my girlfriend Stacy does really well, and she has inspired me to think about it and work a little harder to show more gratitude to those around me that have helped me. I think doing this can make a big difference in business and in life. So I’m trying to to make showing my appreciation more of a habit. I really believe that showing your appreciation and gratitude to others and to the universe shifts your state of being. People will want to be around you more, to work with you, to grow with you. It’s so important to practice this skill. In that spirit, I thank all of you for listening to the show, for sharing the show, for shooting me emails or messages on social media saying you’ve enjoyed the show or that it has helped you in some way. Time is the only commodity that we can’t get back, so show your apprec

Without a doubt music is what I’ve always wanted to do, music is what I feel like I was born to do, it’s what I feel like I do best, it fills me, fulfills me, it fuels me. I’m super excited about today’s guest, Alex Lacamoire. My girlfriend Stacy London and I have been on the Hamilton journey for a while now. I’m not really a Broadway person, but if you haven’t heard this musical, it’s time to take a listen. It is revolutionizing the way we learn about history, and it’s revolutionizing the genre of musical theater. Hamilton won 11 Tony Awards this year, and Alex won one of those. He is the orchestrator and musical director of the show, and he is a brilliant creative who works alongside Lin-Manuel Miranda. In this episode we learn about Alex’s creative process, how he got into music, his struggle with hearing loss. One of my favorite things about talking to Alex is his amazing positive energy and outlook on life, and we talk about that has helped get him where he is today and helped mold his creative career.

The scope of your life, the size of it, is in direct proportion to how uncomfortable you’re willing to be. Today on the show I’m talking to returning guest Jon Levy, who has just come out with a book about the science of adventure. Last time Jon was on the show we talked about his influencer dinners, and how to bring people together. This time, we’re talking about something completely different: the science of adventure. Being an adventurer myself, I love this subject, and Jon has some great stories to share from his travels around the world. Listen in as he breaks down the four ingredients that make a successful adventure and what makes it memorable. I think part of why I connect to this topic so much is that going on a successful adventure is all about creating your moments, taking initiative, which translates into the process of creativity. So in addition to talking about traveling and adventure, we also talk about using these same ideas to break out of ruts and inspire creativity. If you’re with a great

"Social media is a time thief of anyone who wants creative greatness." Today on the show I’m talking about something that has been on my mind: Is social media killing your creative success? Lately I have found myself getting sucked down the creativity death trap that is social media - Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter, Instagram - all of it. I get so much less done because of these internet rabbit holes! Not only does social media kill my creativity because it takes me out of my creative flow, but it also just takes away from my productivity. This podcast is about checking in with yourself - ask yourself how much you’re consuming versus how much you’re creating. And let me know what you do to keep yourself off of social media and in the artistic and creative zone. "The more we consume, the less we create, and that is inhibiting the trajectory of our creative journey." Some things we learn in this podcast: The problem with breaking out of the flow [1:30] What about social media is so enticing [2:10] What is