Welcome here to CuppaJen in 2021 everyone!! It's exciting to be a creative -- you can innovate, recreate, originate -- there are millions of ideas out there, and yet I have a habit of picking apart one. Perfectionism, as we talk about on the show, is the death of creativity. One can spend so much time on trying to "get it right" or "make it perfect" that we often end up without a heart felt version and the art and our hearts suffer in the long run. Our guest Erika Conway, an industry professional of over 25 years, is still learning to surrender "perfection" each time she creates. If you're in the habit of trying to make things perfect, then you're in good company. In our conversation, we discuss some of our fears, our desire for control, and what it feels like to be working in the fallout of an uncertain time for the arts. Later in the show, Keith Alessi an ex-CEO joins us to talk about his own unique life story -- someone who came to creativity by circumstance more than choice. You'll want to stick around for the whole thing! Links & accounts below: @cuppajenpodcast @yogamonkey34 @marvelousmessymiddle online.thespaceuk.com #cuppajenpodcast #cuppajen #perfectionism #surrender #trust

Cuppa Jen

#cuppajen - Perfectionism tried to kill me, but vulnerability saved my life feat. Erika Conway!

Hey! Welcome back to part 2 of our “konversation” with Karen! In Part 2, Karen expounds upon her understanding of confidence and what culture best creates that for us. We talked about having empathy for the artist, taking the lead on our own life narrative, and the importance of having a supportive community around us that we can lean on and ask for help. Having confidence is not always standard, but it's more earned from consistent lifestyle of self-care — having the right people around you giving you the right words can either save or hinder you. We also talk a little bit about feedback: what it is, how to take it, and which feedback-givers (friends included) have your best interest at heart. Feedback can be tricky to navigate but just remember if someone is trying to clarify your work to make it stronger then its activating, but saying “i like” or “i don’t like” is actually passing judgement and even with the best of intentions, those comments do nothing to serve the art. Karen is also gracious enough to share some of the her personal scars and lessons that she learned from starting her own business. It’s not all rosey — and patience for our mistakes is necessary. Lots to cover here! Hope you enjoy! If you haven’t already checked out last week’s part 1 be sure to check that out here: https://youtu.be/Q7Jplud-FRs Have a great rest of your week, xox Jeness #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection #artists Below are some links to Karen’s materials: Karen Elgersma Media: https://www.karenelgersmamedia.com Karen’s Shaw Farewell: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuMoFeunyY4 Karens Instagram: @karenelgersmamedia Konversations with Karen: www.facebook.com/106627824060074/posts/305220374200817/?vh=e&d=n

#cuppajen - In Konversation with Karen Elgersma (Part 2)

Hi friends,   Have you ever loved your art and creativity but then froze or started to lose interest when you had to take your art to market? You’re not alone! On this episode of #cuppajen Karen and I sit down with some wine (sort of…) to chat about starting out in the industry, the shifting tide of media consumption, the power of local storytelling, what its like to start a company, and… the money muscle.    The money muscle is not an easy one to grow. Karen uses her experience with being a TV journalist for over twenty years to help encourage us to find what is “unique” about ourselves how knowing that can help you take your stories to market without feeling gross. We also talk at a deeper level about value and how that impacts us financially. Turns out, many of us think our passions have to be gruelling to be financed — they don’t! Sometimes it’s about finding the natural fit, as the things we find easy may be difficult to someone else. We’ve all been given a gift!    We cover a lot of ground — so much so that we had to split the episode into two parts. Next week we talk about self worth, faith, supportive friends, how to take feedback, and scars and lessons learned from starting her own company. It’s not all roses — and patience and admiration for the mistakes we make and the journey we are on is the gift we need to give ourselves — so stay tuned!    #cuppajen #creativity #progressoverperfection #passion #finances #creativejuices #alittleinspiration #dontquityourdaydream #karenelgersma #shaw #journalism #actor    Links:   Karen Elgersma Media:  https://www.karenelgersmamedia.com   Karen’s Shaw Farewell: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuMoFeunyY4   Karens Instagram: @karenelgersmamedia   Konversations with Karen: www.facebook.com/106627824060074/posts/305220374200817/?vh=e&d=n

#cuppajen - In Konversation with Karen Elgersma (Part 1)

Hi friends, I hope that you are all doing truly well. On this episode of #cuppajen we are joined by actor, dancer, and DJ Zak Santiago to talk about how his art making is impacted by his faith in Jesus. We talk about lifestyles, judgement, and the pressures Christian artists (or people) face. We also talk about the DJ booth, the pulpit, making beats with flipout, dancing in Spain, and how grateful we are to have a million people to shout out in one episode! It was incredible to hear Zak's story; I am so grateful for his vulnerability in sharing his journey with us! To all #cuppajen listeners -- Zak and I are rooting for your success today! If you've had a hard week, we get it and we've been there. I pray you know that you are not alone and that it pays off to keep fighting for your dreams. You got this! Thank you again to Zak Santiago and all his unbelievable wisdom! xox Jenessa To follow Zak on socials =  @zaksantiago  To find Zak's scripture readings/church = @holyrosarycathedral @virtualparish To contact the show = @cuppajenpodcast  #cuppajenpodcast #greatday #pray #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection #shoutoutstoallourfriends 

#cuppajen - Zak Santiago: shout outs, warnings, and overcoming pain with love.

Hey everyone, “It’s not what you see, it’s what He said." Carl Kennedy is on the show today to talk about how faith in what you can’t see visually, namely: God’s word, got him to where he is now as an actor, coach, and poet. We discuss Carl’s story, money and what makes someone rich, what it’s like to be a Christian in the film industry, the people who stopped to help along the way, and the beauty and gift of getting old. It’s exciting to talk with Carl about defeating our fears through action and the idea that “there is no lack” unless you let there be. We hope you enjoy this episode! I would also like to say, Carl and I had this conversation a little over a week ago on the 21st, before George Floyd’s death occurred. Both of our hearts have been heavy over this past week, and we would both like to offer up some education and encouragement to you wherever you’re at.  @carl_kennedy_actor -- the guest on this show who will absolutely bring you life and insight

#cuppajen - Momma Always Said: Life Lessons with Carl Kennedy

This episode hits differently after #mentalhealthawarenessweek as well as the passing of Mother's Day. Our guest is hairstylist and entrepreneur Taylor Hooge. She shares with us what she loves most about hair as well as some thwarted dreams surrounding motherhood that happened while launching her career. We get candid about grief, what it is and how we can move through it, and we celebrate her victories and return to art despite the obstacles her circumstances threw her way. I hope that this episode allows you to feel heard if you've ever experienced miscarriage, or any loss that left you feeling gutted. CuppaJen believes that staying positive does not have to be synonymous with ignoring pain, but rather we hope to empower you to rise and work through whatever challenges you may be facing, especially if you're an artist!   Trigger warning ⚠️ Please note that this episode addresses potentially traumatic subject matter pertaining to miscarriage and emotional health. If this is unsafe for you for any reason, please love yourself first and skip this episode. Our only desire is to encourage and help you feel heard.   @tayloradrianahairstylist  @tayhooge  @chantelfunkandco   Link for "That Discomfort You're Feeling is Grief" by Scott Berinato: https://hbr.org/2020/03/that-discomfort-youre-feeling-is-grief   Link for Taylor's Studio: https://chantelfunkandco.com    #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection #miscarriage #loss #dream #encouragement   xox  Jeness @cuppajenpodcast  @jenessagalbraith

#cuppajen - Loss of a Dream with Taylor Hooge

Hi Friends! This week's episode features actor, model, and producer Charlotte Denton! We talk about being "good enough" and honest with ourselves about the insecurities we feel, while also being intentional about rewriting our thought patterns with truth and seeking peace! We also discover that in a shocking turn of events... London, did not invent the London Fog! I hope that you find this episode encouraging and that it inspires you to continue to create regardless of what your circumstances may look like right now. We are rooting for your gifts and overall happiness! For more on Charlotte - follow her instagram @charlottejanedenton For more on the Artist's Way - https://juliacameronlive.com/the-artists-way/  #cuppajen #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection #dreamer #covid19 #creative #artistsway #insecurities #peace xox Jenessa 

#cuppajen - Insecurities in the Artist's Way with Charlotte Denton

Hi everyone, and welcome back to #cuppajen in 2020! I took a few months off at the start of this year to rest and revamp the podcast to make sure we entered this decade feeling strong! Funny enough, the COVID19 pandemic happened, and everything shifted. My fellow creative Mariam Barry joins the podcast to talk about how we can use this change and this time to stay invigorated and encouraged during the days of self isolation.  I hope this helps you to go and make art that expresses where you're at, and not where you feel you "should be" <3 For more on Mariam - follow her instagram @mangomariam   #cuppajen #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection #dreamer #covid19 #creative #creativerebirth #easterweekend #mariambarry    xox Jenessa

#cuppajen - Creative Rebirth with Mariam Barry

I used to believe that if I took time to rest then I would be considered lazy... but where did I learn that? If you’re anything like me... you’re driven, you have dreams and goals and want to pursue them to your fullest. You need to recharge or you’re going to burnout (you probably already have) and the longer you try to control things the less you accomplish. This is the way with creativity, isn’t it? If we don’t leave room for growth we will get swallowed up pretty quickly! It is my heart that you and I walk boldly towards our callings confidently and free from anxiety, but to do that we have to discipline ourselves to REST. Anyone out there relate?! Xox Jenny Gal #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection #cuppajen

#cuppajen ep. 12 - Give it a rest...

Hi friends! Welcome back to the podcast! Have you ever felt like you had a specific idea for what your life & career were going to look like? Have you ever been wrong? Have you ever felt like that the line between persistent and insane was getting thin? That's what I work through in this week's episode!  I had been praying for a career breakthrough and got this: start your own company and create your own work. I have attempted for years to land the right agent, and after a few different business relationships and feeling locked out of casting rooms, I need to take Dr. Suess's advice and move. My journey is not "more difficult" than other actors, it's actually very similar to the majority.  I want to be clear in this description that I believe in the work that agencies and business people do, and I am open to working with someone in those fields, but for me in this chapter of my life, that door seems to be shut at the moment. What's more interesting though, is my complete toddler-like reaction that came with the realization that I had to change tactics. My friend told me she thought this episode should be titled "Hot minion learns to trust the Lord" (*see uncanny resemblance to Minion on youtube*) but the trusting part is actually very on the money. Not much about the arts is obvious, and there are many paths to get there. I had to reinvent mine... doesn't mean I'm not frustrated by it. I have to say, this episode is a lot more vlog-style than anything else --  but I hope my journey comforts you when inevitably all your plans get ruined... or at the very least I make you laugh when mine do. xox  Jenny Gal PS - Go and watch Alastair Sim's A Christmas Carol! #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection 

#cuppajen ep. 11 - When your plans get ruined & you're a toddler about it.

Sisters Shelby and Joelle Wyminga are on this weeks episode to chat about starting their own production company called Far From the Tree Productions. We talk about what makes us feel like failures, how important self care is, owning our choices, and what it’s like to grow up as a pastors kid in Northern BC. Caribou Magi opens December 5th at the Havana Theatre, and if you’re in the Vancouver area we hope you make it out! For more information on Far From the Tree Productions, visit: farfromthetreeproductions.com and make sure to go follow them on Instagram as well. #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection xox Jenny Gal

#cuppajen ep. 10 - The Wyminga Sisters: Barkerville, Inadequacy, and the ups and downs of Producing!

Hi friends, I remember once hearing a rumor that Paul McCartney has never had writers block... well, truth be told, most of us creatives have had a creative block at least once, and I think it's okay to be open about that! There are many ways to unlock the creative parts of our brain its simply a matter of finding what works for you! Maybe if you are feeling stuck this episode can help. Grab a coffee, go for a walk and take a listen! Remember - #progessoverperfection We don't need to be perfect in order to be creative! In fact it's usually the imperfections that give us the juice we need to do our best work! #dontquityourdaydream Thanks guys! xox JennyGal PS: If you like what you hear, click on the subscribe button :)

#cuppajen ep. 9 - Creative blocks & not thinking about the Smarties!

Hi friends and welcome to episode 8 of #cuppajen :) My friend Jordan Rendle joins us this week on the podcast and we talk about how we met, our shared journeys in acting & rejection, and finally how to reframe our "downtime" as "preparation seasons." We both agree that if you are going to make art your full time career then you need to think of it in the longterm. It's okay to take time for ourselves or give ourselves a little grace when we don't hit every goal in the first six months. Please reach out and share how you have sustained yourselves while you've waited for the next steps in your career to happen. How do you grow and still stay motivated? We hope that we can encourage you in whatever season you are in, and remember we are all in this together and no one is successful 100% of the time!  #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection #cuppajen xox  Jenessa

#cuppajen ep.8 - Bravery & Making it through our preparation seasons with Jordan Rendle

This week on #cuppajen I have the pleasure of getting to speak with coach and writer Cathy Christen! We talk about being dreamers and what it takes to turn those dreams into reality. From maintaining healthy habits and routines, to overcoming adversity, to the impact our environments (internal & external) have on us — these factors can change how disciplined we are in our craft! Listen in if you’d like to be inspired and walk away with some practical tools to get our dreamer butts in gear! My favorite takeaway was when Cathy said: “Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional!” Remember you don’t have to stay anywhere — you have the option to keep moving and growing! Emotional Intelligence is also about keeping the mind strong. What are some tools you guys use to keep yourself moving towards your dreams when things get tough? Thanks again for coming by Cathy! xox, Jenny Gal #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection Ps — for more on Cathy visit her website cathychristen.com And for Cathy’s book use this amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Masterpiece-Design-Live-Today/dp/1544512554/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1548875841&sr=8-1&keywords=life+as+a+masterpiece+book

#cuppajen ep. 7 - Emotional Intelligence & turning dreaming into doing with Cathy Christen!

This week on #cuppajen we are joined by the wonderful Tunji Taylor-Lewis, my fellow actor/entertainer and friend. We talk social media, experiences with rejection, and how the art of "saying yes" in improv can translate to saying yes for our business strategy. We also touch on sifting through which voices we will allow to influence our art... from the person in our audiences, to our closest friends, to God. Who do you let speak into your art? Who do you let speak into your life? Can't wait to hear what you all think, and I hope you all enjoy this week's guest as much as I always do! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and tell other people to about it. If you hate it, tell NO ONE. xox, Jenny Gal #dontquityourdaydream #progressoverperfection

#cuppajen ep. 6 - Tunji Taylor-Lewis, blocking the noise & saying yes!

Let's hang out and grab coffee. I'm trying to become a full time artist, what are your goals? Maybe we can help each other out! #don'tquityourdaydream