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