Episode #27 - You Don’t Have Unlimited Time. Create Like It.
On my 37th birthday, I sat down and recorded this — not a “how to paint hands” episode, but something way more important for artists and humans in general.
This is the story of losing my mom, the last moment I had with her, the regret that lived in me for years, and how that moment became the turning point that shaped who I am, how I speak, how I create, and why I coach artists the way I do.
We talk about:
Why your birthday is actually about your mother
What it means to really honor someone while they’re still alive
How unprocessed grief turns into self-censorship
The contract you make with yourself in moments of pain
Why expressing your truth in real time matters more than anything
Memento mori, death, urgency, and why you cannot keep putting off the thing you know you’re here to do
If you’re holding back your voice, your art, your business, your message because you’re “not ready yet,” I want this episode to shake that out of you. You do not have unlimited time. You are not promised later. Your work, your relationships, your conversations, your honesty — they’re all on a clock.
This is also about integration. Taking trauma, loss, guilt, shame, regret… and actually folding it into who you are so it becomes strength instead of a wound you never look at. As artists, that’s the job. Radical honesty channeled into form.
If this hit you and you’re ready to stop hiding behind skill drills and start creating from who you actually are:
🔥 Apply for 1-on-1 coaching
I work directly with artists to build their voice, their confidence, their body of work, and their discipline. This is for serious artists ready to level up creatively and personally.
👉 https://www.theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
🎨 Join the group mentorship: “Uncovering Your Artistic Voice”
A live mentorship experience built to reconnect you to your creative intuition, close the gap between idea and action, and help you generate work that is fully, undeniably yours.
Reserve your spot / get notified here:
👉 https://www.theartcoach.com/find-your-voice-workshop
Call your mom. Tell the truth. Make the painting. Act on the idea now.
create create create.
Ep. 26 — Uncovering Your Artistic Voice
The question I get most as The Art Coach: “How do I find my own style?” In this episode I walk you step-by-step from eternal student to authentic creator. We start with the foundation of visual language—value, color, shape, and form—then move into the real engine of style: creative intuition. You’ll learn how to close the gap between idea and action, stop overthinking, and say yes to the sparks that actually want to be made. I share the “acres of diamonds” lesson to show why searching outside yourself keeps you stuck, and why your originality lives inside repeated action, not perfect conditions.
What you’ll learn:
Why “self-taught” really means self-directed, not self-isolated
How to listen for intuition and act before doubt takes over
The two fastest levers for style development: make a lot of work and close the idea–action gap
How to spot the thread in a set of 30 sketches and build a body of work from it
Why commissions and trends can mute your voice, and how to get it back
Want guided help turning this into results?
• Join the waitlist for my upcoming Artist Cohort "Uncovering Your Artistic Voice" (dates announced soon): https://www.theartcoach.com/find-your-voice-workshop
• Work with me 1:1 to develop your voice and build a prolific, authentic practice: https://www.theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
If this helped, share it with an artist who needs permission to start. Then go create, create, create.
Episode 25 - The Pietà: Beauty Born from Sacrifice
In this episode, I reflect on Michelangelo’s Pietà — Mary holding the body of Christ after his sacrifice — and explore what it reveals about the role of sacrifice in art and in life. Too often today, sacrifice is seen as negative, tribal, or outdated. But the Pietà reminds us that true beauty, transformation, and meaning require letting go of something in order to gain something greater. As artists, sacrifice is not optional — it’s the path itself. Whether it’s time, comfort, or ego, what you give up creates the space for your authentic voice to rise.
If you’re ready to go deeper into your own creative journey and build the confidence, clarity, and consistency your art deserves, apply to work with me 1:1 here:
👉 https://www.theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
Rejection hurts—until you learn to use it. In Episode 24, I read a fresh rejection letter and walk you through the mindset I use to turn “no” into fuel. We talk about why resentment slows your growth, how to re-channel that energy into your studio practice, and the slippery slope from one “no” to self-rejection. You’ll learn a simple reframe (“Good. Thank you.”), how to avoid the ouroboros of self-limiting beliefs, and why your job is to keep applying, keep creating, and make your work irrefutable through volume and devotion. If a juror passes, bless them—and put the freed-up time into the next canvas, the next application, the next opportunity.
Work with me 1:1 to strengthen your voice and build a prolific practice: https://www.theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
Episode #23 - Mapping Your Creative Identity
In this episode, Mapping Your Creative Identity, Sean explores how the values you place at the top of your life structure shape not just your art, but your entire being. Drawing inspiration from Terence McKenna’s challenge to artists, he unpacks how self-exploration, ritual, and the pursuit of beauty act as a compass for authentic creation. From confronting resistance to aligning with truth and integrity, this episode invites you to map your own creative identity and orient yourself toward a life of expression and meaning.
If you’re ready to break through resistance, fear, and self-limiting beliefs so you can step fully into your authentic creativity, apply to work 1:1 with Sean through The Art Coach program: theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
Episode 22 – Art, Divinity, and the God You Can’t Escape
In this episode of The Art Coach Podcast, I dive into the question raised in an interview between Dennis Prager and conductor John Eliot Gardiner: Can true art exist without divinity? Gardiner’s answer was no—and we explore why. I unpack the idea that even secular or atheist artists, when they surrender to their muse, intuition, and authentic creative flow, are tapping into something divine whether they name it or not. We look at how every person—believer or not—places something at the top of their value structure, and that “something” functions as their god, shaping their choices, moods, and life’s path. From Jung’s archetypes to the rituals of artistic practice, this episode explores the inescapable presence of the sacred in creativity, and challenges you to ask: What is your god, and how does it shape the art you create?
Want to work with me 1-1?
Visit https://www.theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
to apply to the art coach program today.
Episode #21 – The Death of Ritual, God, and Narrative
In this episode of The Art Coach Podcast, I dive deep into the disappearance of ritual, myth, and narrative in our lives and in the art world. We explore what it means that Nietzsche declared, “God is dead”—not as a simple rejection of religion, but as the collapse of the cultural frameworks that once gave us orientation and meaning. With that collapse came the unraveling of ritual and the loss of narrative as a central force in art.
Drawing on Carl Jung, we look at how archetypes give art resonance, and why avoiding them leaves us with banality and surface-level cleverness. Through Susan Sontag’s challenge in Against Interpretation, we examine how our obsession with “what art means” has tamed its presence and stripped away its ritual power. And we expand the lens outward, asking what narrative means for us as human beings and how modern culture has reduced it to something fragmented, ironic, and often empty.
This is a call to artists: to recognize your practice as ritual, to reintroduce presence and narrative into your work, and to reclaim art’s role as something that orients, enchants, and grounds us in a disoriented world.
If you want to work with me 1-1 to optimize your creativity and become the artist you've always dreamt of becoming, follow the link below to apply to join my 1-1 coaching program today
https://www.theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
Episode #20 - Where Do Our Ideas Come From?
In this episode, I go deep into awareness of thought, observation of thought and attempt to reveal where our ideas come from. Along with useful tools and frameworks to release fear of failure and the pitfalls of success.
If you want to work with me 1-1 to optimize your creativity and become the artist you've always dreamt of becoming, follow the link below to apply to join my 1-1 coaching program today
https://www.theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
Episode #19:
The Art Coach Podcast has its first artist guest! We sit down with Alex Ruiz, a former artist and animator for The Simpsons, concept artist for many movies you've seen and who has since made the leap into creating his own personal art. Alex is now on a mission to help artists unlock their full creative potential through biohacking and physical health, blending artistic expression with holistic well-being.
In this conversation, we dive deep into Alex’s fascinating journey from the world of animation to becoming a visionary artist and coach. We discuss his experience working on iconic characters and concept art for The Simpsons, and how his approach to creativity has evolved over the years. Alex shares his unique perspective on how physical health and biohacking can supercharge an artist’s creative process and provide a roadmap for overcoming personal struggles.
Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a seasoned creator, or someone looking to unlock more from your creative practice, this episode is packed with valuable insights that blend art, mindset, and wellness. Tune in for a conversation that will inspire you to reimagine the way you approach creativity, and discover how the right balance of body and mind can elevate your work to new heights.
You can find Alex Ruiz on Instagram @ https://www.instagram.com/alexruiz.artist/
Episode 18: The Myth of Originality.
In this episode I go over my thoughts on originality VS. Authenticity. If you've ever felt like you werent original enough or "derivitive" then listen to this podcast episode.
Want to work with me 1-1?
Follow the link below to apply to my coaching program.
https://www.theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
Episode 17 - Release The Destination & Play.
This episodes goes into the necessity of play in an artistic and creative practice. I discuss how theres a difference between play and performance. When play is brought into your creative practice, many doors open up. Releasing the destination and allowing yourself to be in the practice of creativity is critical to a long lasting art career.
Want to work with me 1-1? Follow the link below to apply to my coaching program.
https://www.theartcoach.com/the-art-coach
Episode 16 goes into a powerful event that happened to me as a kid that changed my life for a long time. Without it's occurence, I may not be the same person at all. Healing from this has led to an enormous evolution! I hope this story helps you!
The Art Coach Program offers personalized coaching designed to help you overcome self-doubt and unlock your full creative potential. With a growth-focused approach and the support of a dedicated community, you'll gain the tools, accountability, and guidance needed to break through creative barriers and build confidence in your work. Ready to take your artistic journey to the next level? Sign up here and start your transformation today.
If you’ve enjoyed The Art Coach Podcast, I’d love your support. Please subscribe and leave a review—it helps spread the message to more artists who could benefit. If you know someone who might find value in this podcast, share it with them. Your support makes a difference in helping others grow creatively.
Episode 15 - Scarcity Mindset Kills Your Creativity
This episode discusses how creativity is destroyed by holding a scarcity mindset. I go deep into how and why this happens. When you shift into an abundance mindset, your creativity can flourish.
Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review, ask a question and most importantly share it with a friend!
If you want to work with me 1-1, visit www.theartcoach.com to fill out an application to join my program.
As always, create create create!
-Sean
Episode 14
This episode is about you. The self selected artist. Its an episode of encouragement to continue being you. Continue expressing yourself to the greatest degree of excitement.
The Art Coach Program is a transformative experience designed to elevate your artistic journey. With a growth mindset and fully customized approach, the Art Coach Program is your proactive coaching system to overcome self-doubt, unleash your creativity, and step confidently into your artistic potential. If you're ready to follow a proven system, gain accountability, and access a supportive community, visit https://theartcoach.com to sign up today and embark on a journey of artistic growth and transformation. Your next chapter starts now.
If you've found value in The Art Coach Podcast, I'd greatly appreciate your support. Kindly subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help me reach those who may benefit from my content. Artists everywhere are silently struggling, and your simple action can make a meaningful difference. If you believe my podcast could help someone you know, please consider sharing it with them. Your contribution can create a positive impact on fellow artists' lives.
Episode 13
This episode kills artist block for good. Reconnect with your highest excitement and come home to the reason why the world needs your art.
The Art Coach Program is a transformative experience designed to elevate your artistic journey. With a growth mindset and fully customized approach, the Art Coach Program is your proactive coaching system to overcome self-doubt, unleash your creativity, and step confidently into your artistic potential. If you're ready to follow a proven system, gain accountability, and access a supportive community, visit https://theartcoach.art to sign up today and embark on a journey of artistic growth and transformation. Your next chapter starts now.
If you've found value in The Art Coach Podcast, I'd greatly appreciate your support. Kindly subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help me reach those who may benefit from my content. Artists everywhere are silently struggling, and your simple action can make a meaningful difference. If you believe my podcast could help someone you know, please consider sharing it with them. Your contribution can create a positive impact on fellow artists' lives.
Episode #12 In this episode, we explore the transformative power of embracing discomfort as an artist. From grappling with frustration in learning new skills to facing the fear of creative stagnation, we uncover how discomfort signals growth and opportunity. Discover practical strategies for navigating challenges like low engagement on social media and artist's block, and learn why pushing through that extra 20% of discomfort can lead to profound artistic breakthroughs. Join us on the journey to artistic mastery by embracing discomfort.
The Art Coach Program is a transformative experience designed to elevate your artistic journey. With a growth mindset and fully customized approach, the Art Coach Program is your proactive coaching system to overcome self-doubt, unleash your creativity, and step confidently into your artistic potential. If you're ready to follow a proven system, gain accountability, and access a supportive community, visit https://theartcoach.art to sign up today and embark on a journey of artistic growth and transformation. Your next chapter starts now.
If you've found value in The Art Coach Podcast, I'd greatly appreciate your support. Kindly subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help me reach those who may benefit from my content. Artists everywhere are silently struggling, and your simple action can make a meaningful difference. If you believe my podcast could help someone you know, please consider sharing it with them. Your contribution can create a positive impact on fellow artists' lives.
Episode 11!
New Years Resolutions have a 8% success rate for the year. If you went into a casino, would you put money on a 8% win chance? Probably not. This episode goes into how you can reframe resolutions to become more successful than you ever were in 2023.
Use the following journal prompts to frame and outline your 2024 resolutions so they stick.
Prompts:
The Art Coach Program is a transformative experience designed to elevate your artistic journey. With a growth mindset and fully customized approach, the Art Coach Program is your proactive coaching system to overcome self-doubt, unleash your creativity, and step confidently into your artistic potential. If you're ready to follow a proven system, gain accountability, and access a supportive community, visit https://theartcoach.art to sign up today and embark on a journey of artistic growth and transformation. Your next chapter starts now.
If you've found value in The Art Coach Podcast, I'd greatly appreciate your support. Kindly subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help me reach those who may benefit from my content. Artists everywhere are silently struggling, and your simple action can make a meaningful difference. If you believe my podcast could help someone you know, please consider sharing it with them. Your contribution can create a positive impact on fellow artists' lives.
Episode 10!
How to navigate the busy holiday season without getting burned out right before the start of a brand new year. This episode goes over tools and tips to allow yourself the time you need with family and your community during holiday events and gatherings while also juggling being an entrepreneurial artist. Q4 is THE art buying time of year. Artists make a majority of their revenue during these last few months of the year. Listen in to see what I do to not get too burned out.
The Art Coach Program is a transformative experience designed to elevate your artistic journey. With a growth mindset and fully customized approach, the Art Coach Program is your proactive coaching system to overcome self-doubt, unleash your creativity, and step confidently into your artistic potential. If you're ready to follow a proven system, gain accountability, and access a supportive community, visit https://theartcoach.art to sign up today and embark on a journey of artistic growth and transformation. Your next chapter starts now.
If you've found value in The Art Coach Podcast, I'd greatly appreciate your support. Kindly subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help me reach those who may benefit from my content. Artists everywhere are silently struggling, and your simple action can make a meaningful difference. If you believe my podcast could help someone you know, please consider sharing it with them. Your contribution can create a positive impact on fellow artists' lives.
Episode 9!
This episode goes DEEP on how we discover what to create and why we create it. The true power of the artist is to decide; to choose what comes true. We have the magical power to bring something to life from our imagination. We are creators and the only thing you need to do is create what you think SHOULD come true!
The Art Coach Program is a transformative experience designed to elevate your artistic journey. With a growth mindset and fully customized approach, the Art Coach Program is your proactive coaching system to overcome self-doubt, unleash your creativity, and step confidently into your artistic potential. If you're ready to follow a proven system, gain accountability, and access a supportive community, visit https://theartcoach.art to sign up today and embark on a journey of artistic growth and transformation. Your next chapter starts now.
If you've found value in The Art Coach Podcast, I'd greatly appreciate your support. Kindly subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help me reach those who may benefit from my content. Artists everywhere are silently struggling, and your simple action can make a meaningful difference. If you believe my podcast could help someone you know, please consider sharing it with them. Your contribution can create a positive impact on fellow artists' lives.
Episode 8!
This episode goes over 4 key resistances that all artists seem to struggle with through out their career and life. This advice can crossover to other parts of your life as well. Removing these 4 resistances will really channel a new version of yourself that can be authentically expressive without any fear.
The Art Coach Program is a transformative experience designed to elevate your artistic journey. With a growth mindset and fully customized approach, the Art Coach Program is your proactive coaching system to overcome self-doubt, unleash your creativity, and step confidently into your artistic potential. If you're ready to follow a proven system, gain accountability, and access a supportive community, visit https://theartcoach.art to sign up today and embark on a journey of artistic growth and transformation. Your next chapter starts now.
If you've found value in The Art Coach Podcast, I'd greatly appreciate your support. Kindly subscribe and leave a 5-star review to help me reach those who may benefit from my content. Artists everywhere are silently struggling, and your simple action can make a meaningful difference. If you believe my podcast could help someone you know, please consider sharing it with them. Your contribution can create a positive impact on fellow artists' lives.