3 Major communication skills have helped me build my freelance career. Beyond freelancing, these strategies can be taken into job interviews and even friendships to help build lasting friendships and network connections. Those are Brevity (24 hour rule), Asynchronous communication, and Proactivity. Chapters below!
00:00 - Start00:16 - Life Update02:19 - Books that helped me learn to communicate05:52 - 3 Skills to be a Better Creative Communicator16:54 - How to Apply These 3 Principles of Communication20:40 - Book Recap21:49 - My strategies for Making Friends25:32 - Mistakes I've Made When Communicating
My Podcast: https://www.jags.tv/thecreativeadventure
My Unreal Engine Presets: https://www.jags.tv/unreal-engine-render-presets
Book an Intro Call with me: https://tidycal.com/jonjagsnee/15-minute-meeting
Freelance Website & Portfolio: https://www.jags.tv/
https://twitter.com/jonjagsnee
So in my years as a freelancer, I have summed up 5 key behaviors I don't like dealing with as far as clients. While it's important to do good work, some people just aren't good to work with for both parties. Generally speaking, these are the 5 main freelance clients that I have run into that are hard to work with. But in general, your goal should be to find clients where there is mutual respect, trust, and accountability. Anywhooo, chapters below along with all the other linky things.00:00 - Start00:13 - Welcome to the Tavern: The Shady Client02:52 - The Major Client Red Flags06:48 - Price Seekers (Goblin Bargainers)10:32 - The Know-It-All (Arch Mage)17:50 - Time Vampires24:44 - The BEST Type of Clients29:01 - The Dice RollMy Podcast: https://www.jonjagsnee.com/the-creative-adventure1-on-1 Coaching: https://www.jonjagsnee.com/JAGS-1-on-1-CoachingLearn With Me (My Online Courses n' Stuff): https://www.jonjagsnee.com/Freelance Website & Portfolio: https://www.jags.tv/My CoursesDa Vinci Resolve: https://www.jonjagsnee.com/Intro-to-Da-Vinci-Resolve-with-Jagshttps://twitter.com/jonjagsneehttps://www.instagram.com/jonjagsnee/https://www.tiktok.com/@jonjagsnee
What’s actually stopping you from making art? In this episode of The Creative Adventure Podcast, we dive deep into the fears, perfectionism, and invisible pressures that keep artists stuck, and how to break free. Ian, my ZBrush mentor who’s worked across toy, game, and animation industries, shares his personal journey from beginner struggles to professional success. From embracing the suck to building a portfolio rooted in what you love, this conversation is full of real talk and mindset shifts that can help you stop overthinking and start creating again. Whether you're just starting out or feeling burnt out, I'm excited to share this conversation with you.
Timestamps Below
00:00 - Welcome to the Tavern02:30 - Introducing Ian Robinson04:08 - Imposter Syndrome09:19 - Developing Grit as an Artist13:11 - Make the tool work for YOU16:07 - The importance of MENTORS19:01 - 3D Art covers 13 Industries22:35 - Learning how to be BAD before being GOOD27:11 - Reason Why Most People DON'T Make Art30:07 - How to Focus Better as an Artist34:30 - The Best Way to Ask for Feedback36:51 - 3 Ways to Become a Professional Artist44:04 - Best Portfolio Advice44:50 - The Portfolio Road Map48:58 - The Phases of the Artist Journey53:05 - How to Avoid Burn Out
Ep. 17 – You’re Not Luke Skywalker: Ego, Empathy & Freelancing Like a Pro (ft. Daniel Adoff)
In this episode of The Creative Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Daniel Adoff — creative director at Dyno Creative and a mentor who’s helped countless artists and freelancers thrive — to unpack what it actually takes to succeed in the freelance and creative world in 2025.
Whether you're an art school grad or a self-made YouTube University survivor, this episode is a roadmap to mastering your mindset, building real community, and communicating like a pro.
Topics!
Why you're not the star of the story — and why that’s a good thing
The 3-tier mentorship model: mentee, peer, mentor
How to blend advocacy and humility as a creative
What successful freelancers really do differently
Speaking in the client’s language (not just the creative one)
Ego, empathy, and the “new golden rule” of communication
The difference between selling and translating value
Freelance loot: why Kombucha > Exposure
Whether you're deep in the trenches or just stepping into your freelance journey, this episode is packed with mindset shifts and practical advice you’ll keep coming back to.
D20 roll included — he rolled an 18. Good things are coming.
Daniel Adoff - Dyno Creative
So in this episode, I share a bit of a personal episode on my experience in Croatia and what I got from the experience. Beyond it being a vacation, I used it as an opportunity to experience creative reset. This creative reset was important for me because it enabled me to experience life from a completely different perspective. That new perspective involved finding a greater sense of presence and emotional depth with my inner dialog. That helped me come back refreshed and inspired as an artist. Hopefully this episode encourages you to take some actionable steps to solo travel and learn more about yourself. Chapters below00:00 - Start03:22 - Buliding Confidence to Solo Travel10:00 - How to be Intentional23:39 - How to Deal with Isolation33:35 - How Travel Helps give you REFERENCE!My Podcast: https://www.jonjagsnee.com/the-creative-adventure1-on-1 Coaching: https://www.jonjagsnee.com/JAGS-1-on-1-CoachingLearn With Me (My Online Courses n' Stuff): https://www.jonjagsnee.com/Freelance Website & Portfolio: https://www.jags.tv/My CoursesDa Vinci Resolve: https://www.jonjagsnee.com/Intro-to-Da-Vinci-Resolve-with-Jagshttps://twitter.com/jonjagsneehttps://www.instagram.com/jonjagsnee/https://www.tiktok.com/@jonjagsnee
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Michael Weissmueller, a seasoned veteran of the gaming industry whose career spans from journalism to Marvel Comics and ultimately to a prestigious role in business development at Epic Games. In this episode, Michael shares candid insights about his unconventional career path, the importance of relationship-building in the gaming industry, and his experience working at one of the world's leading game companies during the COVID-19 pandemic. His story is a masterclass in adaptability, knowing when to pivot, and the value of following opportunities that align with your interests.
Show Notes:
Timestamps:01:04:11 - Discussion about Epic Games culture01:04:17 - Impact of COVID on business development01:05:38 - Career reflections and achievements01:07:00 - Influence on others in the industry01:08:15 - Advice for newcomers
Key Topics:Transition from journalism to gaming industryBusiness development at Epic GamesAdapting to industry changesCareer advice for aspiring gaming professionalsThe importance of networking and relationship building
Resources Mentioned:Epic GamesUnreal EngineMajor gaming studios (League of Legends, Fortnite, World of Warcraft, Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto)
Key Takeaways:Focus on major studios for job security and learningFind trusted partners who complement your skillsSuccess can come from following interesting opportunitiesThe importance of adaptability in the gaming industry
In this episode of the *Creative Adventure Podcast*, we sit down with composer and artist Zach Heyde, who shares his journey of staying true to his artistic passion while navigating the demands of freelance work. Zach discusses the importance of maintaining a personal connection to your craft and how to avoid losing sight of why you started in the first place. He emphasizes the need for play, curiosity, and self-compassion in the creative process, especially for those struggling with burnout or creative block. Through his own experiences, Zach illustrates how to stay grounded, explore your artistry with lightness, and take small steps toward growth—even when things feel stagnant.Zach also delves into the delicate balance between passion projects and paying the bills, offering practical advice for artists looking to reconnect with their creative drive. Whether you're just starting out in the freelance world or have been on the front lines for a while, his insights on overcoming fear and building confidence through small, consistent actions will inspire you to keep going. From rolling the D20 to navigating the unpredictable nature of creative work, this conversation is a reminder that the journey itself is just as important as the destination.
Join creative freelancer Jon Jags Nee in the tavern as he delves into the intricacies of contracts and legal documents for freelance artists. Through a unique fantasy RPG storytelling approach, Jon breaks down complex topics like NDAs, terms and conditions, and creative briefs into digestible, practical advice for creative professionals.
The episode emphasizes the importance of trust over excessive legal documentation, advising listeners to focus on building strong client relationships and delivering quality work rather than getting caught up in complicated contracts. Jon shares valuable insights about finding the right balance between protecting your interests and maintaining positive client relationships, all while keeping the creative spirit alive.
Show Notes:
Key contracts discussed:Creative BriefStatement of WorkRetainer AgreementsNon-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)Terms and Conditions
Main takeaways:
Trust and reputation matter more than legal complexitiesSimple contracts work better for smaller projects ($1K-$10K range)Focus on clear communication and delivering quality workListen to your intuition when dealing with potential clients
Tools mentioned:
Adobe InDesign for contract creationAlternative: Google Slides
Contact for questions about creative briefs in comments section
In this podcast, we explore the essential elements of building a compelling portfolio for creative freelancers. From crafting the perfect reel to designing a professional website, we break down everything you need to showcase your work effectively. Learn why timing matters, how to curate your best pieces, and the crucial components every creative website needs to attract potential clients.
Whether you're a motion designer, visual artist, or any other creative professional, this episode provides actionable steps to build your online presence. We'll discuss practical tips for organizing your work, creating thumbnails, and maintaining your portfolio efficiently. Plus, we share a step-by-step challenge to help you finally get your portfolio up and running, along with recommended tools and platforms to make the process smoother.
In this tavern-themed creative freelancing podcast where we dive into the nitty-gritty of landing your first client as an artist. Through storytelling and RPG-inspired metaphors, Jags shares his personal experiences and practical wisdom about building genuine connections, creating spec work, and navigating the freelance world without falling into the cold-calling trap.
Drawing from years of experience in the creative industry, this episode breaks down how to establish trust, follow through with projects, and overcome the fear of rejection. Whether you're wielding Procreate or Cinema 4D, learn why building relationships through authentic conversations and networking events trumps sending hundreds of cold emails. Plus, discover why asking about someone's experience is way more effective than straight-up asking for work (and roll a natural 20 while you're at it).
Step into the cozy tavern of creative wisdom, where you'll discover the essential strategies for mastering your freelance journey. In this episode, you'll learn how to transform your creative practice from a simple skill set into a holistic approach to self-mastery, understanding that success isn't just about perfecting your craft – it's about developing the mindset and tools to navigate the entire freelance landscape.
Whether you're a seasoned adventurer in the freelance realm or just starting your quest, this episode equips you with practical insights on building self-trust, cultivating confidence, and embracing progress over perfection. You'll discover how to approach your creative journey with an abundance mindset, practice genuine gratitude, and develop the reflection skills needed to turn every experience – both victories and setbacks – into valuable learning opportunities.
In this episode of the Creative Adventure Podcast, we explore the multifaceted world of modern freelancing for artists. We delve into the numerous "hats" creative professionals must wear beyond their artistic skills—from sales, marketing, and accounting to project management and client relations. We emphasize that freelancers must not only develop their craft but also handle business administration, taxes, and create effective marketing content while maintaining a personal website.
We also highlight the importance of maintaining work-life balance as a freelancer. We stress that despite the occasional need to "grind" and work long hours, artists must make time for health, fitness, nutrition, social connections, and personal hobbies. This episode serves as both a reality check and an empowering guide for creative freelancers navigating the complex landscape of freelance work, encouraging them to build a sustainable career that allows for both professional success and personal fulfillment.
This podcast episode features Kyle Wlodyga, a toy designer who shares his journey from illustration student to professional toy designer at Super7. Kyle describes how he "Forrest Gumped" his way into toy design through genuine connections and networking, starting with a Magic: The Gathering tournament that led to an internship at Cryptozoic, which eventually opened doors to toy design. He emphasizes how authentic relationships and being genuinely passionate about the work, rather than calculated networking, helped advance his career.
Throughout the conversation, Kyle discusses the balance between freelance and staff positions, noting how the pandemic unexpectedly helped him achieve his ideal work situation of having both job security and work-from-home flexibility. He shares insights about maintaining professional relationships, including the importance of remembering birthdays and developing genuine connections in the industry. Kyle also emphasizes that success comes from being good at your craft while maintaining authentic relationships, rather than trying to manipulate situations for personal gain.
Find Kyle's Work here!
https://www.instagram.com/wlodygadude
https://www.wlodyga.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wlodyga/
Step into a unique exploration of your creative freelancing journey through an immersive fantasy RPG lens. You'll find yourself in a tavern where you must choose between joining the traditional studio ("the battalion") with its predictable benefits, or embarking on the uncertain path of freelancing, all while navigating through a world of recruiters, mercenaries, and adventures.
You'll discover a thorough examination of both career paths, learning about everything from healthcare and retirement plans to work schedules and creative freedom. Whether you're weighing the decision between freelancing or studio work, you'll gain valuable insights into the benefits, challenges, and uncertainties of each path, ultimately learning that your success comes down to showing up and contributing meaningful work.
Join your fellow adventurer at the tavern as you explore the crucial concept of niching down in the creative industry. Through tales of a holy paladin freelancer and insights from successful artists like Jonathan Winbush, Kyle Wlodyga, and Patrick4D, you'll discover how specialization can give you a competitive edge in the freelance world. Learn about sales advantages, comparative advantages, and how finding your niche can command higher rates in your creative journey.
Your host guides you through the strategic balance between pursuing your passions and maintaining profitability, using concepts from economics and real-world examples. Whether you're considering specializing in specific industries, leveraging your unique interests, or finding the sweet spot between studio work and freelancing, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your creative career path. So grab your adventuring gear, settle in at the tavern, and prepare to level up your freelance strategy.
Here's links to things!
Win Without Pitching: https://a.co/d/aDN1KeX
Jonathan Winbush: https://www.youtube.com/@JonathanWinbush
Kyle Wlodyga:
https://www.instagram.com/wlodygadude/?hl=en
Patrick4D:
https://www.instagram.com/patrick_4d/
In this episode, we'll explore together the powerful "Let Them" theory by Mel Robbins and discover how it can revolutionize our approach to freelancing. Through a narrative blend of fantasy storytelling and practical wisdom, we'll see how this mindset shift can transform our freelance journey, especially when we're dealing with challenging clients, perfectionism, and the fear of putting our work out there. We'll start with an immersive tavern scene that metaphorically illustrates how we can choose to respond to situations outside our control.
Drawing from our shared experiences and struggles in 2024-2025, we'll explore how the "Let Them" theory pairs with its essential counterpart - the "Let Me" response - to help us direct our energy more effectively as freelance artists. I have a new motto this year, and that is "Jags Go Vroom.” We'll learn how letting go of things outside our control while focusing on intentional responses can lead to better client relationships, improved creative output, and a healthier mindset in our freelance work. Whether we're dealing with difficult clients, equipment failures, or social media anxiety, we'll discover practical strategies for managing our energy and taking meaningful action in our freelance careers together.
Links to Mel's content: https://www.melrobbins.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P91b4civBxA
In this episode of The Creative Adventure Podcast, we dive deep into one of the most essential skills for freelancers: time management. As a freelancer, you’re in control of your own schedule, but with great freedom comes the responsibility of crafting a routine that works for you. Whether you prefer to work fewer hours at a higher rate or take a more flexible approach, the key is understanding your purpose, priorities, and when you're most productive. We explore the concept of "Prime Time"—the window of peak productivity—and how setting boundaries, eliminating distractions, and strategically scheduling your most important tasks can lead to more effective and fulfilling workdays. Plus, we discuss the pros and cons of time tracking and how it can be used as a tool for gaining awareness rather than creating rigid work structures.
This episode also delves into practical strategies for building a schedule that honors your creative energy. With advice on time blocking, event time, and the importance of setting aside space for rest and recovery, you’ll learn how to avoid "leaking" time on unnecessary distractions. We emphasize the value of flexible planning—adjusting your day to fit your energy levels and personal needs. From focusing on your “One Thing” to scheduling intentional free time, this episode will help you create a work-life balance that’s both productive and sustainable. Whether you're just starting your freelancing journey or looking to fine-tune your current system, this episode offers invaluable insights into mastering your time as an artist.
In this episode, we explore the concept of the Hero’s Journey, as outlined by Joseph Campbell, and how it parallels the path of a freelancer. From overcoming self-doubt and stepping out of your comfort zone, to facing challenges and emerging stronger, the Hero’s Journey provides a powerful framework for personal and professional growth. We discuss how key elements like accountability, emotional intelligence, and resilience are essential for success in freelancing. Through real-life examples and personal insights, this episode offers practical tools and encouragement to help you navigate the ups and downs of your own journey and unlock your potential as a creative professional.
In this episode of The Creative Adventure: An Artist's Guide to Modern Freelancing we embark on a unique journey, blending the world of freelancing with the familiar structure of tabletop RPGs like Dungeons and Dragons and World of Warcraft. Just as RPG characters choose a class—be it a warrior, mage, or rogue—freelancers have their own strengths and weaknesses that shape how they navigate the professional landscape. This episode explores how freelancers can reflect on their own skills, values, and challenges by creating a "character sheet" that aligns with their business journey. By adopting the mindset of a hero in an epic adventure, we’ll delve into key concepts like class selection, alignment, ideals, and proficiencies, all while encouraging you to embrace your strengths, confront your flaws, and define your unique freelance path. Whether you identify as a strategic rogue or a charismatic producer, this episode is designed to help you level up your freelance career through self-awareness and creativity.
In this episode, we explore the four key aspects of freelancing—freedom, money, pain, and creativity—and how they shape our journey as independent professionals. Drawing parallels to iconic pop-culture heroes like The Mandalorian and John Wick, we discuss how mastering these elements can help freelancers build a fulfilling, successful career. We delve into the balance between achieving freedom over your time, managing the necessary pain of the freelance lifestyle, earning a comfortable income, and finding joy in your work.
