Kristen Kidd is all about capturing the heart and soul of the human-pet bond, and she does it with style! This episode kicks off with her sharing her journey as a photographer, author, and magazine publisher, including the launch of her fabulous Dog Mom Magazine. We dive into the nitty-gritty of what it’s like to be a pet photographer—like, how do you get past the fear of failure or deal with difficult moments of grief? Kristen opens up about her background as a social worker and how that helps her connect with clients on a deeper level, making every session feel personal and meaningful. Plus, we explore the hilarious and sometimes chaotic world of working with dogs and how embracing imperfection can lead to some truly magical moments. So grab your pup, settle in, and get ready for some heartwarming insights and a few laughs along the way!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Kristen Kidd: The Power of Pet Photography

Episode Number: 47

Publish Date: 2 May 2025

Episode Overview

Kristen Kidd, a Philadelphia-based photographer and author, opens up about her unique approach to capturing the essence of pet ownership in our latest episode. We dive headfirst into her journey, from being a social worker to launching Dog Mom Magazine, a publication that beautifully marries her love for photography and storytelling. It’s a deep dive into the world of dog lovers, with Kristen sharing her experiences of creating coffee table books dedicated to pet rescue, where every purchase supports a good cause.

Throughout our conversation, we touch on the nuances of fear in the creative process. Kristen discusses how she uses her background in social work to not only connect with her clients but also to help them embrace their vulnerabilities. We share laughs, stories, and perhaps a few too many dog puns as we explore how to navigate the chaos of life with our furry companions. This episode is a wonderful reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle, there’s always room for love, laughter, and the joy our pets bring into our lives. Tune in and discover how to find beauty in the imperfect and the power of storytelling through the lens of pet photography.

Takeaways:

• Kristen Kidd blends her social work experience with photography, capturing genuine pet-owner connections.
• Fear is a huge barrier for photographers, but embracing failure is key to growth and creativity.
• Dog Mom Magazine is a unique community platform celebrating the bond between dogs and their humans.
• Kristen's approach to photography emphasizes vulnerability and authenticity over perfection in her work.
• The conversations with clients often reveal deeper stories about their relationships with their pets, adding richness to the photography.
• Finding joy in the chaos of life, like dogs do, can lead to a more fulfilling and present existence.

Links referenced in this episode:

• dogmommagazine.com
• luxsummitstudio.com
• instagram.com/dog_mom_magazine
• instagram.com/lux_summit_studio
• instagram.com/kidd_loves_courageously

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Elena S. Blair is an absolute powerhouse in the photography world, and today we're having a conversation that's packed with wisdom for anyone looking to make their mark in the creative industry. We kick things off by exploring how Elena captures genuine connections in her family photography, a skill that sets her work apart and resonates deeply with her clients. She shares her journey through the ups and downs of building a successful business in this competitive landscape, emphasizing the importance of mindset and community. As we chat, we dig into the nitty-gritty of practical strategies like SEO, email marketing, and the role of AI in streamlining our workflow.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Elena S. Blair: The Beauty of a Designer Life

Episode Number: 46

Publish Date: 25 April 2025

Episode Overview

Elena Blair is a family photographer based in Seattle, WA, and in this episode, we dive deep into the magic that happens when creativity meets business acumen.

Throughout the conversation, Elena emphasizes the importance of understanding what you want out of life to design a business that supports those dreams. She dives into the nitty-gritty of running a photography business, touching on everything from business metrics to the role of AI in marketing. Elena's candidness about the hard work required to build a successful business is refreshing, and her stories about her own students' successes highlight the effectiveness of her teachings. It's not just about taking beautiful pictures; it's about creating a business that resonates with authenticity and connection.

As the episode unfolds, listeners are encouraged to rethink their own business strategies, especially regarding the use of email lists and social media engagement. Elena advocates for focusing on genuine connections rather than vanity metrics, which can be tempting in today’s digital age. By the end of their chat, both Matt and Elena inspire listeners to embrace their journeys, reminding them that with the right mindset, community, and strategies, they too can design the life they desire. Tune in and soak up the wisdom shared in this episode, where the art of photography beautifully intertwines with the realities of building a business.

Takeaways:

• Elena Blair emphasizes the importance of capturing genuine family connections and emotions in photography, going beyond traditional portrait styles.
• In the podcast, we dive deep into the significance of building a community over competition in the photography business, which is crucial for long-term success.
• Elena highlights that having a solid email marketing strategy can yield significantly better engagement rates compared to social media, making it a vital tool for photographers.
• The conversation covers how mindset and self-awareness play a huge role in overcoming fears and self-sabotage, especially for new business owners in photography.
• Elena shares her insights on the necessity of understanding basic business metrics and SEO for photographers to effectively market their services and attract clients.
• The episode wraps up with the idea that creating a 'designer life'—one where you control your time and business direction—is the ultimate goal for creative entrepreneurs.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: https://www.elenasblairphotography.com/
• FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/elenasblairphotography/
• INSTAGRAM:

George Varanakis is a true cornerstone in the photography world, and in our latest chat, we dive into the inner workings of the conferences he helped spearhead, WPPI and the Portrait Masters. We’re talking about how he’s not just a guy pulling the strings behind the scenes, but a genuine connector who builds communities that thrive. George is honest and open about what it really takes to pull off a massive conference like WPPI, from the emotional labor to the logistics, all while keeping the vibe high and the energy infectious. Plus, we ponder the future of creative education — online and in-person — and how to keep that spark alive when everything feels like it’s changing at lightning speed. It’s like a cocktail of insights, humor, and great stories that you won’t want to miss!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: George Varanakis: The Architect of Engagement

Episode Number: 45

Publish Date: 18 April 2025

Episode Overview

George Varanakis, the mastermind behind some of the most significant educational platforms in the photography industry, is our special guest today. Known for his behind-the-scenes role at events like WPPI, Creative Live, and the Portrait Masters Conference, George shares insights into the hard work that goes into organizing such large-scale events. We dive into the nitty-gritty details of what it takes to create a successful conference experience, from managing teams to dealing with unexpected challenges. George emphasizes the importance of community building and how fostering connections among photographers can elevate the overall experience. He reflects on his journey from working at Rangefinder Magazine to becoming a strategic consultant for trade show giant Emerald, showcasing the evolution of the photography landscape and the shift towards online education. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, this conversation will inspire you to look at photography education in a new light and understand the value of community and connection in our industry.

Takeaways:

• George Varanakis shares insights on the behind-the-scenes hustle at WPPI, revealing the immense effort that goes into organizing a massive photography conference.
• We dive into the evolution of online education in photography, discussing how platforms like Sue Bryce Education are reshaping creative learning.
• George emphasizes the importance of community in photography, explaining how events foster connections that extend beyond just networking.
• The conversation highlights the need for continuous feedback to improve conferences, as George insists that listening to attendees is key to making every event better.
• We explore the balance between online and in-person experiences in photography education, as George outlines strategies to keep the excitement alive year-round.
• George and I chat about the power of collaboration, especially how he and Sue Bryce's creative synergy leads to groundbreaking ideas in the photography industry.

Resources and Links

• EMAIL: george@digitalproductstudios.com

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In this episode of Generator, I sit down with digital artist, photographer, and all-around creative badass Renee Robyn to talk about what it really means to make cool stuff. From her roots in the Canadian north to her role as Optics Product Manager at Boris FX, Renee brings equal parts grit, geekery, and genius to the table.

We dig into her cinematic style, her fearless approach to failure, and the wild ride that’s taken her from modeling and locksmithing to placing fourth in the Photographic World Cup. Along the way, we share a lot of laughs and some real talk about embracing the chaos of creativity, pushing boundaries, and trusting your weird.

🎨 What you’ll take away from this episode:

✅ Why failure isn’t just okay—it’s necessary for real creative growth

✅ How Renee mixes photography, fantasy, and tech to create next-level art

✅ The power of experimentation and not taking yourself too seriously

✅ Behind-the-scenes of her work at Boris FX and how tech tools empower artists

✅ The unfiltered journey from locksmith to global digital art icon

Whether you’re deep in the creative trenches or just love watching someone light the whole playbook on fire and build their own, this one’s got inspiration, insights, and probably a few snorts of laughter.

🚀 If this episode hit home, smash that like button, leave a comment, and subscribe for more unfiltered creative stories.

🔗 Watch the Full Playlist:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwRT3vVIPpVcsizwNbIVqxGqQdeX-irIe&si=14s1NCVU325-RtWA

🌎 Website: https://generatorpodcast.com

📸 Follow Renee Robyn:

➡ Website: https://www.reneerobyn.com

➡ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reneerobynphotography

➡ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reneerobynphotography

➡ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReneeRobyn

➡ Boris FX: https://borisfx.com

⭐ Like the show? Leave a 5-star review! 🎧 Apple Podcasts

#DigitalArt #CreativeProcess #PhotographyPodcast #PhotoshopFails #BorisFX #ReneeRobyn #GeneratorPodcast

Matt Stagliano and Mitzi Starkweather dive deep into the highlights and hiccups of the WPPI 2025 conference, which took place at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas this past March. Right off the bat, they tackle the good, the bad, and the downright confusing aspects of the event, giving us a candid look at their contrasting experiences—Mitzi, as a speaker, and Matt, as an attendee. They reflect on the vibe of the conference, discussing how it felt fresh yet familiar in a new venue, and how the energy was palpable. As they banter back and forth, they sprinkle in some philosophical musings about the photography industry, raising questions about the direction it's headed and the need for a more inclusive community. If you're a photographer looking to catch the latest trends or just want to bask in the camaraderie of your tribe, this episode is packed with insights and a sprinkle of humor that’ll make you feel like you were right there in Vegas with them!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: WPPI 2025 Recap

Episode Number: 43

Publish Date: 7 April 2025

Episode Overview

Let’s talk about WPPI 2025, shall we? This year’s conference was a blast, and I’m here with Mitzi Starkweather to talk about the highlights! Held at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas, it brought together photographers from all corners of the globe, and boy, did we have a good time! Mitzi and I caught up to share our thoughts on everything from the seminars to the parties, and compared contrasting experiences. While she was busy working and speaking, I was busy making connections and soaking in knowledge. The vibe was refreshing, and we both felt a unique sense of community and support among fellow photographers. Sure, there were a few hiccups here and there—like figuring out the new layout of the venue or navigating the app—but overall, it was a step in the right direction! We also delved into the future of photography, discussing how we can adapt and grow in this ever-evolving industry.

Takeaways:

• WPPI 2025 at the Rio Hotel saw a mix of excitement and challenges, showcasing the evolving nature of photography conferences.
• Mitzi and Matt had contrasting experiences at WPPI, highlighting the importance of networking and personal growth in the industry.
• The inclusion of new spaces for community building and quieter discussions was a hit, but improvements in signage and accessibility are still needed.
• Conversations about the philosophical aspects of photography, like intention and connection, are crucial for the industry's growth and betterment.
• The Future of Photography Room provided a welcome respite from the chaos, reinforcing the need for such spaces at future events.
• Next year’s WPPI could benefit from more diverse and inclusive representation among speakers, focusing on the 'why' behind photography rather than just the 'how'.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: https://stonetreecreative.com
• FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/stonetreecreative
• INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/stonetreecreative

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Kirsten Graham is all about flipping the script for business owners, helping them go from being total wallflowers to the life of the party with some savvy outsourcing and a little video marketing magic. She’s a powerhouse from Six Figure Business Coaching, and trust me, this episode is packed! We dive into why outsourcing tasks to a virtual assistant can save you tons of time. Plus, Kirsten gives you the do's and don'ts of working with VAs, from protecting your accounts to finding the right fit for your biz. And hey, if you’re wondering about video marketing, she’s got some tips on why it’s time to dust off that YouTube channel and get it going! So buckle up and get ready to unleash your business potential, because this chat with Kirsten is a total game-changer!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Grow Your Business By Outsourcing

Episode Number: 42

Publish Date: 4 April 2025

Episode Overview

Navigating the chaotic world of entrepreneurship can feel like overwhelming. In this episode, we dive headfirst into the whirlwind of creativity and business with Kirsten Graham. As a co-founder of Six Figure Business Coaching, Kirsten is on a mission to help business owners just like us break free from the shackles of invisibility and step into the spotlight where they belong. We chat about the often-overlooked superpower of outsourcing—specifically, how a virtual assistant (VA) can save our sanity and make our businesses soar. We explore everything from the nitty-gritty of hiring the right VA to the freedom that comes with delegating tasks like marketing and bookkeeping. Kirsten shares her wealth of knowledge on the dos and don'ts of outsourcing, ensuring we learn from her hard-earned lessons (spoiler alert: it involves avoiding the “pay now, ghost later” scenario). Plus, we take a detour into the land of video marketing, where Kirsten encourages us to embrace our inner YouTuber and start creating content that not only showcases our brand but also connects us with our audience. Trust me, if you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in the daily grind of your business, this episode is your lifesaver.

Takeaways:

• Kirsten emphasizes that outsourcing tasks to a virtual assistant can free up precious time for business owners, allowing them to focus on growth instead of being bogged down by daily minutiae.
• In our conversation, we dive into the importance of having a clear brand voice and style guide, as it not only helps in consistent branding but also aids virtual assistants in understanding the business better.
• We discuss how video marketing, especially on platforms like YouTube, can be a game changer for visibility and authority, turning one piece of content into multiple marketing assets.
• A key takeaway is that taking breaks and stepping back from daily operations allows business owners to recharge and strategize, ultimately leading to better decision making and business growth.
• Kirsten shares that effective onboarding of virtual assistants is crucial, and this involves teaching them your brand voice and expectations to ensure they can represent you accurately.
• We agree that embracing imperfections and being authentic in content creation can create a stronger connection with audiences, making them more likely to engage with your brand.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: https://sixfigurebusinesscoaching.com
• FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/kirsten.graham.3517
• INSTAGRAM:

Valentina Pardi-MacGregor is a total gem in the photography world, and she's here to discuss how she helps women over 40 reconnect with their inner fabulousness through intimate portraiture. It's all about boosting confidence and weaving powerful stories that really transform how her clients see themselves. We dive into everything from the ups and downs of social media life to the magic of creative retreats and the crucial role of building a supportive community in this industry. Valentina dreams of splitting her time between Majorca and New York, and she shares some killer advice on how focusing on what you want (instead of stressing about the details) can unlock unexpected opportunities. If you're itching for some inspiration and a nudge to dream big, you've landed in the right spot.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Balance, Boudoir, and Big Dreams

Episode Number: 41

Publish Date: 28 March 2025

Episode Overview

Valentina Pardi-MacGregor is not your average photographer; she's a creative powerhouse who helps women over 40 reconnect with their essence through intimate portraiture. Starting her journey in fashion design and studying in the heart of Milan, she's perfectly blended her artistic background into her current work. In our conversation, Valentina opens up about the struggles of social media, the importance of community in the creative industry, and her dreams of splitting her time between the sun-drenched shores of Majorca and the buzzing streets of New York City. This episode is packed with insights on how to cultivate confidence through photography, the transformative power of storytelling, and why sometimes it’s best to focus on the ‘what’ over the ‘how’ to achieve your dreams.

Takeaways:

• Valentina's journey from fashion design in Milan to intimate photography is inspiring, showcasing how creativity can evolve over time.
• She emphasizes the importance of helping women over 40 reconnect with their self-confidence through portraiture, focusing on their unique stories.
• The podcast dives into the challenges of social media and the necessity of community support for creatives in any industry.
• Valentina shares her dreams of living part-time in Mallorca and New York, highlighting the power of dreaming big without stressing about the 'how.'
• Building a supportive network and hosting workshops fosters creativity and connections among photographers, which Valentina finds essential for personal growth.
• Clients often find empowerment through photography sessions, allowing them to embrace their identities and celebrate their journeys.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: https://valentinaportraiture.com
• FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/valentinamacgregor
• INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/valentina.portraiture

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Jean Carlo Penaloza is a creative powerhouse who sees photography as a conversation rather than just a business. With over 20 years in the game, he’s transformed from IT consultant to a photographer in the headshot and underwater portraits niches, and is now entering the podcasting scene with The Outspoken Artist. In our chat, we dive into everything from the delicate balance between creativity and business to the ever-looming presence of AI in the industry. We also touch on the importance of storytelling and leaving a legacy, proving that human connection will always trump cold algorithms. If you're into art, business, or just having a good ol' heart-to-heart, you're in for a treat!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Becoming an Outspoken Artist

Episode Number: 40

Publish Date: 20 March 2025

Episode Overview

Takeaways:

• Jean Carlo is not just a photographer; he's a videographer, business consultant, and podcast host.
• Starting from IT consulting to becoming a sought-after photographer, Jean Carlo's journey underscores the idea that embracing change can lead to incredible creative opportunities.
• In the age of AI, the discussion shifts from fear to adaptation, emphasizing that it's not AI taking over jobs, but rather individuals who leverage AI to enhance their work that will thrive.
• Building a personal brand is essential; if you don't define your narrative, others will do it for you, which might not align with your vision or values.
• Jean Carlo's podcast, 'The Outspoken Artist', highlights the importance of giving voice to underrepresented creatives and the power of storytelling in preserving artistic legacies.
• Mistakes are part of the creative journey; owning your flaws and sharing them can foster connection and authenticity in your artistic community.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: https://outspokenartist.com/
• FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/jean.c.penaloza/
• INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/outspokenartist_podcast

Calls to Action

• Website: https://generatorpodcast.com
• Subscribe to Generator: Never miss an episode – subscribe on your favorite podcast app.
• Leave a Review: Head over to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/generator/id1668192673 and leave us a 5 Star review if you liked the show! Help others discover this podcast.
• Follow on Social Media: Connect with us on Instagram or TikTok @generatorpodcast or on YouTube @stonetreecreative