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  • Gabriel Currie: Rock's Hidden Alchemist

    Gabriel Currie: Rock's Hidden Alchemist
    2026/08/25

    Gabriel Currie has built guitars for Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Josh Homme, Troy Van Leeuwen, Jackson Browne, and Marcus King, but this conversation goes way deeper than music. Growing up in East LA's Highland Park amid gang violence, punk rock chaos, and an education system that failed him, Gabriel found refuge in guitars as a teenager apprenticing at G&L under Leo Fender himself. Then came drugs, prison, and a decade of losing everything before clawing his way back, building a guitar in his backyard with a stash of old wood and a wife's leap of faith.

    Today, Echopark Guitars hunts century-old "sinker logs" pulled from Michigan's riverbeds, wood submerged since 1800s logging days, to build instruments with a sound no factory can replicate. Gabriel opens up about:

    • Surviving a violent childhood, his disabilities, and the punk scene that became his tribe
    • A decade lost to drugs and prison, and what pulled him back
    • How he met Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, and Aerosmith through a single lucky connection
    • Why old wood carries energy, memory, and "DNA" that new wood can't fake
    • His mission to bring free instruments and mentorship to Detroit students

    This is a raw, unfiltered conversation about craft, redemption, and turning a broken life into something that sings.

    Chapter list for this episode:

    0:00 - Intro & meeting Gabriel Currie

    2:31 - Growing up in East LA: Chaos, culture, and cerebral palsy

    8:01 - Finding punk rock and picking up a guitar

    13:54 - Apprenticing under Leo Fender & the road to Echopark Guitars

    22:46 - The fall: A decade lost to heroin and prison

    23:56 - Getting clean and building his first guitar again

    32:14 - Chasing the sound of old wood

    41:30 - Inside the process: Michigan, sinker logs & the 5-year dry cycle

    51:13 - What's next: Detroit guitar program & giving back

    56:56 - Closing thoughts

    Links:

    Echopark Guitars Website

    Watch the ECHO FROM THE TREES documentary short film

    The School of Imperfection Website
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    59 分
  • The Art of Building a Business That Lasts with Felena Hanson

    The Art of Building a Business That Lasts with Felena Hanson
    2026/08/04
    Episode SummaryWhat does it really take to build a business that lasts? In this episode, Mikie Krisztal sits down with Felena Hanson, founder of Hera Hub, to explore the unglamorous reality behind entrepreneurship. From being laid off three times before age 30 to creating a coworking and business-support network that has served more than 14,000 entrepreneurs, Felena shares how loneliness while working from home inspired Hera Hub, why meaningful in-person community cannot be replaced by social media followers, and the moment she realized she had built something capable of thriving without her at the center.Felena also gets candid about the difference between launching an exciting idea and sustaining it for 15 years. She discusses learning to embrace operations, systems, financial details, and the constant reinvention required to survive challenges like COVID-19. The conversation also explores Hera Hub’s female-focused, gender-inclusive mission, its public benefit corporation model, the importance of accessible small-business resources, and how Felena eventually realized that creativity is not limited to traditional art. It can also mean designing a space where people immediately feel drawn to.Key TakeawaysStarting a business and sustaining one require different skills. Branding, ideas, and possibility may make launching exciting, but longevity depends on systems, operations, finance, legal work, adaptability, and consistently solving new problems.Entrepreneurs should not build in isolation. Felena credits community with helping grow her original marketing business and encourages founders to intentionally seek peers, mentors, and people who understand what they are building.A scalable organization must become bigger than its founder. Felena knew from the beginning that she did not want Hera Hub to depend entirely on her. Licensing the business model and watching new locations operate without her became major signs that the systems were working.Customer loyalty is built before a crisis arrives. During COVID-19, some Hera Hub members continued paying for as long as two years without entering the physical spaces because they wanted the community to survive. Hera Hub retained approximately 80% of its membership through that period.Purpose and profitability do not have to be opposites. Hera Hub operates as a public benefit corporation, allowing it to run as a for-profit company while formally tracking how it supports entrepreneurs, accelerator participants, nonprofit organizations, and the broader community.Creativity is broader than technical artistic ability. Felena once believed she was not an artist because she could not paint or perform like the artists around her. She eventually recognized that building businesses, designing environments, and creating a sense of belonging are also artistic acts.Guest BioFelena Hanson is the founder of Hera Hub, a female-focused, gender-inclusive coworking and business-accelerator community that began in San Diego and has expanded to five locations across the United States. Over the past 15 years, Hera Hub has supported approximately 14,000 entrepreneurs in launching or growing their businesses through workspace, mentorship, education, accelerator programs, and community.Chapter Timestamps00:00 – Introduction: Building something that lasts01:00 – How loneliness inspired the creation of Hera Hub03:00 – Researching coworking and opening the first location04:00 – The reality behind the romantic entrepreneurship story05:00 – Three layoffs and “forced entrepreneurship”06:00 – Why entrepreneurs should never build alone07:00 – Social-media followers versus real human connection08:00 – The difference between starting and sustaining09:00 – Operations, financial details, and hiring the right people11:00 – Building a company bigger than its founder12:00 – Realizing the Hera Hub model was working13:00 – Expansion, public relations, word of mouth, and workspace design14:00 – Mentorship, workshops, and business-accelerator programs15:00 – Why Hera Hub became a public benefit corporation18:00 – Creating a female-focused, gender-inclusive community20:00 – Learning from businesses that do not survive21:00 – Adapting Hera Hub during COVID-1923:00 – Member loyalty and the future of Hera Hub24:00 – Felena’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs25:00 – Using local, publicly supported small-business resources26:00 – Redefining what it means to be an artist28:00 – The value of conceptual art and creative expression29:00 – AI and human creativity29:40 – Closing remarksWebsiteswww.theschoolofimperfection.comhttps://herahub.com/
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    30 分
  • The Best Creators Are Imperfect: What Hollywood Taught Dan Newmark About Success

    The Best Creators Are Imperfect: What Hollywood Taught Dan Newmark About Success
    2026/07/15

    In this episode, Mikie sits down with Dan Newmark, a seasoned television writer and executive producer for multiple series across network, cable, and streaming platforms, to explore the realities of success, failure, and authenticity in the entertainment industry. They delve into themes of imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and the courage to take risks, all underpinned by Dan's journey and insights.

    Main Topics Discussed:

    • Dan Newmark’s career journey from scriptwriting to producing hit shows
    • The misperception of perfection and how failure is inherent in success
    • Overcoming imposter syndrome and professional perfectionism
    • The importance of authentic self-expression on social media and in life
    • The impact and future concerns of AI technology
    • Strategies for handling fear, criticism, and the pressure to be perfect

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Welcome to School of Imperfection

    01:12 - Meet Dan Newmark: Television Writer & Producer

    01:40 - Dan's Origin Story: College Scripts to Hollywood

    03:01 - The Wilton: Competing with Gossip Girl

    04:07 - Building Grandma's House Entertainment

    05:00 - True Crime Success: The Real Murders on Elm Street

    05:21 - Foul Play with Anthony Davis: Athletes Pranking Athletes

    06:54 - The Art of Getting Celebrity Sign-Offs

    07:43 - The Perfectionism Trap

    09:18 - Imposter Syndrome: Fear of Being Found Out

    10:06 - The Professional Unlock: Everyone's Failing

    11:42 - Healthy Comparison: Level Setting

    14:55 - Fear vs Intuition: Learning the Difference

    16:04 - Hiding Behind Brands as Shields

    20:41 - The Emotional Sphincter Moment

    21:55 - Authenticity in the Age of Social Media Marketing

    22:44 - Flaws Make Work Interesting

    23:40 - The Power of Authentic Struggle

    24:37 - Thoughts on AI

    27:29 - Closing Thoughts and Zoo Invitations

    Resources & Links:

    • Grandma’s House Entertainment
    • Foul Play with Anthony Davis

    Connect with Dan Newmark:

    • LinkedIn

    Note:

    This episode aims to normalize feelings of imperfection and impermanence in pursuit of creative and personal fulfillment. Whether you're navigating industry pressures or self-doubt, Dan’s insights on resilience and authenticity are universally valuable.
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    29 分
  • Leaving Google to Become an Artist: Sara Wilczynska's Journey

    Leaving Google to Become an Artist: Sara Wilczynska's Journey
    2026/06/18
    In this episode of The School of Imperfection Podcast, Mikie Krisztal chats with Sara Wilczynska of Swil Arts about her inspiring journey from a corporate software engineer at Google to a full-time artist. They explore the realities of chasing passion, the importance of nuance, and the small, meaningful moments in a creative life.Main Topics:Sara's transition from Google software engineer to artistThe messy reality of entrepreneurial and artistic pursuitsNavigating fear, doubt, and societal scripts when making big life changesEmbracing nuance and complexity in personal growthBuilding an accessible and sustainable creative business rooted in communityThe significance of small moments and presence over quick transformationsThe role of societal narratives and marketing in personal evolutionPractical steps for those considering leaving corporate life for artEnvironmental and social responsibility in art business practicesTimestamps:00:01 - Welcome to the School of Imperfection Podcast 00:30 - Sara’s story: from a corporate job at Google to Southeast Asia 01:25 - The spiritual and entrepreneurial journey of art making 02:15 - Art as a healing and growth process 02:42 - First steps in Sara's artist journey and organic growth 03:21 - The influence of childhood creativity and cultural background 03:57 - Transition from tech to art, feeling misaligned at Google 04:26 - Exploring side projects like yoga and sound healing 05:22 - The decision to take a travel sabbatical and create space 07:06 - Artistic experimentation with watercolors in Thailand 07:57 - Sharing art and receiving feedback from friends and clients 08:24 - Growing Swil Arts and diversifying product offerings 09:20 - Collaborations with brands and community-centered projects 10:15 - Current focus: regional inspired artwork and sustainable products 11:09 - Connecting with the San Diego artist community 12:15 - Discovering the San Diego Artist Incubator program through social media 13:12 - The story behind the name Swil Arts 13:34 - Financial aspirations and financial sustainability 14:33 - The leap of faith and living in expensive San Diego 15:23 - The messy reality and non-linear path of entrepreneurship 16:01 - Avoiding quick fixes and embracing small wins 17:00 - The importance of nuance in growth and healing 18:11 - Gratitude for current work despite stress and challenges 19:02 - Shifting perspective on healing modalities and quick success 20:05 - Focusing on small, present moments rather than grand transformations 21:29 - Nuance and complexity in social and personal issues 22:12 - Lessons learned: gradual transition versus abrupt change 23:35 - Creating spaciousness and questioning societal scripts 25:02 - The importance of listening to inner truth versus societal expectations 26:23 - Differentiating fear from protective mechanisms 27:34 - Embracing introversion and authenticity 28:26 - Parts work and inner conflict exploration 29:52 - Holding paradoxes and embracing multiple truths 30:00 - The need for nuance in societal discourse 31:40 - The role of personal agency and living by example 33:02 - How neuroscience supports the idea of reality creation 34:36 - Sara’s vision for approachable art and collaborations 36:06 - Upcoming projects: San Diego inspired coloring book 37:07 - The artistic process: ink first or watercolor first 39:07 - Inspiration from local landmarks and community themes 41:07 - Eco-conscious practices and giving back through art 43:19 - Connecting with Sara: website and social channels 44:24 - San Diego local venues to find Sarah’s work 45:00 - Closing thoughtsResources & Links:Swil Arts WebsiteSan Diego Artist Incubator ProgramConnect with Sara:InstagramFacebookTikTokPinterestBuy Me a CoffeeLinkedInThank you for tuning in to explore the complex path of creative entrepreneurship with us. Remember, small moments of presence and authenticity are often the best guides on your journey.
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    46 分
  • Progress, Not Perfection: Kristi Tanner's Journey from Addiction to Empowerment

    Progress, Not Perfection: Kristi Tanner's Journey from Addiction to Empowerment
    2026/06/09

    In this episode, Kristi Tanner, a recovering alcoholic and founder of Sober Social, Wisconsin's first non-alcoholic bottle shop, shares her profoundly honest journey from addiction to empowerment. As a recovery advocate, speaker, Certified Recovery Coach, and community builder, Kristi has dedicated herself to bridging the gap between sobriety and society since becoming sober in 2019. Kristi and Mikie discuss how society's view on alcohol influences our relationships with drinking and explore innovative ways to connect socially without alcohol.

    Key Topics:

    • Kristi's personal experience with addiction, recovery, and jail time
    • The societal pressure around alcohol and drinking culture
    • How sobriety can bring confidence, freedom, and genuine connection
    • The rise of sober-curious movements and non-alcoholic beverage options
    • Building community through honesty and shared experiences
    • Practical tips for exploring sobriety while maintaining an active social life
    • The importance of owning one's story and removing shame
    • The innovative concept of non-alcoholic bottle shops promoting inclusivity
    • The impact of industry marketing on alcohol consumption

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Introduction to Kristi Tanner and her story of recovery

    02:18 - Sobriety as an ongoing journey, not a finish line

    02:48 - The challenges of the early years of sobriety

    03:37 - Using alcohol as a coping mechanism for emotional discomfort

    04:56 - Society's glamorization of alcohol and its impact

    06:36 - How to enjoy social life alcohol-free

    07:12 - Connection as the real antidote to addiction

    09:26 - Educating others and creating space for sober-curious individuals

    11:53 - The societal embeddedness of alcohol in celebrations

    13:16 - The influence of marketing and industry tactics

    15:28 - The rise of non-alcoholic products and health warnings

    17:02 - Personal reflections on high school drinking and cultural norms

    19:18 - The significance of honesty and vulnerability in recovery journeys

    24:02 - Opening the first non-alcoholic bottle shop in Wisconsin

    26:16 - Making sobriety proud and accessible for everyone

    30:32 - The power of community support and shared stories

    32:22 - The importance of owning your story without shame

    36:42 - Breaking free from destructive patterns and choices

    41:30 - Living a full, confident life post-recovery

    44:43 - Redefining societal perceptions of sobriety and drinking

    50:54 - The impact of openly sharing struggles and wins

    58:48 - Practical advice for sober-curious listeners

    62:27 - Launching the first non-alcoholic bottle shop and community building

    66:39 - Exploring functional beverages and mindful consumption

    71:00 - Connecting over non-alcoholic options and the importance of inclusivity

    73:09 - Wrap-up and invitation for future guests

    Resources & Links:

    Sober Curious by Ruby Warrington

    This Naked Mind by Annie Grace

    Quit Like a Woman by Holly Whitaker

    Connect with Kristi Tanner:

    Mocktail Mommy Instagram

    Sober Social Website
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    1 時間 14 分
  • Eco-Friendly Guitars: The Sustainable Journey of Taylor Guitars with Scott Paul

    Eco-Friendly Guitars: The Sustainable Journey of Taylor Guitars with Scott Paul
    2026/06/03

    Explore how Taylor Guitars is pioneering sustainability in the instrument industry, balancing innovation, environmental responsibility, and craftsmanship. Scott Paul shares the company's journey, projects, and the importance of resource management in guitar making.

    In this episode:

    • Scott Paul, Director of Natural Resource Sustainability at Taylor Guitars, discusses the company's commitment to forest conservation and sustainable wood sourcing.
    • The story behind using "imperfect" wood and how that influences product design and environmental impact.
    • The Ebony Project in Cameroon: planting 55,000 trees and aiding local ecosystems and communities.
    • The role of global policies and international meetings in shaping sustainable forest trade practices.
    • How Taylor Guitars breaks industry traditions by innovating with variegated Ebony and urban woods.
    • The importance of consumer education on sustainable practices and transparency in sourcing.
    • The history of Taylor Guitars, from its humble roots to becoming a leader in innovative, eco-conscious guitar manufacturing.
    • Practical advice for guitar buyers: choosing instruments based on feel and story rather than brand marketing.
    • The significance of efficiency in sustainability and how Taylor integrates environmental ethics into their business model.

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Scott Paul’s role at Taylor Guitars and focus on sustainability

    02:23 - Scott’s journey into international forest work and early experiences in Central America

    04:47 - Finding fulfillment through forest conservation and sustainability goals

    07:07 - Humbling realization of nature’s power through volcano experiences

    08:18 - Transition from Costa Rica to Washington D.C. and environmental policy work

    11:54 - How Taylor Guitars communicates their sustainability efforts to customers

    14:18 - The Ebony Project in Cameroon: planting, science, and community impact

    16:16 - Urban wood sourcing and the importance of sustainable resource management

    17:47 - The history of Taylor Guitars and their innovative approach to tradition

    22:55 - How sustainable practices set Taylor apart from other brands

    29:22 - The story of variegated Ebony and breaking industry norms

    33:55 - Tips for choosing the right guitar based on feel, aesthetics, and sound

    36:50 - Taylor Guitars’ manufacturing locations and future plans

    37:17 - Invitation for collaborative educational initiatives and factory tours

    Resources & Links:

    Taylor Guitars Official Website

    The Ebony Project collaboration with UCLA

    Taylor Guitars Sustainability Initiatives

    Connect with Scott Paul:

    LinkedIn
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    39 分
  • Exploring Mindset, Microdosing, and Personal Transformation with Micah Walker

    Exploring Mindset, Microdosing, and Personal Transformation with Micah Walker
    2026/05/26

    In this episode, Mikie sits down with Micah Walker, a coach and microdosing mentor, to discuss her profound journey from growing up in a cult to embracing holistic wellness and consciousness expansion. They explore how psychedelics can facilitate deep mindset shifts, challenge societal norms around mental health, and the importance of following joy over certainty.

    Key Topics:

    • Micah’s background growing up in a religious cult and her transformation journey
    • The experiential insights gained from meditation and microdosing
    • The neuroplasticity benefits of psychedelics for changing core beliefs
    • The role of mindset work in overcoming fear and emotional patterns
    • Legal landscape and societal perceptions of psychedelics in mental health
    • How childhood programming influences adult perspectives and behaviors
    • Practical tools for building a better relationship with fear and anxiety
    • The significance of following joy versus societal expectations
    • Micah’s work with nurse coaches and entrepreneurs around holistic health and business strategy
    • The importance of intentional action for clarity and transformation

    Timestamps:

    00:01 - Introduction to Micah Walker and her journey

    00:54 - Micah's early life and coming out experience

    01:54 - First psychedelic-like experience through meditation

    03:19 - Insights from meditation and psychedelics

    05:18 - Transition from nursing to coaching

    07:13 - Leaving healthcare and starting a coaching company

    08:27 - Following joy over certainty

    10:41 - Psychedelic therapy and coaching

    11:33 - Clarity through action

    13:51 - Legalities and findings on psychedelics

    15:23 - Propaganda and the reality of psychedelics

    17:16 - Balancing pharmaceuticals and alternative methods

    19:09 - Before and after perspectives on personal growth

    21:34 - Understanding and befriending fear

    24:08 - Developing a relationship with emotions

    27:02 - Wisdom in understanding fear's relevance

    29:34 - Pattern disruption and changing beliefs

    32:17 - Micah's transformation and future vision

    Connect with Micah Walker:

    Instagram

    LinkedIn

    Note: This episode emphasizes responsible conversation about psychedelics. Participants are encouraged to explore legal pathways and work with professionals.
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    37 分
  • Understanding Parts Work and Self-Discovery with John-Paul Dombrowski

    Understanding Parts Work and Self-Discovery with John-Paul Dombrowski
    2026/05/20

    Guest Name:

    John-Paul Dombrowski

    Summary:

    Join Mikie Krisztal in this insightful episode as he chats with John-Paul Dombrowski, a therapist, coach, and advocate of parts work and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Discover how understanding the different parts of yourself can lead to emotional clarity, healing, and personal growth. This episode explores practical tools and deep insights into inner system dynamics, making complex psychological concepts accessible and applicable.

    Key Topics:

    • The power of parts work in mental health and healing
    • How IFS models internal conflicts as different parts with distinct roles
    • The relationship between ego, spirituality, and psychological frameworks
    • Practical exercises for connecting with inner parts and unburdening exiles
    • Navigating the ego and avoiding the guru complex in personal growth
    • Strategies for maintaining authenticity amidst social media success
    • The importance of curiosity, self-compassion, and witnessing in healing
    • The upcoming free mini-course, "Mindfulness for Big Emotions"
    • How internal parts live in bodies, stuck in past burdens, and their guidance
    • The balance between science and spirituality in therapeutic practices

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction to John-Paul Dombrowski and the benefits of parts work

    02:11 - What is Internal Family Systems (IFS)? An overview

    05:24 - John-Paul’s background and journey into therapy and social media success

    08:35 - How to monetize personal growth online and stay authentic

    12:02 - Explaining the internal dialogue of conflicting parts

    15:11 - The role of the Self in IFS and Buddhist philosophy parallels

    17:36 - Handling burdens and emotions of exiled parts through witnessing

    22:05 - The gendered burdens of emotional repression and vulnerability

    25:42 - The importance of being present and meeting parts where they are

    30:49 - Managing internal inner critic and planning anxiety

    34:12 - Reframing feelings from childhood and inner scars

    37:36 - Witnessing young parts with empathy and compassion

    40:39 - The systemic view: parts as a team and inner ecology

    45:09 - John-Paul’s free mini-course "Mindfulness for Big Emotions"

    46:36 - Upcoming group programs and community support

    48:25 - Closing thoughts and how to connect with John-Paul

    Resources & Links:

    Mindfulness for Big Emotions - Free Mini Course

    No Bad Parts by Dick Schwartz

    Connect with John-Paul:

    Instagram: @johnpauldombrowski

    YouTube: @JohnPaulDombrowski

    Website: jpdombrowski.com

    Note:

    This episode is rich with practical exercises, psychological frameworks, and personal anecdotes to help you better understand and work with your inner system for mental clarity and emotional resilience.
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    49 分