We recently connected with Jeff Toth and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jeff , thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
I don’t think I’ve ever really overcome imposter syndrome, I think that’s just a symptom of being an artist. However, something that helps is knowing that everyone feels that way. No matter how many credits or successes you have in this industry, there’s always going to be some doubt that creeps in. I say lean into it as a way of bonding with someone rather than feeling inferior! I also find that reminding myself often there’s a reason why I’m where I am is a helpful way to overcome feeling like an imposter
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a folk rock artist based in Nashville. My career involves playing shows, writing songs for myself and other artists, and producing records for myself and other artists! My music is about personal growth and honest self reflection, highlighting the little battles and victories that happen in everyday life. I moved to Nashville in 2018 from New Jersey and have been working full time in the music industry for the last several years. I like that every day in my career looks different creatively!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
For starters, I think versatility is a big quality that impacted my journey. The ability to be not only an artist but also a singer, songwriter, multi instrumentalist, producer and engineer has allowed me to piece together a career that works! My advice would be to learn as much as you can about as many things as you can (within reason, or within your field) Second, social skills (being good with people) has helped me tremendously. Not only is it nice to get along with people you work with, but good people skills are invaluable to crafting a solid network and opening opportunities. To get better at this you could simply practice talking to new people and making new connections Lastly, and this may sound strange, but I think learning basic graphic design/photo video editing skills can help you in any profession from event planning, to music, to owning an accounting firm — you’d be surprised how much knowing a little about photo and video can give you an edge or help you save money and get tasks done! iMovie, Canva and CapCut are great free ways to dip your toes in the water
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
“The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron was very impactful for me. We read it in college and it’s full of practical advice and exercises to keep you creatively and mentally strong. One of my favorite things from that book is the “Artist’s Date” which is a challenge the author poses for the reader to take themselves out at least one night a week to observe, get inspired and re-fill the well of their creatively. This has greatly helped me avoid burnout.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jefftothmusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jefftoth_/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeffToth
- Other: Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4IKzPu7eSvvRmuYTrqhWZH?si=116b2d0fb0c845c1
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