Meet Michael Ivery

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michael Ivery . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Michael , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

Finding my purpose has been a journey marked by both professional exploration and personal fulfillment. In my early career as a DJ, producer, and event director, I discovered the power of music to connect people and create unforgettable experiences. This deep appreciation for music and its impact guided me through various roles in the entertainment industry. However, it was my role as a father that truly transformed my understanding of purpose.

When my daughters were born, I found immense joy in the simple yet profound moments spent creating stories, drawing, and playing with them. Their laughter and wonder sparked a new direction in my life. I realized that I could combine my creative talents with a deeper mission: to craft enriching, joyful experiences for children through storytelling, art, and media. This pivot allowed me to focus on bringing smiles to young faces, starting with my own daughters, and eventually to a broader audience.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am a creative professional with a diverse background in the music and entertainment industry, now making my mark in the world of children’s media. As a DJ, producer, and event director, I spent over two decades curating soundscapes, producing albums, and establishing award-winning multicultural festivals. These experiences allowed me to travel the world, share stages with legendary icons, and connect with audiences in meaningful ways.

Today, I’ve transitioned from entertaining crowds to crafting joyous moments for children through storytelling, illustration, and animation. As a children’s author and illustrator, I weave narratives that spark imagination and foster learning. My work aims to combine educational elements with entertaining stories, creating content that captivates young minds and brings families together.

What excites me most about this new chapter is the boundless creativity it allows. Every day, I get to explore new worlds through the eyes of children, tapping into their innate sense of wonder and curiosity. Whether I’m sketching a whimsical character, writing an engaging story, or developing an animated series, I find immense joy in the process of bringing these creations to life.

Currently, I’m excited to share several new projects in the pipeline. I’m working on a series of children’s books that explore different themes of adventure, friendship, and discovery. Additionally, I’m developing an animated series that brings these stories to life, combining vibrant visuals with engaging plots to capture the hearts and minds of young viewers. These projects are designed to be both educational and entertaining, ensuring that children learn valuable lessons while having fun.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Reflecting on my journey, three qualities and skills have been particularly impactful: creativity, adaptability, and perseverance. These attributes have not only shaped my career but have also guided me through significant transitions and challenges.

Creativity:
Creativity has been the cornerstone of my career, whether I was producing music, organizing events, or crafting stories for children. The ability to think outside the box, innovate, and bring unique ideas to life has been crucial. For those early in their journey, I recommend nurturing your creativity by constantly seeking inspiration and exploring different mediums. Surround yourself with diverse influences, be it through travel, art, music, or literature. Practice regularly, experiment fearlessly, and don’t be afraid to fail. Creativity thrives in environments where curiosity and open-mindedness are encouraged.

Adaptability:
The ability to adapt to new situations and pivot when necessary has been essential, especially in industries as dynamic as music and media. Transitioning from DJing and event directing to children’s media required a significant shift in mindset and skills. For those just starting out, developing adaptability involves being open to change and learning continuously. Stay informed about industry trends, be willing to step out of your comfort zone, and embrace new opportunities as they arise. Building a diverse skill set can also make you more versatile and better equipped to handle transitions.

Perseverance:
Perseverance has played a vital role in overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term goals. The journey hasn’t always been smooth, but staying committed and resilient has made all the difference. For those beginning their careers, I advise cultivating perseverance by setting clear, achievable goals and maintaining a positive outlook. Understand that setbacks are a natural part of the process, and view them as learning opportunities rather than failures. Surround yourself with supportive individuals who can offer encouragement and guidance during challenging times.

Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?

Over the last 12 months, my biggest area of growth has been in the realm of children’s media, particularly in storytelling and illustration. Transitioning from the music and entertainment industry to children’s media has required me to develop new skills and refine existing ones, allowing me to expand my creative horizons in ways I hadn’t imagined before.

1. Storytelling and Writing:
One of the most significant improvements has been in my storytelling and writing abilities. Crafting narratives that engage and educate young minds is a unique challenge, distinct from the world of music production. I’ve invested considerable time in studying children’s literature, understanding story structures, and learning how to create characters and plots that resonate with kids. This has involved not only writing but also seeking feedback from educators, parents, and children to ensure my stories are both entertaining and meaningful.

2. Illustration and Art:
Another major area of growth has been in illustration and art. Although I always had an interest in drawing, developing the skills to create professional-quality illustrations for children’s books and animations was a new venture. Over the past year, I’ve dedicated myself to improving my techniques, experimenting with different styles, and mastering digital tools. This journey has been incredibly rewarding, as I’ve seen my artwork evolve and come to life in ways that captivate young audiences.

3. Understanding Child Development and Education:
A crucial aspect of creating effective children’s media is understanding child development and educational principles. Over the past year, I’ve delved into research on how children learn and what types of content best support their growth. This has included studying developmental psychology, attending workshops, and collaborating with experts in early childhood education. This knowledge has informed my approach to creating content that is not only fun but also enriching and developmentally appropriate.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Michael Ivery & Tubba and Friends

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Leadership Development
Empathy Unlocked: Understanding how to Develop Emotional Intelligence

“Empathy is the starting point for creating a community and taking action. It’s the impetus

Productivity
Where do you get your work ethic from?

We’ve all heard the phrase “work hard, play hard,” but where does our work ethic

Productivity
Boosting Productivity Through Self-Care

When you have a never-ending to-do list it can feel irresponsible to engage in self-care,