Meet Stephen Roach

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Stephen Roach a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Stephen , so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I overcome imposter syndrome by reminding myself that out of the billions of people alive today and the millions of others who have lived before us, there has never been nor will there ever be another me. No matter how many times a story has been told, a song has been sung or a sunset has been painted, it has never been told or sung or painted by me. We each carry a unique perspective and a unique set of experiences that are solely our own.
Our individuality is a sacred thing.

When I feel inadequate or feel like a fraud, or feel that I am not qualified, I remind myself of this unalterable truth.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I am the host of the Makers & Mystics podcast and founder of The Breath & The Clay Creative Arts Organization, I am a student of ethnomusicology, a published author and poet. For the past decades, I have pursued the relationship between creativity, faith and culture.

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?

Community, Solitude and Humility. Community is key. Not just acquaintances or face-value communities but real people who can walk alongside you, speak honestly and remind you of the truth. Solitude is key. Learning to be alone and not needing the affirmation of others but doing the hard work. Humility is key. Waking up each day as a beginner, anticipating wonder and knowing that it is not your responsibility to be the best, just authentic.

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?

I am an avid reader and book lover. Its tough to pick one. There are so many. But one I return to over and over again is Thomas Merton’s New Seeds of Contemplation. His insights on the sacredness of our individuality and the importance of living in our true person is vital.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.makersandmystics.com
• Instagram: @makersandmystics

Image Credits

Elizabeth Sanders, Garett Walker,