Meet Brian Kaleh

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Brian Kaleh. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Brian below.

Hi Brian , thank you so much for making time for us today. Let’s jump right into a question so many in our community are looking for answers to – how to overcome creativity blocks, writer’s block, etc. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any advice you might have.
Navigating creative blocks can be challenging, as the experience varies for each individual. Often, these blocks stem from a sense of creative insecurity, prompting questions like “Am I good enough?” or “Is this idea worth pursuing?” It can feel daunting to know where to begin. However, I’ve discovered that the most effective way to overcome these obstacles is through action.

Even when the motivation to create is lacking, I’ve found that simply engaging in the act of creation can be transformative. Whether it’s writing a single sentence, making a one-minute edit, or quickly crafting an animation, the key is to keep moving forward. Even if the result isn’t perfect or ends up being discarded, the act of creating serves as a catalyst for breaking free from the rut.

By consistently pushing through these moments of doubt and inertia, you’ll gradually find yourself producing work that not only satisfies you but also ignites your passion for future projects. So, don’t let the fear of inadequacy hold you back. Embrace the process, and before you know it, you’ll be creating content that fills you with pride and propels you toward your next endeavor.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
As a dedicated creator, educator, and assistant director of marketing at the University of Texas at Austin, I’m constantly navigating a demanding schedule where time is a precious commodity. Wasting time is my ultimate pet peeve. To me, creation is profoundly human—a collective endeavor that weaves together the threads of artistry to illuminate the beauty of life.

In one hand, I have the privilege of contributing to the creation of content that showcases the essence of UT Austin, the institution that shaped my journey. Collaborating with fellow team members, I endeavor to highlight the university’s transformative impact and its role as a hub for nurturing future changemakers.

On the other hand, alongside my wife, I co-own Kaleh Media, a platform where we passionately tell local stories and support small businesses in amplifying their brand presence and connecting with their audiences. In addition to these endeavors, I curate content for my YouTube channel, where I’ve fostered a growing community centered around video games.
Regardless of the medium or platform, I find myself continually engaged in the creative process. I’m driven by the belief that good creative has the power to transport others, if only for a fleeting moment, to a different realm. And there is an innate beauty in that endeavor.

Ultimately, my aspiration is for my work to serve as a source of inspiration and connection, leaving an indelible mark on those who encounter it. In this pursuit, I find fulfillment in the knowledge that my creative has the potential to uplift and resonate with audiences, echoing the boundless possibilities inherent in the act of creation.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
When it comes down to it, I’d say there are three key ingredients: persistence, an insatiable hunger for learning, and love.

Let’s talk about persistence first. You’ve got to have that fire in your belly to keep going when the odds are stacked against you. Because let’s face it, in the world of creation, you’re going to get knocked down more times than you can count. But here’s the kicker: those failures? They’re not setbacks; they’re setups for success. Each stumble teaches you something invaluable that you can carry forward into your next project. And when you finally taste that victory after persevering through the tough times? There’s nothing sweeter.

Next up, we’ve got the hunger for learning. This one’s a biggie. The creative landscape is constantly shifting, especially with the rapid advancements in AI technology. If you want to stay ahead of the curve, you’ve got to be willing to dive headfirst into the deep end of knowledge and keep swimming. Being a perpetual student isn’t just a choice; it’s what keeps things exciting. Embrace that lifelong learner mentality, and you’ll always find yourself at the forefront of innovation.

Last but certainly not least, there’s love. Yep, you heard me right. Love isn’t just for sappy rom-coms; it’s a fundamental part of the creative process. You’ve got to have a deep, unwavering love for both yourself and what you do. Creating is about pouring your heart and soul into every project, infusing it with that personal touch that makes it uniquely yours. Lose sight of that passion, and you’ll lose sight of why you started creating in the first place.

So there you have it. Persistence, hunger for learning, and love. Mix those three ingredients together, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for success in the wild world of creation.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Life gets busy, I totally get the importance of hitting the pause button every now and then. Between juggling my work commitments, being a devoted father to two amazing girls, and a loving husband, life can quickly become a whirlwind of busyness. I used to be the type to keep pushing until everything reached a boiling point and I crashed hard.

That’s when I discovered the power of meditation. It wasn’t an instant revelation for me; it took time to appreciate the significance of carving out a few moments of silence and deep breathing amidst the chaos. Sitting up straight, closing your eyes, and focusing solely on your breath sounds simple, but it’s surprisingly transformative. Starting with just a couple of minutes and gradually working your way up to five or more can work wonders for clearing your mind and releasing tension.

Sure, it’s easier said than done, especially when life seems to be spinning out of control. But isn’t that what makes life interesting? Embracing the chaos and finding moments of calm within it all is what keeps us grounded and resilient in the face of whatever challenges come our way. So, take a deep breath, find your center amidst the chaos, and remember that sometimes, the greatest strength lies in the ability to pause and just be.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Stacey Kaleh (wife), Thomas Swafford (Partner), Summer (Oldest Daughter), Siena (Youngest)

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