🎙️ New Episode: Lights, Lines & Legacy – with Dave McClain 🎬

This week, we sit down with the remarkably versatile Dave McClain — an award-winning actor, seasoned voiceover artist, published writer, and U.S. Army veteran. With over 100 screen credits in just the last few years, Dave’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. His life is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and relentless creativity.

In this episode of To Art Is Human, host Stef “Sharky” Schultz and Dave explore his powerful transition from military life to the performing arts. We dive into how he stays creatively sharp, the unique wisdom he’s gathered from a life fully lived — both in uniform and under the spotlight — and why embracing the journey is just as vital as the destination.

Whether you’re an actor, a veteran, or simply someone in need of a story that restores your faith in passion and purpose, this uplifting, insightful episode is for you. Dave talks candidly about networking in the film industry, the role of mental health, the balancing act of life and art, and the unwavering support of family and community in helping him thrive.

🎧 Tune in now and get inspired by Dave’s deep well of experience and his unapologetic pursuit of happiness!
If you find the episode helpful, please consider following the show and rating us 5 stars on Spotify — your support helps us grow and continue highlighting stories that matter.

🎭 Dave McClain is professionally represented by:
• The Boysen Agency (Texas): 512-717-7774
• Embrace Real Artists (CA & GA): 323-533-1233

📌 Find & Follow Dave Here:
🌐 davepro.info
🎬 IMDb
📸 Instagram
📘 Facebook
📄 Actor's Access Resume
▶️ Film Clip 1
▶️ Film Clip 2

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From local cons to global visions, Alan Carter’s evolution as a creator will leave you fired up to finish your own story.🎙️ Title: From Mongoose to Cosmic Force: Faring the High Seas of Indie ComicsGuest: Alan CarterIn this heartfelt and inspiring episode, host Stef “Sharky” Schultz reconnects with comic book creator Alan Carter—an old convention friend from Emerald Knights Games and Comics in Los Angeles. Together, they dive deep into the rollercoaster world of independent publishing, from the creation of Alan’s standout character Mongoose to his latest project, Cosmic Force.Alan opens up about the real behind-the-scenes journey—navigating conventions, Kickstarters, pandemic pivots, and the power of persistence. The two discuss what it means to show up, stay inspired, and keep your creativity alive through uncertainty. If you’re an artist, writer, or dreamer who’s ever wondered what it really takes to keep going in the indie comics world, this one’s for you.🎧 Tune in for:– Raw insights on publishing and production– Creative survival tips post-pandemic– The beauty of artist communities– Honest encouragement for every stage of the artistic pathAllen and I connected at Emerald Knights Games and Comics in Los Angles back in 2017, we both exhibited at the same convention! He has been a shining light of ‘showing up’ in consistently putting his work out there – it has been an inspiration to me. It’s been an adventure – we talk about a number of challenges, solutions, inspirations, revelations, and aspirations. Dive in with us and learn what it’s like faring the high seas of independent publishing that few others will tell you!In this engaging conversation, Stef 'Sharky' Schultz interviews Alan Carter, a comic book creator known for his character Mongoose. They discuss the origins of Mongoose, the challenges of navigating the comic book industry, and the importance of community and connection among artists. Alan shares his artistic journey, from his early inspirations to his current projects, including the upcoming Kickstarter for his Cosmic Force series. They also touch on the impact of the pandemic on the creative community and offer valuable advice for aspiring artists.TakeawaysPersistence is key in the creative industry.Building a community is essential for artists.Keep working on your craft, whether writing or drawing.Art is a window into who we are as individuals.Engaging with your audience can lead to unexpected opportunities.The pandemic has reshaped how artists connect and share their work.Every small step in your project counts towards completion.Finding your unique style takes time and practice.Participating in local shows can boost visibility and sales.Networking with other artists can lead to valuable collaborations.Chapters00:00 The Origin of the Mongoose Character03:00 Artistic Journey and Early Inspirations04:47 Navigating the Comic Convention Scene07:35 The Evolution of Storytelling in Comics10:40 Printing and Production Insights13:46 Current Projects and Future Endeavors16:33 Experiences with National Conventions and Community Connections22:14 Navigating Career Transitions24:48 Exploring Creative Aspirations28:28 Challenges in the Artistic Journey36:21 Looking Forward: New Projects and Opportunities43:41 Exploring the Value of Art and Journals45:13 Navigating Online Presence and Marketing45:54 The Risks of Website Ownership49:15 Advice for Aspiring Artists53:10 Community and Connection in the Art World56:08 Upcoming Shows and Events

Ep. 05 - Phil, Animator: AI Actually Won’t Replace Artists Who Do THIS | To Art Is Human✨ If you’ve ever questioned your path, wondered if it’s worth it, or needed permission just to do what you love…this episode is for you! In this episode, I sit down with Phil, an animator, cartoonist, and storyteller who chose to follow his creative voice, not for fame, not for money, but because it makes him feel alive. We also navigate the new world of art and AI! You don't want to miss this 'sode!Youtube Channel: @PhilMachi Websites: retailsunshine.com, philmachi.comInstagram: @StayToonedShow, @RetailSunshineWe talk about what it means to make something simply because you love it...the quiet courage it takes to keep going when the rewards aren't immediate....and how creating from a place of sincerity can sometimes be the most radical choice of all. From launching a Kickstarter to publishing a book, Phil shares the highs, lows, and deep truths of choosing heart over hustle—and why joy is reason enough to keep making art.💬 What we talk about:– Trusting the creative process– Making without overthinking– Why art is still worth doing when no one’s watching– Staying grounded in what matters– The quiet fulfillment of doing what you love💛 Listen, share, and let it land where it needs to.To art is human. To choose joy is brave.#ToArtIsHuman #creativelife #artistjourney #makeartanyway #createyourway #artificialintelligence #ai #art #independentcreatives #howto #howtodraw #howtomake #followyourheart #new #artisticfreedom #kickstarter #doityourway

Bob is the kind of person who can take random materials and turn them into something unexpectedly cool. She’s not in it for money, clout, or praise—she just likes making things, whether it’s arts, crafts, or some offbeat DIY project, she approaches it all with a laid-back, resourceful energy that makes you want to grab some supplies and join in. Humble, effortlessly creative, and always bringing a cool touch to whatever she’s working on! We also talk about AI and the art world, cute animals and their impact on our lives, how to deal with a haunted house, life in NYC, and finishing projects we've started - no matter how many tries it takes!Featured in addition to Bob's work is a little work from MindyIndy.com, who owns a studio in NYC and is a friend of Bob's, a couple of other odds and ends, and some older work of mine I'm revisiting after years of it being shelved, including but not limited to Misterguy - which may see a rebrand and re-release in the immediate years to come!

FOLLOW COREY @ratarue and www.Ratarue.com His advice? Start Before You're Ready! 💥 Embrace the Journey 🌍 | Collaborate, Self-Promote & Stay Authentic! 🔥 Forget Trends—build a real audience by staying true to yourself! 💯 Make your mark, create fearlessly, and let the world respond! #DoWhatYouLove #CreativeJourney #GratefulDeadMindset

Corey – Main points on this episode:• Get started even if you don't know what you're doing (yet!) and be open to collaboration and travel.• Self-promotion is essential -no shame in hard work! • We're not here forever, take care of yourself. We• experience burnout and the blues sooner or later, but• sometimes our low points can inspire/develop us.• Whether or not you go by your own name or an alias has a big impact; picking something easy to remember and pronounce that isn't already taken sounds impossible, right?! Share your thoughts in the comments below!• It's hard to gain a following when many folks are shallow and accept only what's trending - but who wants flakes, anyway? Keep putting the work out there, be authentic, and do what you love because you love it, and you will eventually attract a core, loyal audience• Take the Grateful Dead approach - let your work loose and whatever happens, happens! Your work doesn't exist until YOU create it. That's power.

🎙️ Guest: Ursula Rogers 🎙️In this episode, we chat with Ursula Rogers, a talented live event photographer from Austin, TX, known for capturing vibrant, expressive photos of diverse communities, sports, and concerts. Ursula shares her inspiring journey of shining a light on stories that don’t always make it into the mainstream, and how she’s built her career by creating her own opportunities.We also dive into:• 💡 Tips for reducing eye strain while working, including the 20-20-20 rule recommended by eye specialists.• 🧶 The beauty of various art forms, from knitting and crochet to spoken word, rap, and musical performances.• 💸 Our frustrations with overpriced subscription model apps and the lack of affordable one-time purchase options.• 📱 Why it’s crucial to read app terms and conditions before installing them, especially with social media platforms evolving rapidly.• 🎬 Insightful advice for actors and models: Equity over perpetuity – and why you should run if you see “in perpetuity” in a contract!• 🎥 Why posting reels is still relevant and trending as platforms compete with TikTok.A huge thank you to Ursula for sharing her experiences and wisdom! We had already been deep in conversation before we hit record, so we’re jumping right into the good stuff.📸 Follow Ursula Rogers:Instagram: @opulenceOfVereeWebsite: ursula-rogers.squarespace.com🎧 Available on Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts!Like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Let us know what part of the conversation resonated with you the most!#Podcast #UrsulaRogers #AustinTX #Photography #LiveEvents #Creativity #EyeHealth #Reels #ActingTips #MakeYourOwnOpportunities #episode2 #toArtIsHuman

🌟Embrace the unknown, create freely, and let inspiration surprise you...stay open and get ready to unlock new opportunities. 🎨 Don’t wait — network, share, and put your work out there. FOLLOW @toArtIsHumanPodcast on Instagram and LinkedIn for uplifting and inspiring content!

#LifeLessons #CreativeJourney #StayInspired#film #filmmaker #Austin #mom #momsWhoRock #tips #strategy #positivity #mindset

Main points on this episode:

• Be open and never stop seeking opportunities to improve!
• Network during the ‘slow’ times and be open to the possibilities
• Stay positive and be ready for opportunity when it presents itself!
• The unknown – most are afraid of it, but it can actually be an exciting, blank slate. Pick and choose what works for you as you turn the page to your new chapter.
• It’s surprising where inspiration can come from; even our kids can be our collaborators and sounding boards! Let others in and mix things up if you normally have a solo dynamic!
• Stories are powerful and can be some of the greatest inspirations.
• Art can 'draw' us together, and can be cathartic. Messes are okay to make and can be cleaned up. Life goes on. Make all the messes and enjoy life.
• Open up and share life with the ones you love.
• Put the work out there. It’s none of our business what others think of us. Everyonewill be viewing our work through the lens of their own experiences.
• Don’t get analysis paralysis. Every journey begins with a single step.

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