Turns out most successful creative careers are funded by multiple streams. If you've ever felt that cobbling it together means you haven't truly arrived, this episode is a reminder that you're building something sustainable, resilient, and entirely your own.

00:00 - The Secret Feeling of Being a Fraud

02:17 - The "Income Pie" Revelation

04:37 - Why Your Pie is a Source of Freedom, Not Failure

06:55 - How Bridge Work Sustains the Dream Work

09:09 - Homework: How to Draw Your Own Income Pie

11:34 - You Are Building Something Sustainable

Book Recommendations on Building a Multifaceted Creative Career

If the idea of an "income pie" resonates with you, here are a few books that explore how to build a sustainable and multifaceted creative life:

• The Multi-Hyphen Life by Emma Gannon: This book is a celebration of the modern portfolio career. Gannon argues that having multiple work streams isn't a distraction but a way to build a more resilient, passion-fueled, and future-proof career.

• Art, Inc.: The Essential Guide for Building Your Career as an Artist by Lisa Congdon: A practical and inspiring guide for artists, this book covers everything from setting goals to diversifying income. Congdon is a master at turning creative passion into a thriving business and shares how multiple revenue streams (like licensing, teaching, and print sales) are key to a sustainable practice.

• Real Artists Don't Starve by Jeff Goins: Goins debunks the myth of the "starving artist" by showing how successful creators throughout history have embraced an entrepreneurial mindset. The book provides a framework for thriving, not just surviving, by strategically building multiple income sources that support your creative work.

• Company of One: Why Staying Small is the Next Big Thing for Business by Paul Jarvis: While not exclusively for artists, this book is perfect for any creative who wants to build a profitable, enjoyable, and sustainable business on their own terms. It challenges the traditional growth-at-all-costs mindset and champions a smarter, more intentional approach to work, which often involves focusing on a variety of profitable endeavors rather than scaling into a massive operation.

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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.