We love rebels and people who challenge the status quo, conventional wisdom and mainstream narratives and so we asked some really bright folks to tell us about one piece of conventional advice they disagree with.

Rachel Fannan | Musician, singer song writer, multi instrumentalist

Gosh unpopular opinion here but “know your worth”. Probably because there are a lot of delusional people out there? In my experience anyway it takes work on top of talent to break a hustle pace into a successful life long career. Read more>>

Jasper DeShields | Entrepreneur, Product Manager & Coach

I disagree with the old blueprint of success. I think there’s still a marginal gap between most peoples understanding of what’s needed to thrive long term in todays society compared to maybe 50-60 years ago. The old ecosystem of educational funnel systems that led to long term into the workplace comfort has changed a lot because of the ease of access to almost unlimited knowledge. The principles remain the same but the power is in the hands of the people more than the larger conglomerates now. Read more>>

Monique Dao | Wedding Photographer

Most people think Photographers are just “people with a nice camera.” They think they can hire a photographer to come to an event, click some buttons, and then they’ll magically have beautiful photos, no effort at all. And that is why they’re not willing to pay what the photographer is really worth. Read more>>

Ned Zaina | Dancer

One thing that people outside the industry may not realize is that, often when attending auditions, you invest hours in dancing or submit all your materials to casting agents, only to receive no response most of the time. This leaves you in the dark about whether you’ve been rejected until you see someone you know doing the job. This situation can be particularly stressful for those relying solely on dance work in the United States. Personally, I’ve had to let go of the anticipation of booking a job and refrain from getting excited until after signing the contract and rehearsing for the role. Read more>>

Claire Sundbye | Standup Comedian & Producer

How much social media has evolved the world of standup. In every aspect; from what comedians are doing on stage, to the audiences its bringing in, to how comedians are getting booked. It can be an amazing thing just as much as it can be a very bad thing. Read more>>

J-Claud | Recording Artist & Business Owner

There’s a lot of things I think people on the outside aren’t aware of or don’t consider, but for me I think one of the biggest things is all the little details. When you’re running your own company and managing your brand, there are so many details that come with that. You gotta be able to see your big picture, but you get it done in the details. Read more>>

Claire Mauvezin | ArtCenter Illustration/Entertainment Arts student

Regarding art for animation, I would say one thing that outsiders are probably unaware of is that you have to know how to draw and paint realistically: “the real.” It’s important to learn this way first before diving into animated styles, and then you must continue practicing “the real.” Such as going to figure drawing workshops, painting from observation and studying light, shadow, and times of day and how that affects color temperature. Knowing “the real” helps you create believable fictional worlds. Read more>>

Jim Klock | Actor, director, & producer

I think one thing that’s truly special about being an actor and film maker/producer that most people may not realize is unlike other industries there really is no clearly laid out structure or path to success or even sustainability. It’s more of this free for all, fail your way to success and figuring out a path along the way. I think to make it as an artist of any kind it’s takes great mental toughness, tenacity, and resilience. I wish this was something talked about more because I think too many talented dreamers quit when the journey isn’t “fun” anymore but what I’ve learned is you’ve got to fight thru those moments and remember “rejection” may not be fun but that doesn’t mean your love of acting, writing, and directing isn’t fun. You have to know the difference and embrace the process with maximum effort. Read more>>

Xiaobi (Iris) Pan | New Technology Designer & Artist

Most people think of design as a heavily visual process, but as someone who’s been in the design industry for over 10 years, I’d say visual excellence does not equate design excellence. There’re many ways to approach design and many ways to deliver design, and visual is only one of them, albeit an important one. When I judge someone’s design work, I look for intent, clarity, the thoroughness and completeness of one’s thought process, before I look at the visual presentation itself. Thus, I think it’s a common misconception that designers are mostly dealing with visuals and they have to be naturally good at visual presentation (Yes, it can be learned). Read more>>

Stephen Kogon | Filmmaker, Writer and Actor

I think a lot of people are aware of the phrase “It’s who you know” in regards to breaking into the entertainment industry, but I don’t know if they realize what that fully entails, especially for people who lean towards being introverted (like writers). The idea of schmoozing for many is unpleasant, but meeting as many people as possible is important. In today’s world, social media makes it a little easier — but you still have to approach things professionally. And don’t just be a taker. Form as many mutual and reciprocal relationships as you can. Read more>>

Angela Duncan | Host of the top ranked Empower HER Money Podcast

In my experience as a top-ranked podcast host, one important thing that many entrepreneurs overlook is the potential for income within podcasting. While it’s true that launching a podcast can be a fantastic way to build your brand and connect with your audience, what many fail to realize is monetization opportunities it presents. From sponsorships and advertisements to affiliate marketing and product offerings, there are several ways to generate revenue from your podcast. However, you do not have to be a podcast host to create income. Being a podcast guest and using other people’s platforms to generate income is also possible. You need a strong call to action. That is the key. Read more>>