My Big Story With Christopher Swan

Matt Cullen is an entertainer. He’s actor, an up-and-coming YouTuber and the co-creator of the wacky web series, "Raymond & Lane." In this conversation, we dive into Matt's “Why” and the reasons he loves to create. He then shares his evolving story as a creative and some fresh perspectives. Also discussed, Matt shares his thoughts about the clash (or merger) of online talent vs. the standard Hollywood talent poole. As Matt is somewhere in the middle, how does he see trained actors fairing against online creatives? Is one better than the other? Take a listen to find out.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text them right now!), and then give me an awesome rating and review on Apple Podcasts or where

Music producer, Jack Rayner has worked on many well-known projects including, Dancing With The Stars, Magic Mike, America's Got Talent, and has worked with famous celebrities like Katy Perry, Britney Spears, and so many more. Jack has such a great attitude and shares fun stories and highlights of his career - as well as the struggles that helped him get to where he is today. Through the conversation, Jack outlines how his story may sound unique, but is a journey of determination, like so many other people. Jack also explains why he shifted his focus from just his career, to what he wants out of life and his future.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text them right now!), and then give me an awesome ra

Actor and producer Parvesh Cheena and Christopher talk about Parvesh's living perspective to the life of a working actor. Parvesh has been in countless television roles and movies for over a decade. He gained notoriety for his roles in the Barbershop movies, NBC’s Outsourced and Transformers: Rescue Bots. In addition to his busy acting schedule, you’ll soon see him in season 2 of Crazy Ex-girlfriend, coming this Fall. This is a candid conversation about Parvesh's drive to act, balancing roles we want vs. ones we need to take, the current state of diversity and inclusion in Hollywood, and even more.    See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text them right now!), and then give me an awesome rating and review

Rene Siegel is president and founder of Connext (formerly called, High Tech Connect), a marketing and communications consulting agency that tackles tough engagements for tech clients. They deliver subject matter expertise and experience - with the right attitude and energy  - all to help their clients shine. When Rene left her corporate career in 1994, she never imagined she'd transition into becoming an entrepreneur shortly after her departure, but here she is today. She contributes a large part of her success to being honest and vulnerable with herself and having strong mentors nearby to help nudge her into new possibilities. Rene has her sights on the future, specifically helping those early in their career, find the mentoship and guidance they need to be successful.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY

Carlton Russell was raised in Southern Alabama by grandparents who taught him how to make the most out of his life. He has always been quick to learn and whip smart, which earned him a Social Service Management degree, made him an asset to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and an effective leader at the multiple social impact organizations that chose him as their Executive Director. In addition to his professional roles, he led a successful 20-year career as a Hollywood actor and stunt double. Carlton’s story also underscores how he used his unique abilities and perspectives to follow his dream and create a wonderful life.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text them right now!), and then g

Mel Soriano recently completed his second pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago, the walking journey that’s typically taken as a form of spiritual growth or personal discovery. There are various routes to Camino and many people have walked as much as 500 miles to France and Spain, to the destination of the shrine of the Apostle St-James the Great in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.  This is the same journey taken by Martin Sheen in the movie, The Way. Mel shares the importance of his powerful journey, gaining new insight into his purpose, sharing the details of life as a temporary nomad, and how this second pilgrimage has changed his life. UPDATE: In 2017, Mel completed his third pilgrimage.    See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SH

We are doing something a little different in this episode. Christopher Swan is joined by a special co-host Ryan Dee, a dedicated fan of the show, as they look back at the first 3 months of episodes, highlighting some of the great moments, top advice, behind the scenes extras and where we’re headed next. Tune in to hear their favorite advice from guests, how it can be applied to your journey, and why the specific advice is so helpful. Ryan also helps Christopher dive into the show development, his processes and more. If you’re new to the show, this is a great way to find past episodes that you’d like, and for subscribers, this unpacks information you’ve heard, but in a new way. And then finally, let’s continue the conversation after the episode by sharing your favorite moments and advice from the show.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSP

Pat Wadors is aiming to help people flourish - affecting people's lives and experiences - doing it authentically and with great care. Because that’s her purpose. As the Senior Vice President of LinkedIn’s Global Talent Organization, and all around business leader, Pat helps people grow in their careers, and ideally, in all parts of their lives. Pat is also embracing diversity and inclusion in Silicon Valley, and recently coined the acronym #DIBs - diversity, inclusion and belonging. She describes how this comes to life for her and why it’s important. In addition to Pat’s seasoned experiences in Human Resources and as a business leader, she’s also an outspoken introvert. She knows there is power in understanding her strengths and her opportunities - making sure her actions and intentions are understood vs. remaining quiet, and in return, developing better relationships and helping other introverts have a place at the table. Pat also shares thoughtful advice about following the work you love, being true to your

Meet recording artist, Color Theory. But he's better known to his friends and family as Brian Hazard. Color Theory has millions of fans that grew mostly online, especially with fans of 80's synthpop and Electronic Dance Music. Brian has successfully released nine albums as an independent artist. He also owns an audio mastering company, where he makes other artists sound amazing. Brian and I discuss his musical career, how he balances time as a recording artist, running a mastering company, spending time with his family, while still getting it all done. Brian also shares his perspective for using social media as an artist and additional advice for other artists.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text t

Christopher talks with with L.A. based interior designer, Anna Harris. In this interview, Anna expresses that she finally found “her people” when starting to learn interior design. Though she has worked in IT and finance for a long time, previous to jumping into design, don’t let that fool you. Anna finds creativity in all of it. Her story is really about discovering and taking advantage of life’s many opportunities, and how those opportunities do not have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Anna offers some very sound advice. So listen in to discover Anna’s great way of looking at life, her take on interior design, and finding inspiration, among many other topics.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text

Christopher Swan chats with an artist he admires and has been following online for a while. If you’re a Disney fan, then you’ve probably seen his work, especially if you’re at all familiar with the Hipster Mickey (Mouse) illustrations. Freelance artist, Jerrod Maruyama, has been creating wonderful illustrations and character designs for clients like Disney, Warner Brother, Nickelodeon, Hasbro, Mattel, and so many more. Listen in as Jerrod talks about why he started freelance illustration, great moments of his career, what it was like for him when his work became more popular, things that inspire him, and much more. His perspectives are insightful and equally interesting for both artists and non-artists.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE TH

Danika O’Leary’s good intentions and actions have been making a noticeable impact in her community. Her Haircuts for the Homeless program started as a simple act of kindness and has become regular acts of kindness each every other month. She begins by creating outdoor styling stations in a park in Santa Rosa, CA in Northern California, and with the help of local businesses and volunteers, she provides haircuts, food, clothing and personal hygiene products for the homeless thought the area. The event has even helped with people with resumes and job opportunities. She mentioned though, as the size of the events swell, challenges emerge with the required permits, administrative duties, and the cost of necessary equipment. Danika wants to share stories and styles with those who need it most - and make sure the people that are in need are able to feel good about themselves, even from just a small thing like a haircut. Listen in to find out how Danika is making her passion come to life, and how you can get involved

Vanessa Stump wasn't always a photographer. In fact, it took a leap of faith to become the professional photographer she is today. She now captures portraits and lifestyle moments, and specializes in food photography. Her work can be seen in publications such as Clean Eats, MasterChef, Sunset, Apartment Therapy, and many others. Embracing the skill of telling stories with her photography, clients such as AAA, Pinkberry, Patina Restaurant Group, Marriott, and BluePlate, simply LOVE her work. Tune in to hear about how Vanessa went back to school upon the realization that photography was the new path she needed to take. She also shares the details of why photography matters to her, setting goals in work and in life, advice for following a passion, and how she stays excited for work. Be sure to also check out the whale story pictures Vanessa shares on the show.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twit

Christopher sits down with winemaker, Garry Brooks. He and his wife Joanne founded Brooks Note Winery in Marin County, California. Garry has a great wine story that is far from typical because it’s all about following the thing you love, not just wine. Garry talks about the different phases of his journey: He went from a technology job at the Gap to going back to school and getting started in wine to working in the wine industry, until finally starting his own winery. Garry also talks about his various transitions, why they needed to happen and how they happened with support and real intention. It’s so clear that Garry loves wine, just as clear as his love of winemaking and sharing it with everybody. Garry’s journey is a terrific example of the power of deliberate decisions and living life intentionally.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, I

Christopher chats with Adrian Cropley, the president and founder of Cropley Communication. Adrian is the first guest on the show with an expertise in the corporate world, specifically in internal communication, change management and professional development. If you have no clue what any of that is, not to worry as we’ll cover it in the interview. More importantly, we focus on connecting value and meaning to his (and everyone else's) job, why Adrian fell in love with his profession, and some solid career advice, applicable to anyone. Adrian also discusses the importance of getting out of your comfort zone to keep learning in life. He shares some really good examples and also a few crazy stories - like when he ignored travel warnings to Algeria and ended up being shot at while there. No matter your career, Adrian’s advice is helpful, and he has a great view into managing a career. Take a listen and get a peek into an entirely different world with a wonderful guest.    See more about this episode and the show at

Justin Michael Williams is a musical artist and inspirational speaker, with a wonderful story that's literally happening as we record this episode. Justin is transforming his world from a social media marketing entrepreneur to following his life’s dream and passion of being a musician, and motivating and inspiring people with his work and his art. Tune in to hear the life changing question his grandmother asked him and stick around to the end for a special surprise by Justin!    See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text them right now!), and then give me an awesome rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. This helps others find the show too!

Melanie Celis (and Adrianna St. Clair) are co-owners of a hair salon. At first look, that doesn't seem so uncommon. But soon Melanie reveals how very uncommon both her business and approach are to the hairstylist world. Having felt empty and unfulfilled in her career trajectory, she decided to pivot and follow the vision she had as an 11-year-old girl in a shopping mall, to become a hairstylist. Much to the chagrin of an early non-supporter, Melanie opened her now blossoming business. She not only found value in the personal connections made, opportunities to help others grow, and discovery of “flow state” cutting and coloring hair, she also picked up many of the hard lessons and rewards that opening a new business brings. Melanie clearly loves what she does and uses it to help others and this how this former cognitive science major followed her passion for hair and people.   This episode was recorded under the previously used show name, Living Your Journey.   See more about this episode and the show at: My

Chris Gaida is best known publicly for the #1 Amazon bestselling book, Arm Candy: A Celebrity Escort’s Tales From The Red Carpet; but there is so much more about Chris. He has held various roles in the entertainment world as producer and development producer, applied to law school, and more. Chris shares why he wrote his book, responses to it, his path through the entertainment world, and the lessons he has learned paying his dues. But most importantly, he talks about his passion to learn and you’ll hear how curiosity plays the main role in his journey.    See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text them right now!), and then give me an awesome rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. This

Tina White, an independent event cake designer shares how she started and grew her business, Willow Tree Bakery. She also reveals how believing in herself was the key to success, and what things helped her stay creative and inspired. Tina also 'real talks' about a rough patch when she had to stop her business, and what she did to get it back.   See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE Instagram Twitter Facebook ChristopherSwan.info GET MORE STORIES, INSPIRATION, IDEAS, AND MY BIG STORY UPDATES Subscribe to Christopher’s newsletter: Be Inspired LOVE THE SHOW? Tell a friend (literally, go text them right now!), and then give me an awesome rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. This helps others find the show too!

You can have a creative life, on your terms. Just ask Tony Tharae. He made it happen. Tony's a filmmaker, storyteller, a creative powerhouse, dabbling in all sorts of media, from film to illustration to branding and beyond. He has a background in Fine Arts and Mechanical Engineering, and has created work for major companies like Yahoo!, The Walt Disney Company, Qualcomm, Allergan, Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, Condé Nast, and Sony—as well as independent filmmakers, musicians, and more. Tony shares his journey of film and storytelling with details about his leap from a steady brand job to focusing on his independent creative ventures. We discuss his recent projects including the film 2081, RIFT, and a graphic novel The Ninth Minute. Also, we have a great conversation about storytelling. Tony is doing what he loves. That includes raising his daughter as a single father.    See more about this episode and the show at: MyBigStory.show JOIN CHRISTOPHER’S ADVENTURE & SEE BEHIND-THE-SCENES PICS, FUN AND MORE I