Thank you for this video! I'm a carver from eastern Wisconsin. I've been struggling to get motivated for the past month. I think I got burned out after Christmas. It feels comforting to know I'm not alone in having ups and downs. I usually sell at shows, so the week before a show, I turn it up to 11 and knock out a bunch of what I call "boring quick carves". But then I "hit the wall" and never get to the "fun stuff" again. I will keep digging but in the mean time, guys like you Ryan make us feel not only inspired, but give me the strength to overcome my little bumps. Thank you again!

Good stuff Jeff! You both touched on the struggles of most creatives in the pursuit of making it full time. One thing I do 1-3 times a year to reset is take a short trip away from the studio. Most of the time it’s unrelated to carving but somehow I come back with a great sense of creativity and drive to work on the next piece .. I will catch myself complaining and have to remind myself how blessed I really am… good you n Ryan for bringing it to light … take care brother Jeff May

Wow. This "combined" video resonates. Im retired after 40+ years in an 8.5 B marketplace. I was in the top 1% of my field and loved being a leader. Even tho I've been an artist all of those years, it was a tragedy that created a need for "art as therapy." I just disappeared from that world altogether. Not waiting for the proverbial "knock," I opened the carving door and drug it in. It's the right place for me. In my former life, I can't remember ever feeling any of the points yall covered....but i def feel them now. Im thanking the carving goddess for people like yall. I have taken your wisdom to heart and like a light switch... will begin 100% implementation for a thriving career. ❤

Thank you Jeff for doing this 🙏.

Hi Jeff! I watch both of you on you tube, and seen this video, on the tail end of almost a years worth of carvers block after loosing my number one fan/supporter/best friend, my Mom" I'm so blessed to have found Ryan's and your videos. You're real, you're human, and understanding, vulnerable, and your honesty is truly, "something you see, and I saw" I'm so greatful for you both, AND your beautiful assistant, for all that you give. We are always learning, and I can't tell you enough, how much I appreciate you keeping it real! And the constant reminder, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey. I hope someday, to meet you all. ❤

I watched Ryan's video when it came out. You review and insightful comments add to its value. It is true that creativity is both a blessing and a curse. Thanks for sharing ❤❤❤

That was great!! Thank you so very much, I’m going through a bad spell and being an older man. It’s hard to keep focused lately. It been a long time for me to say this. I’m scared shitless lol. Again I’m rambling. Thank you.

It was great vid from cooker that hit on so many levels. One thing that stood out from your review was that you don't think about carving outside of the mojo dojo.

thanks for the real deal videos bud!....winter time is a good time to discuss this, it can be hard to be motivated when it's 0 degrees and everything is covered in snow and it gets dark at 4:30 haha...but spring is near! kinda haha