CEI The Podcast

In this episode of the CEI Podcast, host Atlanta sits down with Amber Williams, a Quad Cities-based artist, to discuss her upcoming exhibition at Art on the Bend. Amber shares her artistic process, how she transforms ordinary security envelopes into stunning collage landscapes, and her journey as a working artist balancing creativity with a full-time job.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on finding artistic inspiration, marketing...

How does mindfulness influence creativity, storytelling, and personal growth? In this episode of CEI The Podcast, host Juan Vasquez sits down with poet, educator, and artist Aubrey Barnes to explore the power of being present in creative work and everyday life. They dive into how mindfulness shapes artistic expression, enhances productivity, and helps navigate the challenges of competition and ego in creative industries.

Topics Cov...

In this episode of CEI The Podcast, host Charlotte Blu sits down with Andre Kozowowski, concert pianist and owner of Sound Conservatory, and Jera Williams, producer at New Waves, for a deep dive into the changing landscape of the music industry.

 From the rise of algorithm-driven hits to the struggles of independent artists, we discuss: - Is today’s music built for longevity or just instant gratification? - Why are musicians underp...

Join muralist and gallery curator Atlanta Dawn as she welcomes Gabo—a comic book artist fresh from Chicago—to the Quad Cities creative scene. In this episode, they explore how “art jams” bring strangers together through shared sketchbooks and spontaneous collaboration, and why Gabo decided to focus on projects that speak to the heart. You’ll also hear how stable, everyday work fuels his passion for drawing, plus a behind-the-panels...

In this episode, we sit down with Aubs. and Mya for a candid conversation about the transformative power of creative collaboration. They share their personal journeys—highlighting how teaming up for projects like the Quad City Chalk Fest and drawing on mindfulness practices can open up new dimensions in art and personal growth. From building meaningful relationships to balancing roles and navigating the challenges of working togeth...

CEI The Podcast Episode 3 - Turning Creativity into a Sustainable Career

Hosts Charlotte Blu & Mister Aubs break down the realities of navigating the creative world—from finding gigs to building real connections and everything in between! 🎤✨

🔥 In this episode:

🎭 The art of performing & "putting on a mask"

📢 Hosting open mics: in-person vs. virtual

📈 Social media struggles & organic growth

💰 Finding grants & ...

In this episode of CEI The Podcast, hosts Juan Vasquez and CJ Parker dive into the deep connection between creativity, community, and culture. From the barbershop to the recording studio, they explore how local support plays a crucial role in an artist’s growth and success.

Topics Covered: The impact of community on artistic development Breaking down industry gatekeeping & fostering inclusivity How barbershops, studios, and loc...

Creative Empowerment Initiative dives into one of the most pivotal decisions an entrepreneur can make: choosing the right business partner. Inspired by Patrick Bet-David’s compelling take on business partnerships, this episode explores why finding the perfect partner is as complex—and as crucial—as choosing a life partner.

We break down how Bet-David reframes partnerships as a blend of strategy, psychology, and relationship-buildin...

In part 2, we explore the pivotal role of creative communities in the growth of artists and creatives. Our guests share their personal journeys of finding their tribes, the transformative power of collaboration, and the lessons learned from navigating professional hurdles like pricing and representation.

Highlights include:

• The energy and inspiration that comes from collaboration.
• Overcoming the fear of valuing your work appro...

Welcome to CEI The Podcast, where creativity takes center stage and inspiration knows no limits. In this lively, free-flowing conversation, we’re joined by Atlanta, Juan, CJ, and Charlotte—four artistic minds from different corners of the creative world who share stories, insights, and a genuine passion for the craft.

Listen in as they explore the spark behind their creative processes, from catching spontaneous melodies on a smartp...