The MOOD Podcast

Matt Jacob

In The MOOD Podcast, Matt Jacob, renowned cultural portrait photographer, dives deep into the world of photography and the visual arts, with guests from all around the creative industry, across all parts of the globe, sharing inspiring stories and experiences that will leave you wanting more. With years of experience and a passion for storytelling, Matt has become a master of capturing lesser-told human stories through his photography, and teams up with other special artists from around the world to showcase insights, experiences and opinions within the diverse and sometimes controversial photography world.
You can watch these podcasts on his Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay.
You can also follow Matt's work on his Instagram @mattyj_ay and his website: https://mattjacobphotography.com.

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Top 10 The MOOD Podcast Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The MOOD Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The MOOD Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The MOOD Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

From Portraits to Podcasts: The Inspiring Story of Taya Iv, E023

The MOOD Podcast

10/18/23 • 89 min

In our latest episode, I had the pleasure of hosting the multi-talented Taya Iv. Best known for her striking self-portraits, Taya's expertise reaches beyond the lens, touching the realms of podcasting and writing. This episode is exploration into her journey - from the early days on social media to becoming an influential figure in the photography industry and a valued ambassador of 500px.
Throughout our chat, Taya emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals and staying motivated, and she shares her experiences with the 52-week project and the Photographycourse.net community. We also delved into the power of art and photography in challenging preconceived notions and sparking constructive conversations.
In the latter part of our conversation, Taya opened up about her podcasting journey - the highs, the lows, and the learnings. We talked about the art of giving and receiving feedback, the importance of developing a unique photographic style, and how she creates emotional portraits. Additionally, we explored the impact of artificial intelligence on photography and the tools she utilizes in her work. Whether you're a budding photographer, an avid podcast listener, or simply someone intrigued by the intersections of art and technology, this episode offers a wealth of insights that promise to both educate and inspire.
Find Taya’s wonderful work on some of her platforms below:
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/tayaiv/
500px: https://tayaiv.500px.photography/
Photographycourse.net: https://photographycourse.net/

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Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.
YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay
Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn
My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter
Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com
Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay
yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

From Yak Magazine to Capturing Bali Through Photography with Sophie Digby, E022

The MOOD Podcast

10/11/23 • 90 min

Join me on a captivating journey with Sophie Digby, co-founder of the Yak Magazine, as we delve deep into the heart of Indonesian culture. Get ready to immerse yourself in rich discussions about the influence of the Majapahit Kingdom on Balinese wood and stone carving, the powerful energy of Bali, and the animistic roots of Hindu Dharma.
Sophie has an intriguing story to share, peppered with her personal experiences and observations from decades of living in Bali and working for the Japan Times. Together, we dissect the impact of the Yak Magazine on Bali's luxury lifestyle and the shift it brought about in traditional Balinese culture. Despite the challenges brought on by the first Bali bombing and the COVID-19 pandemic, Sophie's resilience and determination are truly inspiring.
But that's not all; I also venture into Sophie's transition to a new publishing role and her fascination with travel photography. From her favourite spots to her preferred photography styles, Sophie's insights are a goldmine for aspiring photographers worldwide. We wrap up our conversation by discussing the importance of cultural respect and understanding when visiting new countries, and the power of connecting people with the right resources to create lasting impact. Don't miss this enlightening episode with Sophie Digby!

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Capturing Cultures, Healing Minds: Sebastian Belaustegui, EO75

The MOOD Podcast

12/31/24 • 103 min

What does it mean to preserve a culture through photography in a world that is constantly changing? Sebastián Belaustegui, widely known as 'Suki', is a cultural photographer whose work spans over 3 decades, documenting the stories, traditions, and rituals of indigenous communities across Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
Through his portraits and projects like Guardians of Time, Suki has preserved cultural heritage while fostering empathy and understanding. His personal journey through profound mental health challenges has further shaped his life and work, inspiring resilience and authenticity in his art.
Highlights of my conversation with him:

Experiences with severe mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and recoveries from it.
The ethics of documenting indigenous communities and how to approach subjects with respect.
How to use photography to elevate the voices of underrepresented cultures and educate others.
The balance between raising awareness of indigenous populations and protecting them from overexposure.
Why the experience of creating a photograph is often more meaningful than the final image.
Teaching mindfulness, respect, and ethics in photography.
Building relationships with subjects before taking photographs.
Advice for photographers on slowing down, observing, and embracing the process over competition.

Find Suki's work on his channels:
Website: www.sebastian-suki-belaustegui.com
Instagram: @photosooky
Thank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.
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Creating Through the Struggle: Dario Viegas, EO73

The MOOD Podcast

12/10/24 • 72 min

What keeps a creative person going despite setbacks?
Dario Viegas is a photographer and filmmaker who is celebrated for his minimalist style and keen eye for composition, as well as his ability to connect art with storytelling. From a challenging upbringing in Portugal to then living in various places around the world, Dario discovered his passion for photography through a life-altering journey whilst traveling the world, where in each destination he kept refining his craft and building his portfolio. As he opens up about the pressures of viral success in my conversation with him, Dario underscores the importance of staying true to one's passions against fleeting trends.
In this conversation:

How Dario's journey into creativity began.
The impact of his upbringing and early struggles on his artistic perspective.
His breakthrough moment with photography during his time traveling the world.
The pivotal role of social media in building his career and lessons learned about trends and authenticity.
The importance of curating work and finding one’s unique style in photography.
Insights into the evolving relationship between photography and videography in his career.
Advice for beginners on practicing, failing, and growing through repetition.
Dario’s future aspirations, including his plans for storytelling through video.

Find Dario Veigas' work on his channels:
Website: www.darioexplore.com
Instagram: @dario.explore
You Tube: @dario.explore
Thank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.
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How to create a brand that connects, resonates and sells as an artist - Tom Spark, E049

The MOOD Podcast

05/28/24 • 73 min

In this episode I spoke with brand expert Tom Spark, about how we create successful brands as photographers that propel our artwork forward and drive authentic, but popular communication.
Together, we talked a lot about the web of content creation and online representation—how to strike the right notes of enthusiasm, authenticity and clarity, and why your 'divine spark' might just be the one thing that sets you apart from the others.
Other topics of value that we discussed, include:

value propositioning
T-shaped personal branding
personal interests vs. professional needs
connecting your quirks with success
mental health as a digital creator
communicating with integrity and purpose.

Listen to this episode for some great tips and tricks when thinking about your brand as a creative - a subject that often gets overlooked but is one of the most important things to nail if you want to be successful in your creative journey.
Find Tom's info here:
Instagram: @tomspark_
Website: https://hoo.be/tomspark
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Navigating Creation in the Content Culture as a Filmmaker - Harry Pope, E041

The MOOD Podcast

03/26/24 • 74 min

In this episode of The MOOD Podcast, I talk with Harry Pope, shedding light on the life of a young filmmaker and the challenges of balancing commercial projects with personal fulfillment.
Harry's transition from photography to video has been far from ordinary, a journey marked by the pursuit of authenticity in an ever-changing industry.
I gained insights into his emotional terrain of trying to pursue - persistently - one's passion, the pain driven by ambition, and the resilience required to carve out one's own path. Harry's reflections on the importance of taking a step back, recharging, and focusing on what truly matters serve as a poignant reminder of the delicate equilibrium we all strive to achieve in the digital era.
Always a pleasure to talk to my friend Harry, I hope you enjoy his company as much as I do.
Find Harry's incredible work across his socials:
Instagram: @harrypope
TikTok: @harrypopemedia
YouTube: @harry_Pope
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Capturing the Horizon: The Digital Odyssey of Demas Rusli, Architect-Turned-Photographer, E031

The MOOD Podcast

01/09/24 • 68 min

Demas Rusli is a photographer and designer whose architectural roots have deeply influenced his eye-catching approach to urban and aerial photography. From the hustle of cityscapes to the serene expanse of the skies, Demas details his seamless transition from architecture to content creation, and the role his education has played in shaping his distinctive visual narratives.
I sat down to chat with him about his journey, and lessons that he has learned along the way. We dissect his strategies that led to a massive following on TikTok and Instagram, and the confidence that magnetized global brands like Adidas to his doorstep, all without sending a single pitch email. We delve into the philosophical debates surrounding photo editing and confront the purists who question its legitimacy. Demas offers his perspective on the infusion of AI into photography, and we also unravel the practicalities of a photographer's life, managing freelance gigs, and navigating the burgeoning world of NFTs. Listeners will gain an inside look at the life of a Lightroom Ambassador and the avenues for monetizing one's passion in today's digital landscape.
Photography is an art that constantly evolves, and Demas is at the forefront, challenging the status quo. But, his life as a creative is not without its trials. We candidly discuss how Demas and contemporaries maneuver through the minefield of negative feedback and gatekeeping within online communities. Find out how engaging in sports acts as a catalyst for Demas's creative thinking, offering a necessary respite to rejuvenate his artistic spirit. His journey is a blueprint for maintaining authenticity in one's work, the impact of genuine engagement on social media, and the pursuit of success on one's own terms.
Demas is an extremely humble and pleasant man to talk with, and I truly appreciate his sincerity and authenticity he brings to the conversation. Please follow his work at the below links....
Instagram: @demas
Website: https://www.demasrusli.com

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How to Find Find Fulfillment: A Creative's Guide to Clarity, Resilience, and Creating Happiness, E029

The MOOD Podcast

12/24/23 • 112 min

Life's crossroads can be perplexing, especially when pitted against the allure of quick success, burnout and creative blocks, versus lasting impact.
A disclaimer right from the start; this isn’t a photography-specific conversation. But I do hope it is inspiring and educational - it’s certainly a discussion that I think can be applied to almost every human on the planet, whether you’re a creative or not.
Mikele Kuhar is a men's clarity coach and business mentor, and I have worked one-on-one with him for a while. During this conversation, we embark on a profound exploration as we unravel the threads of personal growth and resilience in the face of burnout and other challenges we all face in the work and personal life arenas. We talked about a few 'turning points' that reshaped Mikele's understanding of purpose and success beyond the glare of financial metrics, as well as the intricate dance of managing expectations, balancing career ambitions with personal life, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with the curated reality of social media.
We also traverse Mikele's own transformative journey from an aspiring entrepreneur to a beacon of guidance for men navigating the often stormy seas of life and work. We discuss how his coaching venture, 'The Broject,' evolved from a men's accessories line into a vital platform for authentic conversations about self-care, community support, and the quest for happiness.
Finally, we strip away the layers of societal norms to examine the deeper aspects of emotional wellbeing. From the power of language in shaping our emotional experiences to the art of mindful photography, we touch upon various facets of living a life aligned with one's true desires. Whether you find yourself in the hustle of city life or the serene backdrop of Bali, this episode is an invitation to redefine success.
For this episode, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas - that you so much for listening and supporting The MOOD Podcast. It is such a privilege to make these episodes and if even a small piece of them resonate just with 1% of your soul, I am the luckiest man alive.
For all of you out there who might be having a tough Christmas, a lonely time, or just a difficult few days and weeks, I want to say I send you my heartfelt wishes - I’ve had my own share of difficult festive periods and my heart goes out to you. I sincerely hope this episode might bring you some comfort in those difficult times.

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From Monochrome Visions to Vibrant Ventures: The Odyssey of a Colourblind Photographer, E027

The MOOD Podcast

12/13/23 • 86 min

I'm excited to release this special episode celebrating the launch of my new brand 'Yoreh'. Together with my business partner, and this episode's guest, Fin Matson, we introduce the new label and invite you to join our discussion on the art of intention and embracing imperfection in art generally. With yoreh, you'll discover the intriguing connection between art, specialty coffee, jewellery and community, all under our roof of the innovative 'House of Yoreh'.
We of course did talk a lot about photography and Fin's journey throughout 2023 since we last spoke earlier in the year. He sheds light on his experience in the monochromatic realm and how it impacts his work. We also discussed the stress of balancing personal and commercial projects and the challenges of capturing the perfect shot under difficult lighting conditions, and working with friends on professional shoots. We've got first-hand experiences to share!
We wrapped up with a critical look at the current photography styles and standards in the digital age. We discuss some thought-provoking insights on the influence of social media and AI on the industry as well as Fin's recent transition from photography to entrepreneurship. Discover his experiences and learnings as he shares his journey of establishing our own jewellery brand, Yoreh.
Check out the links and description below for Yoreh and a discount code for your first purchase(s) with the label.
Enjoy!

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Change the Way you See: Art Wolfe, EO74

The MOOD Podcast

12/24/24 • 59 min

“My goal is nothing less than to change the way you see.” This powerful declaration from Art Wolfe, a world-renowned photographer, perfectly encapsulates his life’s mission of reshaping perspectives through the lens of photography.
Known for his breathtaking images of nature, wildlife, and diverse cultures, he has published over 100 books, hosted the Emmy-nominated TV series Travels to the Edge, and led numerous photography workshops across the globe. Art’s work is deeply rooted in conservation, blending his artistic vision with a commitment to preserving the planet.

Our conversation covered:

Art Wolfe’s artistic journey, from painting to photography.
How abstract expressionism influences his photography workshops.
Insights into his Emmy-nominated series Travels to the Edge and its impact on his career.
Challenges of navigating cultural sensitivities when leading workshops and tours.
The importance of finding beauty in unexpected places and developing a unique creative voice.
Why constant reinvention is crucial for growth as an artist.
The role of photography in global conservation efforts.
Lessons learned from decades of exploration, including hilarious mistakes like photographing without film.

Find Art Wolfe's work on his channels:
Website: www.artwolfe.com
Instagram: @artwolfe
You Tube: @artaolfephoto
Thank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.
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FAQ

How many episodes does The MOOD Podcast have?

The MOOD Podcast currently has 87 episodes available.

What topics does The MOOD Podcast cover?

The podcast is about Photography, Art, Visual Arts, Content Creator, Podcasts, Self-Improvement, Education and Arts.

What is the most popular episode on The MOOD Podcast?

The episode title 'How to Transform and Heal through Creativity - Matt Costello, E045' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on The MOOD Podcast?

The average episode length on The MOOD Podcast is 72 minutes.

How often are episodes of The MOOD Podcast released?

Episodes of The MOOD Podcast are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of The MOOD Podcast?

The first episode of The MOOD Podcast was released on Mar 13, 2023.

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The MOOD Podcast

Matt Jacob

Top 10 The MOOD Podcast Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does The MOOD Podcast have?

What topics does The MOOD Podcast cover?

What is the most popular episode on The MOOD Podcast?

What is the average episode length on The MOOD Podcast?

How often are episodes of The MOOD Podcast released?

When was the first episode of The MOOD Podcast?

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