We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin Shiels and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Justin, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When you scroll on any social media feed there’s so much darkness: depressing news updates, tragic videos, and today’s internet controversy.

I started SoCurious because our world needs a little more joy… a little more hope. Every week I send out a newsletter that feels like a warm hug from a friend. It’s an inspirational pep talk and wellness tips to help you live a happier, healthier life.

There’s good and bad in the world and I hope to be a part of spreading light in these overwhelming times.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Being a creative person is hard. You have to go to battle with the blank page every single day.

I’m proud to say that I’m committed to making creative work despite this challenge.

Every morning I wake up at 6:00am. I journal, I read, and then I make something.

Whether it’s writing, illustration, or creating videos, I make sure to make time to share my message with the world. I’ve done public creation for years now, and the funny thing is that it doesn’t get easier.

But letting go of the outcome of your creativity and just sharing it is the first step in building a community.

My hope is that the work that I do with SoCurious ignites breakthroughs for people. I hope it encourages them to take calculated risks. I hope that it challenges them to live more authentically every single day.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Moving to Austin has been a whirlwind. I love the city and it’s vibrant culture. My itinerary of things to do will include:

Grabbing a coffee at Halcyon on 4th street
Visiting the Blanton Museum to peruse art
Eating lunch at Canje on East 6th
And topping it off with a cocktail at Whisler’s (also on East 6th)

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My biggest shout out will always go to the dreamers, the creators, and the occasional overthinkers. Anyone that’s working to spread joy, educate, or entertain.

One person I love watching on Youtube is Evelyn from the Internets. https://www.youtube.com/c/Evelynfromtheinternets

This writer and comedian is a bright ball of joy in the world and I’m so happy to engage with her content.

Website: http://socurious.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinmadethat/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-shiels/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/justinmadethat

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socurious.co

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBm_cu8295-5fwMESn4akkA

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