Why does hard work sometimes fall short of delivering the results we expect? In this episode, we uncover the non-linear relationship between effort and success, challenging the idea that rewards are always proportional to the work we put in. Through self reflections, we discuss the frustration around fairness, the role of external validation, and the power of self-auditing to find your "fifth gear" without burning out. By asking tough questions about our motivations—why we create, what truly matters, and how to align effort with purpose—this conversation aims to inspire a more intentional, fulfilling approach to chasing your creative goals.

Expect to learn:

-Why success isn’t always proportional to effort
-How to spot diminishing returns in your work
-The importance of peeling back the layers of your "why"
-How external validation can derail your creative process and what to do instead
-Why fairness is an illusion and how accepting this can help you focus on you

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 35-150mm f/2.0-2.8 G2 lens with $200 USD & $300 CAD off and deals on many more lenses for your Sony E-mount, Nikon Z, and FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras by clicking www.tamron-americas.com or by visiting your local Tamron authorized dealer.

Our Links:

Check out our 2025 TPM Alaskan Photography Retreat itinerary and secure 1 of 2 spots left: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/2025-tpm-annual-retreat-alaska

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography

Support the show

In this episode we chat with Ryan Peters (@ryanpeterspgh) a.k.a "Peter's Pasta", a Pittsburgh-based chef and pasta enthusiast whose viral TikTok and Instagram videos have captivated millions. Ryan shares his inspiring story of transitioning from the demanding restaurant world to becoming a full-time content creator and pasta entrepreneur, all fuelled by a 64-day obsession with perfecting his craft. Discover how he blends creativity with tradition to make pasta fun and approachable and the bold steps he took to turn his passion into a thriving career. From working with major brands and professional sports teams to collaborating with internet sensations like Mr. Beast, Ryan reveals the lessons he's learned.

Expect to Learn:

- When to take a leap of faith and leave a stable job to pursue content creation
- The importance of consistency and storytelling to build a strong niche brand
- The challenges of balancing creativity with managing a growing business
- Insights into creating viral content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram
- Tips on recognizing opportunity and capitalizing on moments of momentum

Ryan's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/PetersPasta
Ryan's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@peterspasta
Ryan's Website: https://www.peterspastapgh.com/ryan
Ryan's Podcast: @kneadtoknow

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 35-150mm f/2.0-2.8 G2 lens with $200 USD & $300 CAD off and deals on many more lenses for your Sony E-mount, Nikon Z, and FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras by clicking www.tamron-americas.com or by visiting your local Tamron authorized dealer.

Our Links:

Check out our 2025 TPM Alaskan Photography Retreat itinerary and secure 1 of 2 spots left: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/2025-tpm-annual-retreat-alaska

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography

Support the show

Support the show

In this episode, we chat with Vaughn Ridley (@vaughnridley), NBA team photographer for the Toronto Raptors and Getty Images photographer, about his journey into sports photography and what it takes to capture the raw emotion and intensity of professional basketball. Vaughn shares his process for balancing instinct with preparation during fast-paced events. He reflects on memorable moments with the Raptors and operating in high-pressure environments. Vaughn also reveals how his ultra running pursuits have shaped his mental fortitude, offering invaluable insights for aspiring photographers and creatives in any field.

Expect to Learn:

- How to harness resilience when making significant career shifts
- Strategies for balancing creativity and consistency in high-pressure situations
- How building strong professional relationships opens doors to new opportunities
- How setbacks can lead to personal and professional growth
- Techniques for managing lighting and equipment in tough settings

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can use the code TPM2025 at checkout for 15% off!
https://www.whitewall.com/


Our Links:

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show