[EP21] The Power Of Storytelling And Following Your Passion | Jason Thompson

[[EP21] The Power Of Storytelling And Following Your Passion | Jason Thompson

In this episode I’m joined by Jason Thompson. With over 25 years of television, video gaming, mobile apps, book publishing and advertising experience, Jason is obsessed with innovating new ways of creating amazing narratives that are absurdly memorable and effective.

He has worked as a writer, story artist, animation director, animator and designer on productions for Disney Jr., Disney Interactive, Warner Brothers, CBC, Teletoon, National Geographic Kids and the Cartoon Network.

Our conversation dove into what it’s like to be a Dad in today’s connected world, the importance of being resilient when you are finding (and following) your passions and how NFTs are impacting the world of art (and artists).

Episode Topics

(Click Links Below To Watch In Video)

6:39 | Who is Jason Thompson and why did he start The Art of Dad
11:54 | How did Jason become an artist after going to Queen’s business school
15:30 | The turning point in France where Jason realized that he needed to follow his passion
18:48 | How do you pivot to follow your passion when you are so far down another path
25:30 | Why it’s important to let our kids curiously explore the world and find their own path
31:53 | How NFT’s are impacting the art world and the opportunities it is creating for artists
39:02 | Who is the ONE person/mentor that has been most influential in your life (all time)
41:38 | Who is the ONE person/mentor that is the most influential in your life (right now)
43:42 | What is the ONE philanthropic cause that means the most to you and why?
45:52 | What is the ONE thing you are most grateful for in your life right now?
46:38 | What is the ONE thing that you are most curious about right now and wanting to explore more in your life?
47:25 | What is the ONE thing that scares you right now that you know you must meet with bravery?
51:19 | Where can people find out more about you and connect with you online?

Episode Quotes

“The Art of Dad really started when my daughter was 3 years old. It became an outlet of those amazing (and upsetting) moments of being a Dad. When I started taking my sketchbook to swimming lessons and gymnastics, people kept peeking over my shoulder to take a look and told me I should share them with the world” – Jason Thompson

“I didn’t recognize that I could earn a living as an artist/illustrator until I was almost 30. It was always a nice creative outlet for me, but I originally wanted to become a CEO that would lead and inspire people in a global organization” – Jason Thompson

“I went into advertising as a suit. After a year in that role I realized it wasn’t for me. So, I approached the president of the firm and said I’d like to work in the creative department and he told me – suits don’t become creatives. So, I quit, started my journey in the animation game and have now been doing it for 25 years” – Jason Thompson

“In the film/movie business, if you want to be a producer, the best way to start down that path is to go get a business card and put – producer” on it – and then be that” – Trevor Turnbull

“I think so much of where I am right now is having the attitude – ya I can do that. You have to have the belief in yourself and not be afraid to make a change or make mistakes as you figure out what it is you want to do” – Jason Thompson

“I would give my kids (and your kids) the same advice. The world is moving quickly and changing faster than ever before and not being afraid of change and not being afraid of trying new things is the greatest gifts our kids could have” – Jason Thompson

“The place that I parent from is – do what makes you happy. We enrolled our kids in everything from music to sports to art and leaned into whatever lit them up and made them happy” – Jason Thompson

“As parents, I think, part of our responsibility is to nurture and grow confident, independent, honest & courageous people. And when we do, and they leave we say – wait a minute I’m not ready for you to leave!” – Jason Thompson