In this soul-stirring episode of theArtist Recovery Podcast, Rich Wright reconnects with visionary artist and former US Marine Peter Bragino, more than a decade after their last face-to-face meeting. What unfolds is not just an interview—it’s a powerful story of resilience, creativity, leadership, overcoming addiction and spiritual discovery.

👉 Watch now if you're ready to be inspired by the evolution of an artist who blends discipline, emotion, and intuition into every brushstroke.

🌀 WHO IS PETER BRAGINO?Mixed-media visual artist & creative directorUS Marine Corps veteran turned air traffic controllerOvercoming Addiction with Plant MedicineIndigenous medicine community participantAdvocate for self-discovery and inner healing✨ TOP VIRAL MOMENTS YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS:

00:07:45 – The subway epiphany that revealed Peter was destined to be an artist

00:13:40 – Why all the girls in junior high had their eyes on Bragino 👀

00:16:17 – How playing catcher in baseball shaped his leadership style for life

00:33:12 – Airbrushing Ninja Turtles for $1 a shirt: Peter’s first taste of entrepreneurial art

00:35:33 – “You’re going to be a Marine”: The lightning-bolt moment that changed everything

00:39:04 – Becoming the platoon guide in bootcamp and leading 100+ Marines

00:43:36 – Peter’s insights into how creativity and structure can coexist

🔍 KEY THEMES COVERED:~ How childhood sports and art intertwined to shape his worldview~ What military discipline taught him about structure, confidence, and identity~ The spiritual journey behind his vibrant, Earth-rooted artwork~ The struggle between practical life paths and creative calling~ Why self-discovery is essential in both life and art

💡 Whether you're an artist, a veteran, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone navigating life’s transitions—Peter’s story will move you, challenge you, and inspire you to follow your inner voice.

🛠️ CREATIVE INSIGHT: Peter dives into how being trained by mentor Jeff Fisher helped him unlock authentic creativity and break free from conventional thinking. A must-watch for any creative struggling to find their own style!

Connect with Peter: https://www.bragino.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bragino/

Connect with Rich: https://www.theartistrecovery.com

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

Linkedin: Https://www.linkedin.com/in/richwrightunltd

🗣️ TALK TO US!Which part of Peter’s journey resonated with you the most? Drop a comment

👇Have questions for Peter? Ask away—he reads the comments!

Don’t forget to like 👍 and subscribe 🔔 so you never miss an episode that elevates your creativity and purpose.

📌 #PeterBragino #ArtistRecoveryPodcast #CreativeJourney #VeteranToArtist #SpiritualArt #IndigenousWisdom #CreativeLeadership #MixedMediaArtist #ArtHeals #SelfDiscovery #addictionrecovery #addiction #overcomingaddiction

What happens when a quiet, sensitive kid grows up to disrupt industries and redefine what success really means? This week’s episode of Artist Recovery Podcast features the wildly original Lisa Borden—a reiki master, urban organic farmer, ethical entrepreneur, founder of Borden Communications, and creator of the Wellness Intelligence Collective.🔥 In this raw and real interview, Lisa gets deeply personal about:✨ Growing up misunderstood in conventional schools✨ Being told she was “stupid” by teachers—and how she turned that trauma into empowerment✨ Why perfectionism nearly crushed her, and how she found freedom through imperfection✨ Creating her first business at age 22 using just the Yellow Pages and her intuition✨ Raising bold, free-thinking kids who thrive outside the “system”✨ The powerful role summer camp and her grandfather played in shaping her✨ Why being “weird” is actually your superpower📌 Standout Moments You Don’t Want to Miss:00:04:00 — Lisa opens up about her roots in Toronto and what life was like as a kid00:10:00 — The trauma of being mislabeled in school and its lasting effects00:15:00 — “I’m not for everyone”: Lisa’s mantra on embracing your weird

00:30:00 — Lisa shares a bold parenting move: encouraging her son to drop out of university00:50:00 — How a summer camp for “misfits” saved her life01:00:00 — The moment Lisa realized she was “unemployable” and decided to forge her own path💡 Why This Conversation Matters:If you’re a creative, a parent, or someone who’s ever felt like you didn’t fit the mold—you need this episode. Lisa doesn’t hold back. She talks about real pain, real growth, and how she’s turned her “different” into something deeply impactful.👥 About Lisa Borden:

Lisa is the founder of Borden Communications, a values-based consulting firm that has helped businesses align their ethics with their impact since 1994. She’s also the creator of The Wellness Intelligence Collective, a thriving virtual community that fuses business, wellness, and conscious living. She’s authored 8 books and is a true pioneer in ethical entrepreneurship and holistic living.Connect with Lisa:https://www.bordencom.comhttps://www.thewellnessintelligencecollective.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaborden/Connect with Rich: https://theartistrecovery.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richwrightunltd🔔 SUBSCRIBE to Artist Recovery Podcast for more vulnerable, inspiring conversations with creatives, misfits, and change-makers.💬 TELL US BELOW: What part of Lisa’s story resonated with you most? Have you ever felt like you didn’t fit in?👍 Like this video if you’re into authenticity over perfection📢 Share with someone who needs to be reminded that their “weird” is worthy🧠 #Creatives #AuthenticLiving #WellnessIntelligence #EntrepreneurLife #PodcastHighlights #LisaBorden #CreativeJourney #NoMorePerfectionism #EthicalBusiness #ArtistRecovery #ArtistRecoveryPodcast

In this unforgettable episode of the Artist Recovery Podcast, host Rich Wright sits down with John Rios, a self-taught creative powerhouse whose art has graced the stages of rock legends like KISS, Motley Crue, Ted Nugent, Kid Rock, Eminem, Uncle Kracker and Alice Cooper. But this isn’t just a story about fame and paintbrushes—it’s about resilience, healing, and rediscovery through art.🎤 WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH THIS INTERVIEW:This episode isn’t just for artists—it’s for anyone chasing a dream, healing from trauma, or looking for inspiration to keep going when the odds are stacked high. John’s authenticity and powerful storytelling will leave you thinking, laughing, and possibly crying. Whether you’re a creative, a veteran, or just someone seeking a deeper purpose, this one is for you.👨‍🎨 WHO IS JOHN RIOS?From a kid doodling in rural Michigan to a Marine Corps veteran turned internationally recognized illustrator, John's journey is a testament to the power of belief, survival, and transformation. With no formal training, he rose through sheer willpower and raw talent—proving that your background doesn’t define your future.🧠💥 MUST-WATCH MOMENTS:[03:00] John's gritty small-town beginnings and his first spark of artistic passion.[04:20] “I just knew I was an artist.” — John shares his early intuition and unshakable belief in his creative calling.[10:50] The profound concept of creativity as a gift of receiving—this will challenge how you define art forever.[13:00] Heartbreaking: John opens up about losing his mother at age 15 and how it shaped his life.[22:14] Drafted into the Marines by his dad?! The wild story of how John unexpectedly enlisted and faced the realities of war.[31:00] The emotional toll of service in Lebanon—and how PTSD reshaped his worldview and personal life.[40:00] “People can’t buy what they don’t know exists.” — John’s game-changing advice for artists trying to get noticed.[54:30] How a random lunch break and a bold move led him to a 10-year collaboration with Ted Nugent.[1:02:00+] The priceless lessons on self-belief, persistence, and being your own advocate in an unpredictable creative industry.🧠 TOPICS COVERED:Self-taught artistry & impostor syndromeGrieving, growing, and gritMilitary mental health and PTSDHow trauma influences creativityNetworking like a pro (even with no formal resume!)Overcoming rejection and proving the doubters wrongBusiness wisdom from a commercial art legend💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION:Which part of John’s story hit you hardest? Drop a comment below to let us know 👇🔥 LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE 🔔Don’t miss future episodes of Artist Recovery Podcast where we highlight the most powerful stories of transformation, hustle, and healing through art.Connect with John: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rios-6527664/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_rios_designs/Connect with Rich: https://www.theartistrecovery.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richwrightunltd #ArtistRecoveryPodcast #JohnRios #VeteranArtist #ArtTherapy #CreativeHealing #DetroitArtist #KISS #TedNugent #Eminem #MotleyCrue #MarineVeteran #SelfTaughtArtist #PTSDRecovery #RockNRollArt #CreativeJourney #PodcastHighlights #ViralPodcastMoments #UncleKracker #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthawarenessmonth

🌿 In this unforgettable episode, we sit down with Claire O’Connor — intuitive essence midwife, brand stylist, and founder of Wellness Web Designers — to uncover a life journey filled with resilience, creativity, and spiritual reclamation. This is not your typical design or entrepreneurship story.✨ Claire takes us deep into her early life in suburban New Jersey, painting a raw portrait of growing up in a household marked by intergenerational trauma, addiction, and religious dogma. From being a silent, withdrawn child in Catholic school to discovering salvation in art, books, and imagination, Claire's story is as powerful as it is relatable.📌 Top Moments You Don’t Want to Miss:00:02:21 — The brutally honest look into Claire’s childhood surrounded by Irish and Polish alcoholism00:10:14 — Her mother’s confession: “I married your father because he was tall and had a job”00:18:00 — Drawing animals as an escape: The origin of Claire’s creative spirit00:23:11 — Wanting to become a cloistered nun to escape trauma00:41:58 — The radical shift: Choosing public high school over religious seclusion00:53:00 — Becoming the first in her family to graduate college and finding her tribe in a nature-based liberal arts school01:10:00 — Studying under Native American elders and embracing environmental spirituality💥 Claire drops so many mic-drop moments of self-discovery, including how she reframed her trauma through psychology, and how she found voice, power, and healing through nature, design, and creativity. Her blend of holistic human development with stunning design work makes her a true pioneer for women entrepreneurs in the wellness space.👁️‍🗨️ Why Watch This Episode?If you've ever felt like the black sheep, if you’ve battled self-doubt, or if you’ve questioned your place in rigid systems — this conversation will validate your journey. Claire’s story shows how creative intuition and spiritual alignment can transform pain into purpose.🎯 Keywords for Search Visibility:Claire O’Connor podcast, Wellness Web Designers, holistic branding, trauma healing journey, Catholic childhood trauma, intergenerational trauma, intuitive design, women entrepreneurs podcast, personal growth interview, spiritual healing, environmental psychology, creative entrepreneurship🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and COMMENT your biggest takeaway. What part of Claire’s story hit you the hardest? Share your thoughts below! 👇📲 Follow Claire on Instagram: @wellnesswebdesignersLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tclaireoconnor/💼 Visit: wellnesswebdesigners.comConnect with Rich: https://www.theartistrecovery.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richwrightunltd/

🔥 What does it take to grow a brand from scratch and evolve through chaos? In this gripping episode of Artist Recovery Podcast we sit down with Gareth Robertson, the powerhouse behind GR-aphic Studio (formerly Design Pit). From his kitchen table to leading a full-fledged creative agency, Gareth shares the unfiltered truth about building a business in the ever-evolving world of branding and digital marketing.🎧 Watch Now if You’re Ready to Be Inspired by Real Grit, Big Ideas, and a Lot of Heart.👀 IN THIS EPISODE:💡 How Gareth went from a one-man design studio to running a multi-service creative agency.📘 The story behind his book "Decade: A Creative Journey in Business" — a raw look at reinvention, growth, and failure.🧠 Lessons in branding, content creation, and thriving in the digital age.😷 Pivoting during the pandemic: restructuring, relocating, and still coming out stronger.🌍 Going eCommerce with Print Pit — a bold leap that expanded his creative reach.❤️ His powerful fundraising mission for Parkinson’s UK, raising over £15,000.🏆 From startup hustle to winning “Best Creative Business” — what it really takes.💥 VIRAL MOMENTS TO LOOK OUT FOR:“I had to learn how to sell creativity in a world that didn’t understand its value yet.” 🎯Gareth on nearly giving it all up — and what pulled him back. 😮His advice to anyone facing burnout: “Pause. Rethink. Reinvent.” 🔄The hilarious story behind his first big client win. 😂📈 WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH: If you’re a designer, entrepreneur, or just someone chasing a dream, Gareth’s story is packed with real-world lessons, branding gold, and emotional insight. His resilience, innovation, and honesty will leave you inspired — and maybe even spark your next big idea.🧠 WHO IS GARETH ROBERTSON?Founder & Creative Director of GR-aphic Studio (est. 2012)Author of Decade: A Creative Journey in BusinessWinner of multiple business awards including Best Creative BusinessCreator of the Print Pit eCommerce platformPassionate advocate for Parkinson’s UK✨ DON’T FORGET TO: 👍 Like this video if Gareth’s journey fired you up💬 Drop a comment: What was your favorite quote or takeaway?🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss an inspiring episode📲 Share this with a fellow creative or entrepreneur who needs a push today#GarethRobertson #CreativeAgency #EntrepreneurStory #BrandingTips #DesignPit #GRaphicStudio #BusinessJourney #ARPod #PodcastInterview #StartupStory #CreativeBusiness #eCommerceDesign #ParkinsonsUK #Inspiration #digitalmarketing Connect with Gareth Robertson: https://gr-aphic.uk/Gareth on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garethrobertson/Connect with Rich: https://www.theartistrecovery.com

🔥 WATCH THIS if you’ve ever felt stuck, doubted your path, or needed that one sign to keep going.In this raw and inspiring episode of the Artist Recovery Podcast, Rich Wright sits down with John McBride — Director of Product Design at Bestway Global Holdings, former Crayola designer, Matchbox/Hot Wheels mastermind, Designer at the Franklin Mint and founder of Midnight Octane. He opens up like never before.

📌 Timestamps & Highlights:

00:00 - Intro & John's killer design resume

02:30 - Discovering creativity in childhood

05:10 - How cars + crayons shaped a future

10:00 - His Garfield obsession & early schoolyard “fame”

14:00 - From struggling in algebra to mastering design thinking

17:40 - The unexpected flyer that changed his life

21:00 - Grappling with depression, faith, and nearly giving up

31:00 - The moment that pulled him off the edge

36:00 - Surviving on ramen while making it in art school

41:00 - Building futuristic car models with airbrush and grit

48:00 - Why he chose design over comic books

54:00 - Jealous coworkers, chalkboard cartoons, and Wegmans wisdom

✨ Why You Should Watch:Whether you're a young designer, seasoned creative, or just someone who needs a reminder that you're not alone in the grind — this episode is for you. Hit play, get inspired, and keep creating.This isn’t just an origin story. It’s a creative survival guide — loaded with wisdom for aspiring artists, designers, and anyone chasing dreams through adversity. John drops unfiltered gems on:Using creativity as communication

🔊The power of faith and resilience

🙏Turning artistic passion into a paycheck

💼What it takes to break into industrial design

💡Why sometimes being “the weird art kid” is your superpower 🦸‍♂️

🧠 Viral Moments Worth Sharing:“I was sitting on the edge of a bridge… thinking it might all be over.”

💔 ➡️ [Powerful redemption moment]“Design isn’t just visual. It’s how you tell a story without speaking.”

🎯“They asked me to do chalkboard art at Wegmans… and it became a city-wide hit.”

🎨“I gave up soccer, comics, and parties — just to bet it all on my dream.”

💥“This isn't about fame. It's about impact.”

🔥💬 Let’s Talk in the Comments:

➡️ What moment hit you the hardest in John’s story?

➡️ Have you ever felt stuck creatively or personally — and how did you get through it?

➡️ Drop your dream career in the comments — we want to support you!👀

New here? Hit that SUBSCRIBE button and turn on 🔔 notifications — we’ve got more powerhouse creatives sharing their journeys, design insights, and mental health real talk. This is where art meets authenticity.

📣 Follow John McBride: Midnight Octane → https://www.midniteoctane.com/LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/midniteoctane/Connect with

Rich: https://www.theartistrecovery.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richwrightunltd

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you listen.

#JohnMcBride #ARPodcast #CreativeJourney #IndustrialDesign #MatchboxDesigner #MidnightOctane #FaithAndCreativity #DesignCareer #MentalHealthInCreatives #HowToBeADesigner #BestwayGlobalHoldings #CrayolaDesigner #ArtSchoolLife #CreativeInspiration #ArtistStory