What does it take to keep creating when the odds — and the world — are stacked against you?
In this episode of Maverick Mind, I sit down with Tom Kwiat, the founder of Live and Amplified , a platform that helps promote and share the stories of independent musicians.
Born with cerebral palsy, Tom has lived many lifetimes in one — from filmmaker to storyteller to creative entrepreneur. Over the past decade, he’s built Live and Amplified from a scrappy idea into a global community supporting artists through storytelling, video, and live experiences.
We talk about:
🎙️ The origin story of Live and Amplified and how it’s grown over 10 years
🧠 Why mindset and resilience are the real foundations of any creative career
💡 How to stay authentic and independent in a world obsessed with algorithms
💬 The power of sharing stories — and why creativity thrives on human connection
⚡ The future of creativity: from AI and burnout to a return to in-person connection
Tom’s story is a masterclass in staying true to your voice, embracing the messy middle, and trusting the long game of creativity. Whether you’re a musician, filmmaker, or creator of any kind, this episode will remind you that you already have everything you need to begin.
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