What does it take to stay creative when the work dries up, the rejections stack, and self-doubt starts to bite?
I’m Elliot Cowan — actor of stage and screen (The Conjuring: The Last Rites, King & Conqueror, Da Vinci’s Demons, Foundation). After 25 years in this unpredictable business, I’ve learned that success isn’t just about talent — it’s about resilience.
Each episode is a candid reflection from the front lines of a creative life: the wins, the knock-backs, the lessons, and the mindset that keeps you going.
Whether you’re an actor, artist, or anyone trying to build a life around your craft, this podcast will remind you that you’re not alone — and that your art is only as strong as the spirit behind it.
I’m Elliot Cowan. I am The Resilient Artist — and so are you.
What does it take to stay creative when the work dries up, the rejections stack, and self-doubt starts to bite?
I’m Elliot Cowan — actor of stage and screen (The Conjuring: The Last Rites, King & Conqueror, Da Vinci’s Demons, Foundation). After 25 years in this unpredictable business, I’ve learned that success isn’t just about talent — it’s about resilience.
Each episode is a candid reflection from the front lines of a creative life: the wins, the knock-backs, the lessons, and the mindset that keeps you going.
Whether you’re an actor, artist, or anyone trying to build a life around your craft, this podcast will remind you that you’re not alone — and that your art is only as strong as the spirit behind it.
I’m Elliot Cowan. I am The Resilient Artist — and so are you.
Summary In this engaging conversation, Elliot and Joseph Millson explore the multifaceted journey of an artist, focusing on resilience, the challenges of acting, and the importance of mental health. They discuss the evolution of the Royal Shakespeare Company, the impact of self-taping on auditions, and the significance of storytelling in connecting with audiences. Joseph shares personal anecdotes from his extensive career, emphasizing the need for balance between artistic pursuits and life responsibilities. The dialogue highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of modern artists and the therapeutic role of writing in the creative process. Keywords resilience, acting, theatre, self-taping, mental health, storytelling, Royal Shakespeare Company, creative process, entrepreneurial artist, Joseph Millson The importance of resilience in the arts. Actors often face self-doubt and nerves before performances. The Royal Shakespeare Company is evolving under new leadership. Storytelling is a powerful tool for connecting with audiences. Self-taping has become a standard practice for actors. Mental health is crucial for artists navigating their careers. Balancing artistic pursuits with life responsibilities is essential. Writing can be a therapeutic outlet for actors. Embracing an entrepreneurial mindset can create new opportunities. Finding your unique voice is key to the creative process. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Resilience in Artistry 02:40 The Journey of a Resilient Artist 04:41 Navigating Nerves and Self-Consciousness 06:59 The Power of Audience Connection 09:15 The Unique Challenges of Shakespeare 10:46 Finding Freshness in Long Runs 11:43 Gratitude and Joy in the Craft 13:05 Understanding the Casting Process 14:10 The Art of Self-Taping 15:25 The Evolution of Preparation Techniques 17:38 Exploring Character Interpretations 19:44 Audition Experiences and Career Reflections 21:59 Navigating the Challenges of Modern Acting 26:13 The Duality of Artist and Career 31:51 Creating Beyond Acting: Writing and Directing 34:43 The Impact of Audience Reception 36:41 Writing for Yourself vs. Audience 39:12 Creating Memorable Moments in Performance 41:31 The Art of Self-Taping 43:45 Finding Connection in Performance 46:41 Embracing the Artist's Journey 48:38 Outro If this resonated and you want to explore further: → Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/the.resilient.artist/ → Workshops, writing & resources: https://substack.com/@UCU_neSIKEzHZm1sfBL40sRg Members of The Resilient Artist community get access to extended conversations, private videos, and live sessions. Thank you for being here. #TheResilientArtist #ActingLife #SelfTape #CreativeResilience #ActorsPodcast