We were lucky to catch up with John Marchese recently and have shared our conversation below.

John, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Absolutely, I feel alive again! Up until early 2024, I worked “regular jobs” since I was 16. I’ve been a cashier, retail associate, busboy, barback, bartender, and even an Assistant Vice President in document execution, to name a few. I’ve sold everything from food to shoes, insurance, cable, internet, energy, solar panels, and medical marijuana (legally, at a dispensary, of course). That’s just part of the list!

After about six months to a year in each of those roles, I’d always get this feeling like “there has to be more.” I’d grow tired and move on to the next thing. These jobs all had one thing in common: they drained me, like they were sucking the soul out of me. I always felt there had to be more to life than working just to pay bills and die.

In 2019, I started my first LLC, Limitless Kicks, which specialized in designing and selling custom shoes and clothing. The brand aimed to unite people from all walks of life under the belief that life is limitless. This venture reignited a fire in me, reaffirming that there’s more to life.

Currently, I’m a guitar player and a rune reader. The journey is tough at times, but I’ve never felt more alive or more myself. My soon-to-be wife has been a tremendous support throughout this journey. Without her, I wouldn’t be growing into the man I am today, someone I’m prouder of every day.

One particular moment stands out. It was a rainy Tuesday evening, and I was working late at the dispensary. I remember looking out the window, watching the raindrops race each other down the glass, feeling utterly disconnected from the world. I thought, “Is this it? Is this what my life will be?” That dispensary turned out to be a blessing in disguise. That same week, on Friday night, they allowed me to bring in my guitar and play a live show for the employees and customers. I had a small taste of playing with a band in high school, but this was my first solo live performance, and the feeling was ELECTRIC (boogey woogey woogey LOL)! People interacted with the show, stopped to listen and dance, and even tipped me—the first time I had ever been paid to play music. That night, I decided to focus seriously on my music and the aspects of life that lit my soul up instead of draining it. That was the official beginning of my transition to a creative life, and I’ve never looked back!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am 35 years old, originally from Pittsburgh, PA, and currently living in Jacksonville, FL. I come from a tight-knit family, and my parents did an amazing job teaching me to work hard, be kind, and never let the world dim my shine!

My journey into music began in junior high school. The aunt of one of my best friends was the music teacher, and she taught guitar that year. Ms. Kohne was one of the greatest teachers I ever had, and I owe the true beginning of my passion for music and guitar to her. By the end of that class, I was hooked. I used all my money and bargaining skills with my parents to buy my first amp and electric guitar. For a long time, that guitar did more sitting and dust-collecting than playing, but it was always something I would come back to. I learned by ear and with the help of the internet for many years. Around 2020, when Covid blessed the world with downtime, I was bitten by the guitar bug for real and decided to take my learning and playing further. From that point, I’ve played and learned more in the last few years than I have in all the years before, and the journey just keeps getting better.

Currently, I do livestreams on TikTok and YouTube (youtube.com/@noizemakerz) and play local shows/parties/events under the stage name Apple John and the Noizemakerz. I specialize in an interactive show, asking the audience to pick numbers corresponding to the loop pedal I use, creating live improvisations on the spot. Mixing that with some cover songs, I aim to provide a one-of-a-kind experience. You can reach out to me or book shows at applejohnandthenoizemakerz.com.

In addition to playing music, I also enjoy freestyle hip-hop dancing. I was one of three guys on the dance team at LaRoche College in 2006 and am the reigning North Park Clubhouse Lipsync Battle Champion (apparently dance moves and lipsyncing go hand in hand!).

I have also recently begun exploring my spiritual side and have been learning Rune Reading and divination. For those unfamiliar, Runes were used in Viking times to gain insight and wisdom from the Gods and the Universe, similar to Tarot cards. My “spirit squad/guides” have been helping me practice and learn this craft. I currently do daily and weekly readings under the name “The Rune Seer” on TikTok (tiktok.com/@theruneseer) and YouTube (youtube.com/@theruneseer). I also offer personalized readings for those interested in tailored guidance. You can reach me through my social media channels or by email at [email protected].

What sets me apart is my energy and positive outlook. Music is a universal language, and I believe all people are connected on some spiritual level. My goal is to use my gifts to bring light into others’ lives, whether through music or readings. I aim to be a light in this chaotic, confusing, and often dark world. I want to help as many people as I can while I’m here on Earth, and if I can inspire others to chase their dreams and live with more purpose and light, that’s a bonus.

Thank you for your time and energy. Even if we never meet, I appreciate you, and you are special and here for a reason! Life’s too short not to live fully.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is a blend of personal growth and the ability to touch and inspire others’ lives. Being an artist allows me to be a “beginner” every single day, constantly learning and discovering new things about my craft and myself. Every day is different, ensuring that things are never boring. It also lets me connect with my inner child through discovery and my work.

As we grow up, society often tricks us into believing that being mature and responsible means we must be cynical and conform to certain behaviors. However, the best parts of being a child—constant exploration and asking “why”—are vital to creativity. As children, we could turn a cardboard box into a spaceship or a ninja turtle shell and spend hours in imaginative worlds that “adults couldn’t see.” We were curious, asking “why” about everything and soaking up knowledge like sponges. This light, fire, or passion is strong in the creative and artistic mindset, making life fun again.

This personal discovery blends perfectly with the ability to “infect” others with positive energy. The energy we carry influences those around us, whether they realize it or not. Think of the people who excite you and make you feel good every time you see them or talk with them. Now think about those who frustrate or irritate you just by hearing their name. That’s because the energy we carry mixes with theirs, affecting how we feel when we’re around each other.

My work allows me to be a light, providing exciting or helpful energy to everyone I encounter. I don’t take this lightly; I see it as a responsibility or a superpower to brighten others’ lives in any way I can. My hope is that through exploring, building, and sharing genuine passions, my energy will inspire others to do the same or at least make them feel good while we’re interacting, in whatever way that happens.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

The driving goal of my creative journey is to become the best version of myself possible, pushing beyond my perceived limits and achieving more than I ever thought possible. I aim to inspire others to live their best lives and realize that life is happening for us, not to us. This mindset shift—from seeing ourselves as victims of circumstance to active participants in our growth and learning—is central to my mission.

In my creative pursuits, whether through music, rune reading, or any other form of artistic expression, I strive to embody and promote the idea that we are all capable of greatness. I believe that each of us has untapped potential waiting to be discovered and nurtured. By continually challenging myself to grow and evolve, I hope to set an example for others, showing that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and embrace your passions.

Moreover, my goal is to create a ripple effect of positive energy and inspiration. When people see someone living authentically and passionately, it can spark a desire in them to do the same. I want to be that spark, encouraging others to explore their creativity, take risks, and pursue their dreams with courage and conviction.

Life is full of challenges and obstacles, but I believe these are opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By embracing this perspective, we can transform our struggles into stepping-stones toward a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. Through my work, I aim to help others see the beauty in their journey, empowering them to turn their aspirations into reality.

Ultimately, my mission is to make a meaningful impact on the world, one person at a time. Whether through a song, a performance, a reading, or a simple conversation, I hope to leave a lasting impression that motivates people to live with more purpose, joy, and gratitude. By being the best version of myself, I aim to inspire others to do the same, creating a community of individuals who support and uplift each other in the pursuit of their dreams.

Contact Info:

• Website: linktr.ee/applejohn_
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-marchese/
• Youtube: youtube.com/@noizelab25