Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Martin

Hi Chris, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

My story started when I was born in 197…too much detail? Okay, okay, I won’t start there.

Instead, I’ll start with my current iteration of myself.

My name is Chris Martin and I’m a documentary filmmaker, podcaster, and writer. Around 24 years ago, I was bit by the documentary bug, falling in love with the art of the interview, and telling stories about real people doing interesting things. I don’t remember a specific documentary that captured my attention, but I remember being enamored with the journalist, Bill Moyers. He produced an interview show, a series of books based upon his interviews, and many documentaries throughout his career. Not a bad model for the modern day content creator.

I’ve been producing my weekly podcast, Getting Work To Work, since 2016. As I near 8 years and 800 episodes, the show continues to be part inner monologue and part conversation. I love sharing my successes and struggles, but also talking with people who have much to teach, even if they don’t see themselves as teachers. In 2023, I expanded the Getting Work To Work format to also include a weekly newsletter and a documentary series.

My career hasn’t been a straight line between then and now. I’ve chased different ideas along the way, succeeded and failed, but it’s all been in pursuit of creativity and curiosity.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

I can’t remember the last time the road was smooth. It’s been a couple of years of rough road; my suspension is shot, tires about to pop… As someone who has had multiple interests and pursuits from the beginning, I have learned to accept the rough road. Most of the time.

The current struggles are too many to list, but the top three include burnout, imposter syndrome, and depression. I’ve had to cut back on my productivity and ambition this year, so that I can take better care of myself. Last year was one of my best financially, but I fell apart at the beginning of the year.

The fourth challenge I guess I’ll share is learning how to dream again. That’s where I find myself right now. It’s a little embarrassing, but I try to share real struggles. That way others who may be struggling with similar issues won’t feel alone.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

As I mentioned, I’m a documentary filmmaker, podcaster, and writer. Most people know me for the Getting Work To Work podcast, which I started in 2016. I’m most proud of producing almost 800 episodes of the show, especially when a limiting story I would often tell myself is that I didn’t stick around and see things through.

I honestly have no idea what sets me apart from others. Maybe my stubbornness (tenacity) and desire to keep going even in the midst of the struggles I previously mentioned. Would the journey be easier if I chased popularity and trends? Perhaps. But I’ve never been into the latest and greatest.

What are your plans for the future?

I’ve been working on a memoir/non-fiction book about curiosity. I would love to finish it and self-publish it in 2024. But before that can happen, I need to heal my creative spirit.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.chrismartinstudios.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildcuriosity
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@chrismartinstudios
• Other: https://gettingworktowork.com

Image Credits

Getting Work To Work – Monster Poster by Freshwater Bay Creative. Getting Work To Work – Mad with Creativity by Deadbolt Design.