We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Stanton Nelson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Stanton , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of the toughest things about progressing in your creative career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?

Playing injuries are some of the most unexpected problems I’ve faced. I have resolved these by taking frequent breaks in practice sessions, icing my muscles at night, and drinking plenty of water. These injuries occur when I have big performances coming up and I have to invest a lot more hours at the keyboard to be prepared.

Stanton , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I grew up in a musical family. Although my father did not play an instrument, my mother is a piano and flute teacher. I started learning the violin at age 5 and then piano at age 10. I then progressed enough to enter The University of Kansas as a piano performance major. Then I attended the University of Michigan as a collaborative piano performance major. Then I came down to Dallas and attended 2 institutions – The King’s University (M. Div) and Southern Methodist University (Doctor of Pastoral Music). Currently I am a music associate at Highland Park United Methodist Church, where I play for weddings, memorial services, baptisms, and other services throughout the year. I take each service seriously and prepare my best.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

During the start of my masters degree at The University of Michigan, I was hoping to become an orchestra conductor. Halfway through the program, however, I received a call to seminary. So I completed my degree and tour a few seminaries. I felt drawn to The King’s University in Southlake, Texas, and moved down there.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Absolutely. I would say the Bible. I glean wisdom especially from the book of Provers for my management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.stantonnelson.com/