Driven to Create w/ Paul Melluzzo

Driven to Create w/ Paul Melluzzo

Driven to Create is a podcast that digs deep into the minds of those with an insatiable need to bring their ideas to life. From the initial concept to its tangible realization, this podcast follows the journey of creators who find it impossible to stand still. Join Paul Melluzzo as he explores the narratives, challenges, and triumphs of individuals for whom creation isn't just a passion—it's an addiction. Whether you're a creator, artist, or entrepreneur, let's embark on a quest to gain a better understanding of the essence of innovation.

Episodes

July 28, 2025 34 mins

In this episode, Paul shares his origin story about the transition from car sales to small agency, to film, and beyond.


Key Discussion Points:

  • Going from the Auto Industry to Media
  • The switch from Monster Movies to Christmas Movies
  • Failed Projects that Included Designer Crypto Socks
  • The Continuous Journey to Improvement


Topics Mentioned:

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In this episode, Paul ponders what comes after AI Chat Windows and how embedding AI into workflows, apps, and operating systems is the next big step.


Key Discussion Points:

  • The mental load of chatting with LLM's
  • AI needs to be embedded in workflows to get full context
  • Build a simple agent that solves one problem


Topics Mentioned:

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Episode Description:

In this episode, Paul reflects on the changing environment brought about by the rise of AI and predicts its impact on expertise as a whole.


Key Discussion Points:

  • Deep domain expertise will become scarce
  • Companies will automate away learning pathways for new talent
  • Comfort breeds complacency
  • Tips on how to stay relevant in a fast-changing landscape


Where to Listen:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Google...

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December 5, 2024 20 mins

Episode Description:

In this episode, Paul draws the parallels from the experience of a Creative to themes from the critically acclaimed video game, "Final Fantasy X".


Key Discussion Points:

  • The beauty and timelessness of a captured moment or idea
  • Coming to terms with one's own existence
  • Self-Reflection
  • Collaboration with Peers


Where to Listen:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

iHeartRadio

YouTube: ...

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October 24, 2024 36 mins

Paul’s on a solo mission to navigate the perilous seas of balancing work/family life in an ever-changing creative industry.

Key Highlights:

🌟 Self-Reflection on ego and drive in the creative fields

🌟 Adaptability and Flexibility

🌟 Figuring out what means the most to you, and building out from there

Show Notes:  

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June 13, 2024 74 mins

Episode Description:

In this episode, Paul Melluzzo speaks with Tony Diep, a fellow designer and owner of multiple print businesses. They discuss the emotional and ego-driven challenges that all creatives might face, especially when working on client projects. Tony's experiences and mature perspective on balancing personal and client work, finding validation, and maintaining creative integrity are sure to resonate.


Key Dis...

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January 26, 2024 39 mins

Paul’s on a solo mission to figure out what “Truth” and “Provenance” look like in a Post-AI world for creators.


Key Highlights:

🌟 How will “Truthiness” be discerned?

🌟 How can creators “prove” they did indeed create something?

🌟 Does a decentralized blockchain application have a place in the future to establish “trustfulness” for a given event?


Show Notes:

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December 21, 2023 70 mins

Paul sits down with Eric Levesque to discuss the importance of fundamentals and how they affect creative work.


Special Guest

Eric Levesque is a Director, Cinematographer, and Editor who has nearly two decades of experience in corporate and commercial work


Raised on Dirt: The Brock Pinkerous Story

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtG7so9JdCk

Portfolio Website

https://www.edl-creative.com/...

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November 17, 2023 64 mins

Paul sits down with Colin Theys, a Film Director, as they discuss the nature of constraints and their effect on creative output. 


Special Guest

Colin Theys is a film director/producer with over 50 film credits.  His work spans multiple genres, including Sci-Fi, Drama, and Horror. He’s also a Wesleyan Alum, but we won’t hold it against him.

Website: colintheys.com

Platforms

The podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, ...

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October 13, 2023 57 mins

Join Paul as he sits down with artist, music producer, and filmmaker Matt Guastamacchio as they compare the parallels between the iconic Hero's Journey literary device and the path creators tread. 


Special Guest

Matt Guastamacchio: An artist, music producer, and filmmaker based in Nashville, Tennessee.

Instagram: @musicbyteo & @teomultimedia 

Website: Teomultimedia.com


Rando Mentions

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September 28, 2023 1 min

Join Paul Melluzzo as he explores the secrets of what sparks innovation. "Driven to Create" is a compelling testament to his personal experience, featuring stories from other creatives, and offering insights into the profound workings of the creative mind. Buckle up...we're going deep.

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