Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Clouse.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Twelve-hundred people. That’s the size of the town I grew up in, in Central Wisconsin. It was a farming town with more cows than people and still no stoplights to this day. I grew up baling hay and picking rock, and it’s that work ethic that still runs in my veins. From growing up in Wisconsin, to attending college in Ohio, to living and working in Washington, D.C, Indiana, West Virginia, and now California, it’s been a non-stop adventure. I’ve also visited the other 45 states in America and seven countries, always wanting to meet new people and try to make an impact on the world around me.
My first job out of college was as a local news reporter and I worked in the news for over four years reporting, producing, and anchoring. I talked with neighbors, community leaders, and politicians ranging from mayors to presidential candidates. I loved being able to share people’s stories.
Eventually, I knew I wanted to do something more positive and uplifting, so I moved to Los Angeles to do television hosting. Like everyone else trying to make it, I was grinding every day and trying to learn from people at the top of the totem pole. One thing I learned was everyone does the same thing; setting their sights on someone in their industry who has achieved success. However, the little voice in the back of our minds tells each of us, “I could never be (fill in the blank) because they had money, or they knew people, or they didn’t go through the struggles I’m going through.” It’s a lie that is so enticing to believe. That is why I created my show, I Could Never Be, to share the stories of struggle that successful people went through, in hopes of inspiring those at the bottom of the totem poll to keep climbing to the top. From stories of living in cars and on couches, to barely scraping together enough money for food, these accounts from actors, athletes, musicians, and others serve as incredible inspiration that anyone can achieve success.
Please tell us about your art.
My art is being a business brand manager by day, TV host by night, and community/church volunteer in the little free time I have. As hosts nowadays are more “experts,” I accepted a position one year ago as the Senior Brand Manager of an apparel company. In order to be more knowledgeable about achieving success, I felt I needed to challenge myself and become successful in business. I use this experience on my show, I Could Never Be, sharing my personal ups and down and it allows me to relate to the celebrity guests I have on.
Everything I do is for the purpose of spreading positivity and trying to help others. The message in all my work is simple: anyone can achieve their dreams if they stay dedicated and work hard. It is this belief I want to instill in everyone I talk with. Obstacles are unavoidable, but the important thing is how you face your obstacles. Everything happens for you, not to you, and knowing that will allow you to push through anything that comes your way and grow from it.
We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
I think the important thing is to keep putting yourself out there. In Los Angeles, and so many other places, it’s easy to think you’re the only one facing obstacles, or feeling lonely in the pursuit of a goal. However, the more you connect with other people, the more you realize there are hundreds of people in the exact same position. By meeting these people, you’ll feel encouraged and can also work to collaborate with them to help everyone grow!
One of the wise quotes from my mentor, Keven Undergaro, is “half of life is showing up.” Show up, put yourself out there, and you’ll be amazed at what you achieve.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I Could Never Be is live every Monday at 4:10pm Pacific Time on Popcorn Talk Network’s YouTube page and is also available as a podcast. We are currently in our fourth season, which wraps up mid-January. If you have a long drive or need something inspirational to listen to at the gym, or during your day, we’ve made it easy to watch or listen to the incredible stories of people you look up to. And the best part…it’s all FREE! If you enjoy it, just leave a comment or review and we’ll call it a deal. You can also check out my Instagram, @theonlymc. I am always posting positive messages and encouragement!
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Instagram.com/theonlymc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaelClouseHost/
- Twitter: Twitter.com/theonlymc
Image Credit:
Michael Clouse
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