S-2 EP6 - Art and Humor Collide w/ special Guest Cole Kluesner - Pt 1

Most artists dream of turning their passion into a full-time career—Cole Klusner did, after leaving a stable job in finance and taking a bold leap of faith. His journey from meticulous auditor to acclaimed artist is filled with surprising twists, including landing a contract with the Milwaukee Brewers and gaining recognition for his hyper-realistic drawings and vibrant paintings. But what truly sets Cole apart is his relentless pursuit of growth and his uncanny ability to make the impossible look photographic—fans often think his landscapes and portraits are photos, not paintings.In this episode, Cole shares the raw truth behind leaving behind the security of a corporate job to chase a dream that many find terrifying. Discover the frameworks he used—from building confidence to reaching out to high-profile organizations—and how you can apply these lessons to your own bold moves. We break down the art of pricing commissions, the different mediums he masters—acrylics, colored pencils, and more—and the secret sauce to staying inspired when boredom kicks in. You'll also hear hilarious stories from high school wrestling, his connections to famous Wisconsinites like Frank Lloyd Wright, and his wild thoughts on the art world's most outrageous stories—from blank canvases sold for thousands to crazy art trends in France. Why does this matter? Because more than just tips and stories, Cole's journey shows you that taking risks, embracing uncertainty, and working relentlessly on your craft can turn passion into profit—no matter how crazy your ideas seem. If you're an aspiring artist, an entrepreneur, or someone contemplating a major life change, this episode is packed with actionable insights and unwavering motivation. Perfect for anyone who’s ever wondered if they can turn their talent into a career or just loves hearing stories of bold leaps and wild creativity, Cole's experience proves that with enough grit and guts, you can transform the impossible into reality. Hit play and get inspired to shoot your shot—because the path to success often starts with a single brave step.www.Colekluesner.com artistic journey, career change, creative process, art commissions, Wisconsin artists, art world stories, Cole Kluesner, artistic inspiration, creative entrepreneurship, art and humor