In this episode, I sit down with my friend and renowned creative, Temi Coker, for an insightful conversation about creativity, personal growth, business, and fatherhood. From his journey as a Nigerian-born designer to building a successful retail brand, Temi shares the challenges of overthinking, the power of being calculated, and the importance of prioritizing what matters most. Together, we explore how personal conviction and professional ambition intersect to create a meaningful and impactful life.
Temi Coker, a Nigerian-born artist based in Dallas, combines photography and design to create bold, colorful artwork that tells stories. Temi has collaborated with major brands like the Oscars, Adobe, Nike, and Google, bringing his unique perspective to each project. Beyond creating, he’s passionate about teaching and inspiring others to find their own creative paths.
In the episode, Temi reflects on his journey of self-expression through art and design, shaped by his Nigerian heritage and innate curiosity. He shares how observation and attention to detail have driven his work, creating a unique style that resonates deeply with those who encounter it.
Temi dives into the challenges of overthinking and how it often hinders progress. Through personal anecdotes and lessons from books like Soundtracks by Jon Acuff, he describes his journey toward embracing success and shifting his mindset to focus on the possibilities of what could go right.
As a new father, Temi discusses how fatherhood has reshaped his perspective on time, priorities, and decision-making. He shares the challenges of balancing two businesses while raising a child and how learning to manage time effectively has led to greater intentionality in both his personal and professional life.
Rocky and Temi explore the importance of living a life rooted in conviction and making decisions that align with personal values. They discuss the power of turning ideas into reality, embracing the mantra of "make it exist," and striving to "die empty" by pursuing every creative possibility.
Follow Temi for updates on his creative projects, shop his latest designs, and subscribe to his newsletter for more insights.
00:00 Introduction to The Rocky Garza Show
01:10 Meet Temi: A Journey of Friendship and Creativity
02:42 Temi's Unique Style and Creative Process
06:03 The Impact of Observation on Creativity
07:25 Overcoming Overthinking and Embracing Success
12:50 Navigating Business Challenges and Growth
17:09 Balancing Business and Fatherhood
17:51 Balancing Work and Family Life
18:23 The Value of Time
19:15 Prioritizing and Time Management
19:49 Intentional Living and Personal Conviction
22:16 Prove It: Turning Ideas into Reality
25:20 Inspiration and Personal Growth
28:52 Final Thoughts and Farewell
