Liezl catches up with her friend Will Hawkins, the frontman of the LA-based band Nine Mile Station. They discuss the exciting recent developments in Will's music career, including the release of their first full-length album and a headline performance at the legendary Troubadour in Los Angeles. Will reflects on the challenges and rewards of pursuing his passion for music, and how the quiet time during COVID allowed him to fully embrace his role as an artist. They also touch on the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people and finding happiness in the simple things. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There is value to be found in pacing oneself and not burning out in the pursuit of success. Will compares the journey to a marathon rather than a sprint, highlighting the need to prioritise self-care and energy management.

Will reflects on the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown, which provided him with a period of quiet and reflection. During this time, he was able to fully immerse himself in his art and produce some of his best work. He values the importance of having the space and freedom to be creative without distractions.

Will values the importance of surrounding oneself with people who genuinely support and celebrate one's successes, as well as the need to set boundaries with those who do not.

Will's definition of success has shifted over time. While he once measured success by financial achievements and external accomplishments, he now prioritises happiness, fulfillment, and the ability to pursue his passions. He recognises the value of a simple life and the importance of finding joy in the present moment.

BEST MOMENTS

"I miss who I was at that time. I wish that I had… it kind of shows me what we could have… if we lived in a different kind of culture where we didn't have to spend 8 to 12 hours a day creating revenue for ourselves to be able to do these passion projects."
"I've realised what I do truly need to be happy… I don't need a whole lot of money to do that… if I can make a record every two years, tour every year, and just generate enough to make sure I feed and clothe and house myself and have a nice dinner once in a while, I'm completely content with that." 
"There's a reason why Nero sent the philosophers off to live in exile, you know, because they see the truth… and when we have time enough to be able to spend on ourselves and not be distracted by bills and deadlines, we do see what life is really about and we see what our goals should be or could be."
"If they can't share in those successes, if they can't share in those wins, then those aren't people I really want to have around me… I need a team that can love me in a way that I know I need to be loved."
VALUABLE RESOURCES

Nine Mile Station - https://www.ninemilestationmusic.com/

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ABOUT THE PODCAST 

In the Spotlight was born as a platform to share, broadcast and promote the interesting, wonderful and inspiring things that some of the people who crossed Liezl’s path have done. She would love to shine the spotlight on them and share their journeys with you to hopefully inspire you to be the best you, not to give up and to follow your passion or dream.  And in that way, help to make a little difference and share some of the beauty of this world. 

ABOUT THE HOST

Liezl Colditz van Rooyen
Born and raised in South Africa, Liezl followed her dream to see the world at age 23 and twenty years on has now travelled to 50 countries and worked and lived in the UK, Belgium and Saudi Arabia. She is a mum of two boys, a chartered management accountant working in large energy projects, a musician, runner, a world citizen but proudly South African and now a podcaster.The incredible people she has met, the amazing places she has seen and the magic of life she has experienced, inspired her to start this podcast.