Is it possible to maintain a healthy self-image and your artistic integrity in the entertainment business – and still make a living doing what you love?In an industry that often feels stacked against the independent artist, singer, songwriter and creative entrepreneur Maria Z has proven that you don’t have to sacrifice your authenticity or your emotional health in order to have a successful career.As an early adopter of the power of video during social media’s early days, Maria blazed a trail for other unsigned artists. Having worked diligently for years to build her audience, she now has almost 50,000 subscribers on Youtube with over 13 million views of her content on her channel. Far from being limited to her singing career, she has also  built a solid business foundation with multiple streams of income as an influencer, marketer and vocal coach.Independently, Maria has achieved international press and radio play, as well as features on national TV networks such as CNN, ABC and FOX. Most notably, her version of "Unthinkable" was danced to on the popular television series, "So You Think You Can Dance", and her music has been referenced by top entertainment platforms such as Billboard, Vibe and Vogue. She was recognized by Guitar Center as one of the Top 10 Singer-Songwriters in the Country, and most recently was hand selected to sing with the original orchestra from the iconic Titanic soundtrack for their anniversary film-to-live showing. Maria also possesses a deep understanding of the inner workings of the independent artist lifestyle. She’s handled the issues of rejection, fear, risk and authenticity in an industry that makes it very difficult for the freelance creative.. In this deep and perspective-shifting discussion, Maria Z reveals how working on the inner health of her artistic soul leads to greater success and expanded opportunities in her business and creative life. In this interview, you will learn: How she discovered the benefits of video in the early days of YouTube  and used it to grow her career How she remains organized and motivated consistently as an independent artistHow she leverages the power of relationships to find new opportunitiesHow she managed to develop several streams of income inside and outside of her musical careerHow she channels her emotional struggles into positive experiences that fuel Why having the right mindset is the most important part of growing and maintaining a consistent creative careerHow to manageTap to send us a text! Support the showJoin our Creative Community In our 360 Membership, you get focused encouragement, guidance, and training on how to thrive as a faith-focused creative. Joining gives you access to our exclusive app, workshops and community conversations, as we change from being creatively confused to creatively confident! GodandGigs.com/membership PODCAST MERCHGet God and Gigs themed gear, clothing and accessories HERE! GOT VALUE FROM THIS PODCAST? If so, please share your: TIME: Send this episode to someone who you know would enjoy it TALENT: Email your art or music to add to our community to allen@godandgigs.com TREASURE: Tap HERE to help support God and Gigs with a donation! Want to be a guest on The God and Gigs Show? Send us a message on PodMatch, here!