Curious Blend with Keller Davis

About Curious Blend with Keller Davis

Dive into "Curious Blend," a podcast inspired by the Createscape community in Austin, Texas where diverse ideas meet for captivating conversations. Join us as we explore a rich mix of topics ranging from culture and creativity to personal growth and beyond. With each episode, you'll discover new perspectives, inspiring stories, and thought-provoking discussions. Tune in every week to satisfy your curiosity and broaden your horizons. Hosted by Keller Davis, Curious Blend is a production of Createscape Coworking in Austin, Texas.

Publisher

Createscape

Category

business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

3 Sept 2024

Latest episode

12 Nov 2025

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   12 Nov 2025

   Glider Sim and Taking Flight: Joey Sipos

   In this episode of Curious Blend, Keller sits down with video game designer and 5D Realities founder Joey Sipos, creator of the immersive VR flight simulator Glider Sim—available now on Steam and at 5drealities.com (http://5drealities.com) . Joey shares his journey from working on Microsoft Flight Simulator to launching his own company from his parents’ home while recovering from illness, and how that experience led him to explore the limitless skies of virtual reality. They discuss the evolution of VR, how Glider Sim bridges gaming and real-world flight training, and Joey’s experiments connecting the game to Google Earth for real-world exploration. The conversation also dives into Joey’s passion for storm chasing, his thoughts on AI and creativity, and the future of immersive simulation. Whether you’re a gamer, creator, or just a curious mind, this episode will inspire you to see how imagination, technology, and perseverance can truly take flight.

2. 

   1 Oct 2025

   George Black: Startups, Side Projects, and Sleepless Nights

   In this episode of Curious Blend, Keller sits down with software engineer and Createscape member George Black to talk about the intersections of community, creativity, and technology. George shares hilarious stories of coworking shenanigans (including fake business cards and a dog election), why Createscape has become his “third place,” and the quirky side project that unexpectedly caught the attention of Mark Cuban and the BlueSky CEO. The conversation also dives into George’s love for emerging tech like autonomous vehicles, reflections on authentic human connection (yes, even with Lyft drivers), and the wild ride of becoming a new dad. Equal parts funny, insightful, and heartfelt, this episode highlights how curiosity shapes not just the work we do but the way we live, connect, and grow.

3. 

   27 Aug 2025

   Scaling Walls & Startups: Oliver’s Adventures in Climbing and Venture Capital

   In this episode of Curious Blend, Keller sits down with longtime Createscape member Oliver—one of the community’s most well-loved personalities. Oliver shares his perspective on navigating coworking life, why he splits his time between being serious and not-so-serious, and how Toastmasters challenged him to open up with vulnerability in public speaking. We also dive into his passion for climbing and adventure travel, from 13-hour ascents to spontaneous road trips through five countries with nothing but a guidebook and a car. Oliver explains what drew him into the world of venture capital, what he’s learned about supporting founders and evaluating early-stage companies, and clears up common misconceptions about VC money. This conversation blends insight, humor, and wanderlust—from the value of discomfort and adaptability, to the joy of mailing home dirty laundry so you have room in your suitcase for wine.

4. 

   13 Aug 2025

   Third Places, IRL

   In this solo episode, Keller dives into the idea of the “third place” — those informal spaces that exist outside of home and work, where connection and community naturally happen. From coffee shops to parks to neighborhood libraries, these gathering spots are becoming rarer in our increasingly online world. But as Keller shares, coworking spaces like Createscape can fill that gap in unexpected ways. Drawing on over a decade of running Createscape, Keller reflects on how a coworking space can serve both as someone’s workplace and their “third place,” fostering friendships, sparking creative collaborations, and offering a steady, welcoming presence during life transitions. You’ll hear about why simply being around others — even without constant conversation — can boost mental health, nurture creativity, and help us feel more connected to the world around us. Whether you’re a freelancer, a remote worker, or just someone craving more casual, meaningful connection in your week, this conversation will inspire you to find (or reclaim) your own third place — and maybe see coworking in a whole new light.

5. 

   6 Aug 2025

   Designing Light: Derrick Hurst on Functional Art and Quiet Creativity

   In this episode of Curious Blend, Keller sits down with lighting designer and Createscape member Derrick Hurst, founder of Direction + Current. From his roots in ceramic sculpture to crafting high-end lighting products for global brands, Derrick shares a thoughtful and fascinating journey through creativity, technical problem-solving, and the art of functional design. Hear about his time working in Taiwan, collaborating with Italian studios, the weirdest light he’s ever helped make (spoiler: it flickers like a campfire), and why he’ll always choose beautifully designed objects over the boring stuff. Bonus: cat stories, curious foxes, and a mini ode to Marfa.

6. 

   23 Jul 2025

   The Most “Coworkiest” Coworking Space Ever

   In this solo episode, Keller Davis (owner of Createscape Coworking in Austin) gets into the ever-evolving world of coworking—from its humble beginnings to the post-pandemic shifts in what people want from a workspace. You’ll hear how Createscape grew from a few desks in a temp space to one of the most “coworkiest coworking spaces” around (yes, that’s a compliment). Keller also shares 4 practical tips to help members get the most out of their coworking experience, plus a quick roundup of what’s happening in Austin right now. It’s part love letter to community spaces, part handy coworking survival guide.

7. 

   16 Jul 2025

   Silicon Chips to Serendipity: Haley Salzwedel

   In this episode of Curious Blend, host Keller Davis sits down with Createscape member Haley Salzwedel for a wide-ranging and delightfully nerdy conversation. They dive deep into Haley’s recent obsession with semiconductors—how they’re made, why they matter, and how one Taiwanese pioneer helped shape the global tech industry. From clean rooms and UV lithography to perfectly flat German mirrors, Haley explains it all with passion and clarity. The two also explore the surreal experience of hearing obscure songs exactly when you're thinking of them, the value of boredom and unplugging, and why Haley traded downtown coworking chaos for the cozy charm of Createscape. Plus: Love Island confessions, White Lotus appreciation, and a shared appreciation for lists, structure, and living dangerously (but just a little). This episode is for the curious mind who loves diving down rabbit holes—scientific, musical, or existential.

8. 

   9 Jul 2025

   A New Blend: Season 2 Begins

   Welcome back to Curious Blend: The Createscape Show! Host Keller Davis kicks off Season 2 with a fresh new format—more casual, more spontaneous, and more bite-sized. In this episode, Keller shares what's changing this season, why the podcast matters to the Createscape coworking community, and what kinds of episodes and interviews to expect. Whether you're a longtime member or just curious about the creative souls of East Austin, this episode sets the stage for a season full of connection, creativity, and community.

9. 

   5 Nov 2024

   Leading with Self-Awareness: Phillip Gazca’s Approach to Growth

   In this engaging and insightful episode of Curious Blend, host Keller Davis sits down with Phillip Gazca, a seasoned real estate leader with over 14 years of experience and a passion for creative problem-solving. Phillip shares his story, from his early days in the industry to managing teams of agents and launching successful brokerages. Together, they discuss how his upbringing in a family of entrepreneurs shaped his approach to leadership, the importance of self-awareness, and the power of mentorship in personal and professional growth. Phillip also opens up about the challenges of balancing creativity with the demands of a high-pressure career, his methods for thriving in chaos, and how understanding the psychology of fear has become his latest research passion. With plenty of practical takeaways on building resilient teams, staying grounded, and embracing discomfort for growth, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone looking to elevate their leadership and entrepreneurial journey. Tune in to learn from Phillip’s experiences and discover how to transform challenges into opportunities—all while keeping the spirit of curiosity alive. Learn more about Phillip Gazca: https://www.instagram.com/phillipgazca (https://www.instagram.com/phillipgazca)

10. 

    29 Oct 2024

    Navigating Entrepreneurship and Acquisition with Jaclyn Schiff

    In this episode of Curious Blend, host Keller Davis sits down with Jaclyn Schiff, a seasoned entrepreneur and the founder of Spoke, a content transformation agency. Jaclyn shares her fascinating journey from healthcare journalism to founding a business that helps B2B marketers turn audio and video content into compelling written material. She discusses the power of content repurposing, the strategies that drive success, and how she built her business from the ground up—ultimately leading to its acquisition. Jaclyn offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, from learning how to scale and rebrand, to knowing when to pivot or sell. We also dive into her personal motivations, leadership style, and approach to avoiding burnout while maintaining passion for her work. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, content creator, or curious about the world of content marketing, this episode is packed with wisdom on the art of turning ideas into impactful results. Learn more about Jaclyn Schiff: LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynschiff/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynschiff/) Spoke: https://spokeagency.io/ (https://spokeagency.io/)

11. 

    22 Oct 2024

    Breaking Barriers in Nonprofit Leadership: Michelle Ates-Wright

    In this episode of Curious Blend, host Keller Davis sits down with Michelle Ates-Wright, the executive director of TWA Cares and TWA College. With over 15 years of experience in sales, account management, and customer service, Michelle shares how she’s applied her skills to support student athletes as they transition to college life. From tackling the challenges of balancing academics and athletics to creating a space where students can embrace their identities beyond the field, Michelle’s passion for education and community-building shines through. Michelle talks about the inspiration behind founding TWA Cares, the unique needs of young athletes, and how her own upbringing has shaped her drive to give back. She also shares stories of resilience, the power of mentorship, and her dedication to breaking down barriers for students facing roadblocks in their journey. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, compassion, and helping young people achieve their full potential both in and out of the classroom. Learn more about Michelle here: https://twacollege.org (https://twacollege.org)

12. 

    15 Oct 2024

    Life Lessons from Jerry Elmas in Business Sales and Good Vibes

    In this episode of Curious Blend, host Keller Davis chats with Jerry Elmas, a beloved member of the Createscape Coworking community in Austin, Texas. Jerry shares his journey from Los Angeles to Austin, which began after the 1994 Northridge earthquake—a life-changing event that led him to embrace Austin’s vibrant atmosphere. With over 30 years in the city, Jerry reflects on what has kept him rooted here, from the power of community and live music to the serendipity of finding the right place at the right time. Keller and Jerry explore the evolution of the coworking movement, the importance of authentic human connection, and Jerry's passion for sales, which he approaches with a genuine desire to solve problems for others. They also discuss Jerry's love for live music, his dry sense of humor, and the fulfilling work he's done with the Texas Mamma Jamma Ride to support cancer patients. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what it means to truly find your place.

13. 

    8 Oct 2024

    Collaboration, Creativity, and Indie Game Design: A Chat with John Baxa

    In this episode of Curious Blend, host Keller Davis sits down with his husband-- indie game developer and market research expert, John Baxa. John shares the story behind his award-winning game Vessels and his journey from psychology student to video game designer. We dive into the creative process, the emotional depth of narrative-driven games, and how John balances his passion for indie game development with a full-time career in market research. Together, Keller and John explore the intersection of creativity and authenticity in storytelling, the challenges of working independently, and the lessons they've learned from collaborating on creative projects. Whether you're a gamer, a creative, or someone curious about the world of indie development, this episode offers a unique perspective on bringing passion projects to life. Learn more about John Baxa: https://johnbaxa.com (https://johnbaxa.com) https://thursdaystrategy.com

14. 

    1 Oct 2024

    Crafting Life Stories: The Art of Memoir and Ghostwriting with Jessica Bross

    In this episode of Curious Blend, Keller sits down with Jessica Bross, founder of Cider Spoon Stories, Austin’s premier ghostwriting and memoir coaching company. With over a decade of experience and 40+ nonfiction books under her belt, Jessica shares the powerful art of transforming personal histories into compelling narratives. We dive into her creative process, from finding the heart of someone’s story to the emotional catharsis of storytelling. Jessica also reflects on her beginnings, how she turned her first project—her grandfather's memoir—into a successful business, and what it’s like to navigate the challenges of ghostwriting for veterans, small business owners, and families alike. Along the way, we explore the intersection of memoir and horror, touching on Jessica’s award-winning novel Headcheese and her experience collecting ghost stories in India. If you’ve ever wondered whether your life story is worth sharing—or just love hearing about the magic behind storytelling—this episode is for you. Learn more about Jessica Bross: Ghostwriting and memoir-coaching business site: ⁠ (http://www.ciderspoonstories.com/)www.ciderspoonstories.com (http://www.ciderspoonstories.com)⁠ (http://www.ciderspoonstories.com/) Horror author brand site: ⁠ (http://www.jesshagemann.com/)www.jesshagemann.com (http://www.jesshagemann.com)⁠ (http://www.jesshagemann.com/) Lincoln School Writers' retreat site: ⁠ (http://www.lincolnretreat.com/)www.lincolnretreat.com (http://www.lincolnretreat.com) Photo credit: Alicia Leigh Photography⁠ (http://www.lincolnretreat.com/)

15. 

    24 Sept 2024

    Supporting Queer Art & Identity: Justin Galicz on The Little Gay Shop

    In this episode of Curious Blend, Keller Davis sits down with Justin Galicz, co-owner of The Little Gay Shop, a beloved queer marketplace in Austin, Texas. Justin shares the inspiring journey of how he and Kirt Reynolds turned a pop-up table into a thriving brick-and-mortar hub for queer artists and makers. They discuss the challenges of launching during the pandemic, the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ creatives, and how their shop fosters community and representation in Austin's vibrant arts scene. Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, art, or advocacy, this episode offers a deep dive into the intersection of creativity and queer identity. Tune in to learn how Justin and Kirt continue to push boundaries, support intersectionality, and create a lasting impact on the local and global queer community. Learn more about Justin Galicz: https://thelittlegayshop.com (https://thelittlegayshop.com) https://justingalicz.com (https://www.justingalicz.com/)

16. 

    17 Sept 2024

    Wellness in the Workplace: Lee Ackerley on Creating Swift Fit Events

    In this episode of Curious Blend, host Keller Davis sits down with Lee Ackerley, the founder of Swift Fit Events, a company dedicated to modernizing office culture through health and wellness programs. Lee shares how he transitioned from leading running tours to building a successful corporate wellness business. He discusses the importance of fostering connection and well-being in the workplace, his journey through entrepreneurship, and how resilience and fitness have played key roles in his success. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about transforming workplace culture and creating meaningful connections through wellness. Learn more about Lee Ackerley: ⁠ (http://goog_1154289955/)https://swiftfitevents.com⁠ (https://swiftfitevents.com⁠) ⁠ ⁠ (http://goog_1154289955/)⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/swiftfitevents/)https://www.instagram.com/swiftfitevents (https://www.instagram.com/swiftfitevents)

17. 

    10 Sept 2024

    The Power of Practical Design: Insights from Brandon Guidry

    In this episode of Curious Blend, host Keller Davis sits down with Brandon Guidry, a talented designer, marketer, writer, and brand strategist who currently serves as the Brand and Marketing Manager at Capital Metro, Austin's public transportation provider. Brandon shares his creative journey from his beginnings in journalism and visual storytelling to his current role where he balances creativity and strategy in practical design. He discusses his passion for problem-solving, the importance of designing with purpose, and his experience managing large-scale projects that impact the daily lives of Austin residents. Join us for an insightful conversation about creativity, leadership, and the power of thoughtful design in public spaces. Learn more about Brandon Guidry: https://brandonguidry.com (https://brandonguidry.com) https://instagram.com/doitbiggs (https://instagram.com/doitbiggs)

18. 

    3 Sept 2024

    Positivity and Play: Hallie Rae Ward’s Journey as an Artist

    In this episode of Curious Blend, host Keller Davis sits down with Hallie Rae Ward, a talented artist and Art Business Director at Art for the People Gallery in Austin, Texas. Hallie shares her journey from being an athlete to becoming a full-time artist, discussing how she blends creativity and business to build a thriving art career. She dives deep into her artistic process, the importance of intention and positivity in her work, and how she uses unique materials like pipe cleaners and light to create engaging, mixed-media art pieces. Hallie also reflects on the significance of community, mentorship, and self-care in maintaining balance and staying inspired. Join us for an inspiring conversation about art, life, and the power of creating with intention. Learn more about Hallie Rae Ward: ⁠ (https://www.hallieraeward.com/)https://www.hallieraeward.com⁠ (https://www.hallieraeward.com⁠) ⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/hallieraeward)https://www.instagram.com/hallieraeward⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/hallieraeward⁠) ⁠ (https://www.hallieraeward.com/)https://www.facebook.com/hallieraewardart (https://www.facebook.com/hallieraewardart)

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.