We recently had the chance to connect with Gil Templeton and have shared our conversation below.
Gil, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Scattered. I feel like there are so many things fighting for my attention at any given moment, so I try to prioritize the ones that are most valuable at that time.
I think most creatives tend to fall into two camps: the ultra-regimented/organized, and those who embrace chaos. I’m definitely the latter, so I’m definitely trying to be more intentional with my time management.
I’m busier than I’ve ever been, but I also have fewer meetings than I’ve ever had. I’m working more mornings and nights, but have more wiggle room during the 9-5 workday.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a copywriter, creative director, and founder in Raleigh who’s recently left my full-time job to “do my own thing.” Or more like “things.” Because there are three parts to this equation.
I’m a part-time creative content strategist at Demand Curve, a freelance copywriter, and founder of my seasoning business: Bold Flavors.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I feel like my “employee” status served me well, but my intuition was telling me to cut it loose. I used to think that starting my own business would mean an ad agency, but I’m not so sure I want to try to compete in this increasingly-insane AI arms race for the next 32 years. Maybe I’ll have to do so regardless, but something about food and a tangible product that AI can’t replace (yet) feels solid.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I think having a family and being a provider has made me fearful of the unknown, or afraid to take a leap. When you have a full-time job and a salary, there’s a major sense of comfort and even relief.
Having a four-year old and a one-year old…it still doesn’t feel like the “perfect” time to fly the coop, but there will never, ever be a time when taking a big risk seems perfectly convenient and well-timed.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, what you see is what you get. Of course everyone puts their best work and photos and moments out there on their portfolios and social media accounts. I don’t think people necessarily want to see me doing boring stuff on a rainy Monday, so there’s definitely some curating involved.
But as a writer at heart, I am always putting myself and my thoughts out there for people to read, whether it’s a stupid-yet-funny caption, a hot-take on LinkedIn, or a thoughtful 1,500 word newsletter that leads with original thought. A new challenge for me will be making video content that heavily features me, which I’m admittedly a little hesitant about.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
Despite the twists and turns and industry headaches that come with making a living from creativity, I’ve never questioned my choice to do so. Sure, I might have questioned “Did I make the right jump at that time?” or “Should I have moved to a huge city to get my career started?” … things like that.
But I’ve been lucky enough to have a decade of experience in the creative world. Now that I’m starting a new endeavor, while keeping the door open for more typical freelance creative work, it’s just the next step.
I 100% feel like Bold Flavors is a reflection of me. And sometimes people call me “Bold” or introduce me to a friend as my moniker. I am always cooking for people, having fun with it, and looking to build something. And this outlet kinda lets me combine so many passions and skills I’ve built up over time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://eatboldflavors.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bold_flavors/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gil-templeton-77ab9558/
- Other: Creative Portfolio: https://www.lookwhatgildid.com/
Image Credits
Andrew Albright
