Riding Tandem

Paul Pape is a designer and fabricator of custom collectibles who can make things that no one can find. He has a background in theater design and has worked in various mediums such as sculpture, woodworking, leatherworking, 3D design, fabrication, jewelry, and metal craft. Paul's journey started in theater, where he learned to do a lot of different things. He then transitioned into creating custom collectibles and has worked with well-known clients such as Disney, Universal, and The Tonight Show. Paul's approach is to solve creative problems and navigate through challenges, and he values relationships and the ability to make memories tangible. In this conversation, Paul Pape discusses the importance of letting go of ego, working with others, and staying positive. He emphasizes the value of consistency and the fact that people are always watching, even if they don't actively engage. Paul also talks about the balance between knowledge and imagination, encouraging creativity, and the need for a creative outlet. He shares his future goals of continuing his consultancy work and speaking engagements. Paul advises business owners to focus on helping others and making a positive impact.

A few key topics we covered 

- Paul's journey from scenic design in theater to custom collectible design
- Lessons learned from working with clients like Disney and Nickelodeon
- The importance of imagination and creativity in problem-solving
- Balancing artistry and business in a freelance career
- The realities of working with big brands and managing relationships


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Unpacking this episode min by min: 

05:00 From Theater Design to Custom Collectibles
13:17 Solving Creative Problems and Making Memories Tangible
23:11 Working with Well-Known Clients
30:51 Navigating Relationships and Checking Ego
33:45 Letting Go of Ego and Staying Positive
42:15 The Balance Between Knowledge and Imagination
44:08 The Value of Consistency and Working with Others
56:26 Helping Others and Making a Positive Impact



Vivian Kvam:
Paul Pape:

Tandem Works Team:
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Riding Tandem with Vivian Kvam
A podcast from Tandem Works
Email the team: RidingTandem@thetandemworks.com


What is Riding Tandem?

Are you a business owner? Or are you on the verge of taking that side hustle to the next level? Or curious about the world of entrepreneurship? Join Vivian Kvam, Co-Owner of Tandem Works, each week for a behind-the-scenes at small businesses and what it takes to succeed.

Each episode is full of inspiration, education, tips, and great conversation with people like you, people who are figuring it out. Take your business to the next level with insight from expert guests in business, leadership, and marketing.