We’re looking forward to introducing you to Rob Lee. Check out our conversation below.
Rob, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
These days, the first 90 minutes of my day are pretty active. I start off with minimal stretching, followed by queuing up one of my favorite podcasts. I’ve been into some horror podcasts like “Radio Rental” or “The Antiquarium of Sinister Happenings” to accompany me on a 5K walk. After the walk, I head into the gym for a strength training session. If I’m lucky, I grab a triple cortado from my local coffee shop after strength training. This all takes about 90 minutes.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Rob Lee, the host of The Truth In This Art, where I have the privilege of engaging with artists, cultural leaders, and creative thinkers. My mission is to explore how their work influences individuals and communities. What makes my show unique is the focus on honest, thoughtful conversations about creativity, identity, and the transformative power of art.
With hundreds of episodes, I share authentic stories and insights that illuminate why art—and those behind it—are vital. I believe in the power of storytelling to connect people and spark change, and I aim to bridge local voices with global ideas. Currently, I’m working on new episodes that dive deeper into the intersections of art and community, showcasing the incredible work being done in creative spaces. I’m excited to continue this journey and invite you to join me in celebrating the impact of art in our lives.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work is my dad. I’ve always been a hard worker, driven to achieve my goals, but he instilled in me the belief that it’s essential to work smarter, not just harder. This mentality has shaped my approach to productivity.
I often find myself reluctant to take time off if a goal hasn’t been accomplished. I’m always seeking ways to optimize my work, recognizing the limitations of resources like time. It’s about being efficient with what I have, knowing when to be strategic and when to really dive in and put my nose to the grindstone. This balance has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely, there have been moments when I almost gave up. After receiving a bad review, experiencing low downloads, or finishing an interview where I felt I “didn’t have it anymore,” those feelings can be quite overwhelming. Being public with my podcast comes with its challenges, especially when it involves applying for grants and reaching out to potential guests—it’s a lot of exposure and can feel risky.
I remember a specific instance when I released an episode that I felt was particularly strong, but the download numbers were disappointing, and shortly after, I received a rejection letter for a grant I was excited about. It’s a regular part of the journey as an independent creator to check in with myself, especially with the way I approach my work. It can be tough, but these challenges also remind me of my passion and commitment to the creative process.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
While I don’t have many close friends, one who really stands out is David R. Ibata, a talented painter based in D.C. I met him through the podcast, and his feedback about my work means a lot to me. When he says that my work is good, it resonates deeply—direct feedback from a fellow artist is incredibly powerful.
He’s even compared my approach to that of Charlie Rose, which I consider a tremendous compliment. Moreover, there’s a strong trust between us that allows us to bounce ideas off each other. As they say, artists can be sensitive, so I never take his words and perspective for granted. His support and insights remind me of what truly matters: genuine connections and creative collaboration.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. How do you know when you’re out of your depth?
Knowing when I’m out of my depth can be challenging, especially after doing so many interviews and conversations through The Truth In This Art podcast. I usually feel this way when I haven’t prepared enough. I take pride in keeping my conversations authentic, but it’s kind of like going on a blind date with artists—I intentionally avoid getting to know my guests too well beforehand to create a more genuine dialogue.
However, there are times when I don’t receive the requested bio, background, or context ahead of the conversation. In those moments, I might have some talking points, but without that deeper context, I find it challenging to engage in a meaningful way. That’s when I really feel like I’m in over my head. It’s a reminder of the importance of preparation and the need for balance in maintaining authenticity while still being prepared for rich conversations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/
Image Credits
Image 1 Jefferson Liu
Image 2 Rob Lee/Alex Fine
Image 3 Jefferson Liu
Image 4 Jefferson Liu
