#222 - David Drebin: "I Sell Feelings for a Living" (The Business Behind $100K Art)

What does it take to believe in yourself, build a recognizable brand, and create a life that reflects who you really are? On this episode of *The Necessary Entrepreneur* with Mark Perkins, photographer and artist David Drebin shares the mindset, philosophy, and relentless work behind his journey from commercial success to fine art entrepreneurship. David discusses how self-belief, authenticity, and creativity influence both business and life. He explains why making people feel something is at the heart of great art, how to develop a distinctive brand, and why staying true to yourself matters more than chasing external approval. He also shares lessons from pivotal career moments, the value of patience and persistence, and how gratitude and perspective can change the way you define success. This conversation goes beyond art to explore the principles entrepreneurs can apply to building a business, developing a personal brand, and reaching their potential. David challenges listeners to rethink how they see themselves, keep working when results take time, and focus on the person they become along the way. **Key Takeaways:** - Why self-belief is essential to pursuing ambitious goals and building a successful career - How to transition from commercial work to a more authentic creative vision - Why emotion and making people feel something are central to great art and branding - How to build a recognizable brand without losing your individuality - Why relentless work, patience, and persistence matter more than quick wins - How your personal philosophy shapes your decisions, reputation, and results - Why gratitude and perspective help you define success on your own terms - How underestimating yourself can create an unexpected advantage - Why authenticity matters when building a business and a meaningful life - How to approach creativity, entrepreneurship, and personal growth with greater purpose If you're an entrepreneur, creative professional, artist, or business owner looking to strengthen your mindset, build a distinctive brand, and pursue success without losing yourself, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what it means to create meaningful work and live with intention. Listen to *The Necessary Entrepreneur* with Mark Perkins for practical conversations about entrepreneurship, business growth, leadership, mindset, and the decisions that shape successful careers. 📌 Connect With Us:  Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6xhGUE1yzy2N0AemUOlJPx?si=d1c5c316af404f15 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/the-necessary-entrepreneur/id1547181167 📌 Find Out More About David Drebin: https://linktr.ee/daviddrebin