JG: What’s the most exciting thing about where you are right now?
TP: Right now the most exciting thing about where I am in life is that I have the freedom to do whatever I want… whether it’s in the studio, on stage, on set or on vacation. I am content in knowing that I am living for me.
JG: You’re a virgo! I am too. There’s a pretty great tendency to strive toward imagined perfection, even if that means doing too much, and pushing ourselves too far. (With 3 grammy nominations behind you, and 11 Billboard 100 singles,) how has paying attention to things like mindfulness and ‘tuning in’ to yourself altered your way of life?
TP: Yesss Virgo nation! I truly believe that once you gain the accolades as an entertainer, eventually the only thing left is to do the same thing again and again and again.. so how do you stay inspired if that’s the motivation? I started working so young and because of that I learned that for me personally, I have to keep the balancing act of enjoying the moment, because I always have a new level I want to take it. I’m growing, it’s continuous and will level out eventually I suppose.. but until then, let’s go!
JG: Many music industry retreats are focused on writing or producing, mainly musically-related productivity. Your ‘Burnout camp,’ however, is more like an antidote to the pressures of the era. It’s really an incredible contribution to the industry. Who is ‘Burnout camp’ for? And do you think it’s something that can sustain the overwhelming need to always be producing?
TP: Burnout camps are for everyone! From the up and coming to the solidified producer/writer. It’s really taking a silicon valley approach to the music industry in the way that they understand healthy creators are happy creators which produces the best results. We split the day into two portions , play and create to fuel the fire so they don’t burnout. Sound baths, Tai chi, colour therapy etc. I had friends and even saw other companies starting to incorporate the Burnout concept into their camps since the first one in New York. This should be the new normal.
JG: On that note, what does a balanced life look like to you?
TP: A balanced life for me personally involves traveling , playing video games, seeing my friends, yoga , and practicing mindfulness… when I’m not working my ass off, of course lol.
JG: What do your dreams look like? What’s the soundtrack to them?
TP: My dreams look a lot like my reality. Sometimes they’re happy, sometimes they’re scary. But at least they’re never boring!