Why The Only Reason You Should Be a Photographer is Obsession - Jesse Lenz: E106

In this episode - the last guest episode of 2025 - I sit down with photographer, publisher, and curator Jesse Lenz for one of the most expansive and honest conversations I’ve had on the show - fitting to end the year with such a nice gift-wrapped present.

What begins as a discussion about photography and photobooks quickly becomes a deeper exploration of obsession, taste, community, and what it actually means to build a life of artistry that lasts. Jesse speaks candidly about art not as a career path, but as something closer to devotion; something you shape your life around rather than extract from.

Here's what we talk about:

• Why art is an addiction
• Discovering photobooks
• Why most projects fail
• Editing and sequencing of art
• Making work for yourself before others
• Charcoal Press and publishing work
• Chico Review
• Longevity over visibility

Follow Jesse and his incredible work:
Website: www.jesselenz.com
Instagram: @jesselenz
Charcoal Book Club: www.charcoalbookclub.com
Charcoal Press: www.charcoalpress.com
Chico Review: www.chicoreview.com

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