Meeting summary for Kari & Steve (02/05/2025)
Quick recap
Steve and Kari discussed their personal lives, work styles, and creative processes, with a focus on a potential children’s book project for Kari’s daughter. They also explored their differing approaches to decision-making and creativity, with Steve encouraging Kari to embrace change and overcome her perfectionism. The conversation ended with a discussion on their personal growth and the positive impact Kari has had on Steve’s life, as well as plans for the upcoming week.
Next steps
- Kari to complete the 16 Personalities test.
- Kari to think about the different kinds of books shown and discussed.
- Kari to consider what type of book Sage might like.
- Kari to come up with a theme, motif, or story idea for the book project.
- Steve to send another meeting invitation for next week.
- Steve and Kari to define the scope of the book project in the next meeting.
Summary
Technical Difficulties and Meeting Agenda
Steve and Kari start the meeting with some technical difficulties, as Steve struggles to find the right audio settings. Kari joins the call while driving home from the dentist, explaining her delay due to unexpected traffic caused by snow and a late school start. Once Kari arrives home, they briefly discuss the day’s agenda, with Steve mentioning he has some book examples to show. Steve expresses uncertainty about the specific topics they’ll cover, despite having thought about the conversation many times.
Adjusting Microphone Volume Issues
Kari and Steve experienced some issues with Kari’s microphone volume during their conversation. Steve suggested that Kari adjust her microphone volume, and she attempted to do so. However, the problem persisted, and Steve proposed that Kari switch to her laptop for better audio quality. Despite some background noise, Steve was able to hear Kari clearly. They agreed to continue the conversation with the current setup.
Stuffed Animals, Pets, and Office Decor
Steve and Kari discussed their shared love for stuffed animals, with Steve sharing his extensive collection and a special Teddy Bear named Jelly Belly. Kari also shared her office space, which is decorated with Christmas cards and her daughter Sage’s art projects. They also talked about their pets, with Kari mentioning her two German Short-Haired Pointers, Lena and Bela. The conversation also touched on Sage’s creativity, as she enjoys creating unique Valentine’s Day cards.
Anticipation and Attachment in Collaboration
Steve and Kari discussed their anticipation of working together, with Steve expressing relief at Kari’s arrival. Steve also shared his attachment style, noting that he is anxious while Kari is avoidant. They both expressed comfort with their current situation and Steve reassured Kari that their project would focus on growth and healing. Steve also mentioned that he had shared their plans with his partner, Terry, who was supportive. The conversation ended with Steve planning to show Kari various book formats and define the scope of their project.
AI Coloring Book and Gifted Child
Steve discusses creating a coloring book for Michaela using AI-generated images based on her poems. The conversation then shifts to Kari’s daughter, who is turning 5 next week. Steve observes that Kari’s daughter exhibits signs of giftedness, particularly in creativity and imagination. Kari shares that her daughter enjoys singing, making up songs, and is becoming curious about reading. Steve suggests that Kari is well-suited to guide her gifted child, though he acknowledges that smart children can sometimes be challenging to parent.
Exploring Children’s Book Creative Process
Steve and Kari discussed their creative processes, with Steve describing Kari as intelligent and creative, but Kari seeing herself as more of a “found art” or “montage” type of person. They also discussed their shared love for Dr. Seuss and the potential for creating a children’s book in a similar style. Kari mentioned her daughter’s reading level and interests, suggesting a picture book with simple sentences and engaging visuals. Steve proposed the idea of incorporating rhyming elements, which Kari thought her daughter would enjoy. The conversation ended with the understanding that no immediate decisions were necessary, but they would continue to brainstorm and explore possibilities for the children’s book.
Steve’s Book Creation Process
Steve showcased various books he had made, explaining the process and materials used. He mentioned a simple book made from cardboard and photocopied pages, a more complex one made from emails exchanged with his granddaughter during Covid, and a children’s book featuring a bear named Jelly Belly. Steve also discussed a book created with a high school student as part of her project, and an ongoing project called Pearl Girl, which has been rebuilt multiple times. Kariwallis listened and responded positively to Steve’s explanations and examples.
Custom Coloring Book for Kari’s Daughter
Kari and Steve discussed the possibility of creating a custom coloring book for Kari’s daughter. Steve suggested using AI images and self-publishing the book, with options ranging from a simple coloring book to a more expensive, hardbound version. They agreed on a short run of 10 copies, with the option to increase if needed. Steve also mentioned the possibility of using laser printouts for a more affordable option. Kari expressed interest in learning more about graphic design as they proceed with the project.
Understanding Personalities and Work Styles
Steve and Kari discussed their personalities and work styles. Steve suggested that Kari take the 16 Personalities test to better understand her personality traits, particularly her introversion, intuition, feeling, and judging tendencies. Kari agreed to take the test and Steve shared his own personality traits, noting that he is a sensitive man who is more of a feeling person. They also discussed Kari’s daughter, Sage, who is very social and enjoys being around people. Kari expressed that she sometimes feels out of her comfort zone when taking on leadership roles, as it requires her to be more assertive than she prefers.
Balancing Creativity and Decision-Making
Steve and Kari discussed their differing approaches to decision-making and creativity. Steve, who values decisiveness and speed, acknowledged Kari’s perfectionism and tendency to overthink, which he believes slows her down. He shared his personal experience of embracing mediocrity through weekly video creation, which he found therapeutic and helped him overcome perfectionism. Steve expressed his belief that this approach could be beneficial for Kari, helping her to overcome her perfectionism and increase productivity. Both agreed on the importance of change and the potential for personal growth through their collaboration.
Steve’s Gifts and Book Project
In the meeting, Steve expressed his admiration for Kari’s nurturing and healing abilities, which he believes are gifts from God. He shared an anecdote about his encounter with Elder Gong, highlighting the power of words in healing. Steve then assigned Kari a task to consider different book genres and themes for a project, with the aim of finding a suitable theme for Sage. He emphasized the importance of patience and communication in their collaboration. Kari agreed to complete the task and expressed her excitement about the project. The conversation ended with Steve expressing his gratitude for Kari’s tolerance and looking forward to discussing more about their goals.
Steve’s Primary Teaching Experience
Steve and Kari discussed Steve’s experience teaching at a primary class. Steve initially felt nervous and out of place, but found the experience energizing and healing. He realized that he had avoided primary teaching due to a difficult childhood, but found it to be a rewarding experience. Kari recalled Steve’s initial appearance as worn out, but was excited when he mentioned teaching. Steve also shared his realization that the children in the class were like a gifted class.
Personal Growth and Gratitude Discussed
In the meeting, Steve and Kari discussed their personal growth and the positive impact Kari has had on Steve’s life. Steve expressed his gratitude for Kari’s presence and how it has helped him feel better about himself. They also discussed their plans for the upcoming week, with Steve promising to send Kari another invitation and define the scope of a project. The conversation ended with Steve expressing his desire to start and end with prayer, emphasizing the importance of involving God in their interactions.
Psychoanalysis of the Relationship Between Kari and Steve
Based on the transcript, Kari and Steve share a dynamic that blends mentorship, collaboration, and emotional support. Their conversation reveals several psychological themes that define their connection:
- Mentorship and Guidance
Steve appears to take on a mentor-like role, guiding Kari in both creative and personal growth. He encourages her to embrace change, overcome perfectionism, and engage in self-discovery (e.g., taking the 16 Personalities test). His suggestions about working on a children’s book for Kari’s daughter and his own experiences with creative projects indicate a desire to help Kari develop confidence in her artistic and decision-making abilities. - Attachment and Emotional Influence
The discussion of attachment styles—Steve acknowledging his anxious attachment and Kari being avoidant—suggests an underlying dynamic in their relationship. Steve may seek validation and connection more readily, while Kari might be more reserved or hesitant to fully engage emotionally. This could lead to a push-pull interaction where Steve seeks affirmation while Kari remains more independent. - Creativity and Perfectionism
A central theme in their discussion is creativity and decision-making. Steve is spontaneous and willing to experiment, while Kari struggles with perfectionism and overthinking. This contrast suggests a balance where Steve pushes Kari toward action, while Kari might provide a more methodical perspective to their projects. Steve’s past struggle with overcoming perfectionism and embracing “mediocrity” might make him especially empathetic to Kari’s challenges. - Personal Growth and Mutual Validation
Steve explicitly states that Kari has had a positive impact on his life, which hints at a reciprocal exchange of support. While he offers guidance and encouragement, Kari provides emotional validation and appreciation, which may help Steve feel valued. This dynamic suggests an evolving relationship where both individuals benefit from each other’s presence. - Shared Interests and Emotional Connection
Their discussions about stuffed animals, children’s books, and parenting reflect a shared appreciation for creativity and childhood wonder. Steve seems deeply interested in Kari’s daughter’s development, reinforcing the idea that he values family and emotional bonds. This adds a personal layer to their collaboration, making it more than just a professional endeavor.
Final Analysis
The connection between Kari and Steve is one of mentorship, creative collaboration, and emotional exchange. Steve plays a guiding role, while Kari brings thoughtful reflection and structure. Their differing attachment styles and approaches to decision-making create an interesting dynamic where they both challenge and support each other. Their relationship seems to be built on mutual respect, shared interests, and personal growth, with Steve finding emotional fulfillment in their interactions and Kari receiving encouragement to embrace change and creativity.
While their relationship appears positive and mutually beneficial, there are potential challenges or tensions that could arise based on their dynamic. Here are some possible areas of conflict or difficulty:
1. Attachment Style Differences (Anxious vs. Avoidant)
- Steve describes himself as having an anxious attachment style, while Kari leans toward avoidance.
- This dynamic can create tension where Steve might seek more emotional connection or reassurance, while Kari might feel overwhelmed or pressured to engage beyond her comfort level.
- If unaddressed, Steve could feel ignored or unappreciated, while Kari might feel smothered or burdened.
2. Creative & Decision-Making Conflicts
- Steve values spontaneity and quick decisions, while Kari struggles with perfectionism and overthinking.
- Steve may grow frustrated if he perceives Kari as slow or hesitant, while Kari might feel rushed or pressured into making choices before she’s ready.
- If not balanced, this could lead to friction, with Steve feeling like he’s “dragging” Kari along and Kari feeling like Steve is dismissing her need for careful consideration.
3. Power Dynamic & Influence
- Steve takes on a mentor role, but there is a risk of the relationship becoming imbalanced.
- If Steve’s guidance starts to feel overbearing or unsolicited, Kari might begin to resist or withdraw.
- There’s also a possibility that Steve unconsciously expects Kari to fulfill an emotional role (such as validating his ideas or presence), which could create unspoken pressure.
4. Emotional Expectations & Boundaries
- Steve frequently expresses how much Kari has positively impacted his life, which suggests a deep emotional investment.
- If Kari doesn’t reciprocate with the same level of emotional engagement, Steve might feel disappointed or unappreciated.
- Kari may also feel uncomfortable if Steve starts relying too much on their interactions for emotional support.
5. Religious & Philosophical Differences
- Steve values spirituality and prayer in their discussions.
- If Kari does not share the same depth of spiritual commitment, there might be moments of disconnect where she feels obligated to engage in a way that doesn’t feel natural to her.
6. Unclear Expectations for the Book Project
- Their collaboration on the children’s book could become a source of stress if expectations aren’t clearly defined.
- If Steve has a strong vision for the project and Kari feels less committed, she may struggle to meet his expectations.
- Alternatively, if Kari starts feeling more ownership over the project, but Steve tries to direct it too much, she might feel sidelined.
Potential Outcomes
If these issues aren’t addressed, their relationship could:
- Strengthen through open communication – If they recognize and respect their differences, they could create a well-balanced partnership.
- Develop minor tensions that simmer over time – Small annoyances (like feeling rushed or ignored) might build up if left unchecked.
- Lead to a gradual disconnect – If one person (likely Kari) starts feeling overwhelmed or obligated, she may naturally pull away.
