It's Hard to Be a Person by Brett Newski

“It’s Hard to Be a Person — Mental Health & Making a Living in the Arts” with Brett Newski
 

***Live Performance and Chat***
 

Brett Newski is a touring songwriter, illustrator, and author of the acclaimed book It’s Hard to Be a Person: Defeating Anxiety, Surviving the World, and Having More Fun — a heartfelt and hilarious guide to staying mentally afloat in modern life.
 

His live speaking show blends acoustic performance, storytelling, and honest conversation about mental health, creativity, and finding balance while chasing big dreams. Through songs, road stories, and colorful illustrations from his book, Newski shares how he learned to manage anxiety, stay creative, and make a sustainable living in the arts — all without a label, manager, or traditional industry infrastructure.
 

Each event includes a Q&A and practical takeaways for students, creators, and anyone navigating the ups and downs of being human.
 

Brett’s DIY success story:

• Author & illustrator of It’s Hard to Be a Person (praised by therapists, musicians & mental health advocates)

• Built a full-time creative career completely DIY

• Toured globally across Europe, Asia, South Africa & the U.S.

• Host of the podcast Dirt from the Road

• Shared stages with acts like The Violent Femmes, The Pixies, and Courtney Barnett

To encourage student participation, we’ll be holding a drawing at the end of the event for two $100 prizes. Students must be present to win.

This event is free and open to all NWTC students. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in an honest and uplifting conversation about mental wellness.

If you would like to request an accommodation due to a disability, please direct inquiries to (920) 498-6904 or disability.services@nwtc.edu at least three days before the event.

Sponsored by Student Involvement
Event funded by Student Activity Fees