Artists for Joy

This week: a rare unscripted episode! Merideth chats candidly about what's bringing her joy this spring. From shoes to hair accessories to writing playlists and everything in between, give it a listen and let us know what brings you joy in the comments for this episode on IG: @artistsforjoy. Some links (non-affiliate) Gola sneakers from Anthropologie Robe curls Writing playlist on Spotify  Become a Joyster on Patreon and support the podcast Subscribe to Merideth's email list  Read some early material from my new book, Art is How God Loves Us

In today's Joy Session, Merideth coaches Rene, a musical theater writer and composer. Rene opens up about navigating a creative block that feels a bit like living in the show Severance. Despite a lifelong connection to the piano, she finds herself staring at 88 keys like they're strangers. So what happens when something you love becomes inaccessible? Rene shares candidly about the emotional weight of turning her passion into her profession, and how that shift introduced pressure, shame, and sky-high expectations that made creativity feel more like a performance than a joy.  Merideth and Rene explore the connection between being a beginner at speaking a new language and rediscovering the wonder of music. Leveling up a skill can feel uncomfortable, but it can also be an opportunity to grow and restore a sense of awe. Rene's exploration is a gift to anyone who's ever felt stuck, scared, or unsure if they can still do the thing they used to love. If you're trying to find your way back to creativity — or moving forward to a new find a version of it — this one's for you. Apply to record a joy session with Merideth Support the show on Patreon Learn about the Creative Leap Mini-Mastermind Tell us what resonated about the episode on IG  

In today's Joy Session, Merideth sits down with Lexy, a writer and illustrator on the verge of releasing her first poetry collection. Though she had hoped to include her own artwork, Lexy found herself creatively blocked. As the conversation unfolds, she realizes she's been overlooking just how far she's come. Shifting from the lens of an “abused child” to one of “why not me?” opens a new sense of possibility, allowing her to embrace her strength and resilience rather than fear of vulnerability. Lexy recalls the courage it took to ask for help with the illustrations and feels pride in the accomplishment of collaboratively moving forward with a lifelong dream of getting her work published.  Lexy reminds us that while both encouragement and criticism can shape how we see ourselves, we ultimately hold the power to decide our own self-view. By choosing kindness and gentleness over guilt and shame, we create a more joyful and sustainable path forward. Apply to record a joy session with Merideth Support the show on Patreon Learn about the Creative Leap Mini-Mastermind Subscribe to the Email List Tell us what resonated about the episode on IG

This week on the podcast, author Maria Bowler (Making Time) returns to talk with Merideth about the creative process behind long-term projects. They dive into the emotional highs and lows—from starting something big, navigating the messy middle, facing self-doubt, and detaching identity from the work. Learn how to find support, balance creativity with marketability, and celebrate the finish line—with a mantra to carry you through the whole journey. Join the next Creative Leap Mastermind Maria Bowler's Substack

This week on the podcast, I have another installment of our Art's Open Door series. Through the lens of Arvo Pärt's "Spiegel im Spiegel," for piano and violin, we explore the profound act of letting go: in parenting, in art, and in our relationship with the divine.  Tell me what you think about this episode on IG Read the transcript on Substack here Content warning: birth and medical trauma

A throwback episode to remind you to join us live on Patreon for our Enneagram & Motivation workshop on April 11th at 3 PM EST! Register or check out the replay when it becomes available here.  Check out the Spotify playlist with all the episodes of the Enneagram series here. Original shownotes: Without further ado, our summer Enneagram series begins now! Merideth chats with enneagram coach Lee Fields (the impetus for this entire series) about how each Enneagram number's energy is needed in bringing a creative project from ideation to completion. Invitation: read through the list and circle a few that resonate with you. If you don't know your type yet, check out these other enneagram resources. 8's strive to feel powerful, resist other peoples' boundaries 9's strive to feel peaceful, resist their own priorities 1's strive to feel perfect, resist relaxing 2's strive to feel connected, resist tending to their own needs 3's strive to feel outstanding, resist slowing down 4's strive to feel unique, resist ordinary tasks 5's strive to feel detached, resist engaging with others 6's strive to feel secure, resist trusting others, the process, or themselves 7's strive to feel excited, resist stillness, savoring, or appreciating what they have Connect with Lee Submit a "Sounds of Joy" video: hello@artistsforjoy.org Love the show? Buy Merideth a coffee.

In today's Joy Session, Merideth coaches Amber, a seminary graduate who desires to have the courage to try launching a business in spiritual direction in the midst of chronic illness. She has already done the brave work of dreaming what's possible, but the next step is to figure out how to make it happen while honoring her capacity and maintaining her energy. Together, they unpack the challenges of fear, self-doubt, grief, and financial uncertainty.  Amber reminds us that bravery is a practice, there isn't only one way to be a successful and fulfilled entrepreneur, and that no action is too small.  Apply to record a joy session with Merideth Become a Joyster and join the Enneagram and Motivation Meet-Up Read Merideth's latest Substack

In today's Joy Session, Merideth chats with Margie, an author and speaker, who struggles with financial abundance despite having plenty of work. She reveals a complex relationship with money stemming from her upbringing and shares her desire to make a global impact through speaking and client work. Margie also explores the challenges of balancing her energy at this specific time in her life, as she longs to pursue her true potential. Don't miss this deeply relatable and inspiring conversation about overcoming blocks and becoming the person you long to be. Apply to record a joy session with Merideth Become a Joyster and join the Enneagram and Motivation Meet-Up Read Merideth's latest Substack

Today's episode is a throwback from Season 3 and was originally titled “Creative Lies: All or Nothing.” Original show notes: Merideth debunks a common creative conundrum this week: “It's all or nothing.” She shares what she is learning, creating in the cracks during her own life stage, plus thoughts from listeners from all creative disciplines and experience levels. Listen for some truths to replace the all-or-nothing thinking and get inspired! Sergio Sandí's new Beethoven Piano Sonatas Album How to Leave an Apple Podcast Review Leave us a review here (We need just five more to reach our goal!) Tell us how you create in the cracks Leave us a voicemail: 302-415-3407 Support the work of Artists for Joy

Another installment of Merideth's "Art's Open Door," this week on the podcast, Merideth reads a personal essay about finding her true path as an artist, moving away from "shadow careers" and discovering the joy of "Simple Gifts" in her musical journey.  Read the text version of the essay on Substack Leave a comment on IG Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts Become a Patreon Supporter Subscribe to Artists for Joy on Substack

In today's episode, Merideth shares six things that are bringing her joy this winter. From bathrobes to new mindsets to female medieval theologians, you're gonna love this one. Tell her what is bringing you joy in the comments on IG or Substack. Check out all the links mentioned in the show on Substack Join our next Joyster Monthly Meet-Up on March 10th (or catch the replay!)

In today's podcast episode, you'll hear inspiring artist oaths from Christina Mathis, Jennifer Gatz, and Janet Parker, members of the inaugural Artist's Joy Creative Cluster last year. These inspiring artists crafted a powerful manifesto as part of our work in the cohort and have transformed their lives by embracing imperfection, quieting the inner critic, and prioritizing their creative lives and well-being.    If you want to write your own oath, check out my book “The Artist's Joy" and sign up for our next cohort which launches in September of this year.   I am grateful to Christina, Jennifer, and Janet for sharing these inspiring oaths on the podcast!    Links from the show notes:    Get your copy of “The Artist's Joy” Support the Show on Patreon Join the next Artist's Joy Creative Cluster

Today, Merideth's guest is Rebe Huntman, author of "My Mother in Havana: A Memoir of Magic and Miracle." Rebe shares her journey as a multi-passionate artist, from her early days as a professional Latin dancer and choreographer to becoming a writer. She discusses her deep connection to Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way" and the importance of pushing past the "tortured artist" stereotype to find joy in creativity. Rebe opens up about the long and winding path to publishing her memoir, including the challenges of finding an agent and the importance of believing in her unique story. She also delves into the themes of grief, loss, and healing and how her experiences in Cuba helped her reconnect with her mother and explore a variety of rich cultural and spiritual traditions. Get My Mother in Havana Read More about Rebe Rebe's Artist's Oath  Support the Show on Patreon Join the next Artist's Way Creative Cluster    

In today's Joy Session, Merideth coaches Katie, an interdisciplinary artist who desires to be more present with her daughter, plus pursue her art and movement in a sustainable and nurturing way. Merideth and Katie explore weaving together identities of Mother, Mover, and Maker. They talk about Katie's struggle with negative self-talk and judgment, plus a fear of monetizing her art.  Katie identifies ways to be present in the moment, even when it's murky or uncomfortable. She feels a weight lifted realizing she can take the pressure off herself and make progress toward her desires even  in the midst of uncertainty.  Tell us what resonated about this episode on IG Get the podcasts sent to your inbox every Friday Do the lens exercise with other Joysters on Patreon in March

In today's episode, Merideth shares an essay from her Substack series, "Art's Open Door," which explores the intersection of creativity and spirituality. Through the lens of Billy Collins' poem “Introduction to Poetry,” the essay reflects on the challenges of a "portfolio career" and offers a new more hopeful perspective when life feels overwhelmingly full.  Show notes: Read the essay on Substack Support the podcast on Patreon Join the next creative cluster  

In this episode, Merideth chats with Angie Kim, award-winning author of Miracle Creek and Happiness Falls. Angie shares her journey of publishing her first novel at 50, her evolving creative process, and how her experiences as a Korean immigrant have shaped her storytelling. We talk about:  How Angie's creative process has changed from periods of intense, long hours to a more balanced approach using a timer to write for two hours a day. The importance of integrating a myriad of life experiences into creative work and never believing it's too late to write the book or create the work you dream of making. A new perspective on finding lasting happiness and joy in creative pursuits and life in general. Angiekimbooks.com Angie Kim's first novel: Miracle Creek won the Edgar Award and ITW Thriller Award and was named one of Time's "100 Best Mysteries and Thrillers of All Time." Angie Kim's second novel: Happiness Falls  an instant New York Times bestseller and has been featured by Good Morning America, Barnes & Noble, Belletrist, and the Book of the Month Club. Angie's Instagram Support the podcast on Patreon Join the next FREE Creative Cluster with Merideth

Today, Merideth's guest is the delightful Maria Bowler, a writer, coach, and retreat leader who views creativity as a spiritual, political, and existential issue. She struggled with creative blocks early in life and found that the typical advice of focusing on craft or routine didn't solve the deeper issue. Her new book, "Making Time: a New Vision for Crafting a Life beyond Productivity," offers a different perspective on overcoming resistance and embracing imperfection. In this powerful book, Maria encourages all with this truth: creativity is not about what we produce but about who we are as makers.  Get Making Time Read more about Maria Maria's Substack Maria's IG Support the show on Patreon Join the next Artist's Way Creative Cluster  

Today on the podcast, our first newly recorded show of 2025! Merideth gets honest about what she was up to during the break and offers a simple mantra that has replaced her word of the year. This one is for all of us feeling overwhelmed and longing for some gentle encouragement to keep showing up, especially when life feels "lifey."  See pics from the trip and read the essay on Substack Patreon Join the next Artist's Way Creative Cluster Leave a review on Apple podcasts

In today's Joy Session, Merideth chats with Sarah, who longs to commit more fully to her creative practice while balancing the demands of work and family. They explore the values driving Sarah's artistic pursuits and a perceived conflict with her desire for stability and security. The session delves into the internal shifts necessary for Sarah to embrace her artistic identity and prioritize her creative expression amidst life's responsibilities. As she redefines what taking her art more seriously means for her, she uncovers a powerful message for anyone living the complexities of a seeking fulfilling artistic life while juggling multiple roles and expectations. Register for the next Artist's Way Creative Cluster Support the show on Patreon Mara Eller's "Wake Up Wanting to Write" Workshop (where she describes writing as a relationship)

This week on the podcast, Merideth coaches Robyn, a writer and editor who struggles with procrastination. Through the Joy Session, Robyn identifies the underlying fear and shame associated with her procrastination and explores ways to cultivate self-compassion. Merideth and Robyn explore deadlines and plans of action to reduce stress, and Robyn develops rituals of reflection and introspection so as to feel more grounded in her innate sense of worthiness. Register for the next Artist's Way Creative Cluster Support the show on Patreon  

This week on the podcast, we will choose your word(s) of the year! Grab your journal and earbuds and explore the prompts paired with meditative music to craft an intentional, creative year with joy.  Reflect on 2024: looking through your phone at photos of the last year, ask yourself: what do I wish there had been more of? If you had a word(s) of the year, in what ways did you see them reflected in your life? If you didn't, based on the last twelve months, what words might you have been living by? Now looking forward: Answer this question with a stream-of-consciousness list– This year, regardless of my circumstances, I want to feel…  Write as many words as possible about how you want to show up in 2025.  Read your list and circle the words that resonate most. Look especially for verbs or action words. Take the list of circled words and make a fresh list. If anything is missing, add it now. Sit with this list of words for a few days. Talk to a loved one, therapist, or coach about it.  What activities, deadlines, trips, and events are coming up in 2025, and which of these word(s) will help you show up as you most want to, regardless of the outcomes or circumstances?  Narrow it down to one (or more) words you'll live by this year.  Please share yours with me on Instagram on the post for this episode @artistsforjoy so we can cheer you on. Register for the next Artist's Way Creative Cluster Support the show on Patreon  

This week on the podcast, our annual Christmas episode: a meditation originally released in essay form for the Advent Art series on Substack. This reflection explores the intersection of faith and creativity, delving into a lesser-known carol, "Of the Father's Love Begotten." It reflects on the beautiful-terrible human experience and how Christmas reminds us that each effort of creativity is an act of love. Read the full essay on Substack Creative Leap Mastermind Support the podcast on Patreon Write a review on Apple Podcasts Subscribe to the email list Subscribe to the Substack essay list Learn more about the First Nations Translation  

This week on the podcast, Merideth answers one listener question with a WHOLE episode: how do you cultivate a more joyful daily practice routine?   She offers five ideas for how to find joy in the creative process, even when you're faced with challenges like unproductive or frustrating practice sessions, writer's block, lack of inspiration and more.    Whether you're an artist seeking to reignite your passion or simply someone who yearns to embrace your creativity, this one has practical advice and inspiration for infusing your creative journey with joy.   Creative Leap Energy episode Support the show on Patreon Join the next Artist's Way Creative Cluster Submit your question to Merideth Check out the GRAMMY nominee for Best Folk Album: American Patchwork Quartet Read the crowd-sourced poem "Creativity Is..." by the Sage Cohort of "The Artist's Joy" on IG  

This week is my 41st birthday! In celebration, I've got a throwback episode featuring my favorite coaching exercise to use with artists. Grab your journal and give it a listen.  Do this exercise with me live this month in our Patreon community! Learn more here. ___ Original show notes: Whatever you are feeling about fall, bring it on over to this the podcast equivalent of a fire pit and we'll talk it out. This week Merideth shares a coaching exercise that will help you name your inner team members, resource their skills, and cultivate a sense of self-compassion for the multitudes you contain.  Graydin Episode 75 Beethoven's Heiligenstadt Testament Financially support the podcast Schedule a one-on-one with Merideth Leave a listener question or call us 302-415-3407 Podcast survey Transcript

Today on the podcast: a mini-episode to keep you company during this holiday time!  Festive Focus–how to manage your time and not lose your joy during the holidays. Listen for practical tips and good questions to ponder when facing a crazy schedule laden with emotionally taxing--if joyful--time with friends and family. Stay to the end to hear an exciting announcement about a new offering in 2025. Tell us what resonated about the episode on IG Support the podcast on Patreon Get the Spark Joy with Play workshop replay Review the podcast Join the email list to get the Friday episode in your inbox Creative Leap Mastermind

In today's Joy Session, Merideth pulls back the curtain on creative coaching with Carrie who is longing to finish her memoir. They explore how finding the right tool at the right time is central to overcoming fears of not being good enough and making progress that feels sustainable and joyful. Carrie leaves with two new practices that will help her shift her lens around writing and surrender to the power of the creative process. Apply to get a free coaching call and be featured on a Joy Session  Subscribe to Merideth's email list  Learn more about coaching Join Patreon Buy Merideth's book Tell us what resonated about the episode on IG

This week on the podcast, Ask Merideth Anything!  Merideth answers listener questions about creativity, burnout, parenting, and spirituality. You'll learn how to meet the inner artist's resistance with compassion, recognize creative burnout, and explore the intersection of artistic expression and spiritual practice. She shares insights on cultivating gratitude and creativity in children and navigating the challenges of parenting young artists. Merideth reflects on her evolving definition of success, and the episode concludes with a message of encouragement for listeners who are struggling at this moment in time. This one is full of wholehearted honesty and encouragement. Burnout book Burnout episode of Artists for Joy Buy Merideth's book Subscribe to Merideth's Substack Support the podcast on Patreon Review the podcast Email your question to be answered in future AMAs: hello@artistsforjoy.org

This week, Merideth shares a vulnerable story of a recent self-hatred spiral. She explores how and why artists are particularly hard on themselves. If you've ever wondered if your mistakes are moral failings, this one is for you. Merideth gives practical advice for when you are stuck and shares how turning up the voices of self-compassion in the face of shame is crucial for sustainable growth and change. Join the November 11th "Sparking Joy through Play" Workshop Become a Joyster to try "Who's in your car?" with Merideth next month How to be you, Season 3, Episode 2 Musical Meditation: Inner Team Huddle Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts   

Celebrate 200 episodes of Artist for Joy with listeners offering their best advice for artists + something they've learned from Artists for Joy.  Merideth also shares what to do when you're hesitant to celebrate, reflections on finding your voice, a surprise peek into an early recording, and more. What a joyful ride! Thank you for listening. Here's to the next 200! Support the show with your dollars on Patreon Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts   

This week on the podcast, Merideth celebrates (almost) 200 episodes by looking back on everything we've learned in joyful mashup form! Listen for a turbo-sized creative pep talk, a love letter to you, my podcast listeners.

This week on the podcast, I've got 10 things that are bringing me joy this fall. Some are deep and others may, at first glance, seem trivial, but this collection of what's bringing me joy adds up to a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts: in a profoundly simple way, these small wonders are saving my life in this season.     By consciously bringing good things to mind, we teach our brains to look for the good, and we relive those joyful moments through the remembering.   Hit reply and let me know what's bringing you joy these days!   Links: (some are Affiliate, which means I make a few dollars when you purchase)     See pictures and find all the links in one place in this week's Substack NY Times Reader's Choice Top 10 List Amazon storefront with all the products mentioned here (+ other things I love!) Home Chef: Get 18 meals for free when you sign up here Created Colorful: $20 off your color analysis with code FORJOY

This episode originally aired in October 2023. Enjoy this throwback while Merideth practices some self-care ;)  Read "Let Art Be Light," Merideth's latest substack piece  Original Show Notes: This week on the show, Merideth answers a question we all tend to ask when the world is on fire. How can I feel creative joy in the face of violence, injustice, and brokenness? She explores why art matters in these moments, especially, and how our creativity offers us a place to process the pain and turn our anxiety into energy that can make a difference. The late famous conductor, Leonard Bernstein, answers the age-old question, “How can we go on?” and we learn about two fantastic non-profits using creativity to change the world. Peace Drums Project Little Sun Pre-order Merideth's book, The Artist's Joy Buy Merideth a coffee Email your question to be read on the air: hello@artistsforjoy.org Photo cred: littlesun.org    

In today's podcast, the final installment of our Joy Sessions series, Merideth chats with Christina, a musician, coach, and teacher who wants to reexamine the beliefs and negative inner dialogue she's been having about performing. They explore perfectionism, performance anxiety, how to show up authentically when we cannot stop judging ourselves, and so much more. By the end of the call, Christina begins to give herself permission to live out the advice she offers her students, to embrace and enjoy the very human and authentic experience of making music, and to offer herself self-compassion along the way.  Coach with Merideth (non-recorded) Join the email list to get the Friday episode in your inbox Support us on Patreon Apply to get a free coaching call and be featured on a Joy Session Buy Merideth's book, The Artist's Joy  

This week's episode features a Joy Session with Mara, a writer who wants to write a novel but struggles to find the time or energy. We watch Mara identify the underlying reasons for her creative block, including fear of failure and too much focus on the product rather than the process. She names a deep desire for community and encouragement from other writers.   BONUS: At the end of this week's episode, Merideth shares an update from Mara about a week or so after the session, naming how an epiphany renewed her hope and motivation to continue pursuing her creative writing goals.   Links: Join the email list to get the Friday episode in your inbox Support us on Patreon Apply to get a free coaching call and be featured on a Joy Session Buy Merideth's book, The Artist's Joy

Continuing our new series, Joy Sessions, I chat with Jessi, a musician and educator who reflects on how, as a multipassionate artist, she could engage with music in a more meaningful way.   We explore the idea of experimentation and taking small, sustainable steps towards this goal, recognizing the need for a different kind of energy than the usual "discipline button" approach. The conversation highlights the importance of keeping the thread of musical engagement alive through exploration and connection, allowing for a more fulfilling and sustainable relationship with the art form.     If you are interested in doing a coaching call for a future Joy Sessions episode, click here. Links from the show notes: Subscribe to Merideth's email list  Learn more about coaching Join Patreon Buy Merideth's book Tell us what resonated about the episode on IG

Introducing: Joy Sessions. Each week I'll feature excerpts from real sessions with artists of all disciplines, pulling back the curtain on creative coaching as we focus on overcoming creative challenges and finding joy in the artistic process. This week, Merideth chats with Ericka, a writer who longs to set herself free from the shame cycle of past and current criticism. Learn more about coaching Join Patreon Buy Merideth's book Tell us what resonated about the episode on IG

This week on the podcast,  the first installment of a new series started earlier this week over on Substack called “Art's Open Door,” where we'll explore the profound ways creativity and spirituality intersect and how viewing art through a spiritual lens is a powerful tool for well-being, connection, and joy. Usually, these essays will only exist in blog form at artistsforjoy.substack.com, but this week, I am giving you a sneak peek into this new content.  If you enjoy these more spiritual writings, subscribe to Substack here.  The Common Heart: An Experience of Interreligious Dialogue Register for the Creative Enneagram 2.0 Workshop

This week on the podcast: a musical meditation for making sense of life.    In this guided reflection, explore the following: Consider your life's puzzle. Hold a couple of pieces in your hand, and consider now the growth that each piece represents. What do you see? Look for the piece(s) that don't seem to fit. What experiences or areas of growth or interest, disparate parts of your journey of life–good or hard—have you yet to accept as your own? Even though you may not yet be able to make sense of certain pieces, ask: what might they be teaching me? Find the jagged edge of the puzzle, and consider the ways you are growing, the piece you are filling in now. How can you love yourself as you are becoming? What do you want yourself to remember now, in this season? Links from the show notes: Join the next Creative Cluster Buy Merideth's book Get your printable journal Register for the Creative Enneagram 2.0 Workshop

This week on the podcast, a new metaphor to cultivate more resilience, perspective, and joy while we work to make sense of our lives. Join the next Creative Cluster Buy Merideth's book Get your printable journal

This week on the podcast, Merideth offers a pep talk for artists and creatives who feel overwhelmed or unmotivated, particularly during transitional periods like the month of August. Grab your worksheet, so you can:  Name your season Decide if you need a new routine or rhythm (or both!) Discover the small step you'd like to take toward your goal Join the next Creative Cluster Buy Merideth's book Watch the replay of the Procrastination Workshop by becoming a paid supporter on Patreon

This week Merideth offers some strategies to overcome procrastination to embrace a more joyful and fulfilling creative life. She offers 3 common lies we tell ourselves when we are having a hard time getting things done:  I'm lazy. I just need the right routine. I'll wait for inspiration to feel motivated.  She then translates these less-than-helpful thought patterns into questions to unlock what we really need to keep moving.  Buy Merideth's book The Artist's Joy Check out K.C. Davis' book "How to Keep House While Drowning" Join the next Creative Cluster  Leave a review of Merideth's book: Amazon and Goodreads Get your printable journal: Join Merideth for a Procrastination Workshop (or watch the replay) by becoming a paid supporter on Patreon Stream "Oath to Joy" by Angela Sheik (The Artist's Joy theme song!)

Back from the first leg of her book tour, Merideth shares a little about how she's still learning how to celebrate in this throwback from October 2022. Original show notes: Why is it so much easier to celebrate the accomplishments of others than it is our own? Merideth shares two things she is forcing herself to celebrate these days and why she believes celebration should be a core value for every artist. Support the podcast Celebrate with us by leaving us a review Write to Merideth

Catherine Ricketts, essayist, songwriter, writing instructor, and author of The Mother Artist: Portraits of Ambition, Limitation, and Creativity, is my guest today. We talk about: The historical underrepresentation of mothers in the art world and the societal factors contributing to this. The tension between caring for children and dedicating time to creative work. The importance of support systems, self-belief, and a sense of purpose for mothers.  The value of art created by mothers and how we can all support all caregivers in their creative pursuits. Connect with Catherine on IG Catherinedanaricketts.com Order “The Mother Artist” Find Merideth on her book tour Order “The Artist's Joy”

In the final installment of this inspiring series, Robin White, Joshua Long, Lorrie Fredette, and Merideth Hite Estevez read their Artist's Oath. The culmination of Merideth's book, "The Artist's Joy," the Artist's Oath is a powerful coaching exercise that helps artists name how they want to show up in the world and what they believe. When we stay connected to our values, we are able to move through creative challenges and tough decisions with confidence and grace for ourselves and others. In this episode: Robin White Joshua Long Lorrie Fredette (photo cred Deborah DeGraffenreid) Merideth Hite Estevez Connect with Merideth on her book tour

This episode features Artist's Oaths, written and read by Elmer Perry, David Westerlund, Sara McMahon, and Sila Wolf. The culmination of Merideth's book, "The Artist's Joy," the Artist's Oath is a powerful coaching exercise that helps artists name how they want to show up in the world and what they believe. When we stay connected to our values, we are able to move through creative challenges and tough decisions with confidence and grace for ourselves and others. In this episode:   Elmer Perry, Jr David Westerlund Sara McMahon's IG and website Sila Wolf   Connect with Merideth on her book tour

This episode features Artist's Oath's written and read by Kelsey Bogan, David James, and Karen Rege.  The culmination of Merideth's book, "The Artist's Joy," the Artist's Oath is a powerful coaching exercise that helps artists name how they want to show up in the world and what they believe. When we stay connected to our values, we are able to move through creative challenges and tough decisions with confidence and grace for ourselves and others.  About the artists in this episode:  Kelsey Bogan:  Kelsey IG Kelsey's Facebook bravelightart.com   David James: David James IG The Moonlit Wild (David James, bass)   Karen Rege: Connect with Karen on Facebook  Karen's LinkedIn Listen to Karen's Music   Connect with Merideth on her book tour

In today's episode, Merideth chats with artist, composer, and songwriter Angela Sheik. Angela (whose name you may recognize from every episode's credits as our resident theme songwriter here at Artists for Joy) composed a full-length anthemic jam for Merideth's new book "The Artist's Joy." In this episode, you'll hear the complete track for the first time! They also discuss how central community is in finding sustainable creative practice and what to do when you feel like quitting.  "The Artist's Joy" theme song, "Oath to Joy," will be available to stream and download in August, but for now, enjoy this world premiere here on the podcast. Follow Angela on Spotify Angelasheik.com  Buy Merideth's book (a best-seller new release in the creativity category on Amazon!) Join The Artist's Joy Creative Cluster 

This week on the podcast, Merideth gives the mic to Kenneth Moton, a TV news journalist and childhood friend, and together they dive deep into her new book, The Artist's Joy. Kenneth and "Meri" explore the book's relevance to a broad audience, Meri's motivation for writing the book, her journey of creative recovery, and the concept of using creativity as a means of self-discovery. They explore themes of vulnerability, the healing power of music, and the spiritual dimension of creativity.  Order The Artist's Joy Grab your pre-order bonuses Get your FREE printable journal Follow Kenneth on IG  

This week, I am reading an excerpt from The Artist's Joy-- this time from the Prelude (that's what I call the Introduction) of the book. I explore why I believe seeking joy is a worthwhile pursuit for all people, but especially artists, as well as more about my “why” behind the book and who exactly it is for. (Hint: its for you!)   Give it a listen and if you can, would you mind sharing this episode with a friend who might enjoy it? I'd really appreciate it.    Links: Merideth's book: The Artist's Joy Get your pre-order bonuses Become a Patreon Supporter Catch the replay of the Enneagram Workshop The Artist's Joy Printable Journal

Do you ever worry they will figure out you actually have no idea what you are doing?   Studies show that imposter syndrome, the feeling of being a fraud despite evidence of success, affects everyone.   It reared its ugly (and soul-sucking) head in my life this week during one of the busiest times of my career, maybe ever.   And so here's what I did: I sat down and wrote a podcast that we could all hopefully learn from.   This week's episode—      The 5 C's of Inner Strength: Confide in someone Cultivate consistent practice Offer Compassion to others and yourself Consider the "spotlight effect" Craft your worthiness words. My hope for us is that we'll remember our value and embrace the joy and hope in the creative journey.   Links: Merideth's book: The Artist's Joy Artists for Joy IG Become a Patreon Supporter Join our Enneagram Workshop on June 10th The Artist's Joy Printable Journal

This week, Merideth chats with two fellow writers, Sarah E. Westfall and Jenai Auman. They explore ways to foster joy for the long haul as they discuss their experiences writing and publishing their first traditionally published books together. (They come out within weeks of each other!) Merideth, Sarah, and Jenai emphasize the importance of community, celebrating milestones, and managing vulnerability, and offer encouragement for finding joy in the creative process itself and staying true to oneself despite challenges. Merideth's book: The Artist's Joy Artists for Joy IG Jenai Auman, author and artist Jenai's book: Othered Sarah E. Westfall, author and speaker Sarah's book: The Way of Belonging