Podcasts about creative life

Sally Mann is one of the most significant American photographers of the late 20th and 21st centuries. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Mann has explored childhood, family, memory, mortality, and the passage of time, often through experimental and historic photographic processes. From At Twelve: Portraits of Young Women (1988), a nuanced study of girls on the cusp of adolescence, to her landmark series, Immediate Family (1985–1994), occasionally staged photographs of her three children, taken with an 8×10 view camera. In more recent years, Mann turned her lens toward the land itself, using the American South as a site of both personal and collective memory. Mann is the subject of the documentary films Blood Ties: The Life and Work of Sally Mann (1994). Her memoirs include Hold Still, and now Art Work: On the Creative Life.On February 11, 2026, Sally Mann came to the Sydney Goldstein Theater in San Francisco for an onstage conversation with teacher, writer, and photographer Ted Orland. 

EP 22 - Living a Creative Life | Lori Siebert | Artist, Designer & Creative EntrepreneurIn this beautifully insightful episode, Nicole Thomas welcomes multi-faceted artist and creative entrepreneur Lori Siebert to discuss what it truly means to live a creative, joy-filled life. From private art lessons at the age of seven to licensing work with major brands like Target and Nickelodeon, Lori's story is both inspiring and instructive for artists and entrepreneurs alike.

If your art keeps collapsing under the weight of your life, this episode will help you rethink the structure holding it.You're listening to Healthy Wealthy Wise Artist, the podcast that helps artists, performers, makers, storytellers, and creative souls of any kind reconnect with their creative identity in a world that moves too fast.In this launch week episode, Lara explores what it really means to build a life as an artist — not just a body of work. This conversation dives into sustainable creative life design, nervous system regulation, and long-game artistry. You'll walk away with a grounded framework for building structural support around your creative identity instead of relying on emotional momentum alone.Blog version: https://larabiancapilcher.com/2026/02/13/how-to-build-a-life-that-can-hold-your-art/↗

In this episode of the Help! I Am Artist podcast, I'm joined by Canadian artist Valerie Capewell for an honest conversation about creativity, courage, and building a sustainable life as an artist. Valerie shares her journey from running a successful graphic design business to becoming a full-time painter, and how trusting her process, even when it feels messy or uncertain, has shaped her unique artistic voice. We talk about the creative roller coaster of making art, finding your audience, balancing business with personal expression, and why structure and consistency can actually support artistic freedom. Valerie also opens up about pricing, working with galleries, and the mindset shifts that helped her keep growing as an artist. If you've ever wondered how to keep pushing your work forward while staying true to yourself, this episode is full of insight and encouragement. Connect with Valerie Capewell: Website: https://www.valeriecapewell.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeriecapewell Want more focus in your creative practice? Download my free Focused Artist Planner here: https://www.sonjasmalheer.com/planner

What if I told you that making art literally changes your DNA? In a world that often treats creativity as a luxury or a hobby, the data is finally catching up to what artists have always felt: art is essential medicine. In this episode, Kat sits down with Daisy Fancourt, a professor of psychobiology and epidemiology at University College London, whose groundbreaking research provides the "validation ammunition" every creative needs. We dive into her new book, Art Cure, which presents decades of evidence showing that arts engagement is a vital clinical intervention.From reducing stress hormones like cortisol to slowing biological aging and influencing gene expression, we explore why creative engagement should be recognized as the Fifth Pillar of Health alongside nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management.   In this episode, we discuss: The "Fifth Pillar" Concept: Why creative engagement is as vital to your longevity as diet and exercise. The Biology of Art: How making and viewing art creates measurable health benefits that accumulate over time. DNA & Gene Expression: The fascinating science behind how creativity affects our bodies at a cellular level. Validation for Artists: Why your work is a necessity for your collectors and the world, especially during turbulent times. The Psychobiology of Art: Daisy's journey from professional pianist to leading researcher at UCL.   Resources & Links Mentioned: The Book: Art Cure by Daisy Fancourt Daisy's Research Group: SBPR Research Create! Magazine: www.createmagazine.co Newsletter: Join the Weekly Newsletter Community: Follow Create! Magazine on Instagram   Connect with the Guest: Daisy Fancourt is Professor of Psychobiology and Epidemiology at University College London where she heads the Social Biobehavioural Research Group, and Director of the World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre on Arts and Health. She has published 300 scientific papers, won over two dozen academic prizes and is listed as one of the most highly cited scientists in the world. Daisy is also a multi-award-winning science communicator and has been named a World Economic Forum Global Shaper and BBC New Generation Thinker.

Crystal welcomes actor and filmmaker Shannon Wallace on the Keep It Positive, Sweetie Show to discuss Shannon's journey in both photography and acting. Shannon shares his experiences from growing up as a shy child in Long Island to gaining confidence in college. He talks about transitioning from social work to modeling and eventually acting, using each phase of his career to build skills and fulfill his artistic ambitions. They discuss his work in notable shows, the impact of personal loss, and how acting in 'City on a Hill' helped him deal with his brother's tragic death. Shannon highlights his new projects, including a film premiering at Slam Dance, and shares insights into his personal life and relationships.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I want to hear your thoughts about the show and this episode. Text us here...In this episode of Casa De Confidence, Julie DeLucca-Collins sits down with acclaimed wildlife artist and gallery owner James Corwin for a powerful conversation about creativity, confidence, and building a sustainable business as an artist.James shares how growing up immersed in nature shaped his artistic voice, why discovering painting later in life changed everything, and how a single rhino painting sparked a breakthrough that transformed his career. Together, Julie and James explore the emotional power of storytelling through art, the importance of conservation, and how creativity can move people deeply, sometimes even to tears.This episode also dives into the realities of entrepreneurship for creatives. James opens up about the pressures of scaling too fast, the stress of running a second gallery, and the hard lessons he learned about focus, boundaries, and staying in his lane. His honesty about burnout, anxiety, and redefining success will resonate with anyone navigating growth while protecting their well-being.You'll also hear how travel fuels James' inspiration, from Africa to Costa Rica to underwater worlds discovered through scuba diving, and how he uses his art to support conservation efforts like Yellowstone Forever.Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone craving a more intentional, meaningful life, this conversation is a reminder that success doesn't have to come at the cost of your health or joy.In this episode, you'll learn:Why storytelling and emotion are at the heart of meaningful art The mindset shift creatives need to build profitable businesses Lessons learned from closing a high-stress gallery locationHow art can support conservation and environmental awareness Learn more about James' work, original paintings, prints, and commissions: https://www.jamescorwin.com https://corwingalleries.com Instagram Support the showOther helpful resources for you: For more about me and what I do, check out my website. Are you ready to get some help with:Podcast launch/re-launchPodcast growth, to increase your authority and position yourself as the thought leader you are. Or Leveraging your podcast to build your online biz and get more clientsSign up for a FREE 30 minute Confident Podcast Potential Discovery Call In this session I will: Identify the pain point that is holding you back. Suggest a next step strategy for solving the pain point.https://calendly.com/goconfidentlycoaching/30-minutes-free-coaching-sessioin Then we will talk about working together to accelerate the process. Do you want a podcast audit? Check out this link If you're looking for support to grow your business faster, be positioned as an authority in your industry, and impact the masses, schedule a call to explore if you'd be a good fit for one of my coaching programs. ...

In this episode of The Motivatarian Exchange, Dionne Woods sits down with Michelle Allen, the artist and creative force behind the globally recognized brand Allen Designs, for a heartfelt conversation about building a creative life by design. From the unexpected way cat clocks changed her life and career, to her love of list-making, bike riding, and creative structure, Michelle shares how motivation evolves over time—and what it really looks like to let go when burnout creeps in. Together, Dionne and Michelle explore the tension between discipline and play, productivity and rest, and how honoring your own rhythms can lead to more meaningful, sustainable creativity. Michelle reflects on decades of creative entrepreneurship, teaching, and fine art, offering wisdom on staying curious, embracing imperfection, and continuing to grow—even when motivation feels distant. This episode is a reminder that creativity doesn't have to be forced; it can be shaped gently, intentionally, and with joy. If you're a creative navigating burnout, craving clarity, or reimagining what's next, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, encouraged, and inspired to keep going. In this episode, we talk about: Motivation through different seasons of life Burnout and the permission to let go Why lists bring freedom (not pressure) Building creative momentum without overworking Finding inspiration in everyday rituals Designing a creative life that actually fits you About the Guest: Michelle Allen is a Tucson-based artist and founder of Allen Designs, known for her joyful, expressive functional art and iconic designs that celebrate beauty in imperfection. Her work has been featured at juried art fairs, wholesale markets, and in homes around the world. In addition to her commercial success, Michelle is deeply committed to teaching, painting, and inspiring others to live more creatively. Connect with Michelle: Website: michelleallenart.com Instagram: @michelleallenart YouTube: Michelle Allen Art New episodes of The Motivatarian Exchange are released every couple of weeks, featuring honest conversations with creatives about motivation, creativity, and connected growth.

Ep #101: Freedom, Flexibility, and Filling the Gap: How Melquea Smith Built a Creative Life Through Children's Book IllustrationSummaryIn this episode, I sit down with Melquea Smith, a children's book illustrator, author, and world traveler who's redefining what it means to build a creative life on your own terms. Fresh off five weeks in Belgium (with cats and a chicken!), Melquea shares how losing her nonprofit job became the catalyst for going full-time as an illustrator, why representation in children's books matters deeply, and how she's scaling her art through Brown Sugar Graphics—a clip art membership celebrating Black and Brown kids in all their beautiful diversity.We get into the nitty-gritty of how picture books actually get made, what authors should look for when hiring an illustrator, and why visual storytelling is so much more than "just drawing." Plus, Melquea drops gems on building a sustainable creative business, navigating perfectionism, and finding alignment between your work, your values, and your joy.If you've ever wondered what goes into those gorgeous picture books, dreamed of going location-independent as a creative, or just need permission to imagine a different way of living—this one's for you.Chapters00:19 - Introducing Melquea Smith: A Visionary in Children's Literature10:13 - Navigating Change: Embracing Freedom and Creativity20:00 - Transitioning to Children's Illustration35:06 - The Importance of Representation in Children's Literature56:41 - The Journey of Creating Diverse Clip Art01:02:01 - The Creative Journey of Brown Sugar GraphicsWhat We Talk AboutHow Melquea networked like a pro at the American Library Association Conference with custom postcards and a manuscript wish listLosing a job in the nonprofit world and choosing full-time illustration instead of going back to corporateLiving and working abroad: five weeks in Belgium, falling in love with the Netherlands, and becoming a global citizenThe actual process of illustrating a children's book—from thumbnails to color scripting to final artWhy illustrators aren't just "drawers"—they're visual storytellers, marketers, and business ownersThe severe lack of diverse, high-quality clip art featuring Black and Brown kidsHow Brown Sugar Graphics is filling that gap with joyful, authentic representations of kids with different skin tones, hair textures, body types, abilities, and moreWhat authors should know before hiring an illustrator (hint: it's not just about the art)The power of email lists, the exhaustion of social media, and showing up where it matters mostThings We Mentioned

Writer and editor Mason Currey on what artists' routines can teach us about focus, discipline, procrastination, and building a sustainable creative life.You'll learn:What led Mason to writing, and the early pressures that shaped his relationship with the work.Why he started Daily Routines as a side project, and what he was trying to solve with it.The moment the blog went viral, and what changed when an audience arrived.What it took to turn a quote-collecting blog into a book, including the research and structure behind it.Why routines work best when they're personal and flexible rather than prescriptive.Ideas for protecting your best hours, including Nicholson Baker's “double morning.”The difference between physical routine and creative routine, and why both matter.A realistic way to design an hour of writing, including what to do when “nothing happens.”What Worm Zooms are, and why “small progress” can be a powerful creative philosophy.The question underneath every routine: how artists make time for the work while paying the bills.Resources and Links:

Send us a textIn today's episode, I'm chatting with Amanda Wen. Amanda Wen's novels have released to both reader and critical acclaim. Her second novel, The Songs That Could Have Been, won both the Selah and the Carol Awards, and her debut, Roots of Wood and Stone, was a finalist for the Christy Award. In addition to her writing, Amanda is an accomplished professional cellist and pianist who frequently performs with orchestras, chamber groups, and her church's worship team, as well as serving as a choral accompanist. A lifelong denizen of the flatlands, Amanda currently lives in Kansas with her patient, loving, and hilarious husband, their three adorable Wenlets, and a snuggly Siamese cat. Today we are here today to discuss her latest novel, Echoes of a Silent Song.Episode Highlights:Life in the flatlands of the Midwest and how place shapes story.The setting and inspiration behind the next book in her Melodies and Memories duology.Balancing full-time creative work as a musician, writer, wife, and mom.How Amanda realistically fits writing into a very full life.Why kids are often unintentionally funnier than adults.The way music and writing inform and strengthen each other.Research fears, perfectionism, and the pressure of getting details right.A deeper look at Echoes of a Silent Song and the heart behind the story.Amanda also shares a book flight featuring novels about musicians across different genres of music—perfect for readers who love stories where art and storytelling intertwine.Connect with Amanda:InstagramFacebookWebsiteShow NotesSome links are affiliate links, which are no extra cost to you but do help to support the show.Books and authors mentioned in the episode:O Little Town by Amanda Wen, Janyre Tromp, Deborah RaneyMy Friends by Fredrik BackmanThe 2026 Bookish Flights Reading Challenge is here - a simple, nostalgic way to be intentional with your reading. One book per month, with options for individuals and families. Download it at https://www.bookishflights.com/read/2026readingchallengeSpeculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut NovelMost writing podcasts just inspire. This one teaches the craft skills that hook readers.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showBe sure to join the Bookish Flights community on social media. Happy listening! Instagram Facebook Website

Very few people ever take the time to actually ask themselves what they value in life. But having a core set of values that are the guardrails of your life can only lead to success, clarity and unshakeable strength. In this week's episode, we'll look at what a value actually is, what it's not, and how you can uncover yours.If you enjoyed this episode check out:#209: The One Clean Decision That Can Transform the Next 90 Days#188: How to Reign in Your Inner Squirrel#130: The 5 Biggest Business Myths and How to Bust Through ThemDon't forget to follow me on Instagram @thelesliebecker and join me for my live thought walks throughout the week.

In this episode, Josie and Sarah sit down with Andrés Galdames, a creative with two very different careers and a powerful recovery story that began later in life.

Francesca Flavia Mormanni Joins the Show — Music, Writing, Finance, and the Creative LifeFF. Mormanni joins The Rational Egoist for a wide-ranging conversation that cuts across art, intellect, and independence. Known professionally as F. F. Mormanni (also Francesca Mormanni), Francesca is a novelist, screenwriter, musician, producer, and actress whose work reflects a serious engagement with creativity as a rational, chosen pursuit—not a mystic impulse or a social performance.In this episode, Michael and Francesca explore what it means to live as a creator in multiple disciplines, how writing and music shape one's inner world, and why financial independence matters to anyone who wants to think and produce freely. The discussion moves fluidly between the practical realities of making art, the discipline required to sustain it, and the personal responsibility involved in building a life that supports long-term creative work.This is not a romanticised view of art. It is a grounded conversation about choice, effort, and the integration of mind, work, and values—whether you're writing a novel, composing music, or navigating the economic realities that make creation possible.About Michael Liebowitz – Host of The Rational EgoistMichael Liebowitz is the host of The Rational Egoist podcast, a philosopher, author, and political activist committed to the principles of reason, individualism, and rational self-interest. Deeply influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, Michael uses his platform to challenge cultural dogma, expose moral contradictions, and defend the values that make human flourishing possible.His journey from a 25-year prison sentence to becoming a respected voice in the libertarian and Objectivist communities is a testament to the transformative power of philosophy. Today, Michael speaks, writes, and debates passionately in defence of individual rights and intellectual clarity.He is the co-author of two compelling books that examine the failures of the correctional system and the redemptive power of moral conviction:Down the Rabbit Hole: How the Culture of Corrections Encourages Crimehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Down-Rabbit-Hole-Corrections-Encourages/dp/197448064XView from a Cage: From Convict to Crusader for Libertyhttps://books2read.com/u/4jN6xjAbout Xenia Ioannou – Producer of The Rational EgoistXenia Ioannou is the producer of The Rational Egoist, responsible for overseeing the publishing, presentation, and promotion of each episode to ensure a consistent standard of clarity, professionalism, and intellectual rigour.She is the CEO of Alexa Real Estate, a property manager and entrepreneur, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Ayn Rand Centre Australia, where she contributes to the organisation's strategic direction and public engagement with ideas centred on reason, individual rights, and human freedom.Xenia also leads Capitalism and Coffee – An Objectivist Meetup in Adelaide, creating a forum for thoughtful discussion on Ayn Rand's philosophy and its application to everyday life, culture, and current issues.Join Capitalism and Coffee here:https://www.meetup.com/adelaide-ayn-rand-meetup/Follow Xenia's essays on reason, independence, and purposeful living at her Substack:https://substack.com/@xeniaioannou?utm_source=user-menuBecause freedom is worth thinking about — and talking about.#TheRationalEgoist #FrancescaMormanni #FFMormanni #CreativeIndependence #WritingAndMusic #ArtistsAndFinance #Individualism #ReasonAndArt #PodcastConversation

In this episode, Ceri explores the uncomfortable truth at the heart of a sustainable creative life - good mental health doesn't come from avoiding hard things, but from learning how to move through them. It comes from learning how to deal with them, from building confidence, so that when life feels awkward, lonely, stressful, or uncertain, you won't fall apart or abandon yourself. Yet so many artists quietly organise their entire creative lives around avoiding discomfort. They avoid awkward conversations; they avoid going to private viewings alone. They avoid putting editing dates in the diary. They avoid following up. They avoid staying with work when it feels unresolved. Telling themselves that they're protecting their wellbeing, but often they're doing the opposite – shrinking their capacity. Ceri demonstrates why discomfort is the price of admission to a meaningful life, especially for artists and shares how to accept and embrace this fact and use it to build the career you really want. KEY TAKEAWAYS Avoidance of stressful situations feels like self-care. But over time, it shrinks your capacity - You can´t build a creative life on evasion. If you avoid the stress of editing, the stress grows. If you avoid the stress of being seen, it compounds. If you avoid the stress of committing to a direction, everything stays harder for longer. Most artists think confidence comes first -Then they'll go to the show. Then they'll talk to new people. It doesn't. Confidence is built after you stay with the discomfort. After you walk into the room anyway. After you sit with unfinished work. BEST MOMENTS “Discomfort is the price of admission to a meaningful life - not a side effect, not a failure, the price. And if you're an artist, that price shows up everywhere.” “Here's the problem, the things she's avoiding are the very things that will build her confidence.” “Avoiding stress increases stress. Learning how to cope with stress makes us more resilient, and that applies directly to creative lives.” ** If you're muddling through the art world on your own, you already know the cost. Lost time. Avoidable mistakes. Weeks stuck on something that could have been solved in minutes with the right support. Inside the Ceri Hand Coaching Membership, you don't have to do it alone. Each week you can bring whatever you're facing, and I'll help you cut through it fast. Creative blocks, pricing, pitches, confidence dips, applications, all of it. You'll find clarity, and an international artist community, and real guidance from people who understand your world. Join for £10 per month. Cancel anytime. And stop losing years to guesswork. Just sign up here: http://cerihand.com/membership HOST BIO With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. ** Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network ** Book a Discovery Call To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Dave Herring is a photographer, educator, and founder of Very Good CO. He's also a creative nomad and a long time friend. In this episode of Photo Fuel, I chat with Dave about how curiosity led him to a whole new career as a photographer and educator. From leaving the East Coast and relocating his family to California with no concrete plan, to working with brands like Leica and Hasselblad, Dave shares how paying attention to what felt meaningful—and staying generous along the way—shaped his career and a life that supports his ultimate measure of success: being in charge of his time. We talk about blending past experience into creative work and how free content and generosity have become foundational to his business. This conversation is packed with stories that will inspire you and leave you feeling hopeful for all that's possible. Even though Dave is primarily a landscape photographer, this episode offers new perspective we all need on the value of metrics, making decisions in your business, and what it really means to make art your work—one thoughtful step at a time.   // LINKS MENTIONED // Blog Post: "Generosity changed everything:" https://dave.online/writings/how-generosity-changed-everything Very Good CO: shopverygood.com Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/ STEPHEN SHORE Photo books: Stephen Shore by STEPHEN SHORE - Book: 9781633450486 | Rizzoli Bookstore // CONNECT WITH DAVE //  Dave's youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidherring DAVE'S WEBSITE: Dave.online // CONNECT WITH LEAH // Leah's website: https://www.leahoconnell.com Leah's IG: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

This week, we are revisiting our episode with photographer and writer Sally Mann about her book, Art Work: On the Creative Life. Medaya Ocher and Kate Wolf speak with Mann, whose book describes her path to becoming an artist and provides prospective artists with insights on how to weather everything from rejection and poverty, to failure, fallow periods, and the millions of things that can come between you and your work. The book includes selections from Mann's rich archive of photographic work prints, explaining some of the ideas that have gone into her pictures, as well early diary entries that portray a fierce determination alongside equally fierce self-doubt. She also includes excerpts from her long correspondence with a fellow photographer named Ted Orland. Mann's advice is to write letters, keep your receipts, make lots of lists, and remember that being an artist isn't necessarily such a big deal, it's a job like any other: you have to work at it.

This week, we are revisiting our episode with photographer and writer Sally Mann about her book, "Art Work: On the Creative Life." Medaya Ocher and Kate Wolf speak with Mann, whose book describes her path to becoming an artist and provides prospective artists with insights on how to weather everything from rejection and poverty, to failure, fallow periods, and the millions of things that can come between you and your work. The book includes selections from Mann's rich archive of photographic work prints, explaining some of the ideas that have gone into her pictures, as well early diary entries that portray a fierce determination alongside equally fierce self-doubt. She also includes excerpts from her long correspondence with a fellow photographer named Ted Orland. Mann's advice is to write letters, keep your receipts, make lots of lists, and remember that being an artist isn't necessarily such a big deal, it's a job like any other: you have to work at it.

Happy New Year, Protagonists!Welcome to our (slightly) new name and logo. In this Letters from the Creative Life post, you can read about what this new name means to us, and what you can look forward to here in the upcoming year. xo,Joanna & EvelynWhat does ALIVE mean?Finding my Tentacle and Showing Up All the Way to LifeLast year, Evelyn invited me to bring some elements of my creativity coaching to this amazing Substack community. In our collaboration, we decided on a new name: Creative, Inspired, ALIVE.You might be wondering, what the heck does ALIVE mean? And you would not be alone. In fact, I struggled to put “aliveness” into words while drafting this post. Every time I tried to define alive, I got lost in a fog of woo-woo buzzwords— presence, energy, alignment, flow, wholeness—but these words do nothing to help you feel what I mean by ALIVE.I asked a friend, “How do I make this real for readers?” She sighed and answered, “Joanna, you have to tell them about your tentacle.” My eyes went wide, and heat rushed to my cheeks. “No, I can't possibly write a public post about my tentacle. It's too cringe, too vulnerable, too sensual.” And then I shook my head, because I know when I have this kind of “no way” reaction, it usually means that's exactly the way I need to go–the way to my full aliveness.Alright, let's back up a bit. A few years ago, I found myself stepping out of the vortex that is early motherhood. I understood my capacity as a human to a new depth, yet yearned to rediscover my full self again. I wanted to sink my teeth into my existence. Not just the content of life–job, family, hobbies–but the experience of living. I joined a coaching circle and started the work of seeing my full self (especially the parts I wanted to hide), challenging my stories about the world (especially the ones I clung to), and harnessing my creative power more fully.Then, I read Audre Lorde's essay, Uses of the Erotic: The Erotic as Power. I picked it up thinking it would help me understand my pull toward writing romance, and found something far deeper. I found a passionate declaration about the power of living life to its fullest, deepest, juiciest core:“For the erotic is not a question only of what we do; it is a question of how acutely and fully we can feel in the doing. Once we know the extent to which we are capable of feeling that sense of satisfaction and completion, we can then observe which of our various life endeavours bring us closest to that fullness.”This is what I wanted to commit to in my next chapter. The power of my deep, creative force that infuses life with passion and meaning, drives authentic action and connection, and challenges mediocrity by demanding fulfillment.So, I made “the erotic embodiment of life” my resolution for 2025. When I explained my New Year's intention to my friends, I described it like this: I imagine that I have a tentacle, covered in nerve endings, and I wrap it around the people, situations, objects–everything–in my life to feel, taste, smell, experience all of it as fully as I can. Imagine wrapping your tentacle around a piece of chocolate, a loved one's tears, a sense of accomplishment. Imagine wrapping your tentacle around the words you write, the clay you sculpt, the meals you make.In the first few months, I paid extra attention to all the good stuff—the joy and love in my life—but resisted when difficult circumstances arose. At which point, a wise friend helped me see that I wasn't showing up to the whole show. Could I find the erotic in the shadow? Could I feel discomfort all the way and see what it had to teach me? So, I started wrapping my tentacle around the challenges—the grief for my father, the crush of an agent's rejection, the exhaustion of motherhood, the boredom of spreadsheets. And something crazy happened, I started noticing beauty in all those things. I came to feel their essentialness to life. These experiences are what make me whole and perfectly human.While writing this essay, I stumbled upon Ellen Langer's research at Harvard. In her “I Hate Football” study, she found that asking participants to actively notice new things about an activity they dislike resulted in them enjoying the activity more. And the more they noticed, the more they liked it. Langer says, “We're brought up to wait for something to excite us…and all of that I think is wrong. Anything can be made exciting.” Mindful engagement helps us enjoy our lives.After a year of living with my tentacle, I got what ALIVE means to me. Alive is paying attention. It's inhabiting my senses. It's feeling my body. It's acknowledging my whole self—the good and the challenging parts. It's showing up fully in the creation of my life. My tentacle moved me beyond just existing or just doing; it deeply engaged me in whatever I endeavored. And I never felt so creative and inspired. For when you taste the world through your skin, how can you not be moved? How can you not be driven to contribute to it all?A tremendous freedom also came with committing to aliveness because the intention was always in my power to accomplish. External circumstances couldn't dictate my purpose. In fact, external circumstances often made it more interesting. Sick kid at home today, let me wrap my tentacle around that. Writer's block won't go away, ok, what does that feel like? I luxuriated in the texture of my car's steering wheel and the mix of joy and sadness in seeing my children outgrow their clothes.At the end of the day, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment if I showed up to whatever was. My to-do list could still have items on it, rejection could come, plans could change, but I had a successful day as long as I paid attention.In a short time, my aliveness started to feed back into my work. I not only showed up fully to the page, but my fullness started showing up on the page. I had access to more life to create with. I felt inspired by the simplest things because I noticed them deeply. It felt as if the entire universe showed up simply by my paying attention to it. Creative energy coursed through me.During this year, Evelyn invited me to collaborate in this community. I wrapped my tentacle around the opportunity and proposed expanding from Creative, Inspired, HAPPY to Creative, Inspired, ALIVE. Evelyn said, “Yes!” While kindness and optimism are guiding values here, we also wanted to make room for the multitude of experiences that arise as we persist on our creative journey. We aim to be present with whatever shows up as we make our art and share it.So, what does ALIVE mean?Alive means being present to life in this very moment. It means allowing the wholeness of ourselves, not shutting down any of our parts, but staying open to all that is–the joy and grief, the ease and challenge, the boredom and inspiration. To be with all of it.With aliveness in the mix, we are adding some pieces to our program this year. In addition to our beloved writing and reading content, we'll offer some new elements to support the fullness of our creativity practices. We hope you enjoy:* Some non-fiction selections about the creative process in our Book Club* Mini coaching sessions to reflect on and embrace our full creative selves* Wisdom from creativity experts, in addition to authors, on the Podcast* Reflective creativity prompts in the Community Chat* And *new* interactive creativity workshops coming this Spring and Fall!We are thrilled to start this new year together in our creative, inspired, ALIVE community. Get your tentacle out and let's live!Share with us what ALIVE means to you.Have you ever had a tentacle experience?What parts of life could you show up to more fully?What feels alive for you this New Year?P.S. I just started reading The Favorites for our Book Club meeting on January 25th. Swirling inside the world of ice dancing and a Wuthering Heights retelling, yes please! Has anyone else started too? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.creativeinspiredalive.com/subscribe

If you've ever wondered how loss can open the door to unexpected purpose, episode 400 of the Grief and Happiness podcast is for you. Artist and author Marcie Shrewsbury Lopez shares how caring for her husband through his final days—and facing the grief that followed—sparked a powerful new creative chapter. From unexpected signs on the beach to the healing pull of art and animals, Marcie shows how even deep sorrow can guide you toward meaning and renewal.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(01:07) Rebuilding life through art, friends, and horses(01:57) How horses create emotional breakthroughs in grief(03:45) The equine-therapy moment that unlocked years of tears(06:13) Why art helps access and heal deeper emotions(07:41) The dream, the meeting, and the love story that changed everything(16:06) How a 46-year age difference led to a joyful, adventurous marriage(23:00) The sacred lessons she learned while caregiving(26:06) The beach signs that continue to comfort her(27:10) How grief opened the door to her strongest creative work yetMarcie Shrewsbury Lopez is an artist, author, and storyteller whose work explores love, loss, and transformation. After the passing of her husband Adrian, she stepped more fully into her creative path, developing a body of artwork that reflects deep emotional truth. Her paintings have been featured in exhibitions across New Jersey, and her memoir shares the remarkable love story and spiritual journey that shaped her life. Marcie continues to inspire others through her art, writing, and the meaningful connections she builds around grief and healing.In this episode, Marcie reflects on the profound impact of her 20–year marriage and the ways grief opened new doors to healing. She shares how reconnecting with horses offered unexpected comfort, emotional release, and a grounding presence during mourning, and how her art became a powerful way to access and process her feelings. Marcie also recounts the extraordinary way she met and married Adrian, their life of adventure and unconditional love, and the sacred experience of caregiving at the end of his life. Her insights highlight how creativity, animals, spiritual signs, and continued bonds can gently guide us forward after loss.Connect with Marcie Shrewsbury Lopez:WebsiteBook: Marcie Shrewsbury Lopez - A PLACE OF PROMISELet's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Al Petteway was arguably one of the top ten guitarists who ever lived. I was also lucky enough to call him a dear friend. Enjoy this encore episode with a terrific human and a musical master. New episodes will return in the new year. This Week's Card to Contemplate: Confidence Website: https://IzoldaT.com Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It's also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you've been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link  

本期摘要 友友们冬天好！不知不觉已经十二月了，我们从今天起想跟大家分享一系列年度书影音总结类型的节目，第一期先来聊聊2025年看过最喜欢的书。希望你们听得开心，我们很快再见！ 本期提及 Nobody's Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice by Virginia Roberts Giuffre Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell Odyssey by Homer The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid Atmosphere: A Love Story by Taylor Jenkins Reid The Safekeep by Yael van der wouden Elena Knows by Claudia Piñeiro 《埃莱娜知道》 Intermezzo by Sally Rooney Kairos by Jenny Erpenbeck Raising Hare: A Memoir by Chloe Dalton 《金山的成色》 张辰极 冠绝文学史的恋爱脑：读安妮·埃尔诺的情欲告白 Motherland: A Feminist History of Modern Russia, from Revolution to Autocracy by Julia Ioffe The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides 《婚变》 The Virgin Suicide & Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides 《在北海道盖面包屋：建筑家与面包师的书信集》中村好文，神幸纪 Everything Is Tuberculosis by John Green 《星运里的错》& 《寻找阿拉斯加》by John Green Careless People：A Story of Where I Used to Work by Sarah Wynn-Williams This Is How You Lose the Time War Amal by El-Mohtar & Max Gladstone 《输掉时间战争的方法》 Feeding Ghosts: A Graphic Memoir by Tessa Hulls 《鼠族》 阿特·斯皮格曼 Things in Nature Merely Grow by Yiyun Li Art Work: On the Creative Life by Sally Mann 《火车梦》《耶稣之子》 丹尼斯约翰逊 Flagrant, Self-Destructive Gestures: A Biography of Denis Johnson Ansel Adams's Photographs of Japanese-American Internment at Manzanar The Afterlife is Letting Go & The Grave On the Wall by Brandon Shimoda Homeland: The War on Terror in American Life by Richard Beck The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai 节目备注 好小气的电报频道 好小气的长毛象 支持我们 订阅听友通讯请点击这里。 欢迎通过微博关注我们的节目@不丧Podcast和女主播@constancy好小气。

I've never felt so jaded at the end of a year.. why I'm workign my way back through all my notes and journals.. 

Self-hatred is characterized by a critical voice that goes beyond constructive evaluation. It operates visibly and invisibly and can be transmitted between generations. It doesn't work to try to paste self-love on top of self-hatred. There's a spiritual idea that the universe, including negative manifestation, exists for God's entertainment. Forms of self-hatred may involve high achievement, romantic masochism, shyness, imposter syndrome, persistent anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing, and grandiosity. Origins of self-hatred include emotional neglect and abuse. Addictive behavior regenerates self-hatred. With self-hatred, the three roles of the drama triangle (victim, abuser, rescuer) can show up in one person. Self-hatred takes so much energy that battling with it can seem to be the point of life. In Buddhist psychology, it's said that we spin our perception of reality into existence and that our natural state is stillness but we get bored with it. Things happen in life that allow the truth of reality to break through. Recognizing self-hatred is key to learning to move beyond it. Self-doubt can kill our impulses so we don't risk getting hurt again. Every neurotic manifestation has a flip side. Self-hatred can start us on a path of seeing ourselves more clearly. It unravels with self-acceptance. Self-observation is more than just mental analysis; it involves feeling what is going on in the body. In meditation we learn to be present and see ourselves more clearly. Humility and restraint can be upsides of self-hatred. A component of self-hatred is cultural. There is a certain tension that is necessary—a struggle between yes and no—on the path of transformation. Taking a step back, gaining perspective, and humor are helpful in working with self-hatred. Idiocy is part of the human condition. Bandhu Dunham is the author of Creative Life and an internationally recognized glass artist and teacher.

Welcome to the Creative Life in Motion Podcast! In today's episode, we have an engaging conversation with Talor Stewart, a licensed architect with over 25 years of experience and the author of the bestselling book 'Conscious Home Design.' Talor shares his insights on how your living environment profoundly impacts your health, happiness, and overall well-being. He explains the concept of Conscious Home Design, offering actionable tips on optimizing every space in your home to enhance your relationships, creativity, and personal fulfillment. Whether you own your house or rent an apartment, Taylor's expertise will help you create a more supportive and inspiring living environment. Don't miss out on his valuable advice that could completely transform how you experience your daily life. Resources Talor Stewart is a licensed architect with over 25 years experience. His book Conscious Home Design has hit the #1 best seller list in 7 countries so far. Specializing in single and multi-family homes and intentional communities, he works with clients all over the United States and select places internationally. He also offers a certification program for other designers and architects to learn the CHD method to help their clients apply the life changing principles wherever they are. Find out more by visiting https://ConsciousHomeDesign.com About Karen I'm Karen Wilson, a personal and professional development mentor, author, and creator of Creative Life in Motion. Here, you'll find real talk about movement, self-awareness, body confidence, and life's ups and downs. I developed the Walk it Off Program, wrote and performed the stage memoir My Body is My Home, and published the book BE Weightless, Like Your Body, Love Yourself. My goal is to help you get clear, build confidence, and confidently take your next step, no matter where you are on your path. ConnectSubscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenWilsonOnline Resources WALK IT OFF Toolkit A Walking Plan That WORKS Book: BE Weightless, Like Your Body, Love Yourself Ideas in Motion Digital Planning System Work 1:1 With Karen

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, Damien is joined by the talented and driven, a promo producer, editor, and filmmaker whose determination, discipline, and creative resilience have shaped a truly distinctive career in post-production. From her early beginnings as a theatre actor in Ireland to becoming a multi-skilled editor and producer across some of the UK's most recognisable broadcasters — including Channel 5, MTV, Discovery, Warner Bros., and CNBC — Itunu shares a journey built on hard choices, constant upskilling, and an unwavering commitment to craft. She opens up about the reality behind her pivot away from acting, explaining why stability mattered, how she rebuilt her creative identity from the ground up, and how storytelling eventually led her to fall in love with the edit suite. Her career path includes assisting on A Place in the Sun, creating fast-turnaround promos for global networks, and navigating high-pressure workflows with precision and clarity. She also discusses what it takes to produce compelling short-form content in a world where audiences may never turn the sound on — and how music, rhythm, editorial choices, and graphic design all work together to deliver powerful messaging in under 30 seconds. A highlight of the conversation is her work on CNBC's digital-first franchise Built for Billions, and how collaboration, trust, and editorial instinct helped elevate the promos beyond expectation. She also shares her experiences with software like Avid, Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Baselight, and her philosophy on clean, organised projects that support entire teams.Outside her broadcast work, she speaks candidly about her award-supported short film Give Me Your Phone — a story born from a deeply personal and frightening moment. She reveals how she turned that experience into a thoughtful exploration of privilege, vulnerability, and perspective, bringing the film from concept to completion through grit, community, and creative conviction. This episode offers inspiring insight for filmmakers, editors, post-production professionals, and anyone building a creative career based on skill, dedication, and self-belief.Key Topics CoveredHow Itunu transitioned from acting to a sustainable career in post-productionWorking across Channel 5, Discovery, MTV, Warner Bros., and CNBCNavigating high-speed editorial environments and promo productionCreating impactful short-form content for news, business, and digital audiencesDetailed insights into editing workflows, graphics integration, QC, AAF/EDL handling, and version controlPremiere Pro vs Avid vs DaVinci Resolve vs Baselight — honest comparisonsCrafting the promos for CNBC's Built for BillionsThe story behind her first short film Give Me Your Phone and turning trauma into artHow organisation, humility, and collaboration strengthen post-production workStaying adaptable and relevant in a fast-changing creative industryCall to Action. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling.Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link:25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en 

In this episode, the first in a mini-series on creative process, the sisters explore the importance of making space for writing, both physically and emotionally, and share personal practices that have been helping them inch to the finish line on their respective book projects. ---⁠⁠⁠⁠TRANSCRIPT⁠⁠⁠⁠---⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SUPPORT OUR SHOW⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/Endoftheworldshow---HTS ESSENTIALS⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SUPPORT Our Show on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/Endoftheworldshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PEEP us on IG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/endoftheworldpc/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠

Ditching Willpower: Smarter Habits for a More Successful 2026 In this episode of the Creative Life in Motion Podcast, host Karen Wilson explores why relying on willpower is ineffective for building habits and achieving goals. She explains the concept of decision fatigue and how our modern, tech-connected lives exacerbate the problem. Karen provides practical tips on creating smart routines, effective systems, and a supportive environment to make achieving goals more attainable. She shares personal anecdotes, such as overcoming smoking and successfully writing a book, demonstrating the importance of habit stacking, environment design, and self-rewards. Karen also recommends the book 'Willpower Doesn't Work' by Benjamin Hardy as a useful resource. Listeners are encouraged to simplify their goal-setting processes and are invited to join Karen's YouTube series for more insights. Your 28 day RESET GlowUP Youtube Series More resources Resources WALK IT OFF Toolkit A Walking Plan That WORKS Book: BE Weightless, Like Your Body, Love Yourself Ideas in Motion Digital Planning System Work 1:1 With Karen About Me I'm Karen Wilson, a personal and professional development mentor, author, and creator of Creative Life in Motion. Here, you'll find real talk about movement, self-awareness, body confidence, and life's ups and downs. I developed the Walk it Off Program, wrote and performed the stage memoir My Body is My Home, and published the book BE Weightless, Like Your Body, Love Yourself. My goal is to help you get clear, build confidence, and confidently take your next step, no matter where you are on your path. ConnectSubscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenWilsonOnlineFind more articles, resources, and updates on my website: https://www.karenwilson.online

In a special return episode, we explore a journey of resilience, reinvention, and rediscovering joy. Abigail Carter, a gifted writer and artist, faced unimaginable loss when she lost her husband in the 9/11 tragedy. For years, grief shaped her days but eventually a quiet inner voice whispered: It's time to go. Following that calling, Abigail left the familiar behind and settled in a charming château in the serene southwest of France. Amid rolling fields, sunflowers, and the gentle rhythm of rural life, she found space to heal and dream again. This conversation is about moving forward, embracing fresh beginnings, and finding beauty in unexpected places. Whether you're longing for adventure, seeking healing, or simply craving inspiration, her story is a gentle reminder that life can bloom again, just sometimes in the most unexpected corners of the world.Only on Speaking of Travel! Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler.

In this episode, I sit down with singer Bo Bice for a real conversation about life in music, overnight fame, and what it means to grow up and grow wiser without losing your love for the art. Bo walks me through his American Idol journey, from sleeping on the convention center floor at auditions to waking up one day and realizing he could not walk down the street without being recognized. We talk about the grit it takes to survive beyond the television spotlight, the reality of the music business, and all the unglamorous moments that shape you as a working musician.Bo shares stories from his early days playing around Alabama and Muscle Shoals, loading his own PA, sleeping in the back of his vehicle after gigs, and learning from the characters he met along the way. We get into the music that shaped him, from Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers to Prince, the Eagles, and John Prine. We also talk about how digital tools and artificial intelligence have changed the landscape, and why live music still feels like the heartbeat of it all.Later in the conversation, Bo opens up about faith, family, and purpose. He talks about putting God first, the peace he has found in his walk with Christ, and how learning to forgive himself has changed how he experiences his life and career. He also shares his passion for serving veterans through music and through new approaches to healing things like pain, anxiety, and PTSD, and he mentions a new project focused on herbal and cannabinoid therapy launching in 2026. We even touch on his recent appearance on the game show The Floor with Rob Lowe.I also share a bit of my own story, including my time on Star Search as a teenager and my first year of sobriety. We compare notes on growing up in the South, getting older, and trying to keep our side of the street clean while still chasing the things we love. This one is honest, warm, and full of the kind of perspective that only comes from a lot of miles and a lot of music.Music from the Episode:Keep On Rollin' (Bo Bice)Remember Me (Bo Bice)Thank you for listening. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please email me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

What happens when you stop trying to be the “right” kind of artist and start becoming the truest version of yourself? This week, Annie and Brie sit down with Charlotte-based multidisciplinary artist and illustrator Kyle Mosher to talk about artistic evolution, trusting the long game, and the surprising places a creative path can take you. From studying fine art in Italy to designing sneakers at Puma to building a community-powered brand, Kyle shares the pivots, risks, and revelations that shaped his signature style, and the way preparing for fatherhood is shifting everything he thought he knew about success.Kyle Mosher is a full-time artist, illustrator, and founder of Paid For With Art. Known for his collage-inspired style that blends fine art, culture, and graphic design, Kyle has collaborated with brands like Porsche, HBO, Forbes, and Dunkin'. Through his work and creative community, he champions the value of artistry and the belief that every creator deserves to get paid for what they love.Connect with Kyle:IGWebsitePaid For With ArtResources mentioned:Zibra Holiday Shop – use code BANTER10 for 10% offIn this episode, we discuss:How Kyle discovered his artistic voice by blending fine art, streetwear, and lived experienceThe real work of shifting from “I make art” to “I run a creative business” (and the mistakes that taught him everything)Why resilience, authenticity, and believing in your perspective matter more than perfection in a creative careerWelcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We're here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It's a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio. Connect with Zibra: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook YouTube Blog

Notes and Links to Stephanie Elizondo Griest's Work *Content Warning: Please be aware that the book discusses sexual assault   Stephanie Elizondo Griest is a globetrotting author from the Texas/Mexico borderlands. Her six books include Around the Bloc: My Life in Moscow, Beijing, and Havana; Mexican Enough; All the Agents and Saints; and Art Above Everything: One Woman's Global Exploration of the Joys and Torments of a Creative Life. She has also written for the New York Times, Washington Post, VQR, The Believer, BBC, Orion, Lit Hub, and Oxford American. Her work has been supported by the Lannan Foundation, Henry Luce Foundation, Princeton University, and the Institute for Arts and Humanities, and she has won a Margolis Award, an International Latino Book Award, a PEN Southwest Book Award, and two Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism prizes. Currently Professor of Creative Nonfiction at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Elizondo Griest has performed in capacities ranging from a Moth storyteller to a literary ambassador for the U.S. State Department. Wanderlust has led her to 50 countries and 49 states. Her hardest journey was to Planet Cancer in 2017, but she's officially in remission now. She recently endowed Testimonios Fronterizos, a research grant for student journalists from the borderlands enrolled at her alma mater, the University of Texas at Austin's School of Journalism. Buy Art Above Everything   Stephanie's Website   Review of Art Above Everything in Southern Review At about 3:40 Stephanie expands on her creative background and family connections to music and language  At about 10:15, Stephanie talks about formative and transformative texts, including work by and her relationship with her “spiritual madrina,” Sandra Cisneros At about 11:30, Stephanie discusses similarities and differences in some Mexican Spanish and Tejano Spanish At about 13:30, Stephanie provides seeds for her book At about 16:50, The two discuss a dearth of publicity and respect for female travel writers, and generally females writing about art At about 18:15, Stephanie talks about the formative artist residency in 2014 in India, at Nrityagram  At about 20:30, Stephanie responds to Pete's question about Sheryl Oring's inspiration for Stephanie's creative life  At about 24:45, the two discuss “Art as Reconciliation” and Stephanie's experiences in Rwanda with therapeutic theater and hard and painful and moving conversations and reconciliations  At about 29:05, Pete and Stephanie discuss post-dictatorship and art done in response to the House of the People in Romania At about 34:20, Stephanie and Pete discuss similarities between female artists around the world, as seen in Stephanie's research and travels, regardless of economic status and country of origin; Stephanie cites “callings” at young ages At about 38:30, Wendy Whelan and her absolute “devotion” to art is discussed, as well as the ways in which domineering males have often abused and defamed artistic women At about 44:00, Bjork and Iceland's masterful director Vilborg Davíðsdóttir and “Art as Revenge” are discussed  At about 48:55, Stephanie talks about the process of writing so personally At about 50:45, “Art as Medicine” and Stephanie's journey with cancer and ideas of humor and sustenance are discussed, along with Stephanie being “revived” by sharing stories on a mini book tour At about 54:20, Havana Habibi and its resonance are discussed  At about 56:40, Sandra Cisneros as a “spiritual madrina” to Stephanie and so many others is discussed  At about 1:00:40, Stephanie expands on the “force” that is Mama Mihirangi and her connection to Maori and female liberation  At about 1:04:10, Ayana Evans and her performance and her subverting expectations of Black women are discussed, including the Loophole of Retreat At about 1:09:00, The two discuss “Art as Immoratality” and ideas of legacy and passing on creativity and art as so meaningful  At about 1:11:20, Stephanie reflects on the book's 10 year span and its meanings       You can now subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, and leave me a five-star review. You can also ask for the podcast by name using Alexa, and find the pod on Stitcher, Spotify, and on Amazon Music. Follow Pete on IG, where he is @chillsatwillpodcast, or on Twitter, where he is @chillsatwillpo1. You can watch other episodes on YouTube-watch and subscribe to The Chills at Will Podcast Channel. Please subscribe to both the YouTube Channel and the podcast while you're checking out this episode.       Pete is very excited to have one or two podcast episodes per month featured on the website of Chicago Review of Books. The audio will be posted, along with a written interview culled from the audio. His conversation with Hannah Pittard, a recent guest, is up at Chicago Review.     Sign up now for The Chills at Will Podcast Patreon: it can be found at patreon.com/chillsatwillpodcastpeterriehl      Check out the page that describes the benefits of a Patreon membership, including cool swag and bonus episodes. Thanks in advance for supporting Pete's one-man show, DIY podcast and extensive reading, research, editing, and promoting to keep this independent podcast pumping out high-quality content! This month's Patreon bonus episode features an exploration of flawed characters, protagonists who are too real in their actions, and horror and noir as being where so much good and realistic writing takes place. Pete has added a $1 a month tier for “Well-Wishers” and Cheerleaders of the Show.     This is a passion project, a DIY operation, and Pete would love for your help in promoting what he's convinced is a unique and spirited look at an often-ignored art form.    The intro song for The Chills at Will Podcast is “Wind Down” (Instrumental Version), and the other song played on this episode was “Hoops” (Instrumental)” by Matt Weidauer, and both songs are used through ArchesAudio.com.     Please tune in for Episode 311 with Kurt Baumeister, whose writing has appeared in Salon, Electric Literature, The Brooklyn Rail, The Rumpus, and other outlets. An acquisitions editor with 7.13 Books, Baumeister is a member of The National Book Critics Circle and The Authors Guild, and 2025's Twilight of the Gods is his second novel.    Please go to ceasefiretoday.org, and/or https://act.uscpr.org/a/letaidin to call your congresspeople and demand an end to the forced famine and destruction of Gaza and the Gazan people.

In this episode of the Create Podcast, Ekaterina Popova speaks with artist and creator Tammy Dinh, known online as Uncomfy. Tammy is a sculptor, storyteller, and YouTuber whose gentle clay characters and narrative films have reached millions of viewers. She shares how returning to polymer clay during college helped her reconnect with creativity and build an online art practice that blends play, comfort, and storytelling. Tammy discusses growing up during the 2008 recession, navigating scarcity, and learning to trust that a creative life can also be a stable one. She and Kat explore the role of routine, rest, and community, as well as the challenges of burnout and how Tammy rebuilt her practice with new boundaries and a more sustainable mindset. This conversation offers honest insight into starting from scratch, finding your creative voice, and building a long-term career that supports both your art and your well-being. Topics Discussed • Rediscovering polymer clay and reconnecting with childhood creativity • Building an online art career through storytelling and character design • Growing up with financial uncertainty and navigating scarcity • Burnout, recovery, and creating a sustainable art practice • Using small, consistent habits to rebuild creative momentum • The value of community, friendship, and in-person creative connection • Writing, Substack, and expanding creative identity • Returning to handmade work with new boundaries and care About Our Guest Tammy Dinh is an artist, sculptor, and storyteller creating imaginative clay characters and narrative videos under the name Uncomfy. She shares her process and creative practice through YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and her online shop. Find Tammy Online Website: https://www.uncomfy.store YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tammydinh Instagram: @uncomfyco TikTok: @uncomfyco Follow Create Magazine and Ekaterina Create Magazine: https://www.createmagazine.com Kat Popova: https://www.katerinapopova.com Instagram: @katerinaspopova

What happens when two sculptors build not just a life together, but a living artwork? In this week's episode of Extraordinary Creatives, I'm joined by Laura Ford and Andrew Sabin—partners in art and in life—whose decades-long dialogue between material, imagination, and place has produced some of the most distinctive sculpture in Britain today. Their story is one of instinct, invention, and fearless making. Laura's work teems with humour, vulnerability, and human emotion—anthropomorphic creatures who hold a mirror to our tenderness and absurdity—while Andrew's practice has moved from experimental casting to vast public works and the immersive environments of Matt Black Barn, the art-education complex they built from scratch in rural England. Together, they've navigated family, teaching, commissions, resistance, renewal, and the long game of sustaining creative momentum. This conversation is a love letter to material thinking, to risk-taking, and to building a world big enough to hold it all. KEY TAKEAWAYS The art doesn't stop at the sculpture. It continues in the structures Laura and Andrew build, the people they invite in, and the courage to keep creating a life on their own terms. When you make bold or controversial work, the reception is unpredictable, so you have to accept that staying true to your convictions may sometimes cost you opportunities. For Andrew and Laura, sharing their work, through open studios, educational initiatives, and public engagements is central to their philosophy. They believe feedback and interpretation from others are vital for growth, even when it surprises or challenges them BEST MOMENTS “I remember Jenny Lomax coming in and saying, ‘Laura, I love this work, but I'd lose all my funding if I ever showed it' - which was fair.” “The monthly fee from the gallery was nice, but it sort of ate into me…I'd find myself making decisions that I just hated myself for.” “Art and life are never separate—they're intertwined, negotiated, rebuilt, and reimagined daily.” EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.mattblackbarn.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mattblackbarn https://www.instagram.com/laura_ford_sculpture https://www.instagram.com/andrewsabinsculpture PODCAST HOST BIO With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership **** Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

What is life work balance and how is it supposed to feel? In this episode, I break down what true balance means, why chasing perfection sets us up for disappointment, and how to find real flow. I'll share practical tools for prioritizing your mind, body, and purpose—plus, why tiny steps matter more than you think. J oin me as we explore how to create a life that feels aligned, not just busy. More practical tools and honest conversations about movement, confidence, and creative life. Whether you are starting, restarting, or refining your daily routines, these resources are here to help you build healthy habits and enjoy who you are along the way. #findflow #worklifebalance #balance Resources WALK IT OFF Toolkit A Walking Plan That WORKS Book: BE Weightless, Like Your Body, Love Yourself Ideas in Motion Digital Planning System Work 1:1 With Karen About Me I'm Karen Wilson, a personal and professional development mentor, author, and creator of Creative Life in Motion. Here, you'll find real talk about movement, self-awareness, body confidence, and life's ups and downs. I developed the Walk it Off Program, wrote and performed the stage memoir My Body is My Home, and published the book BE Weightless, Like Your Body, Love Yourself. My goal is to help you get clear, build confidence, and confidently take your next step, no matter where you are on your path. ConnectSubscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenWilsonOnlineFind more articles, resources, and updates on my website: https://www.karenwilson.online

Send us a textWatch here - https://youtu.be/Sr94nh3ZJVA?si=GuNy2qslVkrXIYuTAimee Lewis is back in the studio for her third appearance on Discussion Combustion! She first joined us in 2021 while working as a journalist for FOX31 Denver, came back again in 2022, and now — three years later — she returns with stories to tell.

Notes and Links to Kaila Yu's Work       Kaila Yu is a singer, songwriter, former model, and freelance journalist for Rolling Stone, CNN, Glamour, and more.    She was formerly the lead singer for the all-Asian-American, female rock band Nylon Pink. Yu is also one of the founders of the jewelry/fashion line "Hello Drama" which is affiliated with the Nylon Pink band and style. Buy Fetishized: A Reckoning With Yellow Fever, Feminism, and Beauty   Kaila's Instagram   Review of Fetishized for The New York Times   At about 1:10, Kaila responds to Pete's questions about feedback she has gotten on the book, and how she sees the book now, post-publication  At about 3:15, Pete asks Kaila to share background information on her reading and language life At about 4:45, Kaila talks about how writing as a profession developed and shouts out Minor Feelings by Cathy Park Hong and Melissa Febos and Roxane Gay's greatness At about 7:05, Kaila talks about the catalysts for her writing her book, largely around the beginning of the Covid pandemic At about 10:20, Kaila talks about distinctions, or lack thereof, between “fetish” and preference  At about 11:45, Kaila and Pete discuss the book's opening and hurtful and harmful comments towards Kaila, some in recent years  At about 13:20, Kaila reflects on “mainstreamed objectification” and an observation from the book that “objectification was better than invisibility” At about 16:35, the two discuss halting attempts at Asian representation in the 90s and early 2000s At about 18:10, Kaila discusses the evolution of Asian and Asian-American stars and their ability to “make their own lane” At about 19:05, Kaila talks about ideas of personal “diminish[ment]” growing up in comparison to media portrayals  At about 20:30, Kaila responds to Pete's questions about the effects of Memoirs of a Geisha and perpetuation of harmful tropes At about 22:30, more examples of problematic representation of Asian women in pop culture and in Kaila's schooling are discussed At about 23:00, Kaila talks about the evolution of “ABGs” At about 25:30, Kaila talks about the “groundbreaking” Joy Luck Club and also ways that it could have been better in minimizing stereotypes At about 26:30, Kaila gives background on the start of her pinup model, as well as how rife the industry is with sexualization and sexual crimes At about 27:45, Kaila gives background on a contemporary San Diego “modeling gig” agency that led to sexual crimes, showing how her experience was sadly not unique  At about 30:05, Kaila responds to Pete's question about online and in-person hateful and misogynistic comments and how she and bandmates  At about 31:50, Kaila talks about she didn't connect at the time, but does now, about how she dealt with traumas  At about 33:00, Shoutout to Allen Carr and his anti-smoking books At about 33:45, Pete asks Kaila about the pitfalls of fame, and her ceaseless battle to remove a defamatory video At about 35:35, Kaila talks about ideas of a "separation" and the impetus for her name change At about 36:40, The two discuss ideas of interchangeability and the history of blepharoplasty At about 38:50, Afong Moy and other exoticism and inhumane conditions for Asian women are discussed, and how this led to a sexualization of these women  At about 41:15, Kaila and Pete discuss some acting and entertainment highlights and struggles; included is some reminiscing about MySpace! At about 43:50, Kaila responds to Pete's questions about the end of her music career and performing in multiple ways At about 45:15, Kaila talks about recent iterations of KPop and patriarchal and feminism in more current music  At about 46:55, Kaila reflects on positive feedback and the legacy involving Nylon Pink At about 47:10, Kaila talks Guns n Roses and “classic” songs and concerts At about 49:15, Kaila forecasts what she will be writing about in the future       You can now subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, and leave me a five-star review. You can also ask for the podcast by name using Alexa, and find the pod on Stitcher, Spotify, and on Amazon Music. Follow Pete on IG, where he is @chillsatwillpodcast, or on Twitter, where he is @chillsatwillpo1. You can watch other episodes on YouTube-watch and subscribe to The Chills at Will Podcast Channel. Please subscribe to both the YouTube Channel and the podcast while you're checking out this episode.       Pete is very excited to have one or two podcast episodes per month featured on the website of Chicago Review of Books. The audio will be posted, along with a written interview culled from the audio. His conversation with Hannah Pittard, a recent guest, is up at Chicago Review.     Sign up now for The Chills at Will Podcast Patreon: it can be found at patreon.com/chillsatwillpodcastpeterriehl      Check out the page that describes the benefits of a Patreon membership, including cool swag and bonus episodes. Thanks in advance for supporting Pete's one-man show, DIY podcast and extensive reading, research, editing, and promoting to keep this independent podcast pumping out high-quality content! This month's Patreon bonus episode features an exploration of flawed characters, protagonists who are too real in their actions, and horror and noir as being where so much good and realistic writing takes place. Pete has added a $1 a month tier for “Well-Wishers” and Cheerleaders of the Show.     This is a passion project, a DIY operation, and Pete would love for your help in promoting what he's convinced is a unique and spirited look at an often-ignored art form.    The intro song for The Chills at Will Podcast is “Wind Down” (Instrumental Version), and the other song played on this episode was “Hoops” (Instrumental)” by Matt Weidauer, and both songs are used through ArchesAudio.com.     Please tune in for Episode 310 with Stephanie Elizondo Griest, a globetrotting author from the Texas/Mexico borderlands. Her six books include Around the Bloc: My Life in Moscow, Beijing, and Havana; Mexican Enough; All the Agents and Saints; and Art Above Everything: One Woman's Global Exploration of the Joys and Torments of a Creative Life. The latter will be the main conversation piece. This episode airs on November 20. Please go to ceasefiretoday.org, and/or https://act.uscpr.org/a/letaidin to call your congresspeople and demand an end to the forced famine and destruction of Gaza and the Gazan people.  

On this episode of The Wraparound Roundtable, we roll into an incredible conversation with Hintsyy, a roller hockey creator who's grown a community from the blacktop to the controller — and has become one of the funniest, most creative voices in hockey content today.

In this episode, I'm joined by Kimberly Spiers, founder of The New Kind Community (formerly known as Uncommon Folk — a name change you'll hear the full story behind in our conversation).Kimberly shares her personal definition of creativity, how her understanding of success has shifted over time, and the balance she's discovered between following rules and breaking them. We talk about the loneliness that can arise in entrepreneurship, the inspiration behind her bold move to a new community model, and the surprising lessons she's learned while navigating legal challenges around the business name this year.This episode is about what it really means to build a life and business that encourages us to live beyond the ordinary.About The New Kind CommunityKimberly Spiers is the founder and community host of The New Kind — a global space bringing together creative, wellness, and lifestyle founders who are reimagining what work and success can look like.The community was built to help solo founders and freelancer connect beyond the surface, have real conversations about business and life, and build freedom-centred businesses that support how they actually want to live — not just how they think they should.Alongside running The New Kind, Kimberly works as a visibility and growth consultant, helping small businesses and solo founders grow their reach and impact without needing big teams or endless hustle — making marketing feel simple, human, and sustainable.Join the communityAbout mePascale Côté is a creativity guide, therapeutic arts practitioner, artist, and writer who helps creatives meet, understand, and express themselves by guiding them to work *with* their (creative, complex, unconventional) nature instead of against it. She helps artists, visionaries, disruptors and earth stewards break free from the vortex of overthinking and move forward with their bold, rebellious ideas. Her work challenges conventional norms, inviting creatives to explore what's possible when they release outdated narratives and embrace their true, authentic expression. Pascale believes that art is a powerful vehicle for both individual and collective change when it's grounded in truth—created outside the rigid systems that stifle our creative spirit.About the podcastCreative minds are the architects of a new world, and their art holds the keys to reimagining our reality. The challenge is, creative minds often spend just as much time crafting self-limiting narratives as they do creating their art. Dear Creative Mind is a space for creative liberation—a pathway out of the cycle of overthinking, burnout, and stagnation. This podcast is for artists & creative entrepreneurs where Pascale, creativity guide, shares grounding meditations, gentle coaching guidance and heartfelt conversations with inspiring artists. The podcast explores the real challenges that come with being creative—overthinking, self-doubt, burnout—and how to navigate them while staying true to our vision.Get support for your creative mind⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1:1 support for creatives⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New: email guidance⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Creative Liberation Portal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free tool: The Creative Confidence Toolkit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free clarity call⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join community events⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Receive the monthly prompts⁠ on Substack⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Explore the full website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Find me on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ A special thank you to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Alexandra Moreno⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for the original music of the podcast.

Margo sits down with Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum—better known as The Brownstone Boys—a Brooklyn-based couple, award-winning interior designers, and renovation experts known for their ability to breathe new life into historic homes while keeping design fresh, livable, and true to their roots. What began as a shared passion project to restore their first brownstone quickly became a creative business built on authenticity, approachability, and an unshakable belief in learning by doing. Without formal design training, Barry and Jordan leaned on curiosity, community, and sheer persistence to grow their brand into one of the most trusted names in renovation. Along the way, they've worked with clients like Kerry Washington and Peloton's Anna Greenberg, launched collaborations with brands like Blueprint Lighting, and released their debut book For the Love of Renovating. Together, they share what it means to build a business (and a life) together, how to stay grounded in your values, and why the most beautiful spaces often come from imperfect beginnings. Margo, Barry and Jordan discuss: How a bike ride through Brooklyn led to a shared dream of restoring a brownstone—and building a creative business from the ground up. The early days of The Brownstone Boys and how posting their real-life renovation journey online unexpectedly launched a design career. Learning by doing—why neither formal training nor perfectionism are prerequisites for success. The power of authenticity on social media and how showing the real moments built their loyal community. Finding balance and clarity in a creative partnership—how Barry and Jordan divide roles, communicate, and keep their vision aligned. Their signature design philosophy: honoring history while adding a clean, modern touch. How playlists and personal stories inspire their design process and make every project feel soulful and lived-in. The importance of humility, collaboration, and staying curious in creative work. Connect with Barry + Jordan: https://thebrownstoneboys.com/ https://www.instagram.com/brownstoneboys/ https://www.tiktok.com/@brownstoneboys https://www.pinterest.com/BrownstoneBoys/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5OJXUbPjR8JqoE099QwUOw Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.comwww.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

My guest for this episode is multi-talented, multi-media artist Martin Venezky. We discuss graphic design, collage and, of course, photography. All of this while pondering the challenges of staying curious as you move through life, and learning new things, no matter how old you are. Really enjoyed this conversation; I hope you do, too.

Today´s episode is about developing a sense of authority not just in the work you make, but also in all the other moving parts of being an artist. Including writing that dreaded artist statement, submitting for an exhibition you're not sure you're ready for, grant applications, open calls, sitting across from a curator and talking about your work. All vital tasks that fill many artists with dread. The feeling of authority doesn't just appear one day in the studio and spread everywhere else. It has to be practised, over and over, in different contexts to be fully acquired. In the same way you build confidence in making—through trial, error, repetition, embodiment—you can build confidence in applying, pitching, choosing, and communicating. It's not a different skill set. It's the same muscle, exercised in a new way. Ceri shares how. KEY TAKEAWAYS Choose one hard thing to practice on purpose. Don't wait for the perfect opportunity. Maybe it's submitting to one open call a month. Maybe it's rewriting your bio every quarter. The point isn't the outcome; it's the repetition and the practice. Reframe mistakes as rehearsal. Nobody expects your first sculpture to be perfect. So why expect your first application to be flawless? Apply your creative strengths to tasks you struggle with. Use qualities you embody in the studio, such as persistence, playfulness, and problem-solving. BEST MOMENTS “Practice being the kind of person who can handle things, who can figure things out, who can do hard things, because authority isn't just about making extraordinary work, it's about trusting yourself to carry that work into the world.” “Each attempt is a sketch, a draft, a rehearsal. Over time, those rehearsals create flow.” “If there's a genuine learning opportunity and the only thing holding you back is, I don't know how, try saying yes. Authority grows through doing, not waiting.” PODCAST HOST BIO With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership **** Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at hello@cerihand.com **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Jenny Day from Jenny Pearl Photography joins Miles and Jared for a conversation that hits every photographer in the sweet spot. From growing up off the grid in Montana to building a sought-after wedding brand in Utah, Jenny shares how curiosity became her greatest tool, why she refuses to live in one visual box, and how moms and new photographers can build real momentum with simple systems and brave creativity. We dig into lighting beyond golden hour, clean color and skin tones, time blocking, Patreon education, and turning imposter syndrome into a challenge that actually fuels growth. Stay to the end for the Aftercast preview where Jenny walks through starter camera settings and business basics.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN• Curiosity as a superpower to keep your work fresh• Lighting beyond golden hour (harsh light, shadows, uneven light)• Composition prompts that move you past “safe” poses• Systems that buy your time back (HoneyBook, editing flow)• Education with receipts (monthly styled shoots, BTS, full edits)• Mindset shifts to turn comparison into a useful challenge• A client intake that tailors the experience to every coupleCONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• Off-grid beginnings and learning tech with ChatGPT• Variety over niche and a monthly concept engine• Canon R5 color and skin tones, plus DSLR backup workflow• Word of mouth + consistent Instagram as growth engines• Editing faster and overthinking less with Imagen AI• The exact pre-wedding questions Jenny asks to customize direction and timeline• Managing travel, parenting, and business with time blocking• Choosing fewer, higher-level weddings while expanding educationTACTICAL TAKEAWAYS• Build a monthly creative theme for yourself or your community• Schedule your brain: deep work by day, light cull/polish while you unwind• Use a couple questionnaire to clarify direction, priorities, and style• Practice hard lighting on low-stakes shoots so wedding-day stress drops• Treat envy as data: reverse-engineer what you admire and train that skillIMPORTANT LINKS• PHOTOCO Aftercast (extended episode with Jenny's camera settings and starter systems): join inside the Photographic Collective https://www.mileswittboyer.com/photo• Imagen AI (Miles's referral): https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=mileswittboyer• Miles Witt Boyer site: https://www.mileswittboyer.comCHAPTERS00:00 Welcome and why Jenny's color stops Jared in his tracks06:40 Off-grid beginnings and learning tech with ChatGPT15:22 Variety over niche and the monthly concept engine23:10 Lighting in the real world31:45 Systems for moms and makers39:20 Tools that help: HoneyBook and Imagen47:05 Client intake that personalizes the whole day54:50 Turning comparison into a challenge59:20 Aftercast previewLove this one? Jump into the PHOTOCO Aftercast for Jenny's step-by-step settings and starter systems, then use the Imagen link to win back your editing time. Subscribe, rate, and share with a friend who needs a creative push today.

What does it take to keep creating, even after dozens of false starts? In this deeply insightful encore episode, I'm sharing my conversation with the legendary author Edwidge Danticat.  Edwidge shares how she found her own voice as a writer and offers a candid look into her artistic practice today. We talk about the "dance with fear", and the "20 notebooks of false starts" for her current novel, and the practical mindset it takes to push through creative blocks.  This is a powerful and reassuring conversation for any creator who has ever felt stalled by perfectionism or self-doubt. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Edwidge Danticat 02:30 - The Oral Storytellers of a Haitian Childhood 04:30 - From Listening to Writing: Discovering the Power of Books 06:55 - Finding a Voice and First Publications 09:20 - Choosing Art Over a Prescribed Path 11:30 - The Dance with Fear: Navigating Self-Doubt and Perfectionism 14:50 - The 20 Notebooks: A Look into the Creative Process 18:10 - Learning to Trust Your Own Process 20:10 - A Message to Her Younger Self   Connect with Edwidge:   Edwidge's Website: https://edwidgedanticat.com/   Support the Show Website: http://www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: http://www.martineseverin.substack.com This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.   Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review Follow us on social media Share with fellow creatives  

Medaya Ocher and Kate Wolf speak to the photographer and writer Sally Mann about her new book, Art Work: On the Creative Life. In describing her path to becoming an artist, Mann provides prospective artists with insights on how to weather everything from rejection and poverty, to failure, fallow periods, and the millions of things that can come between you and your work. The book includes selections from Mann's rich archive of photographic work prints, explaining some of the ideas that have gone into her pictures, as well early diary entries that portray a fierce determination alongside equally fierce self-doubt. She also includes excerpts from her long correspondence with a fellow photographer named Ted Orland. Mann's advice is to write letters, keep your receipts, make lots of lists, and remember that being an artist isn't necessarily such a big deal, it's a job like any other: you have to work at it.

Kate McKean is a literary agent who has built a diverse client list of New York Times Bestselling Authors, in genres from fantasy, TA, humour and horror. A few years ago, she started a newsletter with all the backstage secrets of agent life, and tips on how you can make it happen.Now she's got a book out, filled with even more help. It's called 'Write Through It: An Insider's Guide to Publishing and Creative Life'. We discuss how she came to write a book like this, and how you'd go about planning a book like this. We run through Kate's writing routine, writing space, and life in the industry. You can hear the vital steps in getting an agent, what they'll do if you're signed, and how important the first sentence is.This week's podcast is sponsored by the 'Quick Book Reviews Podcast'. Take a listen here - https://linktr.ee/quickbookreviewsSupport the show at -patreon.com/writersroutineko-fi.com/writersroutineGet a copy of the book here - uk.bookshop.org/shop/writersroutine@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Margo is joined by Cassie McDaniel, Head of Design at Medium, where she leads product design, brand, and research. Cassie has also brought her design expertise to companies like Lattice, Webflow, Glitch, and Mozilla Foundation, and she's passionate about simplifying complex workflows while creating space for more meaningful design. Beyond her professional roles, Cassie is a painter, writer, DIY renovator, and environmental conservation group member—someone who embodies the importance of building a life rich with creativity both in and outside of work. In this conversation, Cassie and Margo explore what it means to be a well-rounded creative leader, how personal passions fuel professional innovation, and why design belongs at the leadership table. Cassie also gives us a peek behind the curtain at Medium's evolving design approach, including how her team thinks about content consumption, new UX navigation, and experiments with AI. Margo and Cassie discuss: The case for doing things outside your job and how hobbies unlock new creative potential How writing serves as “exercise for the brain” and a counterbalance to a busy design career Cassie's approach to mentorship, including hiring, coaching, and guiding designers at all levels A behind-the-scenes look at design at Medium, from flat minimalism to layered storytelling How a family legacy of persistence, from chicken farming to dentistry, shaped Cassie's approach to creativity and leadership Lessons from Cassie's career across Webflow, Glitch, Mozilla, and Medium, and why foundational creative skills translate to digital spaces What makes Medium unique as a platform for authentic stories, connection, and community The value of saying yes to new opportunities, co-designing with communities, and learning from every experience Balancing leadership, writing, and motherhood while still making time for passion projects at home Learn more about Cassie here: Website: cassiemcdaniel.com Medium: cassiebegins.medium.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cassiemc Instagram: @cassiebegins Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry   Save the date for Medium Day 2025: https://medium.com/blog/save-the-date-for-medium-day-2025-50b1f15de07d Sign Up for the Sylva Solace Creative Resilience Retreat: https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat

Reconnecting with creativity, redefining success as a creator, and creating without burnout or comparison with Sabrina Loyer. ----- Welcome to episode 533 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Sabrina Loyer. Building a Creative Life Beyond the Metrics In this episode, we're chatting with Sabrina Loyer about what it really means to be successful as a content creator. Sabrina built a thriving business around helping others go viral, but she also experienced the anxiety, burnout, and pressure that can come with chasing metrics. She shares her journey of moving beyond the comparison trap, creating without boundaries, and learning to view social media as a tool rather than the end goal. Sabrina and Bjork also discuss the two powerful tools that have transformed her creative process (and life!) and Sabrina's practical advice for simplifying content creation and using tools like ChatGPT effectively — all while staying grounded and joyful in your work. Whether you're a seasoned creator or just starting out, this episode will help you reconnect with your creativity, quiet your inner critic, and redefine success on your own terms. Three episode takeaways: How to redefine success — As a creator, it can be really easy to define success by the number of pageviews, followers, or likes you get. But churning out more and more content in service of those goals can be stressful and lead to burnout. It can also zap your creativity! In this episode, Sabrina explains how to refocus your workflow to emphasize joy and authenticity, not just numbers. Two exercises that will transform your creativity — Sabrina explains two exercises she has incorporated into her life — morning pages and artist dates — that help reconnect with your inner child and creative self. How to avoid burnout — Sabrina shares how she works with clients to reorganize their content strategy with pillars, ChatGPT prompts, and mindful creation to avoid burnout. Resources: Follow Sabrina on Instagram and TikTok HairCut Harry “The Story of the Chinese Farmer” by Alan Watts The Artist's Way clearspace Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors! This episode is sponsored by Raptive and Yoast. Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to podcast@foodbloggerpro.com. Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

For years, the playwright David Adjmi was considered “polarizing and difficult.” But creating Stereophonic seems to have healed him. Stephen Dubner gets the story — and sorts out what Adjmi has in common with Richard Wagner. SOURCES:David Adjmi, author and playwright. RESOURCES:"The West End is enjoying a theatre revival. Can Broadway keep up?" by Daniel Thomas (Financial Times, 2025).Lot Six: A Memoir, by David Adjmi (2020).Stereophonic, (2023). EXTRAS:"How Is Live Theater Still Alive?" by Freakonomics Radio (2025)."How to Make the Coolest Show on Broadway," by Freakonomics Radio (2024).