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Since leaving corporate America, my podcast downloads have increased nearly 200%.And it's definitely not= because I suddenly became a genius marketer. It's because, for the first time in over a decade, I stopped treating my dream like a side project.In today's solo episode, I'm sharing the surprising energetic shift that changed not only this podcast, but my entire creative life and business.We dive into:-Why the energy behind your work matters just as much as the work itself-The hidden cost of splitting your energy between survival and desire-What happens when you stop hiding your ambitions-Why people can feel when you're finally all-in on yourself-How prioritizing your creative dreams can create major shifts in momentum, visibility, and growthIf you've been quietly building a dream while pouring most of your energy into someone else's vision, this episode is for you. Because your breakthrough isn't always about working harder, most often, it's about finally choosing yourself.
Have you ever noticed that the moment you step into a new, big, chapter of your life, your old patterns can suddenly come rushing to the surface? I have… In this episode, I share a major realization I've had during week three of full-time entrepreneurship: sometimes you have to start saying you're the thing before you fully become it. I share how I came to this, how it helped me manifest one of my biggest dreams and how you can use it in your creativity and career. Now back to what I started with…every time you level up, you need to level up your growth and self-development… and for me, one of those edges is continuing to heal codependency, people pleasing, and learning not to abandon myself while building a life and business that's truly mine.So today, I'm replaying one of my favorite conversations from the archives with codependency facilitator and spiritual counselor Erika Wright.This conversation completely changed the way I think about self-worth, relationships, creativity, emotional resilience, and what it actually means to stay connected to yourself.From this conversation, you'll learn:-How to identify and heal codependent patterns-The difference between creativity and codependency-How to stop abandoning yourself for other people-Why emotional discomfort is not an emergency-How to stop giving unsolicited advice and start turning inward-And how to stay connected to yourself while still loving othersThis episode is especially for you if you're in a season of reinvention, entrepreneurship, healing, motherhood, transition, or personal growth.More on Erika Wright: https://erikawright.org/
Have you ever wondered if all that doing is actually getting in the way of your creativity? What if I asked you to let yourself be less useful?This week I'm sitting down with photographer, documentarian, and creative force Lindsey Lerner, founder of Field Notes From the Work in the Wild, a stunning project on Substack that documents people in the messy middle of their most meaningful work.Lindsey started out as my creative coaching client and has since become one of my dearest friends and creative allies. And in this conversation, she gets radically honest about what happened when she finally stopped over-functioning, stopped building everyone else's dreams, and started making room for her own.We get into:-Why being less useful might be the most creative thing you can do-How to keep the faith when your path makes absolutely no sense-What it really means to ask for help, and why it's so hard for high achievers-How to braid your passions into something only you can create-Plus the moment Lindsey's wife said something so simple it rewired everything.If you've ever confused hustle for worth, or wondered if there's a more holistic, authentic way to create, this one is for you, cutie.And if you're in New York, Lindsey's bringing Field Notes to life on September 26th at Bronxlandia in the South Bronx. Subscribe to Field Notes on Substack to get first access to tickets: https://fieldnotesfromthework.substack.com/ Love you. Let's get into it.
For years I taught other people to unleash their creativity. This week, I finally had to put my money where my mouth was and unleash myself. This is my real-time, raw, first-week-of-full-time-entrepreneurship origin story, and I'm not waiting until I have it all figured out to tell it.Last week, I left corporate America after 11+ years to launch my own company, Lauren LoGrasso Productions, while six months pregnant, and I'm bringing you with me for every messy, terrifying, exhilarating moment of it.In this solo episode I'm sharing my 10 self-coaching takeaways from my first week of being fully self-employed, what leaving your job to pursue your creative dreams actually feels like from the inside, and why a business is one of the greatest creative projects you'll ever build.We get into:-How to bet on yourself even when you're terrified-Why rest is part of the creative process, not the enemy of productivity-How to stop forcing and start flowing-Why singing your own praises isn't bragging, it's necessary-Plus a very special announcement I've been dreaming about for years.If you've ever thought about leaving your 9-to-5, starting a creative business, or betting on yourself in a way that scares you a little, this one is for you.Because if I can do this, six months pregnant, fresh out of corporate America, betting everything on my creativity, so can you!Love you, cutie. Let's go!
Have you ever needed just a little more time to finish a creative project? I definitely do right now.I underestimated how much energy it would take to fully launch my business this week while traveling and balancing life, so I need one more day before the new episode drops. In the meantime, I'm re-airing a solo minisode that deeply helped me get to this moment. It's all about how tiny steps lead to giant leaps, and why microdosing courage and creativity can completely change your life. Come back tomorrow, Friday, May 8th, for a special bonus episode where I'll share the real-time lessons, fears, gratitude, and growth I'm experiencing as I officially step into this new chapter.Original Description: Do you ever feel like there's no time left for your creative passions? Or maybe you dream of a big, bold goal but aren't sure how to make it happen? If so, this episode is for you! In today's Minisode, I'm sharing the power of small, consistent actions and how they can help you move closer to your dreams than you ever thought possible. Inspired by my latest obsession—belly dancing!—I dive into how breaking down your goals into manageable steps can help you show up every day, build momentum, and make real progress.
My sweet Creative Cutie! Today is a BIG HUGE day in my creative life. After 11+ years working a creative job in corporate America, I am finally taking the leap and taking a chance on myself with my company, Lauren LoGrasso Productions! It's my last day at work. I am super grateful for all the opportunities this job has brought me and the amazing shows I've gotten to executive produce and meet AND I am so excited to fully step into my own creative work full time.At the top of the episode I share a little bit about this and how I feel. I also share that I need a little time to process this and move through the full gravity of taking this leap, so I am re-sharing one of my favorite episodes with you: my episode with Robin Hopkins! It's very on brand for this day for me and I hope you find it just as helpful as I did, when you listen or re-listen to it! I love you so much- thanks for ALL your support and belief through the years. Can't wait to full debrief this with you next week. In the meantime, check out the original description below and enjoy!Do you struggle with fear? F ear of failure, what people will think, or even fear of starting? Fear isn't something to throw away: it's a teacher that shows us where our work lies...BUT it should not make our decisions--so we must take it out of the driver's seat. Today's guest, actor, comedian and podcaster, Robin Hopkins, will inspire you to release the grip of fear, choose yourself, and take bold steps toward creative freedom.✨ From this episode, you'll learn:-How to navigate fear and self-doubt in the creative process-Why listening to your gut is essential—and how to tune back in-What Robin's “heated toilet seat moment” taught her about taking the leap-How to escape golden handcuffs and embrace your authentic path-Why self-compassion and rest are vital for creativityRobin's journey from 9to5 life to entrepreneurship is packed with actionable wisdom, heartfelt moments, and hilarious insights. Whether you're stuck in fear, held back by golden handcuffs, or battling creative self-doubt, this episode will inspire you to take bold steps toward your dreams.More on Robin: Robin Hopkins is a writer, podcast host, and former stand-up comedian known for her blend of humor, honesty, and insightful advice. She's the author of If These Ovaries Could Talk and the host of two acclaimed podcasts, Dear Headspace and Well…Adjusting, the former earning an Ambie Award nomination. Robin's work offers a unique mix of wisdom and comedy, making even life's toughest challenges approachable and fun.
What if the reason you feel stuck creatively… isn't because you don't know what to do? Maybe it's not that you don't know what to say, maybe you're just not letting yourself say it.In this episode, I'm talking with award winning podcast producer, storyteller, and author, Rich Boerner, about what it takes to step out from behind the scenes and actually share your voice.Because for years, Rich helped shape other people's stories… while keeping his own in the background. Until life pushed him to face a question so many of us avoid: What am I here to say?We get into:-Why we hold ourselves back from expressing what's really true-The fear of being seen, judged, or misunderstood-How to start sharing your voice before you feel ready-Why your most personal story might be the one you're meant to tell-And how small, brave steps can completely change the direction of your lifeRich also shares the story behind his book Not So Only Child (the tale of a family secret that came out and changed his whole life story and reality)… and how finally telling it opened up a whole new chapter for him.If you've been feeling stuck, blocked, or like you're not fully expressing yourself… this conversation is for you. Because it's very likely that you're not stuck, you're just not saying the thing yet.Get Rich's Book, Not So Only Child Here: https://a.co/d/0g5sZ1IP
Creative Podcast Teaching music, wellbeing movement and brain function Solo show on the power of learning for mental health and the effect of environment or our brain function and why we need to move. Teaching Philosophy & Student Demographics Teaching older professional students online who use music for unwinding Different approach needed vs exam-focused younger students Psychological perspective: tapping into creative aspects and life journey Focus on what experiences they can put into music and discover through it Complex Systems vs Simple Systems Referenced Nassim Taleb (Black Swan, Fooled by Randomness) Simple systems (light switch): predictable cause-effect Complex systems (human body/mind): changes create effects elsewhere Richard Bandler (NLP creator) observation: healing one problem can cause it to appear elsewhere "Blotting paper effect" We ignore how environment affects health, creativity, happiness People you're friendly with, where you live, what you read, what you eat Movement, Learning & Brain Function Humans designed to move around and walk great distances Brain designed for movement: assessing distance, balance, spatial awareness Most brain function is about things we don't consciously think about Intellectual thinking is "tiny bit" of what brain does Peripatetic teaching tradition (Socrates, Plato, Pythagoras) Walking and talking/teaching combined Satish Kumar example: Jain monk who walked thousands of miles while learning from teacher Young boys struggle sitting at desks - need movement for learning Historical Context: Music, Words & Social Connection Music and words historically linked together (bards, Orpheus) Ancestors: walked thousands of miles, storytelling while walking Social time around fires for storytelling Modern technology removes social interaction and landscape awareness Childhood Development & Risk Modern "micromanagement of children" vs historical independence Children's resourcefulness comes from problem-solving for themselves Spending time alone and with non-parents Learning to deal with risk by being confronted with risk Experiencing "weirdness" and developing coping strategies Health, Creativity & Holistic Approach Older students: memory issues not because brain incapable, but unused "muscle" Learning music powerful for brain plasticity Art does something for wellbeing - not just intellectual pursuit Need to be "more of an animal" - understand what we require as living creatures Designed to walk, run, communicate, be sociable Tell stories (everything we believe is a story/hypothesis) Health connected to desire to live and share life with others Creative advice: get out walking, dictate ideas into phone, meet people, have fun
Have you ever noticed… the more you try to force something, the less it actually works? The more you push, control, overthink… the more stuck you feel? Same here, cutie! In this solo episode, I'm sharing something I'm actively working through in real time as I step into full-time entrepreneurship… how to stop forcing everything and start trusting that things can actually work out.Because lately, I've felt myself gripping. Trying to make things happen right now. Trying to control outcomes. And all it's been doing is burning me out and blocking the very things I want.So today, I'm talking about the shift I'm making from forcing → faith, while still taking real, intentional action.We get into:-Why forcing energy actually pushes life away-The difference between effort and desperation-How fear and past patterns keep us stuck in control-The daily practices helping me stay grounded (and not spiral)-How to focus on what's real instead of future-tripping worst case scenariosIf you've been feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or like you're trying so hard and it's still not clicking… this is for you. Love you!
Have you ever realized… you might be the one making everything harder than it needs to be? In this episode, the tables are turned. I'm the one being interviewed by nervous system expert and returning guest Nahid de Belgeonne and what came out of this conversation was very refreshing, so I wanted to share it with you! We talk about stress, burnout, codependency, and the moment I realized I was taking on everyone else's “emergencies” as my own. I share what happened when my body forced me to slow down (in a very real way), and how I've started to finally calm my nervous system instead of living in overwhelm.We also get into:Why high achievers struggle to metabolize stressThe “second arrow of suffering” and how we make things worse than they areHow to stop absorbing other people's energy and emotionsMy new morning routine for regulating my nervous systemPregnancy, ambition, and learning to actually take care of myselfWhat it really looks like to step into a new chapter of your life (for me entrepreneurship and Motherhood) This conversation is honest, grounding, and deeply human. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like life has been heavier than it needs to be… this one is for you.You can connect with Nahid and learn more about her work: https://www.thehumanmethod.co.uk/ Check out her retreat in Greece: https://www.thehumanmethod.co.uk/thesootheweekinlefkadagreece Check out my Substack: https://substack.com/@laurenlograsso
This is a replay from Season 1. A single line from Cy Twombly cracks open a huge question for artists: “One must desire the ultimate essence even if it is contaminated.” We sit with that tension between purity and grit and ask what “essence” really means in abstract expressionism, mark making, and the real studio process where rust, dust, scraps, and revisions refuse to stay out of the frame.From there, we trace why Twombly still feels so magnetic and so misunderstood. He left few interviews and little public persona, which forces viewers to do the work themselves. We talk through Joshua Rivkin's Here We Go Chalk and the image that won't let go: the unswept floor. What's more contaminated than what falls, gets cast aside, and ends up as leftovers? Rivkin treats that debris like a mosaic, and it becomes a clean way to see how Twombly gathers fragments of history, poetry, the body, and the mind, then buries and reveals them through layers.We also get practical about how art communicates. What does it mean for a painting to “claim the room it inhabits” when the artist is not there to explain it? How much context should titles and statements provide, and when does mystery make the work stronger? If you've ever stood in a museum and felt pulled into a surface like an archaeologist, this one puts language to that experience and gives you a better way to look.If this sparks a reaction, share the episode with an artist friend, subscribe so you do not miss the next conversation, and leave a review to help more people find the show.Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here:@justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborgWatch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify,https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast
Creative Podcast Rob Rider Hill Fool's Errand Magician Musician Writer and Chef Rob Rider Hill is a multi-disciplinary artist, musician, magical practitioner, writer and editor. He also spent 21 years as chef, plus 5-6 years music, sound engineering, event promotion But is now focused on "magic, music and literary pursuits" - quieter, more sedentary life We discuss creativity emerged from combination of outdoor exploration and enforced alone time (sent to room as punishment) Rob talks about his writing in two modes: sedentary (cafes, pubs, trains) where scenery moves around you, and mobile (walking) Lots of very deep psychological and magical thinking in this episode. Website: roberiderhill.com Books & Publications The Black Chapbook: 3-month primer for teenagers, removes Christian/Neoplatonist elements, £7 The Zero, A Critique of Apocalyptic Reason: 26 unedited ecstatic poems over 16 days, based on Tarot majors + four aces Seven-part ritual frame book: Practical textbook for working with grimoires, step-by-step process with cheat sheets Book of the Law edition: Hardback pocket Bible-style edition All books available as free PDFs in download section of website Also offers tarot readings via website
Have you ever had a moment where everything you thought was “working” suddenly wasn't… and you had to figure out who you were again?In this episode, I'm talking with Emmy Award-winning producer, speaker, and writer Teri Weinberg, former EVP of NBC Entertainment, Founder of Yellow Brick Road Productions, and one of the creative forces behind The Office, Ugly Betty, and The Tudors.But what stayed with me most from this conversation isn't just what Teri has built… it's how many times she's been willing to begin again.We talk about what it really looks like to reinvent yourself at any age, how to advocate for what you're worth, and how to stop holding yourself back in rooms where you know you're meant to be. Teri shares honestly about getting fired, navigating power in Hollywood, and learning to trust herself even when the path in front of her completely changed.We also get into creative leadership, confidence, and why life doesn't actually get smaller as we get older… it expands, if we let it.And one of my favorite parts of this conversation is hearing how she's stepping into a whole new chapter in her sixties through writing, speaking, and mentoring the next generation.If you've been feeling stuck, questioning your timing, or wondering if it's too late to go after what you really want, this one is for you.In this episode, we cover:-How to reinvent yourself at any age-What it takes to stop holding yourself back-Advocating for your worth in high-stakes rooms-Lessons from producing The Office and leading at NBC + the secret behind the show's magic!-Navigating career setbacks and starting over-Why your next chapter can be your most expansive one yet Check it out! For more info on Teri, go here: https://teriweinbergspeaker.com/
Eine Auto-Spezialfolge der Neurotainment Show: Andreas Z. Simon fährt mit Cutter und Kameramann Filip Jerzynski im Auto, während Filip von einer Offroad-Rallye durch sieben Länder erzählt – mit Staub, Pannen und großen Abenteuern.Nebenbei geht es darum, wie du beim Gebrauchtwagenkauf versteckte Unfallschäden erkennst, warum Herbie der legendärste Käfer der Filmgeschichte ist, warum es sich lohnt, Bücher von Autor Joshua Tree zu lesen und wieso diese Episode zwischendurch im Supermarkt landet – inklusive Film- und Buch-Ratespiele zum Mitraten.Der Sponsor dieser Folge ist Carvertical. Möchtest du herausfinden, ob dein zukünftiger Gebrauchtwagen wirklich eine gute Wahl ist? Dann checke dessen Geschichte mit einem Report von Carvertical. Mit dem Promocode NEURO20 sparst du automatisch 20% für deinen ersten Report. Oder nutze direkt diesen Link:https://www.carvertical.com/de/landing/v3?utm_source=infl&a=neuro20&b=3ec11888&voucher=neuro20Infos zu Andreas Z. Simon, die Neurotainment Mail und generell mehr Neurotainment findest du auf https://www.simon.vision/
Have you been sitting on something you know you're meant to share… and still not putting it out? Yeah. Me too.This episode is a real, unfiltered look inside my creative life right now and into my literal diary. I share what I've been thinking about, what I've been struggling with, and the biggest shift that's changing everything for me:Choosing expression over perfection. And impressions. Because the truth is, most of us are not stuck because we are not talented enough. We are stuck because we are overthinking, comparing, waiting for the right moment, or trying to get everything perfect before we begin.In this episode, I share why I'm finally releasing music I've been sitting on for years, when it's coming out, what my journaling practice is teaching me about creativity and anxiety, and how I'm learning to stop holding myself back and actually follow through on what matters.Learn: -How to stop holding back your creativity and actually share your work -Why choosing expression over perfection can change your creative life -What to do when you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or creatively stuck -How to stop comparing and trust your own creative path -Why you do not need the “perfect moment” to beginIf you've been waiting for a sign to release the thing, start the project, or put yourself out there, this is it.And if this episode resonates, it would mean so much if you shared it, left a rating and review, or sent me a message. I read everything and it really does keep me going.Now go make the thing! I believe in you!
Click Here to Send me a Fan Mail Message!Returning guest, Christa Watson is back to talk about her new partnership with Riley Blake Designs. Christa's is now a fabric designer with Riley Blake and her first collection with them will be available in Nov 2026.We also chat about practice quilt sandwiches you can make and use with what you have on hand. I am super excited about Christa's practice quilt panels that will be available in Nov 2026!Links:christaquilts.comRiley Blake Designs - Quilt in Color by Christa WatsonYouTube: Christa Quilts99 Machine-Quilting Designs PDF Book by Christa WatsonSupport the showYOUTUBE: Stephanie Socha Design @makeanddecorateEMAIL: info@makeanddecorate.comINSTAGRAM: @stephanie.socha.designWEBSITE: https://stephaniesochadesign.com/podcast-make-and-decorate
Send us Fan MailIn today's episode we speak with Britney Winthrope, an art director. We speak about her journey, managing creative teams, and balancing different pipelines/productions. http://www.alabapsi.comInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/@alabapsiBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alabapsi.bsky.socialCreating in Color is a podcast show casing the creative endeavors of Black, Indigenous and People of Color. Anyone from production, illustration, interior design and technology!Creating in Color's SocialsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@creatingincolorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/creating.in.color/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Create_inColorKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/creatingincolorIntro/Outro song by NamikazeSound Cloud: https://soundcloud.com/namikazeYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/user/NamiKazeCapKaybe's SocialsYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@MaybeitsKaybeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/maybeitskaybe/Twitter: https://twitter.com/maybeitskaybeTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/maybeitskaybeGuest opinions are their own and are not necessarily a reflection of Creating in Color/Kaybe Woods.
Have you ever known sending one email could change your life… and still didn't hit send? Yeah. Same.If you're a creative who's been waiting to be chosen or secretly hoping someone will just discover you, this episode is your loving nudge to stop waiting and start creating your own opportunities. To say YES to yourself and open the door to your dreams!I'm talking with Carly Valancy, founder of Reach Out Party, who completely changed her life by doing one simple, very brave thing: Reaching out.After committing to sending one email a day for 100 days, she went from struggling artist to booking major opportunities, working at Lincoln Center, and even performing on Broadway. Now she teaches creatives how to do the same.We get into the fear, the overthinking, the “I don't want to bother them” spiral, and how to move through it in a way that actually feels aligned with your creativity and sensitivity. Near the end of the interview, she said something about what to write in your outreach that FREED me and I know it will do the same for you! Reaching out isn't just a career move, if you let it, it can actually be a creative act. And it might just be what changes everything.You'll Learn:-How to email anyone, even if you're scared to hit send-A simple way to write emails that feel like you and actually get responses-How to stop feeling cringy about it and start building real connection-Why rejection is part of the creative process, not a reason to play small (and how to actually romanticize it!)Check out all of Carly's work: https://carlyvalancy.com/
Have you ever felt creatively blocked and had no idea why? Lately, I found myself stuck on a project I knew I wanted to complete… and instead of forcing myself to push through it, I decided to ask a different question: Why am I actually blocked?In this solo episode, I share the breakthrough I had when I finally stopped beating myself up about procrastinating and started getting curious about what was really going on underneath the surface.What I discovered completely changed the way I think about creative blocks. Instead of seeing them as failures or signs that something is wrong, I started to realize they can actually be signals pointing us toward something important.In this episode, I walk you through the six most common reasons creatives get blocked and how asking yourself the right questions can help you move forward with more clarity, compassion, and momentum.If you've been putting off a creative project, feeling stuck, or wondering why something that matters so much to you suddenly feels hard to start, this episode is for you.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why creative blocks are often signals rather than failures• The six hidden reasons creatives get stuck• How past experiences can quietly create resistance to new projects• The difference between burnout and a creative block• The one question that can help you get unstuck
In this episode, I welcome back Julia Cameron, author of The Artist's Way, for our sixth conversation on Unleash Your Inner Creative. We talk about the enduring power of Morning Pages, how to silence the inner critic, and what creativity needs now in the age of AI.Julia's work has helped millions of people reconnect with their creativity and art, and in this conversation we go deeper into the tools that actually sustain a creative life. We talk about why Morning Pages remain one of the most powerful practices for creativity, how to work with your inner critic (Julia calls hers “Nigel”), and why play is essential for creative breakthroughs.We also explore creativity during uncertain times, writing through fear and self-doubt, and how creativity evolves through major life transitions. Along the way, I share some personal news: that I'm pregnant and expecting my first child… and Julia offers beautiful wisdom about Motherhood and creativity.If you've ever struggled with creative blocks or wondered how to stay creative through ALL of life, you'll find Julia's perspective is both grounding and inspiring.In this episode we discuss:• The real purpose of Morning Pages • How to silence your inner critic • Why creativity thrives through play and curiosity • Julia Cameron's thoughts on AI and creativity • Writing through fear and self-doubt • Creativity and motherhood • The importance of “believing mirrors”Check out ALL of Julia's art and writing: https://juliacameronlive.com/
This is one of the most personal episodes I've ever recorded. I have an announcement...I'm pregnant. That's right, cutie! We're having a baby! And in this episode, I'm sharing what this moment means not just in my life, but in my identity as a creative. For years, I've talked about creativity as something we make. The art. The ideas. The projects. But this season is inviting me to rethink everything I thought I knew about purpose, growth, and what it really means to create something meaningful. This feels like the greatest creative project of my life so far, and I wanted to share it with you honestly and in real time.In this episode, I talk about:-The greatest lesson I've learned so far -The difference between preparation and pre-suffering -The creative expansion that motherhood can bring -The Power of letting yourself evolve in public-PLUS: the full story of how I found out I was pregnant Thank you for being here with me. It means more than I can say.
Send a textToday we speak with Deborah A Anderson, a post coordinator. We discuss her many roles and paths in animation, the creation of BlkWmnAnimator, and the importance of representation.blkwmnanimator.comInstagram: instagram.com/BlkWmnAnimatorTwitter: twitter.com/BlkWmnAnimatorTiktok: tiktok.com/@blkwmnanimatorLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/blkwmnanimatorFacebook: Creating in Color is a podcast show casing the creative endeavors of Black, Indigenous and People of Color. Anyone from production, illustration, interior design and technology!Creating in Color's SocialsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@creatingincolorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/creating.in.color/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Create_inColorKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/creatingincolorIntro/Outro song by NamikazeSound Cloud: https://soundcloud.com/namikazeYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/user/NamiKazeCapKaybe's SocialsYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@MaybeitsKaybeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/maybeitskaybe/Twitter: https://twitter.com/maybeitskaybeTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/maybeitskaybeGuest opinions are their own and are not necessarily a reflection of Creating in Color/Kaybe Woods.
How do you know when it's time to reinvent yourself creatively? And once you do, how do you remember that through it all, who you are in the best thing about you? This episode was recorded while podcast host and producer, Zak Rosen and I walked around Belle Isle in Detroit talking about creative reinvention, identity, and what it really means to build a life around your values.You'll hear the wind moving through the trees and the ice crunching beneath our feet and sheer creative vulnerability as Zak discusses how he knew it was finally time to shift a long-term project. Zak is the host of the beloved indie podcast Weirdly Hepful and a longtime creative whose path has included multiple reinventions, pivots, and personal awakenings. Together, we explore the emotional side of creativity that rarely gets talked about, especially the danger of tying your self-worth to what you make.We talk about:-Why separating your identity from your work is essential for long-term creative health-The freedom that comes from redefining success on your own terms-Creative reinvention and how to let yourself evolve -What it means to build a creative life instead of chasing external validationListen to Zak's Pod: https://weirdlyhelpful.show/
Are you constantly funding your own creative projects and ending up depleted, disappointed, or broke?In this minisode, I share one of the most powerful lessons I ever learned while coaching a multimillionaire: rich people do not spend their own money to launch new projects. They find sponsors, investors, patrons, and partners.So why are artists and indie creators doing the opposite?In this episode, we talk about:- Why self-funding your art can create resentment and burnout-How to stop being your own investor-Where to look for funding including sponsors, grants, corporations, nonprofits, and angel investors-Why artists used to have patrons and why that model still works-How to adopt an abundance mindset without going into debtIf you've ever drained your savings for your art, this episode is your wake-up call. You deserve funding. You deserve support. And you do not have to go broke to create.
On this episode of The Rise of the Creative Podcast, host Ash Slays sits down with author, career coach, and creative Queen S. Ofori, MBA for a powerful conversation titled “Creating Your Queendom.”Queen shares her journey from career services and HR to authorship, and unpacks the inspiration behind her book "The Road to Queendom: 365 Days of Affirmations & Reflections to Keep Your Crown Straight." Together, they explore redefining strength, embracing softness, showing up authentically, and governing your own “queendom”, your mindset, environment, and inner world. This episode is filled with gems on self-worth, progress over perfection, and building a life rooted in purpose and grace.
What if the story we've been telling artists is wrong? What if you don't actually have to choose between financial stability and the thing you love most?In this episode, I sit down with actor turned entrepreneur Sarah Kleist to talk about the toxic myth of the “starving artist” and why performers are uniquely equipped to build creative businesses that support their art instead of competing with it.Sarah is a musical theater performer living in New York City who also runs a thriving web design and branding business for creatives. She shares how she built financial stability without walking away from her artistic identity and why being multi-passionate is not a weakness, but a strategic advantage.We talk about:-Why the “if you can do anything else, do that instead” advice is harmful-The powerful skills actors and performers already have that businesses are desperate for-How to rewrite your money story as a creative-Why financial stability can make you a better artist, not a worse one-Practical ways to start thinking about what your own creative business could beIf you've ever felt like you were failing because you want both meaning and money, this conversation will feel like a deep exhale.You don't have to choose. You can build a life that holds both.
I tried to record a normal episode today. I couldn't. I sat down to talk about creativity like I usually do, and instead I found myself overwhelmed, heartbroken, and honestly… empty. In this episode, I share what it feels like to be a creative person living in America right now when the news feels unbearable, when your emotions are so full they leave you feeling blank, and when you're wondering:What is even worth creating at a time like this?How are we supposed to go about daily life?This is a raw, unscripted reflection on creative paralysis, collective grief, human rights, and the cruelty happening around us, including the actions of ICE and the fear, harm, and devastation our communities are experiencing.I talk about:-Small ways to stay creative and human when you feel helpless-Creative burnout from current events and how to move through it -How to alchemize pain into purpose-The role of artists, makers, and storytellers during hard times-Why this moment is not a political issue, but rather, a human rights issueIf you've been feeling distracted, heavy, unable to focus, or wondering how to keep making things when your heart is breaking, this episode is for you. I love you. I'm with you.
Send us a textToday we speak with Allison Mick. A writer and Author! She shares her creative journey in different styles of writing, inspiration and interests in black horror, and her debut novel "Humboldt Cut"!https://allison-mick.com/ Preorder Humboldt CutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/allison_mickTwitter: X.com/@allison_mick TikTok: tiktok.com/@allisonmickmakesmesickBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/allisonmick.bsky.socialCreating in Color is a podcast show casing the creative endeavors of Black, Indigenous and People of Color. Anyone from production, illustration, interior design and technology!Creating in Color's SocialsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@creatingincolorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/creating.in.color/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Create_inColorKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/creatingincolorIntro/Outro song by NamikazeSound Cloud: https://soundcloud.com/namikazeYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/user/NamiKazeCapKaybe's SocialsYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@MaybeitsKaybeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/maybeitskaybe/Twitter: https://twitter.com/maybeitskaybeTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/maybeitskaybeGuest opinions are their own and are not necessarily a reflection of Creating in Color/Kaybe Woods.
What if the way you learned to love, connect, and succeed wasn't actually you, but survival strategies you picked up as a kid?In this episode of Unleash Your Inner Creative, I sit down with Beá Victoria Albina, somatic experiencing practitioner and author of Emotional Outsourcing, to explore how people pleasing, perfectionism, and emotional over-responsibility quietly block creativity, self-trust, and authentic expression.We talk about what emotional outsourcing really is, how it develops in childhood, and how it shows up in our relationships, work, decision-making, and creative lives. We also explore how healing your nervous system and attachment wounds can help you reconnect with your voice and come home to yourself.This conversation is especially vulnerable for me. Bea even guides me through a live somatic practice to help release shame, and as you listen, I hope you can do the same. In this episode, you'll learn:-What emotional outsourcing is and why it develops-How people pleasing and perfectionism disconnect you from creativity-Why shame keeps you stuck and how to work with it-Somatic tools to rebuild self-trust and self-expressionIf you've ever abandoned yourself in order to be “good,” “enough,” or lovable, this episode will help you return to a more empowered, creative version of yourself.
Do you have big goals for 2026 but aren't sure where to start or how to actually follow through?In this solo episode of Unleash Your Inner Creative, I'm sharing practical and emotional strategies for goal setting in 2026, especially if you want to go after your dreams in a way that feels doable and sustainable.This isn't about hustling harder or burning yourself out. It's about getting honest about what's been holding you back, aligning your daily actions with what you truly want, and breaking big goals into smaller steps you can realistically follow through on.I walk you through how to assess past goals, identify where you have more control than you think, and create a clear action plan that supports your dreams. I also share what I call microdosing courage, taking small steps that build momentum, confidence, and self-trust over time. We also touch on the emotional side of goal setting, including worthiness, limiting beliefs, asking for help, and healing creative wounds that can quietly block progress.You'll Learn: -How to honestly assess the goals you didn't reach last year and why-A simple way to check if your daily actions truly align with the goals you say matter most-How to microdose courage when approaching a big or scary task -Why stair-stepping goals works better than all-or-nothing thinking when fear shows up (and how it builds self-trust) -How worthiness, creative wounds, and asking for help impact your ability to follow throughIf you're setting New Year's goals for 2026 and want goal-setting advice that supports your creativity, emotions, and real life, this episode will help you move forward with compassion, clarity, self-love and momentum.
Today's guest is Kim Gravel. Kim is an entrepreneur, tv personality, public speaker, podcaster and industry leader. Most of all Kim has a passion for people and seeing them rise.Her authentic, common-sense style has resulted in Kim being one of the most booked guests on The Steve Harvey Show and starring in the hit docuseries, “Kim of Queens,” and partnering with retail giant QVC to launch her highly successful apparel line, Belle by Kim Gravel®, and the Belle Beauty® cosmetic line. She also has an awesome podcast called The Kim Gravel show! I will be on it next week! Be sure to check it out on QVC Plus, or wherever you get your pods! This is a great conversation about creativity and purpose!From this conversation you'll learn:-Kim's theory on purpose and how to find yours-How to take the first step toward your creative dream-How to use your fear as fuel-How to reinvent yourself at any age, and-The key to owning the power of ‘no!'
Every year, I sit down with my parents to record our annual Christmas podcast. What started as a holiday tradition has become one of my favorite conversations of the year. This episode is funny, emotional, honest, and full of the kinds of family stories that only come out around the holidays.In this special Christmas episode of Unleash Your Inner Creative, my parents join me in the studio to reflect on family, marriage, childhood memories, and the moments that shape us long after the holidays end. We laugh, cringe, reminisce, and share stories that reveal why family dynamics are rarely perfect, but can still be deeply meaningful and beautiful.In this episode, you'll hear:-A shocking story from my parents' early marriage that still makes us laugh decades later-The tragic yet oddly hilarious story of Tim's saddest childhood Christmas-My mom's extremely confident and very incorrect retelling of Will Ferrell's Elf-A heartfelt recap of our wedding and what it taught us about love, family, and showing up for one another-Why messy family dynamics can still be healing, connective, and full of loveWhether you're celebrating with family, missing loved ones, or navigating complicated relationships this holiday season, this episode is a reminder that connection does not have to be perfect to be powerful and it's just also just a really fun Listen!If you prefer to watch, check it out on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxllx5aGD7U
Nick Reid is an Audience Growth Expert, Content Development Producer, and Brand Strategist who's worked with major players like Paramount, Nickelodeon, Frederator, and the Producers Guild of America. But before that? He was selling merch on Broadway, having a breakdown at Trader Joe's, and questioning everything about his career and creative path. In this powerful conversation, we explore what it really looks like to grow a creative career. From breakdowns and layoffs to healing, reinvention, and stepping into your worth. You'll learn:-How to bounce back after rejection and burnout -Tools to stop proving your worth and start trusting it-Audience growth tips for indie creators -Why your nonlinear path is not a failure, it's your power Which part of Nick's story hit home for you? Comment on Spotify and let us know! Follow Nick: @itsnickreid Sign up for my Substack: https://substack.com/@laurenlograsso?
Have you ever felt stuck in life and seriously needed a sign? In this episode, I share how I once received the clearest sign of my life and break down my 7-step CHANNEL method that you can use to get a sign from The Universe. These steps help you quiet the noise, connect with your inner wisdom, recognize synchronicities, and trust what comes through.You will learn: • The moment I received a sign that changed my life • How to use my 7-step CHANNEL method in your life • The types of questions to ask the Universe to get a clear answer • How to recognize signs and synchronicities • How to trust your intuition and take the leap If you have been longing for a sign, this episode will help you receive it.
Struggling with self-doubt or a loud inner critic? In this episode, empathy expert, keynote speaker and bestselling author, Mimi Nicklin breaks down why self-empathy is the key to quieting that voice and unlocking deeper creativity, confidence, and clarity.We explore the neuroscience of empathy, the rise of loneliness, how listening transforms relationships, and why reconnecting with yourself is essential for creating your best work.You'll discover:What self-empathy is and how to practice itHow empathy impacts creativity and innovationTools to calm your inner critic and reduce anxietyHow to build stronger relationships through listeningWhy creatives need community more than everIf you're craving more confidence, creativity, and compassion, then this episode is for you.
Hi Creative Cutie! The holidays...They're often a time that can trigger old wounds of all sorts. Definitely not the least of which, are wounds around our bodies and body image. I wanted to reshare this episode with you to help you gain some awareness and tools to heal your relationship to your body and gain Body Neutrality. More info below. I love you and happy Thanksgiving, if you celebrate!Original Description:TW: Eating Disorders and Body image.Today's guest is Jessi Kneeland. They are a queer and non-binary writer, speaker, podcaster and body image coach. Jessi started off as a physical trainer-- working with everyone from celebrities to supermodels and they found something interesting -no matter the body type, their clients always thought their bodies were not enough. This led Jessi to dig into their own body image, traumas and past to finally discover what helped them start their healing journey, which is something they call, Body Neutrality. As someone who has long suffered with a bevy of body image issues including eating disorders, disordered eating and just generally never feeling Like I have the “right” body…I can honestly say I find Jessi's work revolutionary and healing in such a deep way, it's hard to really put into words. Between their book Body Neutral, which comes out this June (and I highly recommend you pre-order now) and this conversation, I feel like I'm finally on a path to do some deep healing and rewiring in this area. I hope this chat will do the same for you.From today's chat, you'll learn:What exactly body neutrality isHow to stop self-objectifyingHow to build up self-advocacy and become your own protectorHow to get to the bottom of your body storyHow to distinguish body positivity from body neutralityWhat happens to your creativity when you take the focus off of how you lookOrder Jessi's book here: https://www.jessikneeland.com/product-page/sustainable-movement-a-body-neutral-guide-to-health-fitness
What if getting older could actually make you feel younger and more free? In this solo episode of Unleash Your Inner Creative, I share the audio version of my recent Substack essay about why I feel more youthful at 36 than I ever did at 22. The secret is self-acceptance. I talk about the pressure I felt in my early twenties, the urgency that aged me from the inside out, and the healing that helped me finally feel light, calm, and creative again.Youth is not the absence of age. It is the presence of self love. When we stop tying our worth to our achievements and start trusting ourselves, everything opens up. This episode is for anyone who has ever felt behind, struggled with self worth, or been hard on their younger self.You will learn:How self-acceptance can make you feel youngerWhy your twenties often feel stressful and heavyThe difference between disappointment and failureHow pressure and perfectionism age your spiritHow to reconnect with joy and creativityIf you are ready to feel more confident, peaceful, and creatively free, this episode will help you get younger from the inside out.Subscribe to my Substack here:
What does it take to grow a podcast audience in a fresh, creative way? In this episode, I'm joined by Hayden Gray, producer of the wildly successful Fantasy Fan Girls podcast. We dive into marketing strategies that feel fun, sustainable, and community-driven.Hayden Gray is the producer and “sanity manager” of Fantasy Fan Girls, a book deep-dive podcast that exploded with 5,000 downloads just days after launch. With a background in podcast production and creative storytelling, Hayden brings a grounded, fresh perspective on podcast marketing that feels human and doable.Topics Discussed in This EpisodeHow Fantasy Fan Girls used pre-launch clips to build early buzzWhy deep audience connection beats fancy marketingWhat makes social media clips actually workThe power of community-driven growthCreative marketing strategies beyond InstagramHow to “excitement stack” for launchesDiscovering your niche within a crowded categoryThe secret to sustainable podcasting: passionKey TakeawaysBuild excitement before your launch (or new season!)Focus on genuine community over one-way promotionFind your listeners in unexpected places—Pinterest, Facebook groups, real life!Lean into what you love; passion makes podcasting sustainableBig growth can come from small, intentional experimentsTimestamps (00:00) Intro and fangirling over Fantasy Fan Girls (01:51) Meet Hayden Gray (02:47) How the show hit 5,000 downloads in days (05:13) What worked (and didn't) on social media (07:32) Building buzz with your community (09:14) Creative ways to connect with listeners (14:15) Hayden's “aha” moment: excitement stacking (24:08) Why passion is the real growth strategy (26:11) A quick recap and your one next stepLinks & ResourcesGrab my free “Is Pinterest Right for Me?” checklistFantasy Fan Girls podcastFollow me on InstagramFriendly Podcast Guide website
What do you do when your biggest dream comes true but leaves you feeling more lost than ever? In this powerful episode, singer-songwriter and activist MILCK (whose viral anthem “Quiet” became the soundtrack of the 2017 Women's March) shares the journey of how she got fame and chose to give it back so she could reclaim her own voice, her music, and herself. We also deep dive into her amazing album, Mother Tongue, which you have to check out. You'll Learn:-How to know when it's time to walk away from something shiny but misaligned-Tools to rebuild self-trust after people pleasing and self abandonment-Why learning to like yourself is actually harder than loving yourself-How to listen to your body for guidance and creative healing-The grief of assimilation and the journey of coming home to yourself & your rootsIf you've ever achieved success and still felt disconnected, this episode will help you remember your authenticity, your creativity, and your voice and come home to yourself.
Have you ever made a creative promise to yourself and actually kept it? In this episode, I'm sharing the promise I finally followed through on, what made it stick, and how you can keep your own creative vows, too! I'll walk you through:-How to choose a creative promise that feels aligned-Why the words you use to describe it matter-The power of naming a timeframe-How to lean on your community -And why letting it be imperfect is the key to actually beginningI also share a big announcement I've been holding close to my heart. Hint: it has to do with writing, courage, and coming home to a part of myself I've missed for years.If you've been feeling the call to start something new, return to something you love, or simply show up for yourself more fully this month, this episode is for you! Link to subscribe to my Substack here: https://substack.com/@laurenlograsso
Do you ever wonder why you are the way you are, or why certain patterns keep repeating in your life and relationships? What if the path to healing isn't about becoming someone new, but coming home to who you've always been?In today's pod, I sit down with internationally accredited Enneagram teacher and author of The Enneagram of the Soul, Nhien Vuong, to explore how this powerful tool can serve as your roadmap to authenticity, spiritual growth, and creative freedom.From this episode, you'll learn:-What the Enneagram really is and why it's more than just a personality typing system-How to find your type and why it's different from what you think -How to soften your inner critic and develop self-compassion-How to identify the box you're unconsciously living in (and how to get out) and -How to use the Enneagram as a spiritual and creative practice Get Nhien's Book: https://nhien-vuong.com/book/ More on Nhien
Do you have a memory from your early creative life that still stings? Maybe it was a teacher who embarrassed you, a moment of rejection, or a time when you decided it was safer to shrink than shine.If so, you may have a creative wound and it is likely still playing out in your creativity and career to this day. But do not fret: today, we're going to begin the process of healing it together.Discover:-What a creative wound is and how it could be secretly holding you back-The real-life moment that brought up one of my deepest creative wounds (and why it caught me off guard)-A guided visualization to help you meet your younger self, rewrite the limiting story of the wound, and start to reclaim your creative power-Why healing the creative wound is the key to greater confidence, visibility, and joyThis episode is gentle, honest, and might bring up some emotion, but it's all in service of creative freedom and inner peace. If you've been feeling blocked, afraid to share your work, or like you're still carrying the weight of what someone once said about your voice, art, or ideas... this is for you.
Fluent Fiction - Italian: A Halloween Mural: Shyness Meets Bravery in Roma's Festive Halls Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-10-23-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Luca respirava l'aria frizzante dell'autunno mentre camminava attraverso i corridoi della sua scuola superiore a Roma.En: Luca breathed the crisp autumn air as he walked through the corridors of his high school in Roma.It: Le foglie arancioni e dorate decoravano gli alberi del cortile, e l'intero edificio era animato dall'eccitazione per il festival di Halloween imminente.En: The orange and golden leaves adorned the trees in the courtyard, and the whole building was animated with excitement for the upcoming Halloween festival.It: Luca era un artista talentuoso, ma la sua timidezza lo teneva in disparte.En: Luca was a talented artist, but his shyness kept him on the sidelines.It: Questi giorni li trascorreva in silenzio, con in mente un progetto segreto.En: These days he spent in silence, with a secret project in mind.It: Elena, la responsabile del comitato del festival, era invece una figura vivace e carismatica.En: Elena, the head of the festival committee, was a lively and charismatic figure.It: Amava l'energia delle persone e organizzare eventi.En: She loved the energy of people and organizing events.It: Voleva che questo festival di Halloween fosse il migliore della scuola.En: She wanted this Halloween festival to be the best in the school.It: "Voglio che tutti partecipino," diceva spesso, "anche Luca."En: "I want everyone to participate," she often said, "including Luca."It: Cercava sempre modi per coinvolgere gli studenti, ma Luca, non facilmente raggiungibile, sfuggiva alle sue proposte.En: She always looked for ways to involve students, but Luca, not easily reachable, escaped her proposals.It: Un pomeriggio, nel silenzio della scuola ormai vuota, Luca si procurava vernici e pennelli, dirigendosi verso il muro esterno del gymnasium.En: One afternoon, in the silence of the now-empty school, Luca gathered paints and brushes, heading towards the outer wall of the gymnasium.It: Quel muro spoglio sarebbe diventato la sua tela.En: That bare wall would become his canvas.It: Con attenzione, iniziò a disegnare: un paesaggio autunnale con zucche, foglie svolazzanti e cieli serali dai toni profondi.En: Carefully, he began to draw: an autumn landscape with pumpkins, fluttering leaves, and evening skies with deep tones.It: Era il suo modo di partecipare al festival senza dover affrontare gli occhi di tutti.En: It was his way of participating in the festival without facing everyone's eyes.It: Intanto, Elena, immersa nei preparativi, decise di controllare il lavoro nell'area artistica dopo la scuola.En: Meanwhile, Elena, immersed in preparations, decided to check the work in the art area after school.It: Sapeva che molti studenti lavoravano ai loro progetti e voleva assicurarsi che tutto fosse pronto.En: She knew that many students were working on their projects and wanted to make sure everything was ready.It: Ma non si aspettava di trovare Luca lì, pennello in mano, completamente assorto nel suo capolavoro.En: But she did not expect to find Luca there, brush in hand, completely absorbed in his masterpiece.It: "Wow, questo è... straordinario," disse Elena con sincero stupore.En: "Wow, this is... extraordinary," Elena said with sincere amazement.It: Luca si girò di scatto, arrossendo per l'imbarazzo di essere stato scoperto.En: Luca turned quickly, blushing with the embarrassment of being discovered.It: "Non volevo disturbarti," continuò Elena, "ma tutti dovrebbero vedere questa meraviglia."En: "I didn't mean to disturb you," Elena continued, "but everyone should see this wonder."It: Luca esitò, guardando le sue scarpe.En: Luca hesitated, looking at his shoes.It: "Non sono sicuro... è solo un hobby."En: "I'm not sure... it's just a hobby."It: Ma Elena non si arrese facilmente.En: But Elena did not give up easily.It: "Luca, questo festival è per tutti noi.En: "Luca, this festival is for all of us.It: Il tuo murale può ispirare altre persone.En: Your mural can inspire other people.It: Dovresti esserne fiero."En: You should be proud of it."It: Le sue parole colpirono Luca.En: Her words struck Luca.It: Non era mai stato bravo a mostrarsi, ma Elena aveva ragione.En: He had never been good at showing himself, but Elena was right.It: Forse era tempo di cambiare.En: Perhaps it was time for a change.It: Quando arrivò il giorno del festival, il campus era colmo di studenti in costumi di Halloween, ridendo e godendosi le attività.En: When the day of the festival arrived, the campus was full of students in Halloween costumes, laughing and enjoying the activities.It: Il murale di Luca, ormai completato e svelato, catturava l'attenzione di tutti.En: Luca's mural, now completed and unveiled, captured everyone's attention.It: Ricevette complimenti entusiasti dagli studenti e persino dagli insegnanti.En: He received enthusiastic compliments from students and even teachers.It: Alla fine del festival, Luca si sentì diverso.En: At the end of the festival, Luca felt different.It: Era ancora timido, ma la fiducia che aveva guadagnato esponendo il suo lavoro lo rese più aperto verso gli altri.En: He was still shy, but the confidence he had gained by showcasing his work made him more open towards others.It: Elena, guardandolo ridere e parlare con gli altri, capì quanto fosse importante ascoltare e comprendere gli individui oltre la sua passione per l'organizzazione.En: Elena, watching him laugh and talk with others, realized how important it was to listen to and understand individuals beyond her passion for organization.It: Autunno si portava via le foglie, ma lasciava Luca ed Elena cambiati, pronti a nuove esperienze e amicizie.En: Autumn carried away the leaves, but left Luca and Elena changed, ready for new experiences and friendships.It: Un semplice festival di Halloween aveva trasformato le loro vite, unendo talenti nascosti e guidando nuove amicizie.En: A simple Halloween festival had transformed their lives, uniting hidden talents and leading to new friendships. Vocabulary Words:the autumn: l'autunnothe corridors: i corridoithe courtyard: il cortilethe building: l'edificiothe excitement: l'eccitazionethe festival: il festivalthe shyness: la timidezzathe sidelines: in dispartethe silence: il silenziothe project: il progettothe head: la responsabilethe committee: il comitatothe figure: la figurathe energy: l'energiathe students: gli studentithe proposal: la propostathe brushes: i pennellithe wall: il murothe canvas: la telathe landscape: il paesaggiothe pumpkins: le zucchethe skies: i cielithe masterpiece: il capolavorothe amazement: lo stuporethe wonder: la meravigliathe hobby: l'hobbythe mural: il muralethe confidence: la fiduciathe experiences: le esperienzethe talents: i talenti
Fluent Fiction - Swedish: Disappearing Art: Solving the Mystery in Stockholm's Market Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2025-10-20-22-34-02-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Höstmorgonens kyliga luft fyllde marknadsplatsen i Stockholm med en krispig energi.En: The chilly air of the autumn morning filled the market square in Stockholm with a crisp energy.Sv: De färgglada löven prasslade under fötterna på folk medan de vandrade längs kullerstensgångarna.En: The colorful leaves rustled under people's feet as they wandered along the cobblestone paths.Sv: Bland sorlet från försäljare och ljudet av skratt från barn, sträckte sig en byggnad som lockade konstälskare.En: Among the chatter of vendors and the sound of children's laughter, a building stood that attracted art lovers.Sv: Den var varm och inbjudande: den lokala konstutställningen.En: It was warm and inviting: the local art exhibition.Sv: På insidan, väl upplyst med mjuk guldglöd från lampljusen, smög Nils, en ung och hoppfull konstnär, omkring.En: Inside, well-lit with a soft golden glow from the lamps, Nils, a young and hopeful artist, quietly moved around.Sv: Han drömde om att en dag se sina tavlor hänga här.En: He dreamed of one day seeing his paintings hanging here.Sv: Men denna dag, hans tankar stördes.En: But on this day, his thoughts were disturbed.Sv: Det hade skett ett mysterium.En: A mystery had occurred.Sv: En betydelsefull målning hade plötsligt försvunnit.En: A significant painting had suddenly disappeared.Sv: Elsa, utställningens kurator, var djärv och oroad.En: Elsa, the exhibition's curator, was bold and worried.Sv: Hon förstod värdet i varje tavla.En: She understood the value of each painting.Sv: För henne var det personligt.En: For her, it was personal.Sv: Hon hade varit den som noggrant valt varje konstverk.En: She had been the one who carefully selected each artwork.Sv: Nu var en av dem borta.En: Now one of them was gone.Sv: I panik, sökte hon hjälp från Kasper, den nyfikna lokala detektiven känd för att ha ett sinne för detaljer och mysterier.En: In a panic, she sought help from Kasper, the curious local detective known for having an eye for detail and mysteries.Sv: Han anlände snart med en resolut blick och började att begrunda ledtrådar.En: He soon arrived with a determined look and began to ponder the clues.Sv: Säkerhetsfilmerna var på något konstigt sätt raderade.En: The security footage had been mysteriously erased.Sv: Detta gjorde situationen mer komplex.En: This made the situation more complex.Sv: Ingen trodde att det var möjligt att målningen bara kunde försvinna så där.En: No one believed it was possible for the painting to just disappear like that.Sv: Men där var ingenting synbart misstänkt.En: But there was nothing visibly suspicious.Sv: Nils, ivrig att bevisa sitt värde, föreslog Dante, "Låt mig hjälpa till!En: Nils, eager to prove his worth, suggested to Dante, "Let me help!Sv: Vi kan utreda de personer som var här vid tiden."En: We can investigate the people who were here at the time."Sv: Elsa, förvånad över hans mod, gav honom en chans.En: Elsa, surprised by his courage, gave him a chance.Sv: Kasper log och sa, "Trevligt, låt oss arbeta tillsammans."En: Kasper smiled and said, "Nice, let's work together."Sv: De började i marknaden.En: They began in the market.Sv: Dagens ljus reflekterade vackert över varorna.En: The day's light beautifully reflected over the goods.Sv: Folk pratade, handlade och skrattade.En: People talked, shopped, and laughed.Sv: Nils och Kasper rörde sig smidigt genom mängden, frågade utställningens besökare.En: Nils and Kasper moved smoothly through the crowd, questioning the exhibition's visitors.Sv: De märkte en suspekt man, som tidigare hade visats ett ovanligt stort intresse för konstverket.En: They noticed a suspicious man, who had earlier shown an unusually keen interest in the artwork.Sv: De följde hans steg med diskreta blickar.En: They followed his steps with discreet glances.Sv: Efter flera timmar av frågor och observation, återvände de.En: After several hours of questioning and observation, they returned.Sv: Nils kände sig orolig, men han visste att de närmade sig en ledtråd.En: Nils felt anxious, but he knew they were closing in on a clue.Sv: Med en idé i tanken sprang han tillbaka till galleriet, följd av Kasper och Elsa.En: With an idea in mind, he ran back to the gallery, followed by Kasper and Elsa.Sv: De upptäckte en nästan osynlig dörr, en passage bakom ett arrangemang av tyger och skärmar.En: They discovered an almost invisible door, a passage behind an arrangement of fabrics and screens.Sv: "Den här vägen," pekade Nils ivrigt.En: "This way," Nils pointed eagerly.Sv: Passagen var smal och dunkelt belyst.En: The passage was narrow and dimly lit.Sv: Med stigande spänning följde de den tills de fann ett litet rum, och där, lutad mot en mur, återkände Nils genast den saknade målningen.En: With rising excitement, they followed it until they found a small room, and there, leaning against a wall, Nils immediately recognized the missing painting.Sv: Elsa kände en våg av lättnad och tacksamhet.En: Elsa felt a wave of relief and gratitude.Sv: "Ditt mod och skarpa öga ledde oss hit," sa hon till Nils.En: "Your bravery and sharp eye led us here," she said to Nils.Sv: Som en belöning beslutade Elsa att uppmärksamma Nils för hans tapperhet och beslutade att ställa ut hans konstverk i nästa utställning.En: As a reward, Elsa decided to commend Nils for his bravery and decided to showcase his artworks in the next exhibition.Sv: Nils kände en nyvunnen självsäkerhet.En: Nils felt a newfound confidence.Sv: Han stod bredvid sina målningar under nästa öppning, och hans hjärta fylldes av stolthet och tacksamhet.En: He stood next to his paintings at the next opening, and his heart filled with pride and gratitude.Sv: Nu applåderades han av både Elsa och Kasper, nya vänner och kollegor.En: Now he was applauded by both Elsa and Kasper, new friends and colleagues.Sv: Deras respekt fullbordade hans dröm.En: Their respect completed his dream.Sv: Vad hade börjat som ett mysterium, blev istället en ny början för en konstnär som en gång bara hade drömt om erkännande.En: What had begun as a mystery turned into a new beginning for an artist who once only dreamed of recognition. Vocabulary Words:chilly: kyligacobblestone: kullerstensgångarnachatter: sorletvendors: försäljarecurator: kuratordaring: djärvresolved: resolutponder: begrundafootage: filmernaeager: ivrigsuspicions: misstänktdiscreet: diskretaquestioning: frågorobservation: observationanxious: oroligclue: ledtrådnarrow: smaldimly: dunkeltleaning: lutadgratitude: tacksamhetbravery: tapperhetcommend: uppmärksammarecognition: erkännandepassage: passageresolved: resolutmystery: mysteriumdisturbed: stördessignificant: betydelsefullvanished: försvunnitkeen: ovanligt stort
Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Midnight Mysteries: A Shanghai Adventure Under the Full Moon Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-18-07-38-20-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 傍晚时分,繁华的上海外滩灯火辉煌。En: As evening fell, Shanghai's bustling The Bund was brilliantly illuminated.Zh: 各式彩灯照亮了大街小巷,空气中弥漫着月饼的香气。En: Various colored lights brightened the streets and alleys, and the fragrance of mooncakes filled the air.Zh: 这是中秋节的夜晚,月光静静洒在黄浦江面上,水波粼粼。En: It was the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the moonlight quietly spread over the surface of the Huangpu River, creating shimmering waves.Zh: 玉明和丽芬两人漫步在岸边,他们是形影不离的朋友。En: Yuming and Lifen were walking along the riverside; they were inseparable friends.Zh: 玉明热衷于解谜,总梦想成为侦探,而丽芬总是站在他身边,提醒他小心行事。En: Yuming had a passion for solving mysteries and always dreamed of becoming a detective, while Lifen always stood by his side, reminding him to be cautious.Zh: 就在两人走到一座长椅旁时,一封神秘的信吸引了他们的注意。En: As they walked past a bench, they noticed a mysterious letter that caught their attention.Zh: 信封上没有收件人或发件人的信息。En: The envelope had no information about the recipient or the sender.Zh: 玉明好奇地捡起信封,丽芬则皱着眉头说:“也许我们不该打开这种来历不明的东西。En: Yuming curiously picked up the envelope, while Lifen frowned and said, "Maybe we shouldn't open something with an unknown origin."Zh: ”玉明的好奇心战胜了一切担忧,他轻轻地拆开信封。En: Yuming's curiosity overcame any concerns, and he gently opened the envelope.Zh: 里面是一张纸条,上面只写了一行字:“在摩天楼下寻找隐藏的线索。En: Inside was a note with only one line: "Look for hidden clues under the skyscraper."Zh: ”“这真是太有趣了!En: "This is really interesting!"Zh: ”玉明眼睛一亮,他期待着这次冒险。En: Yuming's eyes lit up; he was eager for this adventure.Zh: 然而,丽芬握住他的手臂,“我们应该小心,可能有危险。En: However, Lifen grabbed his arm, "We should be careful, there might be danger."Zh: ”但玉明已经下定决心,他摆出坚定的表情。En: But Yuming had already made up his mind, showing a determined expression.Zh: “我们没事的。En: "We'll be fine.Zh: 有你在我身边,我知道我们能解决这个谜题。En: With you by my side, I know we can solve this mystery."Zh: ”两人顺着线索来到了陆家嘴,那里摩天高楼林立。En: Following the clues, they arrived at Lujiazui, where skyscrapers towered.Zh: 他们在长凳下找到了第二条线索,随后依照提示去了城隍庙、豫园等地,每个地点都隐藏着新的谜题。En: They found the second clue under a bench, and following the hints, they went to places like City God Temple and Yu Garden, where each location held a new puzzle.Zh: 终于,他们来到栖霞山下。En: Finally, they reached the foot of Qixia Mountain.Zh: 山上一片寂静,皎洁的月光洒在他们身上。En: The mountain was quiet, and the bright moonlight shone on them.Zh: 这里是一处小花园,每一棵树下都有可能找到答案。En: It was a small garden, with potential answers under each tree.Zh: 玉明深吸一口气,看着手中的最后一条线索。En: Yuming took a deep breath and looked at the final clue in his hand.Zh: “只要解开这最后一个谜题,我们就能知道这一切的真相。En: "As long as we solve this last puzzle, we can uncover the truth behind all of this."Zh: ”在丽芬的提醒下,玉明冷静下来,仔细观察四周。En: With Lifen's reminder, Yuming calmed down and carefully observed the surroundings.Zh: 最后,在石板路的一角,他发现了一些字母隐藏在月光无法直接照射的角落里。En: Finally, in a corner of the stone path where moonlight couldn't directly reach, he found some letters hidden.Zh: 拼凑出完整答案后,他们感受到一种欣慰。En: After piecing together the complete answer, they felt a sense of relief.Zh: 原来这些谜题是一个慈善组织设计的测试,用来寻找那些有解谜天赋的年轻人。En: It turned out that these puzzles were designed by a charity organization as a test to find young people with a talent for solving mysteries.Zh: 玉明感到无比兴奋,不仅因为解开了谜题,还因为了解到了自身的能力。En: Yuming felt incredible excitement, not only because they solved the puzzle, but also because he realized his own abilities.Zh: 他向丽芬投去感激的一瞥,“你一直是我的左右手,谢谢你提醒我仔细观察。En: He gave Lifen a grateful glance, "You've always been my right hand, thank you for reminding me to be observant."Zh: ”传说中初升的圆月照亮了他们的旅途,也让玉明更懂得小心谨慎和朋友的重要。En: The legend of the rising full moon illuminated their journey and also taught Yuming about the importance of being cautious and having friends.Zh: 他在这个中秋之夜成长了许多,不仅仅是解开一个谜题。En: He grew a lot on this Mid-Autumn night, not just by solving a mystery. Vocabulary Words:bustling: 繁华的illuminated: 灯火辉煌fragrance: 香气inseparable: 形影不离mysteries: 解谜detective: 侦探cautious: 小心mysterious: 神秘的recipient: 收件人sender: 发件人origin: 来历curiosity: 好奇心envelope: 信封clues: 线索skyscraper: 摩天楼puzzle: 谜题determined: 坚定的talent: 天赋relief: 欣慰potential: 可能的shimmering: 水波粼粼benches: 长凳test: 测试observant: 仔细观察relieved: 放松charity: 慈善calmed: 冷静shone: 洒在appreciative: 感激legend: 传说
Have you ever felt like you were living someone else's dream? This week I'm talking with Erica Pepin, a powerful example of what happens when you take a chance on your creative call. She left a stable job to follow her dreams. Now she's a published author who built her creative life from the ground up, with no roadmap, just trust and a love for literature. Oh she's also one of my high school besties and we get to reunite for an hour here! SO FUN! From this chat, you'll learn:-How to trust your intuition even when it doesn't make sense-What it really takes to become a published author-How to break free from corporate life and go toward your dreams, and -The unexpected power of rejectionIf you're ready to stop people-pleasing and start listening to your inner voice, this episode is for you!Get Erica's book here: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Work-Nights/Erica-Peplin/9781668050873
Have you ever had a gut feeling, a prophetic dream, or a sign that felt too perfect to be coincidence? In this episode, I sit down with psychic medium and spiritual teacher MaryAnn DiMarco to help you unlock your intuition, reconnect with your spirit guides, and reclaim your creativity through divine collaboration.We talk about:-The difference between ego and divine guidance-How to hear from your guides (even if you feel “blocked”)-What's really stopping your intuitive connection (hint: it might have to do with your smart phone!)-How to overcome fear and disappointment to create with spiritual support-A powerful practice to meet your guides todayThis is a soulful, fun, deeply grounding conversation that will expand your perception of what's possible...both creatively and spiritually. I left this talk with chills and renewed creative clarity. I hope it does the same for you.
Emmy Award-winning producer/writer Al Jean has worked on THE SIMPSONS since it became a series in 1989. He has a credit on over 600 episodes and been showrunner for 22 seasons. In addition to nine Emmy Awards, he has won two coveted Peabody Awards and was nominated for two Golden Globes. Currently he serves as executive producer and showrunner. He also served as writer and producer on “THE SIMPSONS MOVIE” (which took in over $525 million worldwide), working heavily on the film throughout its entire four-year production and was producer and writer on the Oscar-nominated short film “THE LONGEST DAYCARE” and 2020 short “PLAYDATE WITH DESTINY”. In 2021 he wrote and produced the Disney+ shorts “The Force Awakens From Its Nap” (nominated for an Emmy) and “The Good, the Bart and the Loki.” Al also co-created “The Critic” and “Teen Angel” and served as producer of “It's Garry Shandling's Show,” for which he won three CableACE Awards. Other television credits include “The PJ's,” “Alf” and “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” Episodes of THE SIMPSONS Al has written or co-written include “Moaning Lisa,” “The Way We Was,” “Treehouse of Horror II & III,” “Stark Raving Dad,” “Simpsoncalifragilisticexpiala (annoyed grunt) cious,” “Hello Gutter, Hello Fadder,” “Day of the Jackanapes,” “I Won't Be Home for Christmas”, “Mr. Lisa's Opus”, “Daddicus Finch” and the Emmy-winning “HOMR.” Al also co-wrote Funny or Die's “SNL Presidential Reunion Video” which is credited with helping establish the Consumer Financial Protection Agency. A graduate of Harvard University, Jean served as vice president of the college's humor magazine, “The Harvard Lampoon.” We chat about being wanted by the FBI, the Simpsons, creating new shows, writing for The Harvard Lampon, working on Johnny Carson, going to Harvard at 16, The Critic, leadership, negative feedback, Hollywood reboots, Garry Shandling's show, moving forward plus plenty more! Check Al out on: Twitter / X: https://x.com/aljean ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook https://www.instagram.com/funnyinfailure/ https://www.facebook.com/funnyinfailure/ and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. https://www.instagram.com/michael_kahan/ https://twitter.com/Michael_Kahan
Have you ever told yourself you're "fine" when deep down you felt like you were disappearing? Like your life force was gone and you were just going through the motions? This conversation is for you. In this episode, I talk with bestselling author, speaker, and teacher, Jen Pastiloff. She is also the author of the brand new book, Proof of Life, which is about owning your worthiness and giving yourself permission to live.Today, we dive into the messy, beautiful process of waking up to your truth, reclaiming your voice, and finally choosing a life that feels fully yours. From divorce, to sobriety, to rediscovering her creativity, Jen shares the real story behind what it takes to stop pretending and start truly living.From our chat, you'll learn:-How to recognize when you're stuck in survival mode-What your body might be telling you when you're abandoning yourself-The powerful connection between shame, people-pleasing, and self-worth-How to stop waiting for permission and take up space and live-Ways to use creativity as a tool for healing and reconnectionIf you've been numbing, hiding, or quietly shrinking to fit a life that doesn't fit you, this episode is your permission to begin again.Jennifer Pastiloff trots the globe as a public speaker and to host her retreats to Italy, as well as her one-of-a-kind workshops, which she has taught to thousands of people all over the world. The author of the popular Substack, also called Proof of Life, she teaches writing and creativity classes called Allow, and workshops called Shame Loss, when she isn't painting and selling her art. She has been featured on Good Morning America, and Katie Couric, and in New York magazine, People, Shape, Health magazine, and other media outlets for her authenticity and unique voice. She is deaf, reads lips, and mishears almost everything, but what she hears is usually funnier (at least she thinks so). The author of the national bestseller On Being Human, Pastiloff lives in Southern California with her son, Charlie Mel.
In this special re-release, I'm sharing one of my absolute favorite conversations from the early days of Unleash Your Inner Creative…an episode so dear to me, it feels like a time capsule. You'll even hear how my voice has changed, because I recorded this over six years ago, basically as a creative fetus. LOLz.This powerful episode features the incredible visual artist, podcaster, and creative entrepreneur, Amanda Oleander. If you're not familiar with her work yet, prepare to fall in love.Amanda's story is a shining example of what's possible when you take a leap of faith on your creative calling—especially when life pushes you before you feel fully ready. From raw talent to becoming the most-followed woman on Periscope, Amanda's rise is about so much more than art—it's about courage, self-belief, and embracing discomfort to create the life you're meant for.This episode made me emotional (I think it's the first time I ever cried on the pod!) and helped me reconnect with my own creative power. I know it will do the same for you.