Creativity Found

Creativity as a necessity in the age of AI.  Steve Goldberg is a passionate advocate for the role of creativity in a rapidly changing world, and in this episode he shares his conviction that finding meaning and purpose beyond professional life will become increasingly vital as artificial intelligence reshapes the future of work.  Steve, a former tenured professor and global consultant, shares his philosophy of "following my nose" and staying "awake to possibilities," which has led him down some truly "magical and unexpected paths". In this episode, we explore: The Power of Synchronicity: How a spontaneous bicycle ride led Steve to a Harvard scholarship, and how an overbooked flight resulted in him meeting Nelson Mandela the day after his release from prison. The Late Bloom: Steve’s journey to becoming a composer of "healing piano for a noisy world", despite being convinced for decades that he "did not have a creative bone in my body". He didn't start playing the piano until he was 50 years old. The Goosebump Compass: Steve reveals his unique method of improvisation and composition – working without reading music and instead relying on his "goosebump compass" to guide the emotional impact and structure of his work. Leaving Stability for Opportunity: Why Steve resigned from a tenured college position at age 28 to pursue a consulting job that took him "literally around the world" for four decades. Creativity as a Necessity, Not a Luxury: Steve argues that with artificial intelligence accelerating job changes and disappearances, creative expression and finding purpose outside of professional life will become vital for society. Languishing or Blossoming: Discussing the concept behind Steve’s book, which encourages people to choose a continuous "blossoming" process over a fixed mindset, particularly in the face of life's challenges. Find Steve's music and book here. You Might Also Like Rich Chambers Keeps Rocking Piano à Deux: Music, Marriage and Modern technology Suzanne Noble – dirty blues and Dorothy Fields Buy arts and crafts techniques books, plus books by some of my podcast guests, from the Creativity Found bookshop  Help me to keep making this podcast at buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Support the show Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Mime, movement and the Relax Kids revolution.  Marneta Viegas, founder of Relax Kids, was the "fame school" student haunted by self-doubt who went on to become a pioneer of accessible children's relaxation. In this episode she details the emotional toll business growth had on her, and how she now fiercely guards her creativity. From Self-Doubt to Mime: Marneta shares her supportive, yet complex, childhood, including attending ballet and tap classes where she struggled with self-esteem. Despite graduating with a degree in performing arts (and crying daily over the music requirements), constant rejection from the children’s TV industry led her to pivot to the "silent way," studying mime. She funded this non-verbal training by entertaining children as a clown. The Accidental Birth of Relax Kids: While working as a clown Marneta noticed a critical drop in children’s concentration, and using accumulated skills (breathing, drama, mime, silence), she created her unique seven-step system and made relaxation for children "acceptable" by turning fairy stories into meditations, drafting her first book in just three days. The Struggle: Losing the Creative Spark: As Relax Kids grew, the administrative burden took over, and Marneta experienced a loss of  creativity, as well as feeling physically sick and struggling with "dark days". Creativity Found and Fiercely Guarded: There is, of course, a happy ending, and Marneta explains how she was able to find her path back to creativity, and how she now prioritizes new creative channels, including performing unique standup comedy, mindful movement, and forest bathing.  Marneta's story is about the power of silence, stillness, and childlikeness to feed the soul and fuel creative liberation. I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

From combat engineer to creative conjurer, discover how Joseph Bolton merges magic, ancestry and the northern lights in his new-found love for writing folklore and fantasy. Joseph joined the US Army straight out of high school, and in his 25 years of service graduated from West Point and Ranger School and worked as a combat engineer (a role that involved building bridges and blowing things up), an infantry officer, and even a space operations officer.  After the passing of his younger brother from ALS in 2013, Joseph felt a profound need to reflect on the value of time and growing older. This led him first to an expressive blog and eventually to the highly unusual creative project that would define his next chapter. The Old Grandmother’s Tree collection of stories began life as a charming French Canadian folktale about farm animals (who surprisingly 'smoke cigars and drink wine'), and soon became a series of highly illustrated tales rooted in Joseph's ancestry and featuring magic, ghosts, and trickster animal characters – a magic shawl with the colour of the northern lights was a feature of the first short story and later became the genesis for the entire series.  Joseph is a highly visual writer who sees stories unfold 'as a movie within my mind', and collaborates with artists Masami Kiyono and Natasha Pelley-Smith to create this unique hybrid format – a series so heavily illustrated it features close to 700 images across its first three volumes, blurring the line between a traditional novel and a graphic novel. This episode offers a compelling look at how creativity can emerge in unexpected moments and how personal loss can spark artistic expression. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in family history, creative late-blooming, and the surprising ways our life experiences shape our storytelling. Find the Old Grandmother's Tree books here creativityfound.co.uk Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Support the show Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Jennifer Roig-Francolí shares her journey from a young violinist finding solace in her art, to a place of spiritual exploration and self-discovery. We discuss the challenges she faced in her artistic life, including a pivotal moment when she realized she was not using her creativity in a healthy way, and the profound neck pain that changed her path. Through the Alexander Technique, Jennifer found not just relief from her physical discomfort, but also a new way to reconnect with her creativity.  Jennifer discusses her creative childhood, Suzuki training and meteoric run of competitions and solo work, before the ambition dissolved, orchestra life set in, and her relationship with music dimmed.  When no treatment could alleviate her stubborn neck pain, a friend urged Jennifer to revisit the Alexander Technique. Within a few lessons, the pain vanished and something deeper shifted – mood, movement, and a sense of ease that didn’t require effort. Together, we unpack what Alexander work actually is beyond posture, and Jennifer shares a simple on-air exercise that anyone can try in seconds, demonstrating how noticing without fixing often melts strain and steadies the voice.  Jennifer is the creator of the Art of Freedom Method built around five pillars – purpose, mind, body, spirit, artistry – to help musicians and non-musicians create from presence rather than pressure, and author of Make Great Music with Ease: The Secret to Smarter Practice, Confident Performance, and Living a Happier Life. creativityfound.co.uk Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Support the show Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Discovering and sharing the healing power of art. What happens when a distinguished physician with over 150 published papers walks away from a 40-year medical career? For Dr Vasu Tolia, an unexpected artistic awakening filled the void. Dr Tolia's story begins in Calcutta, where she grew up in an academically-driven household with little exposure to the arts. Her path to medicine was serendipitous, influenced by a friend who convinced her to take biology despite her inclination toward humanities. This "accidental doctor" went on to build an impressive career as a paediatric gastroenterologist in the United States, mentoring over 20 fellows and serving as principal investigator in more than 50 clinical trials. When a toxic work environment forced her to leave medicine, Dr Tolia faced a profound identity crisis: "I had been a doctor for more than 40 years and then suddenly I was no one."  Her journey into art began tentatively, with early frustrations as she compared her beginner efforts to accomplished artists. Everything changed during the pandemic when she found her voice through abstract and semi-abstract painting. Recognition followed swiftly, with her work being selected by the Washington Post among the nation's top 20, and solicited by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) for journal covers. The connection between her two careers runs deeper than coincidence. Dr Tolia's medical training taught her to observe "the body's incredible capacity for renewal," an energy she now captures in flowing forms and organic shapes that echo natural healing processes. She explains how art triggers the release of dopamine and reduces stress hormones, providing neurological evidence for creativity's healing power. Today, Dr Tolia creates "visual sanctuaries" that promote wellness in hospitals, corporate spaces and homes while supporting causes like women's empowerment and autism advocacy. Her message is clear: don't wait for burnout to engage in creative practices that can heal your mind and spirit. Explore Dr. Tolia's artwork and download a free creativity resource for Creativity Found listeners at  https://www.vasutolia.art/mindfulartforrenewal and discover how your own creative awakening might be waiting just around the corner. Download Fire From the Earth from Liminal Coaching here. Reconnect with your creative energy. I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Support the show Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Outward success can mask profound inner turmoil. Alexandra Walker talks to me about her path from mathematical prodigy to trauma-informed coach, revealing along the way how creative expression can be hindered by psychological struggles, but also become a pathway to healing.  From an early age, Alexandra displayed dual talents in mathematics and creative arts. A perceptive art teacher recognized abilities she couldn't see in herself, encouraging her artistic development alongside her academic pursuits. This duality continued at university, where she performed Grieg's Piano Concerto with the University Symphony Orchestra and wrote a musical while completing her mathematics degree. Despite her accomplishments, Alexandra struggled with insomnia and two types of OCD that stifled her creativity for years. 'When you're dealing with problems, they can just become so all-encompassing,' she explains. Through counselling, Alexandra gradually recognized these mental health challenges stemmed from childhood emotional abuse – a reality her mind had carefully shielded her from acknowledging. The healing journey took an unexpected turn when Alexandra and her husband relocated to Scotland during the pandemic. What began as a temporary move became permanent as she found space to process her experiences and envision a new path forward. This transformation led to the creation of Damsel Not In Distress, her trauma-informed coaching business helping others 'sing after the storm' of difficult life experiences. Perhaps most powerfully, Alexandra discovered that songs she'd written sporadically over the years formed a chronicle of her healing journey – from fear to hope, caterpillar to butterfly. These creative expressions now inform her coaching work and upcoming book, embodying her realization that 'we can't just solve everything with logic... I also needed more of the creative side, expressing emotions.' creativityfound.co.uk Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Download Fire From the Earth from Liminal Coaching here. Reconnect with your creative energy. Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Support the show Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

How age and life experiences can reignite artistic passions long buried beneath the weight of societal expectations.  For this episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Sally Fox, a once-aspiring artist turned leadership consultant. After years of letting grades and external validation dictate her creative identity, Sally bravely broke free from the chains of self-doubt. Now in her 70s, she revels in her creativity, embracing art, writing, and performance with newfound vigour.  We discuss the pivotal moment during a flight from Japan that sparked her artistic renaissance, as she realized that her creative essence could no longer be suppressed.  Our discussion also touches on the barriers many face in reconnecting with their creative selves, particularly the pressures of childhood and societal norms that often stifle artistic expression. Sally reflects on her own childhood, where the judgement of others led her to abandon her natural artistic inclinations. Through her narrative, she emphasizes the importance of nurturing creativity in later life, encouraging listeners to reclaim their artistic identities regardless of age. Sally’s insights not only inspire but also challenge us to consider how we can cultivate a more creative existence in our daily lives, reminding us that creativity flourishes when we allow ourselves the freedom to explore, play, and express without fear of judgement. Whether you’re an artist at heart or someone who has yet to find your creative outlet, this conversation is a gentle nudge to embrace your inner artist and explore the vibrant world of creativity waiting to be unlocked at any age. creativityfound.co.uk Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Help me to keep making this podcast at buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Book your Podcast Startup Sanity Check here. Support the show Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

I'm excited to introduce you to the Multispective Podcast, where real people share their stories, much like we do here at Creativity Found.  Hosted by Jennica Sadhwani, Multispective delves into diverse perspectives on society and culture, showcasing personal narratives that tackle life's challenges head-on.  Hear more about what to expect and, if you’re looking for a podcast that gives voice to the unheard and celebrates human growth and the courage to live authentically, find Multispective wherever you get your podcasts. Listen to Multispective Podcast here, or on any podcast platform. Support the show Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Connecting creativity with personal healing.  Samantha Mackay felt the pressure of conforming to traditional art forms in school, and much later in life found her voice in abstract painting.  In this episode Samantha and I discuss how the pressures of societal expectations can stifle artistic expression, as she shares her journey from a legal career to rediscovering her creative passions.  Samantha opens up about the struggles she faced while living in London, grappling with depression and autoimmune issues, and how, years later, creativity became a vital outlet for processing her pain, prompted by an insightful coaching experience that encouraged her to draw without judgment.  We also explore the Enneagram as a tool for understanding our motivations and barriers to creativity, revealing how it can guide us towards a more authentic self-expression.  Along the way, we explore the profound connection between creativity and healing, emphasizing the importance of embracing our unique paths.  This episode is a reminder that creativity is not just about art; it's about how we express our true selves in everyday life. Book your Podcast Startup Sanity Check here. Support the show Join the Creativity Found Collective here Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Initially hesitant about public speaking, Liz Drury's journey unfolds with unexpected twists, from her scientific studies to her current role as a voiceover artist.  As an archeological scientist Liz found unexpected fame from her research on 'prehistoric chewing gum', which catapulted her into the media spotlight.  That sparked her interest in the media world, and Liz volunteered and later worked at a local television channel, but when the funding ran out she moved to working on various projects in a sixth-form college. During her time as a 'trailing spouse' – we explain what that means in the episode – Liz took acting classes and explored the training involved in voiceover work. As with most of our guests' stories, this training did not instantly lead to a full-time career in voice work, but eventually – thanks to a redundancy – that was to be the case.   Now Liz is also able to enjoy musical escapes by singing in a choir and learning to play the baritone horn – not sure what that is, neither was I! Buy Me a Coffee CreativityFound.co.uk Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Buy arts and crafts techniques books, plus books by some of my podcast guests, from the Creativity Found bookshop  Book your Podcast Startup Sanity Check here. Support the show Join the Creativity Found Collective here Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Model and content creator Rachel Peru on finding confidence and a creative spark later in life. Despite facing a lack of belief from educators, Rachel’s early experiences in drama studies and theatre laid a foundation for her creative spirit, which would be reignited much later after significant life changes, including a divorce.  From participating in local charity fashion shows to  signing with a London agency, Rachel’s modelling career took off in ways she never expected, allowing her to embrace creative opportunities she once thought were behind her.  In our conversation, Rachel sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of being a model in today’s industry, particularly as a woman over 40. She shares anecdotes from her diverse experiences, including a memorable gig in the Bahamas with Lizzo and Ashley Graham, which not only marked a significant career milestone but also served as a source of inspiration for women striving for body positivity. Through her modelling work, Rachel has become an advocate for inclusivity and representation, challenging ageism and stereotypes in the fashion industry.  Buy Me a Coffee CreativityFound.co.uk Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Buy arts and crafts techniques books, plus books by some of my podcast guests, from the Creativity Found bookshop  Book your Podcast Startup Sanity Check here. Support the show Join the Creativity Found Collective here Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

As the first engineer at a pioneering startup specializing in artificial intelligence, John Guiver’s expertise in mathematics and programming laid the groundwork for his technical career. While still working in this field, John began translating the memoirs of survivors of the 1972 Andes flight disaster, which led to the publication of his own book on the subject, entitled To Play the Game.  Writing not only gave John a new creative outlet, but also a profound connection to the stories of resilience and survival that emerged from that tragedy. John's early career as an engineer and mathematician set the stage for a unique perspective on creativity, one that blends analytical thinking with artistic expression. He recounts how his work in AI during its formative years required not only technical expertise but also a creative mindset to tackle complex problems and innovate within the field. Visiting the site of the disaster, and translating the memoirs of crash survivors, not only connected him to a profound human experience but also instilled in him the confidence to pursue writing in a more personal and expressive way. While researching the crash, John discovered a rich tapestry of interconnected lives and shared histories. This theme of community serves as a backdrop for his writing, as he seeks to honour the memories of those who perished while also celebrating the resilience of survivors.  In this episode John also discusses the challenges of finding his voice as a writer and emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the writing process, sharing practical insights into his daily writing habits and how his experiences enriched both his book and his life.  He encourages listeners to boldly pursue their passions, underscoring the importance of storytelling and connection in the creative journey.  Buy Me a Coffee CreativityFound.co.uk Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Book your Podcast Startup Sanity Check here. Click here to book a 1-to-1 online chat with me to understand more about the Creativity Found Collective, the promotional and networking membership for creative small businesses. Support the show Join the Creativity Found Collective here Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Through art activities given in care homes and community groups, Dementia Arts Trust has been bringing joy to people living with dementia and their carers for nearly a decade. In this episode, as part of Podcasthon, an initiative to raise awareness for charities worldwide, I chat with trust founders Joanne Robinson and Melissa Haddow about how these art activities build self-esteem, evoke memories and show those living with dementia what they can still accomplish, despite their diagnosis.  Joanne and Melissa share poignant stories, like the emotional moment when a participant recalled cherished memories of her daughters while painting, leaving everyone in tears – the happy kind, of course!  Joanne and Melissa are keen to share how proud they are of their teachers, who are not just art instructors, but empathetic guides who help individuals connect with their pasts, and that the success of these classes is not just in the art created, but in the connections formed and the human spirit revitalized.  Art can have a profound effect on emotional wellbeing, offering experiences that traditional medicine cannot provide, as everyone at Dementia Arts Trust has witnessed time and time again. Visit Dementia Arts Trust here Little Art School at creativityfound.co.uk Join the Creativity Found Collective at creativityfound.co.uk/joinus Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Pinterest: @creativityfound Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Book your Podcast Startup Sanity Check here. Click here to book a 1-to-1 online chat with me to understand more about the Creativity Found Collective, the promotional and networking membership for creative small businesses. Support the show Join the Creativity Found Collective here Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

With a rich background in languages and science, creative pursuits were encouraged during Nancy Dillingham Marks' childhood, but not fully embraced by the young Nancy. On leaving school Nancy's professional life was dominated by analytical roles, and she excelled in various corporate positions, including at Sony Pictures. What Nancy didn't realize at the time was that her path to success was not only fuelled by her organizational skills, but by intertwining those with creative problem-solving.  A personal and professional shift lead Nancy to explore her mother's enthusiasm for fused glass, which quickly became the creative outlet she had been looking for. Faced with the closure of her local glass studio, Nancy once again brought her corporate experiences into play as she opened her own studio, Glass Arts Collective.  In this episode Nancy emphasizes the importance of community and support in nurturing creativity, as she reflects on how her friends stepped in to help her teach and grow her business. She is excited to tell me all about her studio's welcoming environment, where novices often arrive feeling uncertain about their creativity, only to leave with newfound confidence and a sense of accomplishment.  Buy Me a Coffee CreativityFound.co.uk Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Book your Podcast Startup Sanity Check here. Click here to book a 1-to-1 online chat with me to understand more about the Creativity Found Collective, the promotional and networking membership for creative small businesses. Support the show Join the Creativity Found Collective here Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Cindy Ingram's love for art began early, influenced by Disney classics and a desire to become an animator. With a strong academic focus, Cindy pursued an art history degree and aimed to be a museum educator. However, the reality of museum jobs – limited opportunities and low pay – led her to teaching art in schools instead.  Cindy started her own online business to support art teachers with resources, but in the midst of her career faced burnout, and her connection to creativity dwindled. She began to reassess her relationship with art, realizing it was no longer a joyful pursuit but a business obligation.  Through introspection and therapy, Cindy found solace in creating art again, writing a memoir, Art is About Being. The book chronicles her struggles and the healing power of creativity, reaffirming that engagement with art can be a path to self-discovery and emotional resilience.  Now, Cindy emphasizes the importance of art in her daily life, using it as a tool for expression, reflection, and connection with others. CreativityFound.co.uk Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Book your Podcast Startup Sanity Check here. Click here to book a 1-to-1 online chat with me to understand more about the Creativity Found Collective, the promotional and networking membership for creative small businesses. Support the show Join the Creativity Found Collective here Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

The Creativity Found Collective is a vibrant community where creativity thrives and everyone supports one another. This bonus episode showcases how being part of the Creativity Found Collective can spark inspiration, foster connections and provide valuable support for creative small business owners. With insights from various members, hear about the importance of collaboration and sharing experiences in the creative realm, as well as the mental health benefits of engaging in artistic activities. From workshops to online courses, members of the Collective offer a plethora of opportunities for growth and learning for any adults seeking to reignite their creative spark or find solace in artistic expression. If you use your talent and experience to help adults learn creative skills, or you want to help creative businesses to grow and thrive, we’d love to meet you in the Creativity Found Collective membership.  Jump straight to a coffee chat here. In this episode you will hear from members: Nina Lenton Kelly Drewett Debbie Page Mary Broddle Juliet Sargeant Ela Wassell Becky Paton Join the Creativity Found Collective at creativityfound.co.uk/joinus Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Pinterest: @creativityfound Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Book your Podcast Startup Sanity Check here. Click here to book a 1-to-1 online chat with me to understand more about the Creativity Found Collective, the promotional and networking membership for creative small businesses. Support the show Join the Creativity Found Collective here Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout

Nina Lenton is a business coach and mentor with a rich background in marketing and project management, who in this episode shares her insights into the world of creativity and the importance of nurturing it in both personal and professional realms.  Nina discusses her passion for helping business owners rediscover their creative spark, especially when the daily grind threatens to overshadow their artistic pursuits. Nina's approach combines coaching with practical planning, allowing clients to not only express their creativity but also align it with their business goals.  The conversation flows into Nina's own journey back to creativity through her writing, and how, through the writing sessions she now runs, she engages with others in an informal setting designed to foster creativity. The sessions incorporate warm-up exercises and writing prompts, where participants can share their work or simply enjoy the process of writing without pressure. As a Creativity Found Collective member Nina values the inspiration that comes from connecting with others who share a passion for creativity. But what about the penguins? Listen to the end to find out how they fit in! Click here to book a 1-to-1 online chat with me to understand more about the Creativity Found Collective, the promotional and networking membership for creative small businesses. Support the show Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Join the Creativity Found Collective here

Preserving the traditional craft of kilt making. Paula Duncan is a bespoke kilt maker and tutor, with over 11 years of teaching experience, who has adapted her classes to an online format, making it easier for busy adults to embrace their creativity while learning a new skill. Paula teaches students from all walks of life, some seeking to create a single kilt while others aspire to turn their newfound skills into a business. As a member of the Creativity Found Collective, Paula thrives in a community of like-minded creatives, where collaboration and inspiration abound. She believes that sharing ideas and experiences enriches the creative process, allowing individuals to grow and learn from one another. Paula Duncan Kilts at creativityfound.co.uk Join the Creativity Found Collective at creativityfound.co.uk/joinus Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Pinterest: @creativityfound Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Click here to book a 1-to-1 online chat with me to understand more about the Creativity Found Collective, the promotional and networking membership for creative small businesses. Support the show Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Join the Creativity Found Collective here

Running a small business can feel isolating, but finding the right support and community can make all the difference when it comes to achieving your dreams. Sheena Whyatt is a business coach with over 23 years of experience, who loves to help creative entrepreneurs navigate the challenges they face. In this chat Sheena and I discuss the common struggles many small business owners – in any field – face, including relentless self-doubt and the nagging voice of the 'gremlin' that often hinders progress. Sheena emphasizes the importance of accountability in coaching, noting that it's not just about meeting goals but also about fostering a supportive dialogue where clients can reassess their strategies and adapt to changing circumstances. We also talk about community among creatives, as Sheena explains that sharing ideas in a supportive environment can lead to innovative solutions and renewed motivation. Sheena Whyatt at creativityfound.co.uk Join the Creativity Found Collective at creativityfound.co.uk/joinus Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Pinterest: @creativityfound Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Support the show Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Join the Creativity Found Collective here

Explore the transformative power of mosaic art as a mindful and enjoyable way to express yourself. Becky Paton teaches mosaic classes for adults of all abilities, and in this episode she is keen to emphasize that anyone, regardless of their perceived creativity, can create beautiful pieces with the right materials and guidance. Becky tells me about her experiences of creating mosaics with children and families in hospital settings, illustrating how art can provide comfort and a sense of normalcy during challenging times. The conversation also delves into the importance of community among creatives, highlighting how sharing experiences and techniques can inspire and elevate one’s work.  As she embarks on writing a new mosaic book, Becky’s passion for her craft and dedication to helping others discover their creativity shines through. Becky Paton Mosaics at creativityfound.co.uk creativityfound.co.uk/joinus Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Threads: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Pinterest: @creativityfound Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet Support the show Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout Subscribe to the Creativity Found mailing list here Join the Creativity Found Collective here