291 - Tapping Into Your Creative Compass with Lulu Miller
Sep 30, 2020
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Author Lulu Miller shares insights on tapping into your creative compass, including the power of trust and intuition in creative pursuits, the captivating nature of audio, and the intersection of science and creativity. They also explore sadistic storytelling and express gratitude for the conversation.
Exploring the unknown and developing acquired tastes can lead to profound insights and creative breakthroughs.
Active listening and pushing past boredom can open the door for unexpected moments of connection and discovery.
Creating art as a gift for someone you love can tap into your own voice and creative potential.
Deep dives
The Power of Acquired Tastes and Exploring the Unknown
Lulu Miller discusses the importance of exploring the unknown and developing acquired tastes in creative work. She encourages going beyond one's comfort zone and following curiosity, even in areas that may initially induce boredom or indifference. Miller shares personal experiences of diving deep into subjects that didn't initially resonate with her, leading to profound insights and creative breakthroughs.
The Role of Listening and Going Beyond Boredom
Miller emphasizes the significance of active listening and pushing past one's own boredom in storytelling and journalism. She highlights the importance of listening deeply to others, embracing confusion, and exploring beyond one's initial judgments. Miller explains that by sticking around, even when things seem uninteresting or uncomfortable, one opens the door for unexpected and transformative moments of connection and discovery.
Navigating Wounds and Worldviews
Miller reflects on the influence of her father's materialistic and nihilistic worldview, which shaped her sensitivity to the world and fueled her interest in exploring surreal and meaningful stories. She discusses the contrast between her father's worldview and his joyful, curious nature, acknowledging the complexities of finding wonder and purpose in a chaotic and seemingly meaningless universe.
The Power of Creating as a Gift
Creating art as a gift for someone helps reconnect with the joy of making. Rather than seeking validation from external sources like magazines or industry standards, creating for someone you love can be a powerful motivator. The act of creating for friendship, community, and fun, with low stakes, can boost confidence and help tap into one's own voice and creative potential.
The Allure of Audio and the Magic of Storytelling
The podcast speaker discusses their unexpected journey into the world of audio storytelling. Initially disinterested in public radio, they found themselves captivated by shows like This American Life and Radiolab, which blended humor, curiosity, and artistry. The medium of audio, with its use of emotion, music, and visual imagery evoked in the listener's mind, offered a unique platform for storytelling that profoundly engaged their senses. The speaker expresses a deep appreciation and love for audio storytelling, acknowledging its power to transport and create meaningful connections with the audience.