Creative Genius

As the world feels increasingly unstable, many of us are seeking ways to stay grounded, to keep our hearts open, and to resist despair. In this timely encore episode, Buddhist teacher and author Lama Rod Owens reminds us that joy is not only possible in times of crisis—it is essential.Lama Rod shares deeply from his lived experience as a Black, queer spiritual teacher in America. We talk about how rage can be holy, how rest is sacred, and how joy can serve as a radical, defiant act in the face of oppression.This conversation is an anchor for anyone navigating stress, overwhelm, or heartbreak right now. May it nourish you deeply.In this episode:How joy functions as a tool for resistanceWhat it means to stay emotionally present without being consumedWhy creative expression is essential for survivalHow to begin cultivating inner spaciousness, even in chaosPractices to help you return to your centre💡 BONUS RESOURCESJoin my Patreon for additional tools to support your creative and spiritual journey. Get access to exclusive guided meditations, creativity worksheets, and more.Sign up for the newsletter to receive weekly inspiration, behind-the-scenes podcast updates, and timely tools to help you stay connected to your inner wisdom.Resources Mentioned:Lama Rod Owens' book: The New Saints: From Broken Hearts to Spiritual Warriorslamarod.com

In this episode of the Creative Genius podcast, I interview Rebe Huntman about her debut memoir, "My Mother in Havana, a memoir of magic and miracle." Rebe shares her personal story of losing her mother at a young age and the subsequent decades of feeling disconnected from her memory. Driven by a deep longing and intuition, Rebe embarked on a 30-day DIY pilgrimage to Cuba to seek a different perspective on grief and connection. The conversation delves into how Rebe's background as a Latin dancer led her to discover the spiritual roots of Cuban dances and the traditions of honoring the deceased.  Rebe recounts her experiences immersing herself in rituals dedicated to the goddess Oshun, visiting the sanctuary of Cuba's patron saint, and meeting with a spiritist who she hoped would connect her with her mother.Rebe and I discuss the importance of intuition and following one's unique path, even when it doesn't seem logical. We also explore the disconnect in Western culture from ancestral connections, magic, and meaningful rituals, contrasting it with the Cuban traditions of keeping the dead close.The conversation touches on the challenges of staying creative and connected to one's inner voice in the face of overwhelming global issues and personal fears. Rebe shares her belief in creativity as a portal and emphasizes the importance of honouring inner longings and choosing to champion humanity. She also shares her personal rituals for grounding and connecting with her intuition and ancestors, offering practical advice for listeners seeking to do the same. Ultimately, Rebe's story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, the wisdom of intuition, and the potential for magic and miracle in our lives, even in the darkest of times.  

In this deeply moving episode, Kate Shepherd sits down with Gabrielle Savory Bailey for a Listener Lab conversation that explores creativity as a force for connection, healing, and resistance in difficult times. Gabrielle shares her experiences as a Quaker, an artist, and a facilitator of creative communities, weaving together insights on spirituality, vulnerability, and the power of shared creative expression.Together, they discuss:✨ How creativity helps combat loneliness and fosters belonging✨ The role of spirituality in creative practices✨ The power of creativity as resistance in a divided world✨ How difficult conversations can lead to deeper understanding✨ Why creativity is not frivolous—it is necessaryThrough stories, laughter, and moments of deep reflection, this conversation highlights the essential role creativity plays in restoring balance and helping us navigate life’s challenges.Takeaways:🎨 Creativity is a form of prayer and meditation.🌿 When we create together, we build bridges instead of walls.🤝 Loneliness is an epidemic, and creativity can help combat it.💬 Difficult conversations, grounded in love, can bring people together.🌀 Surrender is not giving up—it’s joining with something greater.💖 Beauty is everywhere, and noticing it is an act of resistance.Memorable Quotes:🖌 "Creativity is a form of prayer."💬 "Your existence is the resistance."🌎 "Finding beauty is not to be ignored."🎨 "Creating is the point, not the thing."❤️ "We are relational beings—we need each other."Takeaways:Creativity is a vital form of expression and connection.Community and creativity can help combat loneliness.Listening to our inner voice is essential for personal growth.Creative practices can serve as a form of prayer and meditation.Engaging in hands-on activities fosters deeper connections.The act of creating together can bridge divides.Creativity is not frivolous; it is a necessary response to challenges.Finding common ground through shared experiences is crucial.The importance of nurturing relationships in our communities.Creativity can be a powerful tool for resistance and healing.Memorable Quotes:"Creativity is a form of prayer."💬"We are relational beings.""Your existence is the resistance.""Creating is the point, not the thing.""Finding beauty is not to be ignored."

In this episodeThe connection between the oppressive forces we see in the world and the inner critic we battle withinHow to recognize and stop the trance of negative thoughtsWhy rebuilding the world starts with inner transformationThe importance of community and leaning into support systemsIf you’re craving connection, join us for Pod Club—our live community gathering for Creative Genius listeners—on Monday, March 10th, at 7 PM Pacific. This is a space to share, reflect, and support one another. Learn more at The Creative Genius Patreon.

In this encore episode of The Creative Genius Podcast, with a brand new intro - I revisit a powerful conversation with the wise and insightful Jane Dunnewold. In a time of uncertainty and upheaval, I'm reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster so many of us are experiencing—fear, despair, hope, and the flickering light of creativity. I am candidly shares my own struggle with doom scrolling, the paralysis it caused, and the steps I am taking to reclaim my inner peace.Jane’s wisdom offers a timely and profound exploration of the inner bullies that live within us—those relentless voices of self-doubt, fear, and unworthiness that hold us back. I connect this concept to the larger external forces at play in the world today, recognizing that until we learn to defeat the bullies in our own minds, we will struggle to stand up to the ones outside of us.This episode is an invitation to step into deeper self-awareness, to recognize the power of creativity as a means of resistance, and to become part of the essential ‘islands of sanity’ in a chaotic world. Join me as I share my thoughts, vulnerabilities and inspiration along with, Jane’s transformative insights, and a heartfelt call to reconnect with creativity as an act of personal and collective resilience.Join an island of sanity inside the Creative Genius Patreon

In this episode, I explore how the world we’ve known is broken—and how we are the ones being called to rebuild it. But before we can take on the external challenges, we have to confront our own inner bullies—the self-doubt, fear, and conditioning that keep us small. This episode is a call to arms for creatives, visionaries, and healers. The world needs you, but first, you must reclaim your power from within.Resources & Links:Morning Moon Nature JewelryAccess a Library of resources and community support PatreonFollow me on Instagram: @kateshepherdcreative

In this week’s episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Cami Smith, an incredible artist and community builder who shared her inspiring creative journey. We explored the importance of connecting with our creative selves and overcoming the limiting beliefs that hold us back. Cami spoke of her passion for building community, how her mother influenced her art, her creative evolution from fiber arts to painting, and we discussed how creativity gives us a sense of control, and acts like a rudder for our lives. We also reflected on the wisdom of Jane Dunnewald, and how her message of self-love and acceptance is the foundation for a good life. We talked about the importance of being curious and that the universe does not take away gifts but uses them to propel us forward.How does your creativity make you feel more in control? Listen to the full episode for insights and ideas on how to trust your creative intuition.In our latest episode, we had the privilege of diving deep into a conversation with Cami Smith, a truly inspiring artist, community builder, and all-around creative force. Cami’s journey, from fiber art and quilting to her current passion for painting, is a testament to the power of embracing change and trusting your own unique path. We discussed how our creativity helps us to feel in control of our lives, and how those feelings can guide us through difficult moments.One of the most compelling themes of our conversation was the importance of community. Cami, who says that “community is my middle name,” has spent years actively building connections within the fiber art world, and now as a painter. For Cami community provides a way for artists from around the world to connect. She is also very active in the digital gaming community, supporting programmers and other introverted creatives through community events. As Kate pointed out, the importance of community is vital, even though she herself is an introvert.We also delved into the challenge of overcoming our inner critics. Those nagging voices that tell us we’re not good enough or that we’re not doing things right. Cami shared how her own evolution as an artist has helped her silence that voice, as has her work in the game industry, where she encourages others to find their space. She has learned how to identify and reframe her negative thoughts, a practice that has been transformative for her, and Kate shared her process of journaling and reframing her thoughts by understanding the feelings and actions they provoke.Cami’s personal journey is also deeply rooted in the influence of her artist mother. Cami shared stories about her mother's artistic practice, her unique way of seeing the world and the challenges she faced as a female artist in her time. Cami’s mother inspired her to be independent and this value became an important part of Cami's life as well. We explored the idea that sometimes our life’s experiences, including loss and change, can be seen like peeling an onion. Each layer that comes off reveals more of who we are and the potential for growth, and every loss is another opportunity.Drawing on the wisdom of Jane Dunnewald, we discussed the notion that creativity makes us feel more in control. Jane’s powerful message of self-acceptance and self-love resonated deeply, as it is the starting point for a fulfilling and authentic life. Jane’s work emphasizes curiosity, clarity, confidence and community, and these pillars act as guideposts for us as we navigate our way.Cami and Kate also explored the idea of bridging the gap between the art world and large corporations. This led to a discussion about the ways that larger institutions can incorporate human touches into their practices, and how the art community can build relationships that support these changes. Cami noted that Amazon has supported some of her community events for people in the digital games industry.Cami shared a bit about her sketchbook practices, and how she uses them to record her ideas, her random thoughts and her colours. During the pandemic she led an online course based on maps, and she is currently creating a piece that weaves memories into her art.Finally, we closed out our discussion with a reflection on one of Jane's most important messages: that the universe doesn't just give you something only to take it away. We acknowledged the truth in that, that sometimes things may feel like they are being taken away, however, in hindsight, we can see that those “losses” are really just catalysts for something new.This conversation left us feeling empowered and inspired. We hope that you will take a moment to listen, embrace your creativity and connect with your community. The universe is always giving, even when it seems like it is taking away.

In extraordinary times, fear and despair can feel overpowering. But what if the opposite is true? In this special bonus episode, I share a deeply personal reflection on the battle between light and dark—both in the world and within ourselves. I explore the ways fear tries to convince us that all is lost, and how we can recognize the quiet, unwavering voice of truth and love instead. If you've been feeling anxious, hopeless, or overwhelmed, this episode is here to remind you: Love is always stronger than fear.What You'll Discover in This Episode:🌿 Why fear is so convincing—and how to recognize its voice🌿 The universal truth that light is always more powerful than darkness🌿 A simple but powerful practice to shift your perspective in moments of despair🌿 How choosing love over fear is the most radical thing we can do right nowIf this episode resonates, please share with your people 💛 Together, we are stronger than the dark.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.🔗 Read the full essay here: [Blog]🔗 Support the podcast & join the community: [Creative Genius Rising - Patreon]#CreativeGeniusPodcast #LoveAlwaysWins #HopeOverFear 

What does it take to create something truly original? In this episode of The Creative Genius Podcast, I sit down with John Roescher, a visionary thinker who shares profound insights into the creative process.We dive deep into one of creativity’s most elusive challenges: How do you resist the urge to rely on what’s already there in order to allow something new to emerge? Drawing from his own experiences, John explores how to cultivate the courage to unsee the familiar, embrace uncertainty, and listen to the whispers of inspiration that lead to groundbreaking ideas.This conversation is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone who’s ever felt stuck in their creative process, from painters and writers to entrepreneurs and dreamers. If you’ve ever wondered how to break free from patterns and routines, this episode will guide you toward a fresh perspective.How to stop yourself from painting the same leaf—or creating the same idea—over and over again.Why pretending you can’t see what’s there can open the door to originality.The importance of rituals, silence, and curiosity in tuning into your inner creative voice.How embracing uncertainty and discomfort can unlock your next breakthrough.Invitation to Join our growing Patreon communityIf you loved this conversation, you’ll adore what’s happening in our Patreon community.Here’s what you get when you join:PODCLUB: A book club-style community where we meet monthly to unpack the themes from podcast episodes, explore how they connect to our lives, and deepen our creative journeys.Worksheets: Designed to help you uncover and unhook from limiting beliefs that hold you back.Guided Meditations: Shift your energy from fear and worry to inner peace and possibility.Exclusive Bonus Content: Behind-the-scenes insights and additional resources you won’t find anywhere else.

 Show NotesLisa’s journey from accounting to art and her rediscovery of creative passion.The healing power of art and its role as a survival tool in challenging times.The importance of connecting with intuition and quieting external noise.Overcoming limiting beliefs and embracing imperfection in the creative process.Building resilience through failure and using creativity to navigate grief.The role of community in fostering connection, accountability, and encouragement.Discover how intuitive painter Lisa Wagner uses art to heal and connect with her inner self. Learn actionable tips for reconnecting with creativity and overcoming fear in this episode of The Creative Genius Podcast. In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa Wagner, an intuitive painter whose story will inspire you to embrace the healing power of creativity. Lisa shares her journey from a traditional career in accounting to finding her passion for art and using it as a tool for resilience and self-discovery.We discuss the importance of listening to intuition, overcoming limiting beliefs, and finding beauty in imperfection. Whether you’re navigating grief, processing emotions, or simply feeling stuck, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration to help you reconnect with your creative essence. Listen now and discover the transformative power of art. Reasons to ListenDiscover how to overcome fear and limiting beliefs about your creativity.Learn actionable steps for reconnecting with your intuitive voice.Find inspiration in Lisa’s personal journey of healing and artistic growth.Understand the role of creativity as a tool for emotional processing and resilience.Gain insights into fostering a supportive creative community.ACTIONInspired by this episode I created The Soul Connection Journal Ritual  a brand-new addition to the Creative Genius Patreon Library that’s designed to help you begin—or continue—building a deeper connection with your wisest inner self, your Creative Genius.This part of you is an incredible source of courage, resourcefulness, and wisdom. It’s the voice that can offer you guidance and answers when you’re feeling lost or unsure. The steps in this ritual will guide you gently but powerfully toward tapping into this inner wisdom, so you can navigate your creative journey—and life—with more confidence and clarity. If you’d like to access this journal ritual and start unlocking the gifts of your Creative Genius, head over to my Patreon. You’ll find it waiting for you there, along with other tools and resources to support your creative process.