
Creative Genius
Humanity is glitching. And it can all be traced back to a series of limiting beliefs we hold around creativity; what it is, what it has to look like, and who has it in them (or doesn't).
I speak to artists, actors, award winning musicians, TV producers, comedians, creative psychologists, writers (including a New York Times bestselling author) and even an Oscar nominated film director about creativity, the creative process, limiting beliefs that keep us stuck AND the magic that can happen when we relearn how to listen to our hearts.
Creative Genius is a love letter to the creativity that lives inside ALL of us - through these conversations, I am on a mission to help as many people as I can to remember that it is in all of us, so we can stop glitching.
Latest episodes

Jul 5, 2024 • 56min
EP 69 Giovanni Dienstmann Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Self-Esteem
In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into the journey of overcoming self-doubt and building self-esteem with author and meditation teacher Giovanni Dienstmann. Giovanni shares his transformative journey from a chaotic upbringing to finding peace and purpose through meditation. We explore various themes such as the benefits of meditation, shifting identity, and creating your ideal self. Giovanni also offers insights on differentiating between fear and intuition and staying aligned with your true purpose.Highlights:Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Self-EsteemJourney to Becoming a Meditation TeacherFinding Direction and PurposeDifferent Styles of MeditationBenefits of MeditationWise ConfidenceShifting Identity and BlueprintFinding What You WantCreating Your Ideal SelfStaying Awake in the ProcessDaily Alignment PracticePitfalls and ChallengesVisualizing Your Future SelfDifferentiating Between Fear and IntuitionThe Evolution of ConsciousnessGetting Started with Mantra MeditationSpecial Mentions:David Foley's books: "The Primal Sound" and "The Wisdom of the Tantric Goddesses"Favorite Question:How do we differentiate between what's just old ego and conditioning and what's a truer, more trustworthy thing? Giovanni's answer is a must-listen!Billboard Question:Stay tuned to hear Giovanni's response to our signature Billboard Question!Where to Find Giovanni's Work:Giovanni's WebsiteGiovanni's InstagramGiovanni's Books on Amazon

Jun 21, 2024 • 1h 18min
EP 68 Anna Goldfarb - Modern Friendship
Kate reflects on her own journey through the ebbs and flows of friendships as she transitioned through marriage, parenthood, and the isolating impacts of COVID-19. Anna, known as the New York Times friendship correspondent, shares her insights into maintaining and nurturing meaningful friendships in the modern world. They discuss the loneliness epidemic, the evolution of friendships in the digital age, the challenges of cross-gender friendships post-marriage, and the art of gracefully ending friendships.Anna offers practical advice and hopeful strategies for cultivating lasting and nourishing connections, emphasizing that creating beautiful friendships is a profound act of creativity. This conversation is both validating and inspiring, providing listeners with the tools and motivation to actively foster deep, supportive relationships.Host: Kate ShepherdGuest: Anna GoldfarbKey Topics:The challenge of maintaining friendships through major life transitions.Impact of marriage, parenthood, and COVID-19 on social circles.Anna Goldfarb's journey from writing about dating to focusing on friendships.Practical strategies for cultivating and sustaining meaningful friendships.The concept of consent in friendships.Addressing the loneliness epidemic and its antidotes.The grief associated with losing cross-gender friendships post-marriage.Recognizing when to end a friendship and how to do it gracefully.The role of creativity in building and maintaining friendships.Important Quotes:"Creativity is the intelligence that's animating the entire universe.""The ultimate act of creativity is the life that we create.""Turn down the thoughts about what you're not getting from your friendships and turn up the thoughts about how you can be in service to your friendships."Call to Action:Consider becoming a patron to support the Creative Genius Podcast.Share the podcast with friends, family, and on social media to help grow the community.Reflect on how you can actively create and sustain beautiful friendships in your life.Resources:Anna Goldfarb’s book, "Modern Friendship" – available wherever books are sold.More information and show notes available at Kate Shepherd Creative.Support the Show:Visit Kate Shepherd Creative to become a patron.Share the episode with friends or on social media.Engage with the podcast community by sending feedback and stories of inspiration to Kate.Contact:Kate Shepherd Social Media:@kateshepherdcreative @thecreativegeniuspodcastFollow the Creative Genius Podcast on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for updates and inspiration.Enjoy the episode and get inspired to cultivate deep, meaningful friendships that enrich your life!

Jun 7, 2024 • 1h 20min
EP 67 Tammy Mastroberte - Higher Help: Letting The Universe Guide You
Subscribe, Listen, Rate & Review (thank you!) in Apple Podcasts Subscribe & Listen in SpotifySubscribe on YoutubeOR listen in your favourite podcast appSUPPORT CREATIVE GENIUS ON PATREONTransform Your Life with Tammy Mastroberte's The Higher Help Method on The Creative Genius PodcastHello, wonderful listeners!I am beyond excited to share a truly transformative episode of The Creative Genius Podcast with you. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the amazing Tammy Mastroberte to discuss her new book, The Higher Help Method. This guidebook offers profound insights into connecting with unseen higher beings like angels and guides, and how they can assist us in our everyday lives.Tammy’s journey into this spiritual realm began after the heartbreaking loss of her mother at the age of 22. This pivotal moment led her to discover and eventually teach The Higher Help Method, a powerful process that has become a cornerstone of her life’s work.In our conversation, Tammy shared how she overcame her own skepticism about communicating with higher beings. She provided practical exercises designed to open your mind and heart to the possibility of a two-way conversation with the universe. These higher helpers often appear in forms that deeply resonate with us, offering guidance and support when we need it most.Some key takeaways from our conversation include:Practical Exercises: Techniques to help you open yourself up to new possibilities and connect with your higher helpers.Faith and Trust: Understanding the crucial role these elements play in the manifestation process.Shifting Energy and Gratitude: Tips for maintaining positive energy and focusing on gratitude.Four Steps of The Higher Help Method: A clear understanding of the method’s steps: clarity and intention, asking the universe for help, shifting energy, and receiving and acting on signs.We also explored the challenge of distinguishing between messages from the ego and those from the universe. Tammy provided guidance on how to tune into what our truest selves want, emphasizing the importance of trusting the universe's timing. Life is an act of creativity, and by consistently shifting our energy and letting go of control, we can harness the creative energy all around us.One of my favorite parts of our conversation was hearing Tammy’s personal story of manifesting her soulmate, involving a crock pot! This story beautifully illustrates the magic of asking for help and trusting the process. We also concluded with a soothing 60-second retreat meditation, perfect for centering yourself and connecting with your higher helpers.I invite you all to listen to this enlightening episode of The Creative Genius Podcast. Whether you’re just beginning your spiritual journey or looking to deepen your connection with the universe, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom and heartwarming stories to guide you.You can listen to the episode here or wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for joining us on this creative and spiritual journey. Your support and engagement mean the world to us.EPISODE SUMMARYIn this conversation, Tammy Mastroberte discusses her book 'The Higher Help Method' which is a guidebook for connecting with unseen higher beings like angels and guides and how they can assist us in our lives. She shares how the loss of her mother at 22 led her into a spiritual journey of discovering and teaching this method. She is passionate about helping people find their own guides and tap into the guidance of the universe and develop a two-way conversation with their higher helpers.Tammy addresses skepticism (she had lots of her own!) when it comes to beginning this mysterious two way conversation with the unknown, and she offers practical exercises to open ourselves up to new possibilities. She explains that these beings show up in forms that resonate with us and are open to working with us. Tammy also emphasizes the need to incorporate help from higher beings into our daily lives and shares personal experiences of asking for assistance. She discusses the role of faith and trust in the manifestation process and provides practical tips for shifting energy and focusing on gratitude. Tammy then introduces the four steps of the Higher Health Method, which involve clarity and intention, asking the universe for help, shifting energy, and receiving and taking action on signs.It can be challenging to differentiate between messages from the ego and messages from the universe, and Tammy sheds some light on how we can begin to do this, offering guidance on discovering what our truest selves want. And we dive into the sometimes confusing process of figuring out what we even want out of life. Tammy shares her perspective on trusting the universe's timing and living life as an act of creativity and we talk about how to harness the creative energy all around us by learning how to consistently shift our energy and letting go of control.She shares with us her favorite practices of asking for help and her personal story of manifesting a soulmate (it involves a crock pot!)She leaves us with a simple yet powerful 60-second retreat meditation (available as a free download for All Access Patreons) TakeawaysConnecting with higher beings can provide assistance and guidance in our lives.Incorporating help from higher beings into our daily lives can lead to positive outcomes.Having faith and trust in the manifestation process is essential.Shifting energy and focusing on gratitude can create a more positive and open mindset.The four steps of the Higher Health Method involve clarity and intention, asking for help, shifting energy, and taking action on signs.Differentiating between messages from the ego and messages from the universe is important in making aligned choices.Discovering what our truest selves want requires introspection and connecting with our inner desires. Take the time to figure out what you truly want and desire in life.Be honest with yourself about your happiness and what would make you truly happy.Create a jumping off point for your desires and focus on how you want to feel.Trust the timing of the universe and let go of control.

May 24, 2024 • 1h 18min
EP 66 Pamela Bates - The Importance of Radical Rest Inside the Creative Process
PLEASE CONSIDER SUPPORTING THE CREATIVE GENIUS PODCASTFOR AS LITTLE AS $5 A MONTH (THE EQUIVALENT OF BUYING ME A THANK-YOU-FOR-MAKING-ME-THIS-GREAT-PODCAST-COFFEE) YOU CAN HAVE A PROFOUND IMPACT ON MY ABILITY TO KEEP MAKING THIS SHOW FOR YOU.BECOME A PATRON!Show Notes - The Importance of Radical Rest within the Creative Process with Pamela Bates (Subscribe & Listenhere) “If you don’t believe in yourself, prove yourself wrong” - Pamela BatesAfter 23 years of her creativity getting lost in client expectations working in PR and doing too much to take care of others and not enough to take care of herself in her personal life, Pamela found herself utterly burned out. That is when her sister took her on a restorative weekend trip to Boston where the two of them visited the Gardiner Museum. Pamela shares the story of how life dramatically grabbed her attention with an electrifying, life changing experience that she says was the beginning of her now flourishing career as a painter. Pamela shares the importance of tuning into and remaining open to the quiet voice deep inside as it has all the information we need to find our own callings. And how crucial rest and quiet are for supporting our ability to tune in. We are trained to be go go go. We need to retrain ourselves to be quiet. She shares her theories about Radical Rest. Humans hold themselves back on this quest for perfection, which is utterly pointless and unattainable. The magic resides in letting go. When we hold something too dear, it tends to get in the way. Listen to her terrifying advice on what we should practice in our art to help us really learn about the magic of letting go. Don't let anything be too precious or it will jam you up. Many artists are bent on “finding their voice” Pamela urges us to stop trying so hard to find it, and instead become curious about what is already there waiting for you to stop being in charge. What you’ll find, she says, is that you already have the special magic thing you are looking for, it is you. The only way to access that deep well of creativity is to paint, paint, paint. A daily practice is more important than anything else you can do: the act of painting will connect you to the thing you are looking for. There is no other way to find that than to just do it. Trust yourself. Focus on the need to create. Stop looking outside for validation. The desire to create is itself, the map. You have to be working for the magic to happen, so get busy.The painting that jolted the painter in Pamela to wake up El Jaleo - by John Singer Sargent 1882 Kate Shepherd: website | instagram | facebookPamela Bates: website| instagram| facebook

May 10, 2024 • 1h 4min
EP 65 - Nate Klemp Open: Living with an Expansive Mind in a Distracted World
Episode Summary:An engaging, lighthearted but deep conversation with philosopher Nate Klemp about his new book, 'Open: Living with an Expansive Mind in a Distracted World' which explores cultivating spaciousness in order to access the deep well of peace and creativity within our minds. This episode serves as a thought-provoking exploration of inner spaciousness and the art of discernment in our daily lives, offering listeners practical insights and inspiration for their own journeys of self-discovery and creative expression.Nate is a New York Times bestselling author, philosopher, and founding partner at Mindful magazine. His journey from academia to exploring philosophy as a way of life led him to co-found Mindful magazine and author several impactful books. I'll admit, I was nervous to speak with Nate, but his down-to-earth nature quickly put me at ease. "Open" isn't just a book; it's a journey Nate invites us to embark on, exploring inner spaciousness in a distracted world. Our conversation touched on topics like psychedelic-assisted therapy, including Nate's personal experience with ketamine therapy.As someone navigating the incremental nature of psychotherapy, Nate's insights challenged my perspectives and opened new doors for exploration. We discussed discernment – knowing when to open and when to close – and how it relates to our well-being and creativity.Ultimately, this conversation serves as nourishing food for thought as we contemplate our own relationship with opening and closing, especially in the realm of creative expression. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this enriching conversation with Nate Klemp.Show Notes:Navigating Challenges: Kate reflects on her own recent struggles and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and trust in uncertain times.Getting to Know Nate: Nate's journey from academia to co-founding Mindful magazine and writing impactful books is shared, highlighting his down-to-earth nature.Exploring "Open": Nate's book takes readers on a journey to understand inner spaciousness in today's distracted world, offering practical insights and personal anecdotes.Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: Nate shares his experiences with ketamine therapy and discusses the potential benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapy for personal growth and healing.Discernment in Opening and Closing: Kate and Nate delve into the importance of discernment, knowing when to open up and when to set boundaries for our well-being and creativity.Takeaways and Reflections: Kate reflects on the enriching conversation, emphasizing its relevance to navigating personal challenges and fostering creativity.Writing the Book and the JourneyNate takes us on his personal journey, a quest triggered by the compression in his mind and an insatiable craving for distraction. It's the kind of journey many of us can relate to – the search for clarity amidst the noise.Experimenting with OverindulgenceEver wondered what happens when you dive headfirst into digital distractions? Nate shares his experiment, offering insights into closure and screen addiction. It's a fascinating peek behind the curtain of our digital habits.Understanding the Default ModeMind wandering: sometimes a nuisance, sometimes a muse. Nate explores its dual nature, shedding light on its impact on stress levels and creativity. It's a reminder to pay attention to where our minds wander and why.The Illusion of HappylandWelcome to Happyland – where pleasure reigns supreme, but closure lurks around every corner. Nate unpacks this illusion, challenging us to break free from its grip and embrace the discomfort of the present moment.Letting Go of the Illusion of Happy LandKate and Nate delve deeper into the art of letting go, discussing the journey to peace and acceptance. It's a reminder that happiness isn't a constant destination but rather a series of moments, each deserving of our attention.Surrendering and Cultivating Conditions for SurrenderSurrender: a word loaded with meaning. Nate shares insights into its power, highlighting the conditions necessary for true surrender. It's a lesson in letting things be, even when they're tough to swallow.Everyday Moments of Letting Go and SurrenderFrom the mundane to the profound, Kate and Nate explore the everyday moments where surrender can be found. It's a gentle nudge to loosen our grip on control and embrace the flow of life.Exploring Psychedelic Assisted TherapyHold on tight as the conversation takes a psychedelic turn. Nate sheds light on the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy to unlock buried emotions and experiences. It's a frontier of healing worth exploring.The Impact of Ketamine Assisted TherapyNate shares his personal experience with ketamine-assisted therapy, offering a glimpse into its transformative potential. It's a reminder that healing often comes from unexpected places.Discernment: Knowing When to Open and CloseIn a world buzzing with noise, discernment becomes our compass. Kate and Nate discuss the delicate balance of knowing when to open up and when to draw boundaries. It's about honoring our intuition and prioritizing self-care.The Power of Not Trying So HardAs the conversation winds down, Kate and Nate leave us with a powerful reminder: sometimes, the best path forward is the one of least resistance. It's a call to embrace the flow of life and trust in the process.Tune in to this enlightening conversation, where Kate Shepherd and Nate Klemp invite us to live open in a distracted world. It's a journey of exploration, surrender, and the quiet power of an expansive mind.

Apr 26, 2024 • 1h 16min
EP 64 Emma Zeck, Passion, Fear & Creative Destiny
During this conversation, Emma shares candidly about her experiences with plant medicine, breaking old patterns, and the importance of letting go of the need for external validation. She delves into the idea that we are the ones tasked with resolving and healing the brokenness inherited from previous generations. Emma also challenges the notion of who can call themselves an artist, sparking thought-provoking conversations about identity and creativity.Throughout the episode, Emma's raw and authentic storytelling draws listeners into her world, inspiring them to embrace their inner creativity and intuition. Her journey serves as a reminder that our brightest light is within us, waiting to shine despite the limiting beliefs and pressures of society.If you resonate with the messages shared in this episode and find value in the Creative Genius Podcast, consider supporting Kate Shepherd's work by becoming a Patreon member. Your support enables Kate to continue producing inspiring content and fostering a community of creatives. Additionally, explore Kate's artwork and jewelry on her websites, kateshepherdcreative.com and lovemorningmoon.com, as another way to show your support and connect with the invisible tribe of like-minded individuals.Tune in to this enlightening episode with Emma Zack and allow her raw honesty and wisdom to ignite your creative spark and propel you towards your true purpose. Remember, your light is meant to shine, and together, we can illuminate the world with authenticity and love.___It's official! Emma Zeck's latest masterpiece, "ECLIPSE," is now available for streaming worldwide! 🎶 Dive deeper into Emma's journey by tuning into the latest episode of the Creative Genius Podcast.

Apr 12, 2024 • 1h 20min
EP 63 Lama Rod Owens, New Saints From Broken Hearts to Spiritual Warriors
Lama Rod navigates the complexities of healing and transformation, highlighting the role of community support in fostering resilience. His reflections underscore the intersection of creativity, spirituality, and emotional well-being.We discuss the concept of radical self-care; what it is (and what it isn’t), why it is so important for us to know how to replenish our energy, set boundaries and avoid depletion, and why it plays such a crucial role in nurturing personal well-being and resilience that ultimately empowers us to serve the people we love better. We talk about the idea that our brokenheartedness serves as a gateway to discovering our innate gifts and talents. By acknowledging and tending to our inner wounds, we can uncover hidden strengths and abilities, leading to personal growth and transformation.The importance of building community emerges as a central theme, Lama Rod highlights the significance of leaning into one's community for support and guidance, especially during times of need. He emphasizes the power of collective care and mutual aid in fostering resilience and fostering a sense of belonging.One of the most powerful moments in this episode comes as Kate asks Lama Rod to share his practice of connecting with unseen beings for support and guidance. Whether through ancestral reverence, prayer, or meditation, he suggests that tapping into the wisdom of unseen realms can provide valuable insights and assistance on our journey.Lama Rod encourages listeners to embrace joy as a radical act of defiance against suffering and oppression. He explores how cultivating joy in the face of adversity can be a powerful form of resistance, fostering resilience and inspiring positive change in ourselves and others.IN THIS EPISODELama Rod's journey to recognizing the importance of tending to one's own brokenheartedness as a creative process.Exploring the concept of brokenheartedness as a source of inspiration and creative fuel.Understanding how embracing vulnerability can lead to profound personal growth and artistic expression.Delving into the practices of self-care and self-compassion as essential tools for tending to our broken hearts.Navigating the complexities of healing and transformation through creative endeavors.The role of community and support in providing space for individuals to explore and heal their brokenheartedness.Lama Rod's reflections on the intersection of creativity, spirituality, and emotional well-being.3. Key Takeaways:Tending to our own brokenheartedness is essential for nurturing creativity and personal growth.Embracing vulnerability allows us to tap into the depths of our experiences and channel them into creative expression.Self-care and self-compassion are integral practices for tending to our broken hearts and fostering resilience.Building supportive communities provides a safe space for individuals to explore and heal their emotional wounds.The creative process serves as a transformative journey towards wholeness and self-discovery.Contemplation: As we tend to our own brokenheartedness with compassion and care, we unlock the door to the truest version of ourselves and our profound creative potential. It is inside the brokenheartedness that we find true love. Can you find a small way to lean into your own brokenheartedness today (making sure you stay open to all the support available to you).

Mar 29, 2024 • 1h 17min
62 - Autumn Skye: Intuition, Surrender & the Sacred Act of Creativity (updated encore presentation)
If you’ve been on the fence of stepping into yourself as an artist you’ll want to hear the amazing things she says about how art can serve as a tribute to the past, a processing of the present and of forward visioning. And how as artists in this potent time in history we get to ask ourselves what we want to put our energy behind and what vision we want to create for our future to invite others into their own creativity and healing. My favourite part comes towards the end when she shares the ritual she does whenever she goes to a new city that deepens her connection to creativity and presence instantaneously - and then connects it to how we can be in our creative lives. I loved it and cannot wait to try it out next time I go on a tripAutumn was one of those lucky individuals who was encouraged to nurture and follow the creativity in her from a very young age. This resulted in her being fairly unencumbered by distracting limiting beliefs that so many of us have to navigate when it comes to creativity. She has a beautiful, generous soul and is passionate about sharing the wonder and power of creativity - helping people free themselves to infuse playfulness, curiosity and discovery into their own creative journeys through teaching engagements and retreats She’s partnered with Alana Fairchild and created artwork on the Sacred Rebels oracle deck, has her own beautiful self published deck, and will once again be working with Alana on a new oracle deck in the coming year. (more information on that at the end of the show) Things we talk about in this episodeHer powerful advice for anyone experiencing fear about beginning to express creativity (hint: it's something you could go out and do today)Her mission through her artworkWhat is creative Draino and why is it so important?Her understanding of the creative process, how it works and what it is trying to do through usHow being willing to be surprised is a key in the magic of her artworkSurefire ways to stop epiphanies and creative insight and how not to do those thingsWhat intuition feels like for herIncorporating muscle testing in the creative process as a way to cultivate intuitionWhat she does when she bumps up into limiting beliefs (and it’s not about silencing them!)Using limiting beliefs as a catalyst to not only do the thing, but do the thing and then someHow to approach our creativity in a way that helps it feel safe to come outOur tendency as women to dim our own light. Loving advice for the person who feels they don't even have the right to try - or may have been bullied by a loved one not to shine brighter than them.How artwork can be like a map for humanity as well as shape our reality - it is at the tip of the spear of cultural revolutionHer poetic and inspiring definition of what creativity (which might be the best definition of creativity I have ever heard) truly is that might just change how you look at every single momentResources discussed in this episodeLiz Gilbert (fear being a passenger in her car)Sacred Rebels DeckAlana FairchildGOOGLE HER DECKS AND LINKS to themABOUTAutumn Skye lives, breathes, and dreams art, and has done so since she was old enough to hold a pencil and reach for a piece of paper. Her childhood and early adult years were spent traveling the landscapes of both her wild Canadian backyard and distant international shores. Through her wanderlust she developed a deep reverence for the beauty of nature and the diversity of humanity, and continuously endeavors to translate this inspiration through her work. As a self-taught artist she is forever a student of the intuitive, creative process. Autumn Skye perpetually explores and plays in many artistic mediums and modalities, from music to sculpture, cooking, event production, sewing, interior decorating, and jewelry making. However, her sustaining focus remains primarily in painting, and finds acrylic paints to offer the most freedom, luminosity, and versatility in her intuitive art-making. Her style gracefully weaves together refined realism, iconic imagery and symbolism, and subtle energetic geometries. She’s inspired by the beauty of this incredible planet, the potency of these extraordinary times, the mysteries of the cosmos, the resiliency of the human spirit, and the intricate connections between all facets of life. Autumn Skye's meticulous and poignant paintings continue to gain expanding recognition, attracting audiences, collectors, and students from around the globe. She exhibits and teaches worldwide, and otherwise thrives and paints in the beautiful temperate-rainforest of coastal British Columbia, Canada. Considering herself immensely blessed to do what feeds her soul, she strives to support others through creative empowerment, the gift of beauty, and the perpetuation of inspiration.Autumn Skye website | facebook | instagramKate Shepherd: art | website | instagramMorning Moon Nature Jewelry | website | instagramCreative Genius Podcast | website | instagramPlease share the show with a friend and if you are moved to make a financial contribution to the production of this podcast, THANK YOU here is the link for our Patreon

Mar 15, 2024 • 1h 18min
61 - Ashana - Unlocking Your Creative Wisdom with Healing Sound
SHOW NOTESAshana is a true pioneer in the world of healing music. With her celestial vocals and the enchanting resonance of crystal singing bowls, Ashana has crafted a luminous sonic tapestry that transports listeners to realms of deep peace and inner harmony. Hailed as one of the premiere healing music artists of our time, Ashana's music has been described as "breathtaking" and "a Gift from Heaven" by listeners worldwide.Ashana is a classically trained musician who grew up in the Bronx. After a lifetime of being a professional musician and teacher, she unexpectedly found herself trailblazing an entirely new genre of music that has since garnered international acclaim.With renowned producer Thomas Barquee by her side, Ashana has pioneered a sound that resonates with listeners worldwide. Her albums, from "All Is Forgiven" to "Celestial Sleep," are more than just music—they're gateways to spiritual awakening and vibrational healing.And she isn't just a musician; she's a storyteller of the heart, she's lived and loved and learned and today, she generously shares the bits of her life that have been the most transformative with us. So grab your earbuds head out on that walk, or curl up on the sofa with your favourite beverage and tune in to this week's episode of The Creative Genius Podcast as we unravel the captivating story of Ashana.A Journey of Discovery:Ashana's journey to becoming a renowned musician and sound healer was not a conventional one. Growing up in the vibrant streets of the Bronx, New York City, Ashana discovered her musical calling at a young age. From singing in churches to exploring a wide variety of musical genres, Ashana's eclectic style evolved over time and finding her way to the music she creates today involved a lot of ups and downs and surrender. Pioneering Healing Music:Driven by her passion for yoga, chanting, and mantra, Ashana embarked on a deeply personal journey of self-exploration and sound healing. It was during this transformative period that Ashana pioneered an entirely new genre of healing music with crystal singing bowls. Blending Western and ethnic instruments with the unique drone of the crystal bowls, Ashana's music creates the ultimate transcendent experience for healing, relaxation, and meditation.A Beacon of Light:Today, Ashana travels the world, offering concerts, workshops, retreats, and crystalline activation ceremonies that have been hailed as "powerful" and "deeply transformative" by attendees. With her intuitive vocal improvisations and crystal bowl playing, Ashana continues to inspire and uplift audiences, guiding them on a journey of self-discovery and inner healing.Main Takeaways:The Power of Sound Frequency: Ashana explains how sound frequency works and directs listeners through an exercise to raise their vibration, highlighting the profound impact of sound on our emotional and spiritual well-being.Reclaiming Your Voice: Through her healing music and vocal improvisations, Ashana emphasizes the importance of reclaiming our voices as a means of self-expression and healing, particularly for women who may feel pressured to suppress their voices.Navigating Creativity: Ashana shares her journey of navigating creativity and the importance of inner child work in unlocking creative potential. She emphasizes the need to create space for authenticity and self-expression to allow creativity to flow freely.Healing Through Expression: The voice is identified as a powerful instrument for healing, allowing individuals to express their emotions and release suppressed energy. Ashana encourages listeners to embrace the full range of their emotions and give voice to their innermost feelings.Connection to Higher Vibrations: By connecting with higher vibrational frequencies through sound, individuals can experience profound shifts in consciousness and tap into their innate creativity and inner wisdom.Transformational Impact:Listening to this episode offers listeners a transformative journey towards reclaiming their voices, unlocking their creativity, and connecting with their inner selves. Through Ashana's guidance and insights, listeners are inspired to explore the healing power of sound, embrace their authenticity, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.By tuning in to this episode, listeners will discover how to harness the power of sound to elevate their vibration, reclaim their voice, and unleash their creative potential, ultimately leading to a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-exploration and transformation through the healing sounds of Ashana's music.So, grab your headphones, find a cozy spot, and join Kate and Ashana as they unlock the secrets of creativity and healing through the power of sound.Join Us:Listen to a special meditation from Ashana and other amazing resources to plump up your creative factor. Sign up for my newsletter

Mar 1, 2024 • 1h 5min
60 - James McCrae - The Art of You: Reclaiming Your Creativity
EPISODE SUMMARYIn this episode of the Creative Genius Podcast, host Kate Shepherd hosts a profound but lighthearted conversation with James McCrae (@wordsarevibrations) a Renaissance soul poet, author, meme artist, and creative strategist. Together, they explore the vital role of creativity in navigating life's complexities and uncovering deeper truths about ourselves. James shares his personal journey of surrendering to his inner voice and the transformative power of embracing and trusting our creative impulses. Throughout this easy to listen to episode, they delve into the essence of creativity, its connection to consciousness and culture, and why it is so important to share our creative work, regardless of how imperfect we may believe it to be (and the incredible thing this can lead to for us) This episode will inspire you to trust in your innate creativity and contribute to a flourishing, interconnected world and maybe even nudge you to share some of your work bravely with the world.SHOW NOTESForget about waiting for perfection to knock on your door! Kate and guest James McCrae explore how the best creative journey is all about embracing the messy, beautiful chaos of creation. From memes to poetry to strategic wizardry, James McCrae brings a unique flair to the table that'll make you want to grab your own slice of the creative pie. Host Kate Shepherd sits down for a colourful, inspiring chat with James, a multi-talented creative based in Austin, Texas, known for his thought-provoking memes, insightful poetry, strategic expertise and popular books about creativity. Creativity isn't just a luxury reserved for the select "chosen few" it is actually baked right into our DNA. This episode explores how creativity is intrinsic to human existence, and offers us a clear pathway to purpose, authenticity and fulfillment. Despite societal conditioning and fears, both Kate and James both passionately advocate reconnecting with our deepest creative essence as a way to transcend some of the common limitations preventing lasting personal growth.Creativity also isn't just about making pretty things but is actually a deep dive into the very essence of who we are. James elaborates on the two main stages of creativity, likening them to the yin and yang aspects of existence. Through his forthcoming book, "The Art of You," he explores how creativity emerges from the depths of emotion and intuition, guiding individuals towards a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.You'll be freshly inspired to trust in the creative process, regardless of whether you believe you have any talent or not. And Kate and James emphasize the importance of forgetting about external validation and instead focus on curiosity, self-expression and vulnerability so you can feel free to let your creative visions out into the light of day no matter how "good or bad", "weird or normal" they may seem to you. You'll be inspired to examine and explore your own creative impulses and probably have a brand new perspective on cultivating a culture of creativity and collaboration.If you've ever felt that spark of creativity bubbling up inside you but weren't sure how to set it free, then this episode is for you! Kate and James are here to sprinkle a little magic into your day and remind you that your creative journey is just getting started. So grab your headphones and get ready for an adventure that'll leave you feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to unleash your inner genius!Key Takeaways:Creativity as a Birthright: Kate and James underscore the innate creativity inside each and every one of us. Talent is kinda irrelevant, what is important is the willingness to go inside and see what is in there and then to begin to express it as truthfully as possible. By embracing our creative impulses, we tap into a wellspring of wisdom and inner healing which will contribute significantly to the coming Creative Renaissance. Trust in the Creative Process: Trusting the creative journey, recognizing that uncertainty and vulnerability and even failure are integral parts of the creative process. By relinquishing the need for perfection and external validation, we cultivate lasting resilience and unlock our full creative potential and purpose.Community and Collaboration: The episode highlights the importance of community and collaboration in fostering a culture of creativity. Through mutual support and engagement, we amplify our impact and contribute to a thriving ecosystem of shared inspiration and innovation.Why Listen to This Episode:This episode of the Creative Genius Podcast offers a compelling exploration of creativity as a catalyst for personal and collective transformation. Through candid conversation and insightful reflections, Kate Shepherd and James McCrae inspire listeners to reclaim their creative power, embrace vulnerability, and contribute to a flourishing culture of creativity and collaboration. Whether you're seeking guidance on nurturing your creative impulses or simply craving inspiration and encouragement, this episode promises valuable insights and practical wisdom for navigating life's creative journey.
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