Creative Pep Talk
Andy J. Pizza
A Weekly Podcast Companion for Your Creative JourneyTransform your creative potential into reality by making your creativity a practice. A “creative discipline” can feel like an oxymoron. Creativity is about doing something new. Discipline is about doing something consistently. The aim of this podcast is to help you strike that elusive balance. Each week, New York Times Bestselling Author Illustrator Andy J. Pizza shares everything he’s learning about building a thriving creative practice. Through solo episodes and interviews with top-tier creatives, Pizza brings you the strategies and stories that you need week in and week out to keep your inner critic at bay, bust through creative blocks and stay creatively pepped to the max!!Learn more: creativepeptalk.comCheck out the host: andyjpizza.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
6 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 59min
531 - Risks that Land Big Jobs, Be Your Own Client & Find Your Sound with Composer Oli Julian
Oli Julian, a talented composer known for his work on Netflix's The Twits and Sex Education, shares insights into his creative journey. He discusses how inspiration from films like Eternal Sunshine reshaped his approach to scoring. Oli explores the balance between client work and personal projects, emphasizing the importance of finding a unique voice. He candidly reveals the challenges of writing his own album after years of working to briefs, and highlights the role of distinctive sounds and personal experiences in shaping his compositions.
27 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 1h 14min
530 - Something Simple to Do When Mental Health Derails You with Frannerd
Fran Meneses, known as Frannerd, is an illustrator, comic artist, and YouTuber who shares her insights on navigating mental health challenges in the creative journey. She discusses how the pandemic led to introspection and the importance of radical acceptance when faced with limitations. Fran reflects on the isolation of freelance work and the evolution of her creative practice, including her transition from merchandise to graphic novels. This heartfelt conversation is filled with hope, self-compassion, and valuable advice for creatives.
22 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 42min
529 - Escape Your Creative Rut with This 5 Part Creative Hygiene Checklist
Feeling creatively stuck? Discover how to foster your creative flow with five actionable strategies. Learn the importance of artist dates for inspiration and how meeting your basic needs can reduce anxiety. Explore the best conditions for your creativity through observation, and conserve your energy with clear priorities. Plus, understand that consistent effort can lead to occasional brilliance. Ready to break free from your rut? This checklist will guide your journey!
25 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 1h 18min
528 - Overcome Urge to Bury Artwork, Escape Overthinking, Cultivate Your Spark & Re-Find Magic
Jake Martin, a budding illustrator and podcaster, dives into the intricacies of the creative journey. He discusses how to overcome the initial disappointment of starting old creative practices and quiet the inner critic. The duo explores finding new sources of inspiration, balancing a creative side hustle with a full-time job, and the importance of building consistent creative habits. They also reveal strategies for managing distractions and suggest influential books for artistic growth, all while keeping that elusive creative magic alive.
21 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 53min
527 - Visual Journaling: Generate Ideas, Mindfulness and Creative Voice with Samantha Dion Baker
In this engaging discussion, Samantha Dion Baker, an author and illustrator known for her visual journaling books, explores how sketchbook practices cultivate creativity and mindfulness. She reflects on her transition from graphic design to daily drawing, emphasizing small habits that rekindle creativity. Samantha shares stories about capturing everyday moments, and she reveals how drawing helps deepen presence and find adventure in the mundane. Tune in for insights on turning chores into creative series and trusting your artistic instincts to foster a unique voice!
40 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 32min
526 - Your Niche is Hiding in The Last Place You’d Look
Feeling stuck on your creative journey? Discover where your unique niche might be hiding! Learn why natural talent isn’t the only key to standing out. Explore the power of journeyed experience and how embracing your shortcomings can become your biggest strengths. Dive into the concept of 'Squidge the Gap' as a way to transform weaknesses into unique attributes. Plus, get practical tips on using competitor analysis to refine your creative identity. This conversation ignites passion and provides actionable insights for your creative path!
27 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 43min
525 - The Prerequisite to Connecting with Potential Fans
Struggling to find your creative voice? This discussion tackles how to rise above the noise to connect meaningfully with fans. Explore the concept of the Hero's Journey and how rethinking your life story can fuel creativity. Learn the therapeutic power of storytelling and how embracing one's unique quirks can enhance personal growth. Andy shares insights on the ‘yellow door’ moments that lead to unexpected opportunities, highlighting the importance of fostering authentic connections through narrative.
9 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 39min
524 - How to Know Whether to Push On or Give Up
Ever felt pumped about a new creative venture, only to hit a wall of doubt? You're not alone! The discussion explores how difficulty can actually signal that you’re on the right path. Learn about eustress, the concept that not all stress is bad, and how your mindset shapes your creative journey. There’s also a handy checklist to help you decide whether to persevere or pivot. Plus, tips on connecting with mentors and assessing the right timing for your project. Embrace the challenge—it's all part of the creative flow!
18 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 46min
523 - The Power of Finding Your Attention Aperture, Neurotype and School of Thought
Feeling creatively stuck? Discover the fascinating concept of attention aperture and how it can transform your work. Learn to identify your neurotype and strengths to unlock your full potential. Dive into the idea of aligning with a compatible philosophical school to enhance your creative journey. These practical insights promise to reignite your creativity and boost your passion!
24 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 33min
522 - The Unexpected Thing that Suddenly Unlocked My Creative Brain
Feeling lost in creativity? Discover how a mindset shift can unlock your creative potential. Explore a transformative moment inspired by the film 'Soul' that emphasizes self-care and personal accountability. Learn the importance of journaling for self-discovery and nurturing your creative spirit. Plus, tips on building a supportive community and maintaining positivity in your creative journey. Embrace your uniqueness and adapt your environment to flourish. It’s time to reconnect with your imaginative self!
