Create for No Reason

How do great writers actually get their work done?In this episode of Create for No Reason, Kate sits down with bestselling author Thomas Wedell-Wedellsborg for a refreshingly honest and insightful conversation about the writing process—what works, what doesn’t, and why most advice is worth testing, not following.They cover everything from building a writing habit to editing as you go, and even dive into a few spicy pet peeves (including a surprising rant on neuroscience in business books).Whether you're dreaming of writing a book or already have a draft, this episode will leave you energized to rethink your own creative process.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why Thomas writes only one day a week—and how that works for himThe one “writing hack” that helps him break through resistanceA counterintuitive trick to write faster How to “date” your book idea before you commit to writing itWhy great editing starts by reading your work out loud

What does it really mean to live a courageous life, and why is it more important than ever for your work, creativity, and leadership? In this episode, we chat with Ryan Berman, author of Return on Courage, to explore how bold decisions, uncomfortable conversations, and imperfect action can help you unlock your potential.We dive into the myths that hold people back, the messy middle of creativity, and why fear isn't something to avoid...it’s something to embrace as part of the journey. Whether you’re launching a new project, leading a team, or simply trying to find the courage to hit publish, this conversation will inspire you to take the next step.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why courage is a journey, not a destination.The six myths that keep people stuck.How to strengthen your courage muscles.The power of being an imperfectionist. What to do when you’re afraid to share your work.Why owning your first 10 minutes of the day can change everything.

In this episode of Create for No Reason, we dive deep into the intersection of AI and creativity with Brian Piper, a seasoned writer, author, and AI enthusiast. Brian shares how AI has revolutionized his creative process, from writing to editing, and how it can become the best creative collaborator. We discuss the evolution of content creation, the use of AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, and how they can enhance your productivity without compromising your creativity.In this episode, you’ll discover:How AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude are changing the way we create content.The power of using AI as a writing coach and collaborator.Why creativity isn't replaced by AI, but enhanced by it.How to leverage AI for efficiency without losing your personal touch.A sneak peek into Brian’s process for using AI in his book writing and content creation.Tips on how to effectively use AI to expand your reach and improve your creative output.Brian also talks about how AI helps him with tasks like organizing thoughts, generating ideas, and even creating personal testimonials. Whether you're a writer, content creator, or entrepreneur, you'll find insights on how to integrate AI into your workflow.

Have you ever caught yourself scrolling, comparing, and suddenly feeling behind? In this short episode, Kate shares a reflective piece on the trap of comparison—and how to reconnect with your own dream instead.It’s a reminder to create before you consume. To believe boldly, even when the results haven’t shown up yet.In this episode, you’ll be reminded to:Let your dream—not comparison—guide your actionsHonor your small wins and messy progressCreate with confidence, grounded in your own visionStop doubting your path just because someone else’s looks differentKeep going. Your dream is the compass...let it lead.

Struggling to figure out what to create next or whether you're even working on the right thing? In this episode, author and innovation expert Thomas Wedell-Wedellsborg joins Kate to explore the messy but meaningful process of project finding. From choosing formats like newsletters or books to developing your unique perspective, they unpack how to discover, shape, and share work that matters.You’ll also hear how Thomas thinks about feedback loops, perfectionism, and building creative momentum, even when your process is far from perfect.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why project finding is the most overlooked part of the creative processThe surprising power of publishing rough drafts (and getting feedback early)A framework to uncover what makes your work differentHow to speed up your creative process without sacrificing qualityThe myth of the “perfect process”, and what to do insteadWhether you're writing a book, launching a podcast, or just trying to figure out what to focus on next, this conversation will leave you inspired to embrace the creative chaos—and keep going. Because sometimes, the project that feels unclear today becomes the one that changes everything tomorrow.

In this episode, we’re joined by the Paulette Perhach—writer, creative writing coach, and founder of The Finishing School for Writers.Paulette shares her journey from dreaming of being a writer as a kid to surviving the corporate grind, navigating the Peace Corps, and finally building a thriving freelance writing career on her own terms.She opens up about what it really takes to make a living with words and why community, courage, and even AI can be part of your creative toolkit.In this conversation, you’ll discover:✨How to pitch story ideas editors actually want✨Practical tips to overcome impostor syndrome✨How AI can be a surprisingly great writing partner✨ The power of writing communities (and how to find yours)✨ The emotional rollercoaster of writing a novel✨ Why making art anyway matters—even when no one’s watching✨ How to balance passion projects with paid writing gigs✨ The moment Paulette walked away from corporate life for goodWhether you're scribbling in a journal or pitching national publications, this episode is packed with honest advice and a creative nudge when you need it most.

It’s easy to bounce from one shiny tool to the next, hoping this will be the magic bullet that unlocks all your creative genius. But let’s be real...there’s no magic bullet. Just heart, habits, and a few tools that actually help you do your best work.In this episode, you'll discover five go-to resources to help you stay inspired, organized, and creatively productive. And only two of them are tech.Whether you’re juggling a full-time job and a side project, building your next big thing, or just trying to stay in a creative rhythm, these tools are simple, powerful, and designed to help you keep showing up.Tune in to hear:✨ A simple book strategy to get unstuck creatively ✨ Two tech platforms that make podcasting and content creation easier✨ Why creative friends might be your most underrated resource✨ A gentle reminder to stop searching for all the tools and start using the right onesResources: Riverside: https://riverside.fm/?via=kate-volmanDescript: https://www.descript.com/Small notebooks: https://amzn.to/3SYnk1T

In this episode of Create For No Reason, Greg Wasserman shares his journey as a seasoned content creator and podcast guest who’s passionate about staying consistent and creative. From voice memos to AI tools like CastMagic, Greg walks us through the systems that help him generate ideas, repurpose content, and keep showing up week after week.You’ll discover:Why voice memos might be your secret weapon for capturing ideasHow listening makes you a better hostThe power of breaking the fourth wall with your audienceWhy relationships are your greatest creative assetTips for launching (and sustaining) a podcast you’re proud ofHow to navigate common struggles like growth and monetization

Struggling to stay motivated in your creative process? Wondering when your work is “good enough” to share? You’re not alone—and this episode of Create for No Reason is for you.Inspired by two powerful quotes from Kent Nerburn’s Dancing with the Gods, this episode will reignite your passion for creating and help you reframe those frustrating moments of self-doubt. 🎨 In this episode, you’ll discover:Why your art often grows beyond the idea that started itHow feeling lost can actually be part of your creative magicWhen to stop “perfecting” and start sharingThe role of feedback in helping your work (and confidence) evolveA reminder that your next project may be closer than you think

In this episode, we're joined by Meg Dalessandro, a talented designer and marketer living her dream at Wistia.We dive into Meg's creative journey — from studying graphic design and UX in art school to landing a pivotal role at Wistia, one of the most beloved brands in video marketing. She shares the full-circle moment that led her there, the story behind her 'Sorry I Missed You' voicemail newsletter, and why embracing bad ideas is often the first step to great work.We also explore how to stay consistent in your creative practice, even when motivation dips, the evolving world of video content, and how balancing scripted and unscripted formats can make your work more authentic and impactful.In this episode, you’ll discover:How Meg turned a playful Wistia video into a career catalystHow to balance scripted vs. unscripted content for more natural videosWhy live video is both exciting and challenging — and tips for doing it wellHow exploring bad ideas can lead to your best creative workPractical tips for managing creative projects and ideasBook recommendations that fueled Meg’s creative growth