Mind Over Medium – Details, episodes & analysis

What if the key to unlocking your creativity was simply doing nothing? Join us on this artistic journey as we announce an exciting move of our podcast to Substack, a platform that promises to enhance our community connection like never before. We're thrilled to bring you an inspiring conversation with Atlanta-based artist Shelley Helms Fleischman. Shelly, known for her captivating encaustic and mixed media work, takes us through her artistic evolution—from a lover of poetry and a private creator to a celebrated artist. Listen in as Shelly shares the transformative power of a supportive community and a life-changing residency that ignited her creative spark.

Ever wondered how artists balance creativity with the demands of daily life? We unpack the concept of "otium" and its essential role in the artistic process. I share personal routines that fuel my creative energy, from morning walks in pajamas to watching birds and sun salutations. The conversation highlights the often overlooked challenges faced by artists, such as finding a supportive community and the dichotomy between artistic fulfillment and conventional job expectations. We dig deep into how "odium," the luxury of doing nothing, is a crucial part of letting ideas simmer and eventually flourish.

Navigating the art world is no easy feat, and we explore the unique challenges and triumphs of being a professional artist. From the vulnerability of sharing art to balancing creativity with business, we discuss the pressures of maintaining a social media presence and the mental exhaustion that can come with it. I share personal anecdotes about the importance of taking breaks and finding inspiration in nature to combat creative blocks. We also delve into the joy of celebrating wins, not just by achieving personal milestones, but by supporting fellow artists and building a personal art collection. Get ready for an episode that brings the artistic journey to life, offering insights and stories that will resonate with both artists and art lovers alike.

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Ever wondered how to transition from a graphic designer to a full-time artist? This week on "Mind Over Medium," I am thrilled to announce that our podcast is moving to Substack! This platform, with its community-building potential, is the perfect new home for us. To mark the occasion, I have an enriching conversation with Drew Steinbrecher, a celebrated artist known for his work in gel printing, collage, and quilting. Drew opens up about his transition from graphic design to art, sharing the experiences and mistakes that shaped his unique style and drove his success.

Our discussion dives into Drew's thought processes behind his artistic choices, including why he chose fiber as his primary medium and the thematic connections in his "Urban Fabric" quilt series. We underscore the importance of writing to add depth to one's work and reflect on the persistence required to shift from a graphic design career to a full-time art practice. Drew’s journey is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit needed to find success in a creative field, making this episode an essential listen for aspiring artists.

We also spotlight the exciting world of organizing online artist summits, inspired by my experience at Kelly Conrad's event. The Collage Maker Summit and the Gel Printer Summit have been remarkable successes, and we discuss the logistics and benefits of such events. Hear about our upcoming plans, including a free event for beginner gel plate users, and gain insights into balancing creativity and entrepreneurship. Whether you're an artist looking to turn your passion into a business or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable advice and personal anecdotes. Don't miss it!

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Feeling stuck in a creative rut? Abstract artist Megan Woodard Johnson joins me for an intimate conversation about the triumphs and trials of the artistic journey. Megan's transformation from a static space to a flourishing studio, sparked by a therapeutic challenge, leads us through a show brimming with insights on how environment and personal history can ignite one’s creative passion. We delve into the tapestry of Megan's work, uncovering how the integration of vintage collage materials and expressive mark-making not only tells a story but also serves as a bridge between the past and the future of art.

Transitions and recognition are at the heart of any artist's life, and this episode doesn't shy away from the tough decisions we face along the way. I share my reflections on the bittersweet process of ending a mastermind group, realigning goals, and the lessons learned in acknowledging the milestones that shape our personal and professional growth. The conversation also celebrates the artistic temperament, that insatiable appetite for novel projects and the courage it takes to step away from ventures that no longer align with our evolving narrative.

Finally, we confront the beasts of creative blocks and the daunting world of marketing art in the digital era. Ever wondered how to keep the creative fires burning when sales dip? Or perhaps how to navigate the complexities of artist-gallery relationships? We tackle these very questions, offering strategies for pushing through barriers and finding solace in artist networks. Join us as we share tales of resilience, from my transition to abstract art to Megan’s harmonious dance with online launches, providing a beacon of encouragement for every artist striving to carve out their unique space in the art world.

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Have you ever felt the urge to break free from corporate chains and design a life more aligned with your passions? Katie Pulsifer, a master certified coach, joins us to share her exhilarating transition from a career in product development to guiding GenX women through their own transformations. She throws light on how to tackle perfectionism and overwhelm by channeling one's rebellious spirit, proving that coaching can lead to profound changes not only in careers but in the deepest personal avenues, including the trials of blending families in cozy living spaces.

Embarking on a New Year, many of us set ambitious resolutions, but I'm here to tell you about the magic of 1% shifts—those tiny, consistent tweaks that lead to lasting change. As Katie and I discuss, coaching is far from a cookie-cutter process; it's an art that adapts to each individual's journey. I'll also take you through how my experiences in retail and product development have enriched my approach to coaching, where nurturing and resilience are key.

To cap off our conversation, we celebrate the subtle yet significant milestones that pave the road to success. We exchange tales of joy in connecting over shared interests like live music and creative pursuits, emphasizing the importance of savoring these moments and harnessing them as fuel for our personal growth. Katie also extends an invitation to the listeners to discover more about her coaching approach and how to engage with the wealth of resources she offers for those ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and redefine their own paths to fulfillment.

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Have you ever felt a deep-seated passion that guides your life's work? Rebecca Jack, an esteemed Atlanta-based painter, joins us to unravel the canvas of her life, from the bustling creativity of a Seattle artist loft to the vibrant hues that now fill her studio. Venture with us through Rebecca's transformative journey as we uncover the symbiotic relationship between art and interior design, and how embracing one's roots can ignite a firestorm of inspiration and growth.

As we navigate the colorful corridors of Rebecca's self-taught path, we unearth the mental gymnastics involved in shifting from interior design to full-time artist. Discover how the discipline of routine, the freedom of play, and the embrace of a support network can be your palette for success. Rebecca divulges her secrets to maintaining creativity in the face of life's practical demands, crafting a story that resonates with anyone looking to harmonize their passion with the rhythm of daily life.

Our conversation doesn't shy away from the raw, unfiltered aspects of the creative process. We tackle the joy and struggle of color harmony, the beast of self-doubt, and the courage it takes to share your soul's work with the world. Rebecca's insights into self-acceptance and redefining success are like brushstrokes that help paint a more joyful and sustainable artistic practice. Join us for an episode that celebrates the artist's voyage and leaves you inspired to explore your own creative endeavors, all while enjoying the latest collection of Rebecca's expressive figurative work.

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Imagine leaving a stable career to pursue a creative passion full-time. That's exactly what mixed media artist and former teacher, Delight Rogers, did. Join us as we explore her riveting journey into the world of art, driven by a challenging family situation and a thirst for healing. With a fascinating background in archaeology and photography, Delight's artistry is as unique as her experiences. We delve into the trials and triumphs she faced during this life-altering transition and the precious insights she uncovered along the way.

Ever wondered about the balance between creativity, isolation, and community? Get ready to dive head-first into a profound discussion with our guest artist. Delight shares her experience of replacing social outlets with the companionship of the creative process, and how she built a community through live workshops and an art collective. Gain practical advice on handling creative blocks and learn about her daily creative routine that might just inspire your own.

Balancing creativity, business, and self-acceptance can be an uphill battle. In the concluding part of our discussion, we converse with Delight about how she manages her creative business and protects the joy of personal art creation. Hear firsthand about overcoming rejection, harnessing the therapeutic power of art and the challenges of being a creative entrepreneur. Whether you're an artist yourself, a creative business owner, or just an art enthusiast, this episode promises invaluable insights into the world of creative entrepreneurship.

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Ever felt that jittery discomfort as you approach a potential client or donor? Ever found yourself hesitant to put your work out on social media, fearing exposure, judgment or ironically, success? You aren't alone. Join us on a transformative journey on Mind Over Medium, as we host the insightful Christina Edwards, a marketing maven and coach, who unveils strategies to overcome these obstacles and thrive in your creative journey.

Christina isn't just a coach; she's a creative soul herself, with her personal creative outlets serving as fuel for her innovative thoughts. Our conversation with her ranges from the discomfort of selling and marketing to the anxiety around success and the imposter syndrome. She shares effective approaches towards potential clients and explains why it's more important to focus on the process than the outcome. We also share our own triumphs and trials, discussing fears that held us back and how we learned to find our voice on social media platforms.

Success is more than just the outcome - it's about the journey and the growth that comes along with it. Christina and we dive into the significance of intentional thinking, overcoming limiting beliefs, and finding joy in the process. We discuss the importance of acknowledging and celebrating wins, finding personal rhythms, and setting achievable goals. Whether you're an artist striving to sell your work or an individual seeking personal growth, this episode is bound to offer valuable insights and leave you with some food for thought. Tune in and embrace the enriching journey towards success.

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Ready to embark on an artful journey with us? This episode spins the color wheel of life and dips our brushes into the vibrant hues of creativity, nostalgia, and serendipity. We sit down with James Dean, a self-taught artist who swapped circuit diagrams for sketchbooks and conjured up Pete the Cat, a character that has charmed its way into the hearts of children and adults alike.

We stroll through the lively lanes of art festivals, reminiscing about the joys and tribulations they brought, and how they shaped our creative journeys. Memories surface from our childhood art escapades, and we unpack how these early sketches traced the outlines of our current careers. As we explore the birth of Pete the Cat, James unravels the story behind his feline muse, and how he transitioned from dabbling in art to diving headfirst into a pool of endless creativity.

As we traverse through the winding path of creative pursuits, James shares invaluable advice for those at the cusp of their artistic journey, emphasizing the importance of embracing serendipity and balancing passion with practicality. We delve into the realm of coincidences, social media's dual role in the art world, and how unexpected encounters can sometimes lead to remarkable creations. Finally, we wind up our conversation with a heart-to-heart about life choices, cherishing what we have, and the joy of watching dreams transform into reality.

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How would your art look if you truly allowed yourself the freedom to create? What would happen if you embraced the title of an artist without hesitation? Join us for an inspiring dialogue with mixed media artist and instructor, Stacy Spangler, as we discuss the liberating power of giving ourselves the permission to be artists. We shed light on our personal insecurities and the influence of our childhoods on our artistic expressions.

Stacy takes us on her journey from teaching art to children to selling her own creations. She opens up about the creative freedom she found in teaching and how it has informed her personal art. She also candidly discusses the shift from childhood to adolescence and its profound impact on creativity. We also dip our toes into the power of collaborative learning and the role it plays in an artist's journey.

In our honest conversation, we tackle the subject of imposter syndrome and the different definitions of success. We reveal how we have navigated the delicate balance between work and creativity, and the importance of self-care in nurturing our creative pursuits. Stacy shares her experience and passion for guiding adults in their creative journey. This episode is an invitation to celebrate your creativity and give yourself the permission to pursue it. Tune in and allow us to inspire, empower, and guide you in your own artistic journey.

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Do you feel like your artistic dreams are scattered and unattainable? Lennon Bone, the musical maestro and trailblazer behind the Stop the Starving Artist Movement and the Creative Impact Academy, joins us to share his transformative journey and how he's paving the way for artists to connect with their audience and monetize their art. Discover the distinctive value of art and the start of the culture of undervaluing creative work. Lennon's personal journey is a testament to the power of persistence and passion.

We explore the fascinating world of mindset transformation, with Lennon shedding light on the efficacy of affirmations in challenging limiting beliefs. From small steps that redefine our thinking, to using evidence to prove we're already who we aspire to be, Lennon's insights offer a roadmap to personal and creative growth. More than this, we delve into the heart of self-reflection, understanding the costs of our actions, and questioning our motivations. Listen to Lennon share invaluable lessons on coaching, which can help us unravel complex narratives and simplify our life stories.

The episode concludes with a deep dive into the Creative Impact Academy, a bridge between artists and their target audience. Learn from Lennon's experience of building trust with potential customers by merging stories and art, and creating resonant messages. Moreover, Lennon shares his transition from being a musician to becoming a creator, his struggles with identity, and how he overcame doubt and learned self-acceptance. Lennon's journey is a treasure trove of wisdom and an inspiration to all artists looking to make an impact, monetize their art, and most importantly, accept themselves.

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