Hello and welcome back to the “Don’t Cut Your Own Bangs” podcast!

Creativity isn’t just about talent—it’s about navigating the uncertainty of the messy middle, where inspiration meets resistance, doubt, and discovery. In this special miniseries, I’m diving deep into the creative process with my friend and fellow creative, Emily H. Sutherland. Emily is a ghostwriter, published author, coach, and executive storyteller. And that just barely scratches the surface of her experience and talents.

Emily and I first connected when I sought her guidance on my own exciting new project—writing a children’s book. What I learned from working with her was so powerful that I knew we had to share our thoughts on creativity. Because here’s the truth: each of us is creative. Each of us deserves the joy of bringing bold, beautiful, and deeply personal ideas to life.

Join us as we break down creativity into four phases: inspiration, preparation, perspiration, and creation. Whether you're an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or someone who’s ever dreamed of creating something, this series is for you. Let’s explore the power of creativity together—because the messy middle isn’t just where the hard work happens. It’s where the magic lives!

RESOURCES

Emily Sutherland’s Storytelling Retreat (Feb 7-8, 2025) -  https://www.emilysutherland.me/events/storytellingretreat

Danielle Ireland’s Treasured Journal - https://danielleireland.com/journal

MENTIONS

Emily H. Sutherland website - https://www.emilysutherland.me/

Martha Beck – Beyond Anxiety https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/beyond-anxiety-martha-beck/1145322194

Elizabeth Gilbert – Big Magic https://www.amazon.com/Big-Magic-Creative-Living-  Beyond/dp/1594634726

Marie Forleo   https://www.marieforleo.com/

The Tim Ferriss Show featuring Jerry Seinfeld https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNTmFORn3xQ

Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out Podcast featuring Stephen Merchant https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tfTkwMzq_4

DANIELLE IRELAND, LCSW

Thank you for your support and engagement as part of the Don't Cut Your Own Bangs community. Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or anything you'd like to share. You can connect with me at any of the links below.

Website - https://danielleireland.com/

Substack - https://danielleireland.substack.com/

Blog - https://danielleireland.com/blog/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danielleireland_lcsw

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/danielleireland.LCSW

Podcast on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@danielleireland8218/featured