305. Lessons in Creativity, Business, and Openness from Shelly Waldman

In this episode of Creative Chats, Mike Brennan speaks with Shelly Waldman about her creative journey, from her childhood memories of crafting and photography to her professional experiences in photography. Shelly shares insights on adaptability, the importance of networking, and the challenges of building a creative business. She emphasizes the need for creatives to know their finances, show up consistently, and be open to learning and growth. The conversation highlights the significance of community and connection in the creative process, as well as the evolving nature of one's artistic path.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Embrace Openness and Adaptability – Shelly’s creative career highlights the importance of staying nimble and open to new possibilities, whether you’re starting over in a new city or exploring different creative avenues. Being willing to pivot and learn is a key asset for any creator.

🎨 The Power of Relationships – Networking and building genuine connections have been pivotal for Shelly’s opportunities and growth. Engaging with others, being curious, and offering value have led her to unexpected collaborations and exciting career moments.

🎨 Show Up and Share Your Work – Shelly encourages creatives to keep consistently showing up, sharing not just finished pieces but their processes and stories. It’s this visibility and persistence that lead to growth, new clients, and personal confidence.

Episode Highlights:

• Shelly’s creative childhood and the influence of her artistic family

• The journey from economics and finance to photography and creative business

• Practical advice on reinventing yourself after life changes and big moves

• How to network authentically (including tips for introverts!)

• Pricing your creative work and understanding your finances as a creative entrepreneur

• Stories of unexpected opportunities from simply saying "yes" and showing up

• Shelly’s international move and the strategic patience of building a creative presence in a new market

Links and Resources:

• Shelly’s Portfolio and Photography: shellywaldman.com

• Shelly on Instagram: @shuttershelley

• Creative business, coaching, and education: Creative Camp Pro | @creativecamppro

• Shelly’s Podcast: Creative Campfire (available wherever you listen to podcasts)

• Special London Creative Experience and upcoming Pitching Workshop: Details and signup at creativecamp.pro

• Daily Creative Habit Journal, Coaching & Community: dailycreativehabit.com | mikebrennan.me

Guest Bio: Shelly Waldman is a photographer, educator, and creative business mentor known for her editorial, lifestyle, and commercial photography—especially with teens, families, and food. With an early foundation in the arts, a background in economics and finance, and an entrepreneurial spirit that’s taken her from California to London, Shelly helps other creatives navigate business, mindset, and craft. She hosts the Creative Campfire podcast, leads workshops and mentorships, and is passionate about building community in creative circles.

Feeling inspired? Don’t forget to subscribe to Creative Chats and leave us a review—your support helps more creatives discover the show!

If today’s episode sparked new ideas or motivation, check out the Daily Creative Habit Journal and creative coaching opportunities at dailycreativehabit.com. And for more creative stories and actionable tips, queue up Shelly’s Creative Campfire podcast next! Keep creating, keep connecting, and keep showing up—your creative journey matters.

304. Why Artists Should Embrace Opportunities to Learn Something New

In this episode of Creative Chats, Mike Brennan discusses the importance of embracing a beginner's mindset in creativity. He shares personal experiences with live painting and the challenges that come with stepping out of one's comfort zone. Mike encourages listeners to explore new opportunities, ask questions, and learn from others, emphasizing that creativity is a lifelong journey filled with experimentation and growth.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 The Power of Beginner’s Mindset – Embrace unfamiliar territory and let yourself be a novice. Mike reminds us that growth often comes from stepping outside what we know and being willing to ask questions, feel uncomfortable, and learn along the way.

🎨 Stretch Beyond Your Creative Comfort Zone – Mastery is important, but so is experimentation. Pushing past well-worn routines can lead to surprising opportunities, new connections, and unexpected breakthroughs in your creative work.

🎨 Lean into Creative Community & Curiosity – Don’t go it alone! Mike highlights how asking for help, learning from others, and engaging with creative communities can ease the anxiety of trying something new and spark inspiration.

Episode Highlights:

• Mike shares his established process as a digital live event illustrator and why it’s so comfortable (00:03:23)

• The anxiety and excitement of saying “yes” to a live acrylic painting event after years away from the medium (00:06:48)

• Reflections on learning in public, the value of experimentation, and the importance of creative community (00:09:19–00:17:22)

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Mike Brennan:mikebrennan.me

• Daily Creative Habit Journal & Resources: dailycreativehabit.com

Inspired to stretch your creativity? Subscribe to Creative Chats and leave a rating or review—it helps more creative folks discover the show!

To build a sustainable creative routine, explore the Daily Creative Habit resources at dailycreativehabit.com. And remember: give yourself permission to become a beginner again, make mistakes, and enjoy the journey.

Go create something!

303. Harnessing Creative Flow: Steven Puri’s Journey from Hollywood to Tech

In this episode of Creative Chats, host Mike Brennan speaks with Steven Puri about his journey through the creative process, from his early experiences in high school to his work in the film industry and his transition into tech with the Sukha Project. They discuss the importance of tenacity over talent, the role of luck and opportunity, and the significance of intention in daily practices. Steven shares insights on overcoming procrastination and the value of surrounding oneself with the right people to foster creativity.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Foster Creative Environments – Steven highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and environments to cultivate creativity, whether you’re mopping floors in Spielberg’s office or running your own project.

🎨 Progress Over Perfection – The real predictor of success isn’t raw talent, but tenacity. Steven shares his personal experiences with setbacks and explains how consistently showing up and learning from failure is what drives long-term growth.

🎨 Intentional Focus Leads to Flow – Success hinges on regularly setting intentions and breaking goals into manageable pieces. Steven discusses practical strategies, including how his Sukha platform leverages science-backed tools to overcome procrastination and build momentum in creative work.

Episode Highlights:

• Steven’s first creative spark as a teen reporter and the importance of communicating within constraints

• Behind the scenes in Hollywood: learning how true creative problem-solving happens on high-pressure film sets

• The “other thing effect” and why creative breakthroughs often arise when juggling multiple projects

• Why Steven left a dream job in Hollywood for the world of tech startups—and what he learned from failure

• Building Sukha: how to defeat digital distractions and get your best work into the world

Links and Resources:

• Steven Puri & The Sukha Project: thesukha.co

• Email Steven directly: [email protected]

• Books/Resources referenced:

  • “The Net and the Butterfly” by Olivia Fox and Judah Pollack

  • “Flow” by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

  • “Deep Work” by Cal Newport

Free Resources & Community:

• Mike Brennan’s Creative Resources & Daily Creative Habit Journal: mikebrennan.me

Inspired by Steven’s story? 

Subscribe to Creative Chats and leave us a review! Your feedback helps creative voices get heard. Ready to jumpstart your own creative journey? Explore resources, join our Facebook community, or take your next step with the Daily Creative Habit Membership at mikebrennan.me. And don’t forget—creativity thrives when you set your intentions and surround yourself with the right people. Keep creating!

302. From Music to Movies: Steve Taylor’s Creative Adventures and the Making of Sketch the Movie

In this episode of Creative Chats, Mike Brennan interviews Steve Taylor, a multifaceted artist known for his work in music and film. They discuss Taylor's creative journey, influences, and the making of his latest film, Sketch. The conversation delves into the challenges of filmmaking, the importance of mental health themes in storytelling, and the collaborative nature of creative projects. Taylor shares insights on staying true to artistic integrity while navigating production challenges and the significance of believing in one's creative vision.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Scrappiness Fuels Creativity – Steve Taylor emphasizes the importance of finding creative solutions amid constraints. From directing his first music videos with a shoestring budget to producing independent films, he demonstrates that big visions don’t require big budgets—just passion, resourcefulness, and a willingness to get your hands dirty.

🎨 Creative Processes Are Nonlinear – The making of Sketch wasn’t a straight path—it faced rejections, budget challenges, and a long visual effects process. Taylor’s story serves as a powerful reminder that creative journeys rarely go as planned, but perseverance, adaptability, and belief in your vision can fuel breakthroughs.

🎨 Art as Therapy and Universal Storytelling – Sketch explores the idea of using art to process pain and experiences, weaving mental health and imagination into its core. Steve and Mike discuss how creative expression is both deeply personal and universally relatable—making space for stories and art that don’t fit neatly into conventional genres.

Episode Highlights:

• Steve’s childhood influences and creative atmosphere growing up

• Transitioning from music to filmmaking and his passion for avant-garde storytelling

• The “scrappy” production methods behind Sketch and navigating budget and logistical hurdles

• Insights on the power of creative community and embracing support from others

• Why Sketch champions mental health and creative expression for all ages

Links and Resources:

• Steve Taylor: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Taylor

• Mike Brennan: https://mikebrennan.me

• Daily Creative Habit resources: dailycreativehabit.com

• Sketch Movie (in theaters August 6, 2025): Official Trailer https://youtu.be/mj0moG3P2pw?si=Sfw_khtLbZl6BJcI

• Daily Creative Habit Facebook Group: Join Here

• Dead Sea Squirrels on Minnow TV - https://www.gominno.com/ (animated series Steve is producing)

Steve Taylor is a twice Grammy-nominated musician, songwriter, filmmaker, and producer. Known for his sharp wit and originality, Steve’s work has spanned chart-topping albums, influential music videos during the MTV era, and feature films including Blue Like Jazz and the upcoming Sketch. His multi-decade career is characterized by a fearless commitment to artistic integrity, storytelling, and encouraging the next generation of creators.

Feeling inspired?

Don’t forget to subscribe to Creative Chats and leave a review!

Your feedback helps us bring more amazing conversations to fuel your creative journey. And if you’re ready to develop your own creative habits, check out the Daily Creative Habit Membership at dailycreativehabit.com.

Plus make plans to see Sketch in theaters August 6, 2025, and rally around the creative community making original, boundary-pushing art.

301. Turning Up Your Hue: Authenticity in Art, Life, and Business

In this engaging talk from The Thing Nashville 2025, Mike Brennan explores the themes of creativity, authenticity, and personal expression through the metaphor of color. He emphasizes the importance of embracing one's essence and showing up authentically in the world. By sharing personal anecdotes and insights, he encourages listeners to prioritize resonance over reach, fostering deeper connections with others. The conversation culminates in a manifesto that inspires individuals to recognize and carry their unique colors into every aspect of their lives.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Show Up as Your True Color – Mike urges creatives to move beyond blending into trends or copying strategies and instead focus on embodying their most authentic selves. When you show up in the vibrancy of your own color—whatever that may look like—you invite resonance and meaningful connection.

🎨 Value Resonance Over Reach – In a world preoccupied with going viral, Mike shifts the paradigm: it's not about how many people you reach, but how deeply your work resonates. By sharing vulnerably and honestly, you create moments where others see themselves in your story and art.

🎨 Create from Where You Are – Mike acknowledges that life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Whether you’re in a season of bold reds or quiet blues, he encourages you to create from your current reality, not from an idealized future. Authenticity sparks genuine conversation and connection.

Mike Brennan is the host of the Creative Chats podcast, an illustrator, speaker, and creator of resources for artists and makers. He is passionate about helping other creatives prioritize their passion, overcome creative block, and live out their unique story through art and creativity. Mike is the author of Make Fun a Habit and Blue: A Story of Letting Go.

Links and Resources:

• Mike Brennan’s Website & Resources - https://mikebrennan.me

  — Find the Daily Creative Habit Journal, books, and more

• Make Fun a Habit book on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3sIFD1l

• Blue: A Story of Letting Go on Amazon - https://amzn.to/4kq6OE3

• Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebone

Feeling inspired? Don’t forget to subscribe to Creative Chats and leave a review! Your voice helps more creatives discover the show and find encouragement for their own journeys. Ready to take your next step? Explore the Daily Creative Habit Journal and more resources at mikebrennan.me, and start showing up as your true color today.

300. Building Creative Magic with Simon Rogers: Mission, Meaning, and Making an Impact

In this episode of Creative Chats, Mike Brennan speaks with Simon Rogers, founder of A Little Better Co., about the essence of creativity, his evolution in professional life, and the importance of aligning creativity with personal values. They discuss the challenges creatives face in a tech-driven world, the role of curiosity, and the responsibility of creatives to use their power for good. Simon emphasizes the need for mission-driven creativity and the joy found in the creative process, encouraging listeners to engage actively in their creative journeys.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Creativity as Connection – Simon shares how creativity is more than just making art—it's about connecting ideas, people, and purpose to create something bigger than the sum of its parts.

🎨 Purpose-Driven Impact – The conversation dives into why working with mission-driven organizations matters, and how aligning creativity with values can amplify both joy and results.

🎨 Responsibility & Conscience – Simon urges creatives to consider the ethical impact of their work, advocating for using creativity as a force for good rather than simply as a deliverable.

Episode Highlights:

• Growing up in a musical family and how curiosity shaped Simon’s creative journey

• Why ALBC focuses on working with mission-oriented organizations

• The need for empathy and community in today’s creative landscape

• How Simon’s agency shifts the conversation from creative “deliverables” to solving strategic challenges

• The vital role of curiosity—and how large organizations sometimes fear it

• Simon’s call for creatives to bring more humanity and conscience to their work

Guest Bio: Simon Rogers is the founder of A Little Better Company (ALBC), a strategic creative agency working with mission-oriented organizations to make a positive impact. With roots in music, multimedia, and problem-solving, Simon’s passion lies in orchestrating creative solutions that serve both people and purpose. He’s a champion for elevating creativity, responsibility, and empathy in both business and society.

Links and Resources:

• A Little Better Company: alittlebetter.co

• Instagram: @littlebetterco

• LinkedIn: A Little Better Company

• Connect with host Mike Brennan: mikebrennan.me

Feeling inspired?

Subscribe to Creative Chats and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring more thought-provoking stories and actionable insights to fuel your creativity. Looking to elevate your creative practice? Join the Daily Creative Habit Membership at mikebrennan.me and connect with fellow makers, artists, and innovators. Don’t just spectate—be an active part of the creative conversation!

299. Breaking Procrastination and Boosting Creativity with Robin J. Emdon

In this episode of Creative Chats, host Mike Brennan speaks with Robin J. Emdon about creativity, procrastination, and productivity. They explore Robin's early influences in the arts, the importance of thinking time, and strategies for overcoming procrastination. Robin shares insights from his book on understanding procrastination, the role of passion and purpose in achieving goals, and the significance of accountability in personal growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-actualization and the importance of making space for creativity in our lives.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Clarity Fuels Action – Robin emphasizes the importance of identifying what you truly want and why you want it. Without a clear, emotionally-driven vision, procrastination thrives and momentum stalls.

🎨 Create Space to Think (and Not Think) – Innovation and motivation don’t spring from a jam-packed schedule. Making intentional time for reflection or even “not thinking” creates the mental space needed for true creative breakthroughs.

🎨 Accountability Accelerates Results – Whether it’s self-accountability or bringing in outside support, holding yourself responsible—especially when working solo—can increase productivity by up to 33% and help you move from “I’ll do it tomorrow” to “Do it today, profit tomorrow, and repeat.”

Robin J. Emdon is an accomplished accountability coach, author, and creator of “Resultology.” A former life coach trained by Tony Robbins and a passionate advocate for helping others break through cycles of procrastination, Robin distills the science of productivity into practical, everyday steps. His unique approach blends research-backed strategies, personal experience, and a focus on aligning action with purpose.

Links and Resources:

• Download Robin’s full book “Resultology” as a free PDF: reallyusefultips.com - https://www.reallyusefultips.com

• Connect with Robin on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinjemdon/ (Search: Robin J. Emdon)

• Purchase “GetResultsology®: The Science of Getting Stuff Done!” on Amazon - https://amzn.to/4lG0dFS (also available as Kindle or paperback)

• Mike Brennan’s site: mikebrennan.me - https://mikebrennan.me

Feeling inspired to finally conquer procrastination and get moving on your creative projects? Download Robin’s free book, connect with him on LinkedIn, and visit reallyusefultips.com for practical resources. And don’t forget to subscribe to Creative Chats and leave a review! Your voice helps us keep bringing you stories, insights, and tools to unlock your creative momentum. If you’re ready to go deeper, discover ongoing support and community through the Daily Creative Habit Membership at MikeBrennan.me https://mikebrennan.me

298. Following Curiosity and Craft: Nicole Leverett on Honoring Your Creative Process

In this episode of Creative Chats, Mike Brennan speaks with Nicole Leverett about her creative journey, exploring her childhood influences, the evolution of her artistic pursuits, and the balance between passion and monetization in creative work. Nicole shares her experiences with photography, graphic design, and the importance of empowering others in their creative endeavors. The conversation highlights the significance of personal projects, technical skills, and the joy of creating without the pressure of commercial success.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Nurture Your Curiosity – Nicole shares how exploring multiple creative outlets, from calligraphy and jewelry-making to digital art and photography, helped her discover her unique voice. Embrace experimentation and allow yourself to follow where curiosity leads.

🎨 Balance Passion and Profit – Monetizing creative skills can sometimes drain the joy from a craft. Nicole’s journey is a testament to the importance of protecting your passion projects, being selective with client work, and keeping creativity meaningful.

🎨 Share the Process – Nicole emphasizes the importance of transparency and community, freely sharing her artistic process and encouraging others to demystify creativity. By sharing behind-the-scenes, she invites others into the journey and nurtures collective growth.

Links and Resources:

• Nicole’s Website: staynfocus.com https://staynfocus.com

• Educational Resources: infocuslearning.com (for mentorship, digital and physical e-books, online education, and more)

• Social Media: @staynfocusimages on Instagram, TikTok, and Threads

• Daily Creative Habit Community: dailycreativehabit.com - https://dailycreativehabit.com

Feeling inspired? Don’t forget to subscribe to Creative Chats and leave a review!

Your feedback helps us bring more amazing content to fuel your creative journey. Explore Nicole Leverett’s imaginative work, dive into her education resources, and take your own creative practice to new heights. Looking for more community and accountability? Check out the Daily Creative Habit Membership at dailycreativehabit.com.

Thank you for listening, now go create something amazing!

297. Unlocking Your Creative Potential: The Power of Books

In this episode, Mike Brennan discusses the creative process and the journey of writing and publishing books. He emphasizes the importance of creativity in everyone's life and explores various formats for creative expression, particularly through books. Mike shares his personal experiences with creating multiple books, including 'Dear Snow', 'Dear Human', and 'Make Fun a Habit', detailing the inspiration behind each project and the self-publishing process. He encourages listeners to embrace their creativity and consider writing their own books as a means of sharing their unique perspectives and experiences.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Books as Creative Outlets – Books aren’t just for writers. Mike reveals how any creative, visual artists, musicians, and beyond, can use books to showcase their work, stories, or processes in fresh and meaningful ways.

🎨 Embrace Your Own Process – From angry tweets to collaborative art journals, Mike’s journey shows that there is no single “right” approach to book creation. Your unique skills and creative quirks can shape every part of the process, and every book can have its own form and flavor.

🎨 Self-Publishing Made Accessible – With platforms like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark, Mike demonstrates that anyone can self-publish without huge upfront costs or technical barriers. Plus, he shares practical tips for print-on-demand, formatting, and making your book available internationally.

Links and Resources:

• Website: http://mikebrennan.me

• Daily Creative Habit resources: https://www.dailycreativehabit.com

• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@mikebone

• Amazon Books by Mike Brennan: Mike Brennan’s Amazon Author Page - https://amzn.to/44c4M3D

• Self-publishing platforms: Amazon KDP, IngramSpark

Feeling sparked?

If you’re ready to embrace your creativity and maybe publish your own book, take the next step with resources from Mike at mikebrennan.me or dailycreativehabit.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share Creative Chats with your fellow makers! Your support helps us inspire more creators to show up, create, and share their stories with the world. Go make something!

296. Finding Your Creative Purpose with Judith Hill  

In this episode of Creative Chats, Judith Hill shares her journey to becoming a successful portrait photographer. She discusses the importance of community, facing fears, and the pivotal moments that led her to pursue her passion full-time. Judith emphasizes the significance of purpose in creative work and how passion projects can reignite momentum. She also highlights the need for connection and support in the creative industry, encouraging others to bet on themselves and follow their dreams.

Judith Hill is a Nashville-based portrait photographer and the founder of Judith Hill Photography. With over 13 years of experience in photography—including 8 years running her business full-time—Judith is known for her ability to empower clients through intimate, meaningful portrait sessions. Her work focuses on helping women rediscover their value and confidence, particularly through projects like her "40 Over 40" campaign. Passionate about purpose-driven creativity, Judith is also launching Judith Hill Academy to coach other creatives in building profitable, fulfilling businesses.

1. Purpose Drives Creative Success Judith emphasizes the importance of being deeply rooted in purpose. Knowing your "why" helps you navigate fear, make aligned decisions, and create work that truly resonates—with yourself and others.

2. Embrace the Pivot (and the Fear That Comes With It) Making a major career change is daunting, but Judith shares that fear is usually a biological response to the unknown. Success comes from acknowledging that fear, betting on yourself, and understanding that creativity often means continually reinventing your identity and business.

3. Community Over Competition Building a supportive community, and seeking mentorship, is crucial for creative growth. Isolation can stifle creativity, whereas community helps you stay motivated, share wisdom, and overcome challenges together.

• @JudithHillPhoto (Instagram) - https://instagram.com/JudithHillPhoto

• Judith Hill Academy - https://judithhillacademy.com/ (sign up for updates and newsletter)

• Daily Creative Habit - https://dailycreativehabit.com/

• Mike Brennan’s Website - https://mikebrennon.me/

Thanks for tuning in to another inspiring episode of Creative Chats! If today's conversation with Judith Hill encouraged or challenged you, be sure to follow her at @JudithHillPhoto and sign up for updates at judithhillacademy.com.

For more creative resources, check out dailycreativehabit.com and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast so more creatives can find these stories and wisdom.

Keep creating and remember—when you create, we all win!