312. Building a Culture of Curiosity with Dustin Black

In this episode of Creative Chats, host Mike Brennan speaks with Dustin Black, an executive creative director at Preston Spire. They explore Dustin's unique perspective on creativity, the importance of resourcefulness, and how to teach creativity to the next generation. The conversation delves into the impact of AI on creative processes, the necessity of adapting to change, and the significance of fostering a culture of curiosity within teams. Dustin shares insights on celebrating wins in creative work and offers advice on balancing personal and professional growth.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Cultivate Curiosity – Dustin emphasizes the importance of adopting a "culture of curiosity." Whether you're learning a new technology or navigating uncharted creative waters, staying curious helps you adapt, grow, and keep your work fresh.

🎨 Creativity Thrives Beyond the Rules – Mastering the fundamentals is essential, but true innovation happens when you push beyond the boundaries. Dustin encourages not just following patterns but making them your own, and experimenting—failures included—along the way.

🎨 AI is a Tool, Not a Threat – Rather than fearing advances in AI, Dustin discusses how creatives can leverage these new tools to eliminate excuses and unlock new possibilities. Human insight and curation remain indispensable, even as technology transforms the creative process.

Links and Resources:

• Dustin Black’s personal site: https://dustinblack.com

• Preston Spire https://prestonspire.com

• Mike Brennan’s Daily Creative Habit Journal & Resources: https://dailycreativehabit.com

• See Dustin’s artwork in-person: Minneapolis Airport, Terminal 1, F4 through October 2026

Feeling inspired?

Make sure you subscribe to Creative Chats and leave us a review! Your ratings help us reach more listeners and bring you stories from exceptional creatives like Dustin Black. And if you’re ready to level up your own creative routine, check out the Daily Creative Habit Membership at dailycreativehabit.com to join a supportive community and access exclusive resources.

Stay curious, keep creating, and we’ll catch you in the next episode!

311. How Children’s Books Change Lives: Kat Kronenberg’s Story and Creative Advice

In this episode of Creative Chats, Mike Brennan speaks with children's author Kathryn about the magic of creativity, the journey of writing children's books, and the importance of imagination. Kathryn shares her personal experiences of overcoming doubts and rediscovering her creative spirit later in life. They discuss the intricacies of crafting stories for children, the publishing process, and the significance of collaboration with illustrators. Kathryn emphasizes the value of feedback and community in the creative process and shares inspiring moments from her interactions with young readers. The conversation concludes with Kathryn's aspirations for future projects and encouragement for aspiring creatives to pursue their dreams with joy and tenacity.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Reclaim Your Imagination – Kat’s journey reminds us that everyone is creative at their core. Even if you’ve set creativity aside or faced life’s hardships, you can reignite your imagination and let your unique magic shine.

🎨 The Power of Persistence – Kat describes writing her first book as a wrestling match but urges us to keep “falling forward.” Whether you’re learning new skills, facing rejection, or working with limited resources, tenacity and small daily steps matter most.

🎨 Impact Beyond the Page – Children’s books aren’t just for kids. Kat demonstrates how powerful, distilled messages—delivered through stories and smiles—can profoundly affect people of all ages and backgrounds, helping us all to dream big, love big, and think big.

Links and Resources:

• Kat Kronenberg’s Website: https://katkronenberg.com/

• Kat’s Books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3KugZuj

• Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI): https://scbwi.org

• Mike Brennan’s Website & Daily Creative Habit Resources: https://mikebrennan.me

Feeling inspired?

Subscribe to Creative Chats and leave us a review—your feedback helps our show reach more passionate creatives like you! Want to build your own creative momentum?

Explore the Daily Creative Habit Membership and resources at https://mikebrennan.me. And remember: whether you’re writing, illustrating, or just beginning to dream, embrace the fun and keep showing up—your creativity has the power to change the world!

310. Creativity, Healing, and Entrepreneurship in Music: Marc Christian’s Story

In this episode of Creative Chats, Mike Brennan interviews Marc Christian, a talented musician who shares his journey from discovering his passion for music at a young age to navigating the complexities of the music industry. Marc discusses the healing power of music, his creative process, and the importance of building connections. He emphasizes the entrepreneurial aspects of being a musician and how his experiences have shaped his artistic evolution. The conversation also touches on the realities of celebrity opportunities and the significance of being open to new avenues in one's career.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 The Healing Power of Music – Marc shares how music served as a critical outlet for self-expression and emotional processing, both in his own life and in the lives of those who experience his performances. From childhood shyness to impactful moments performing in care centers, music becomes a language of connection and healing.

🎨 Embrace the Creative Entrepreneurial Journey – Transitioning from freelance gigs and teaching to building his own event business, Marc reveals the often-unseen grind, adaptability, and ongoing learning required for artists to succeed professionally. He emphasizes how creatives must wear many hats, serve their audience, and find fulfillment beyond the “flashy gigs.”

🎨 Be Open to Unexpected Paths – Marc offers a reality check for those chasing “big breaks.” The most rewarding or important opportunities often arise from small, local, or seemingly mundane moments—sometimes years later. He illustrates how being humble, prepared, and willing to serve opens doors in unexpected ways.

Episode Highlights:

• Marc’s early inspiration and how the cello became his “voice”

• Real-life stories of music’s impact, from memory care centers to personal grief

• Honest discussion on the business side of creativity: entrepreneurship, financial stability, and the importance of adaptability

• The reality behind high-profile gigs like the Grammys—and why smaller, “unsexy” events can be more fulfilling

• The importance of networking, reputation, and being present in the local music scene

• Marc’s current work with immersive art experiences and the power of interdisciplinary collaboration

Links and Resources:

• Marc Christian’s Instagram: instagram.com/marcchristiancello https://www.instagram.com/marcchristian.cello/

• Host: Mike Brennan’s website and creative resources: https://mikebrennan.me

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. And if you’re ready to deepen your creative practice and connect with like-minded makers, check out the Daily Creative Habit Membership at https://www.dailycreativehabit.com. Follow Mark Christian on Instagram to see his latest projects and performances!

309. The Art and Magic of Feedback: Navigating Critique as a Creative

In this episode of Creative Chats, Mike Brennan discusses the significance of feedback in the creative process. He emphasizes the importance of seeking constructive critique while also learning to trust one's own instincts and taste. The conversation explores the balance between receiving feedback and maintaining personal vision, as well as the distinction between the creation and revision phases of artistic work.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Invite Feedback Intentionally – Mike shares why it’s crucial to be selective about who you ask for feedback. Not all opinions are created equal—seek input from those with the right expertise and context for your work.

🎨 Discern Constructive Critique – Learn to sift through feedback like you would sand at the beach, keeping only the valuable bits that help you improve and letting the rest wash away. Constructive feedback should be actionable, not rooted in personal bias.

🎨 Trust Yourself as the Creator – Ultimately, you are the one who makes the final call on your creative work. Practice self-validation and separate your need for external approval from your drive to make the best art possible.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Mike Brennan: https://mikebrennan.me

• Explore graphic design work: https://mikebrennandesigns.com

• Daily Creative Habit Journal & Resources: Daily Creative Habit

Feeling inspired?

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

Your feedback helps us bring even more insight and encouragement to creators like you. Ready to level up your creative journey? Visit mikebrennan.me to explore the Daily Creative Habit Journal and other resources designed to fuel your artistic growth.

Keep creating, and don’t forget, you hold the final brushstroke!

308. Are You Cheating Yourself? AI, Creativity, and the Importance of Process

In this episode of Creative Chats, host Mike Brennan discusses the struggles of consistency in creativity and the importance of daily creative habits. He emphasizes the need for encouragement and progress tracking in the creative process. The conversation then shifts to the impact of AI on creativity, exploring both the opportunities and challenges it presents for artists. Brennan encourages listeners to maintain their creative agency and engage in meaningful dialogue about the evolving landscape of creativity and technology.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Don’t Delegate Your Agency – Mike cautions against letting AI or any tool do all the heavy lifting in your creative work. The essence of your originality and growth comes from the hands-on process—not just the outcome.

🎨 Intentional Use of Tools – AI is just that: a tool. Using it thoughtfully and with purpose can enhance creativity, but over-reliance can dull your skills and creative “muscles.” Know when to lean in—and when to lean on your own abilities.

🎨 Embrace Dialogue, Not Division – As the creative world navigates change, Mike urges listeners to keep conversations around AI open, empathetic, and respectful. Diverse perspectives are vital, and we all stand to grow by genuinely engaging with opposing viewpoints.

Episode Highlights:

• The struggle for consistency and creative confidence, and how the Daily Creative Habit can help (00:00–00:05)

• Real-world observations from networking events and art crawls about attitudes toward AI (00:05–00:17)

• The danger of “cheating yourself” by overusing AI or shortcuts in the creative process (00:12–00:14)

• The importance of community, conversation, and staying true to your unique creative voice (00:16–00:20)

Links and Resources:

• Mike’s Website

• Daily Creative Habit Resources

• Daily Creative Habit Membership & Journal

• Explore Mike’s art, books, and coaching: mikebrennan.me

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.

And, if you’re ready to deepen your creative practice, explore the Daily Creative Habit Membership and other resources at dailycreativehabit.com. Keep creating. When you create, we all win!

307. Why Your Creative Process Needs More Boredom

In this episode of Creative Chats, host Mike Brennan delves into the often-overlooked role of boredom in sparking creativity. Drawing from personal experiences and insights from thought leaders like Simon Sinek, Mike explores how moments of boredom can open the door to imagination and innovation. Discover how stepping away from constant stimulation can lead to unexpected creative breakthroughs. Tune in to learn how embracing boredom might just be the key to unlocking your creative potential. Don't forget to check out Simon Sinek's podcast for a deeper dive into this intriguing topic.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Boredom Unlocks Creativity – Instead of filling every moment with digital distractions, allowing yourself to experience boredom creates fertile ground for innovative thinking and problem solving.

🎨 Consistency Through Small Habits – Mike shares from his 13 years of daily creative projects how simple, consistent habits, like journaling or daily art, keep your creative muscles strong and ideas flowing.

🎨 Intentional Margin Matters – Creatives need breathing room to let thoughts marinate. Mike encourages intentionally carving out technology-free time to let your brain roam and generate deeper, more meaningful work.

Links and Resources:

• Mike Brennan’s Website

• Daily Creative Habit

• Simon Sinek’s Podcast Episode (ft. Elle Cordova) The Beautiful Brilliance of Boredom with creative polymath Elle Cordova | A Bit of Optimism Podcast: https://youtu.be/KffuNf-pAQE?si=vqeXZ1OYUTL_qXUL

Feeling inspired to try a little boredom? Take a mindful moment today, leave your phone behind and give your thoughts some space to breathe.

Want more support on your creative journey? Subscribe to Creative Chats, leave a review, and explore free resources and the Daily Creative Habit Journal at dailycreativehabit.com. And don’t forget to check the show notes for a link to the Simon Sinek episode that kicked off this conversation!

Go create something today, and let us know how boredom shapes your next big idea!

306. Painting Life’s Moments: How Heidi Schwartz Turns Events into Lasting Art

In this episode of Creative Chats, we embark on a journey through the creative mind of Heidi Schwartz, live painter and artist based in Nashville. Heidi opens up about her unconventional path from music to painting, her unique process of painting live at events, and how art has served as both a healing agent and a transformative practice in her life. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone passionate about embracing their creative instincts, navigating the evolving road of artistry, or learning to blend personal healing with the act of creation.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Embrace Instinct and Play - Heidi reveals that her creative journey began with daydreaming and “spacing out” as a child, emphasizing that primal instinct is often at the heart of true artistry. She encourages creatives to lean into their natural inclinations and allow play and curiosity to guide their process.

🎨 The Power of Presence and Process - Performing live paintings in front of audiences, Heidi shares how grounding herself in both the internal and external worlds allows her to weave moments, emotions, and memories together on canvas. She highlights the importance of being present and letting go of overthinking in order to create authentic, meaningful work.

🎨 Art as Healing—And Evolution - Heidi discusses art’s unique ability to process emotion, noting how some of her most profound work emerges from personal struggle. She underscores the necessity of balancing personal projects for self-discovery with client work, and how consistent creative practice deepens access to our most authentic voices.

Episode Highlights:

• Heidi’s journey from Nashville music student to pioneering live painter

• How “daydreaming” and obsession have fueled her growth and tenacity

• The improvisational magic and pressure of live event painting

• Navigating the evolving nature of creative careers and not getting stuck on old formulas

• The intersection between personal healing and making art for others

• Why rest, reflection, and play are essential to sustained creativity

Links and Resources:

• Heidi Schwartz’s Live Painting: paintyourevent.com

• Heidi’s Studio Work: heidischwartz.com

• Instagram: @paintyourevent

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paintyourevent

• Mike Brennan’s Website & Daily Creative Habit: http://www.mikebrennan.me

Feeling inspired by Heidi’s creative magic?

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. Interested in building your own daily creative practice?

Make sure to check out the Daily Creative Habit Membership and resources at mikebrennon.me. Keep showing up and let your creativity evolve!

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!