Creative Journeys

In this episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie welcome artist and Southern Connecticut alum Carolyn Cody for a conversation about finding creativity in unexpected places—from the neural patterns of the brain to the intricate beauty of sliced vegetables. Carolyn shares how her path from painting to design reflects a lifelong curiosity about art, science, and the connections between them.

They discuss the power of family influence, the tension between personal and professional creativity, and the confidence it takes to share work that feels deeply personal. Through laughter and reflection, Carolyn reveals how even the smallest details—a kiwi, a countertop, or a moment of inspiration—can spark art that feels alive.

This episode invites listeners to look closer at the world around them and rediscover the creativity hiding in plain sight.

Links:

Carolyn Cody's Artwork: http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/carolyn-cody

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In this special kickoff to Season 2 of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie return to the studio to reflect on summer adventures, share stories of unexpected travel experiences, and set the stage for what’s ahead. This season, the podcast expands its scope—moving beyond faculty spotlights to explore bigger themes of creativity with students, professionals, and voices from across disciplines.

The conversation also turns to AI—its promises, its pitfalls, and how it might shape the ways we brainstorm, collaborate, and create. With humor, curiosity, and a few candid tangents, Dave and Melanie invite listeners to join them in reimagining what creativity can look like in the year ahead.

Comments and suggestions welcome at: [email protected]!

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In the season finale of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie welcome two guests—sculptor Jeff Slomba and experimental filmmaker Derek Taylor —for a wide-ranging conversation about how creativity evolves over time, across disciplines, and through changing technologies. From darkroom film cuts to 3D-printed molds, Derek and Jeff share how their practices blend old-school techniques with contemporary tools, and why embracing experimentation (and even failure) is essential to creative growth.

Together, they reflect on teaching, technology, and the creative journey as an ongoing process—not a fixed destination. Whether you're curious about analog filmmaking, digital fabrication, or the value of making a mess in the studio, this episode is a celebration of process, persistence, and staying curious in a fast-changing world.

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In this episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie sit down with Dr. Jess Gregory, Chair of the Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Department at Southern Connecticut State University, for a candid conversation about creativity, vulnerability, and the often messy path to becoming a leader. Jess shares her winding journey from classical studies to advertising to education, and how embracing uncertainty has been key to both her personal and professional growth.

They dive into how leadership training and doctoral education overlap with creativity, especially in helping students—and educators—build confidence, battle imposter syndrome, and develop curiosity as a strength. Whether it's adapting to teach new topics or learning alongside her students, Jess brings humor, heart, and humility to the classroom.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating big transitions or wondering if they’re “doing it right.” Tune in for an inspiring reminder that the creative path is rarely straight—and that’s what makes it worth exploring.

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In this episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie sit down with Bill Farley, archaeologist and Associate Professor at Southern Connecticut State University, for a conversation that digs deep into the unexpected intersections of creativity, research, and personal growth. Bill shares how his path shifted from music to anthropology, and how embracing detours, failures, and curiosity has helped shape his career.

They talk about the role of storytelling in archaeological work, what it means to follow your interests across disciplines, and why creativity isn’t limited to the arts. Whether he’s sifting through historical artifacts or writing about modern culture, Bill brings a thoughtful, honest perspective to the evolving nature of creative work.

This episode is for anyone navigating uncertainty, making big changes, or simply trying to figure out what comes next on their own creative journey.

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In this inspiring episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie talk with Dr. KC Councilor, a professor in the Communication, Media, and Screen Studies Department at Southern Connecticut State University, about how comics became an unexpected and transformative part of his life and academic journey. KC shares how discovering drawing in his mid-30s—thanks to the influence of artist and educator Lynda Barry—helped him reconnect with his creativity, navigate personal identity, and reimagine how students can express themselves.

The episode explores the power of comics as a storytelling tool, the importance of drawing as a form of embodied memory and reflection, and the liberating potential of embracing imperfection. Whether he’s helping students find their artistic voice or using comics to explore topics in health, identity, and education, KC brings a deeply human and accessible approach to creative expression.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about art, vulnerability, and the unexpected ways we discover ourselves through creative practice.

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In this episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie sit down with Dr. Lauren Tucker, an expert in assistive technology and special education, to explore how creativity enhances accessibility and learning. Dr. Tucker shares how adaptive tools—from switch-activated toys to tactile coloring books—help individuals of all abilities engage more fully with the world around them.

The conversation highlights how creativity fuels problem-solving in education, from modifying everyday objects to designing inclusive classroom experiences. Dr. Tucker also discusses her work in toy adaptation, DIY accessibility solutions, and the importance of fostering a culture where diverse learning needs are embraced.

Whether you’re an educator, designer, or simply curious about the intersection of innovation and accessibility, this episode offers fresh insights into how creative thinking can break barriers and empower learners of all abilities. Tune in to discover how small changes can make a big impact!

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In this episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie welcome Dr. Miriah Kelly, an environmental scientist and professor at Southern Connecticut State University, to explore the intersection of creativity, science, and our connection to the natural world. Dr. Kelly shares her work on the Ocean Identity Initiative, a project that examines the emotional and social connections people have with the ocean and how fostering these relationships can inspire environmental action.

The conversation delves into the role of storytelling, communication, and design in making scientific research accessible and meaningful. Dr. Kelly reflects on her journey from communication studies to climate science, offering insights into how interdisciplinary thinking fuels creativity in research. She also discusses the importance of empowering students to explore their passions, think critically, and engage with environmental challenges in innovative ways.

This episode is perfect for anyone interested in the creative side of science, sustainability, and how personal experiences with nature shape our identities. Tune in to hear how Dr. Kelly blends research, communication, and creativity to inspire change!

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Creative Journeys is back! After a brief hiatus, Dave and Melanie return with fresh ideas, a new approach, and exciting plans for the future of the podcast. In this special episode, they reflect on past conversations, discuss their evolving vision, and invite listeners to be a part of the journey by sharing topic ideas and feedback.

They also introduce upcoming changes, including the addition of video recordings, more student involvement, and even taking the podcast beyond the studio. With an open call for creativity and collaboration, this episode sets the stage for an engaging new season filled with inspiring discussions and innovative storytelling.

Have ideas for future episodes? Reach out at [email protected]—Dave and Melanie want to hear from you!

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In this episode of *Creative Journeys*, Dave and Melanie welcome Dr. Maria Krol, Chair of the Nursing Department at Southern Connecticut State University, to discuss how creativity shapes healthcare and nursing education. Dr. Krol shares her inspiring journey from Peru to becoming a trailblazer in her field, emphasizing her commitment to mentorship, diversity, and innovative problem-solving.

The conversation explores the intersection of creativity and nursing, from using virtual reality for training to addressing systemic challenges in healthcare through inventive solutions. Dr. Krol discusses initiatives like the Summer Nursing Symposium, which introduces high school students from diverse backgrounds to nursing, and her efforts to increase representation in leadership roles.

Listeners will gain insight into how creative thinking is transforming nursing education and patient care, from gamified training simulations to fostering adaptability in global health contexts. Tune in to learn how Dr. Krol is empowering future nurses to embrace innovation and make a meaningful impact in the world of healthcare.

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