Summary

In this episode of Decoding the Flow, Drica Lobo sits down with visual artist Erica Morales to explore Nuyorican identity — a cultural bridge between New York and Puerto Rican roots — and how it shapes creative flow, visibility, and artistic voice.owth.

Erica shares her journey as a Nuyorican artist—rooted in both New York and Puerto Rican culture—and how her identity shapes her artistic voice and creative process. She reflects on how art became a therapeutic outlet during challenging seasons, the importance of flow states in creation, and why discipline and self-love are essential foundations for a sustainable art practice.

Together, they explore the realities of the art market, the role of visibility and exposure, and how rejection is not a reflection of an artist's worth. Erica also offers honest advice for emerging artists navigating confidence, community, and career-building.

This episode is a powerful reminder that art is not just an object—but a living connection between the artist and the collector.

Key Takeaways

• Erica's Nuyorican identity deeply informs her artistic perspective

• Art became a therapeutic and grounding force during personal challenges

• The creative process is a dance between intuition and reaction

• Visibility plays a crucial role in the art market

• Discipline is essential for sustaining a creative practice

• Self-love builds confidence and artistic integrity

• Art can amplify and honor marginalized stories

• Community, networking, and exposure matter for emerging artists

• Rejection is not a measure of artistic worth

• Art creates a living connection between artist and collector

Sound Bites / Quotes

• "This is my love."

• "You have to do it for you."

• "You're selling a state of mind."

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nuyorican Identity 04:47 The Artistic Journey Begins 09:45 Artistic Process and Flow States 14:44 Visibility and the Art Market 19:53 The Role of Discipline in Art 24:53 The Impact of Art on Personal Growth 29:32 Advice for Emerging Artists 34:25 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

About the Host — Drica Lobo

Drica Lobo is a Brazilian-born, California-based visual artist, author, and podcast host. She is the creator of Creative Consciousness as a way of life and the founder of Decoding the Flow — a platform and podcast dedicated to exploring how imagination shapes reality.

Through her paintings, writing, and conversations with artists and creative leaders, Drica invites people to live from creation, not reaction, and to reconnect with their intuitive, expressive nature. Her work bridges art, nature, emotion, and consciousness, inspiring others to awaken their creative power and build lives rooted in intention, flow, and authenticity.

Website: dricalobo.com Instagram: @dricaloboart

Get her book Decoding The Flow

About the Guest — Erica Morales

Erica Morales is a Nuyorican visual artist whose work explores identity, culture, and emotional presence through bold expression and intuitive process. Rooted in both New York and Puerto Rican heritage, her artistic voice reflects lived experience, self-reflection, and the stories of communities often underrepresented in contemporary art.

Erica's creative practice is guided by flow, discipline, and deep self-connection. Her work has been exhibited internationally and across the United States, including SCOPE Miami and The Other Art Fair Brooklyn, and continues to resonate with collectors through its emotional honesty and sense of movement.

For Erica, art is more than an object — it is a living exchange between artist and viewer, a shared state of mind.

Website: ericamorales.com Instagram: @ericamorales.studios

Summary

In this solo episode of Decoding the Flow, Drica Lobo opens 2026 by turning the microphone inward.

Instead of a traditional introduction, she interviews herself — answering one of the most common questions she's received over the years:

How did your journey as an artist begin — and when did you really start making money?

Drica shares the honest, nonlinear reality of building an art career, from creating without permission to navigating uncertainty, moving to a new country, and learning how identity, self-trust, and experimentation shape both creativity and income.

This episode explores the messy middle of the creative journey — the phase most people skip over — and reframes success as an identity shift rather than a moment in time.

If you're an artist, creative entrepreneur, or anyone questioning their path, this conversation is an invitation to trust yourself, commit to your craft, and remember that alignment creates opportunity.

TAKEAWAYS

• The creative journey is rarely linear — and that's not a flaw.

• Believing in yourself is an identity decision, not a feeling.

• Early creative experiences shape how you see yourself as an artist.

• New environments can unlock unexpected opportunities.

• Commitment to your craft creates momentum over time.

• Investing in self-discovery is part of building a sustainable career.

• Trusting intuition is essential in both art and business.

• Experimentation is how clarity is formed.

• Art can be a viable career when aligned with self-belief.

• You have the power to define your own creative path.

SOUND BITES

• "You have to test, test, test — that's how clarity is created."

• "Money didn't change when my talent changed. It changed when my identity did."

• "You're not late. You're becoming."

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Journey of a Creative Entrepreneur 02:35 Embracing the Messy Middle 09:40 Finding My Path Through Art and Journalism 11:59 Moving to the United States: A New Beginning 15:13 Commitment, Opportunity, and Momentum 18:56 Shifting Gears: From Journalism to Art 20:56 Investing in My Art Career 22:13 Trusting Yourself as an Artist 23:03 Experimentation and the Business of Art

About Drica Lobo

Drica Lobo is a visual artist, author, and creative entrepreneur based in California. She is the creator and host of Decoding the Flow, a podcast dedicated to creative consciousness, identity, and living from alignment rather than reaction.

With nearly a decade of experience as a professional artist, Drica has built a multifaceted creative career spanning fine art, murals, wearable art, and education. Her work explores color, emotion, and perception as portals for self-discovery, inviting viewers and listeners to reconnect with their creative power.

Originally from Brazil, Drica's journey includes navigating creativity across cultures, building a sustainable art business from the ground up, and redefining success on her own terms. Through her art, writing, and conversations, she encourages artists and seekers to trust themselves, embrace experimentation, and remember that creativity is not a luxury — it's a way of being.

Drica Lobo.com | INSTAGRAM @dricaloboart

Get Her Book Decoding The Flow

Work WIth Drica

Summary

As we stand at the edge of a new year, this episode is an invitation to pause.

In her very first solo episode of Decoding the Flow, Drica Lobo reflects on the closing of 2025 and opens a gentle, honest space for becoming. Rather than focusing on resolutions or external goals, this conversation centers on identity, awareness, and the quiet decisions that shape the life we are creating.

Drica guides listeners through reflective questions and simple practices to help identify what no longer belongs in the next chapter, how self-perception influences reality, and why focusing on how we want to feel is often more powerful than what we want to achieve.

This episode is not about fixing yourself or forcing change. It's about choosing who you are becoming — with clarity, intention, and trust.

A closing ritual for the year. A conscious beginning for what comes next.

Key Takeaways

• This is Drica's very first solo episode

• Creating a safe space to reflect is essential

• Awareness is the foundation of change

• We design our lives by shifting identity, not forcing outcomes

• Focus on the feelings you want to experience

• Everything you lived this year is valid

• Follow your excitement, follow your flow

• Change happens one day at a time

Sound Bites

• "This is my very first episode solo."

• "Create a safe space for us to evaluate."

• "Follow your excitement, follow your flow."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Decoding the Flow 02:15 Reflecting on 2025: What Worked and What Didn't 06:25 Identifying What to Leave Behind 11:14 Shifting Identity for 2026 16:54 Creating Your Unique Path 19:00 Conclusion and New Year Wishes

About Drica Lobo

Drica Lobo is a visual artist, author, and the creator of Decoding the Flow — a podcast exploring creative consciousness, identity, and the art of living from creation rather than reaction.

Born in Brazil and based in California, Drica's work spans painting, murals, writing, and teaching, all rooted in the belief that creativity is not just something we do, but a way we relate to life. Through her art and conversations, she invites people to reconnect with their intuition, trust their creative rhythm, and design lives that feel aligned, intentional, and alive.

Decoding the Flow is an extension of her creative practice — a space for honest conversations, reflection, and remembering who we are becoming.

Drica Lobo.com | INSTAGRAM @DricaLoboArt

Get Her Book Decoding the Flow

Summary

In this episode of Decoding the Flow, Drica Lobo sits down with Deborah Liss, a Brazilian writer and filmmaker whose life has been shaped by creativity from an early age.

In this conversation, Deborah Liss shares her creative journey, from her early experiences with art and storytelling to her transition to the United States to pursue her dreams. She discusses the importance of authenticity in creativity, her latest projects including the book 'Baby Seeker' and her latest short-film 'Broken', addressing domestic violence, and the rituals that nurture her creative process. Deborah emphasizes the transformative power of art in processing pain and trauma, and the legacy that artists can create through their work.

Key Takeaways

• Creativity has been a guiding force in Deborah's life since childhood

• Living a creative life requires courage, presence, and vulnerability

• Moving countries can be part of answering a creative calling

• Authenticity is essential for meaningful artistic expression

• Creative rituals help sustain long-term inspiration

• Art can transform life experiences into purpose and connection

• Creating is also about building a legacy beyond ourselves

Sound Bites

• "Creativity saves lives."

• "Be really true to yourself."

• "Art allows us to turn experience into meaning."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Deborah Liss 02:47 The Early Creative Journey 11:45 Transition to the United States 15:25 Living a Creative Life 19:00 Domestic Violence 22:20 The Birth of The Baby Seeker 23:00 Cycles of Domestic Violence 25:21 Storytelling Through Film 28:00 Creative Rituals 39:00 Future Projects

About the Guest

Deborah Liss is a writer and filmmaker whose work explores creativity as a pathway to truth, healing, and self-expression. Rooted in storytelling from an early age, Deborah has spent her life transforming lived experience into meaningful creative work.

She is the author of The Baby Seeker and is known for her thoughtful, courageous approach to writing and filmmaking. Through her work, Deborah invites audiences to reflect on authenticity, creative courage, and the power of art to shape both personal and collective legacy.

DeborahLiss.com | INSTAGRAM: @deborahliss

About the Host

Drica Lobo is a visual artist, author, and creative mentor based in California. She is the creator and host of Decoding the Flow, a podcast exploring creative consciousness, flow states, and what it means to live from creation rather than reaction.

Through her art, writing, and conversations with creatives from around the world, Drica guides artists and seekers back to their innate creative power — blending intuition, discipline, and soulful presence. Her work invites people to see creativity not just as a practice, but as a way of life.

DricaLobo.com | INSTAGRAM: @dricaloboart

Get Her Book Decoding the Flow

Summary

In this grounding and expansive episode of Decoding the Flow, Drica Lobo sits down with Mirela Mattos, yoga instructor, wellness and meditation coach, and mother of six, for a deeply embodied conversation on mindfulness, breath, and living in flow.

Mirela shares her personal journey of self-discovery through yoga and meditation, exploring how movement, breath, and presence become tools for navigating life with more awareness and ease. Together, they discuss how resistance can be embraced rather than avoided, how commitment and consistency build confidence, and why creative consciousness begins in the body.

This episode is an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and remember that every breath is a new beginning. Through practical insights and soulful reflections, Mirela reminds us that mindfulness isn't something we add to life — it's something we return to, moment by moment.

Perfect for anyone seeking grounding, clarity, and a more intentional way of living.

Key Takeaways

• Everything in life is always flowing and moving • The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and requires conscious action • Breath is one of the most powerful tools for grounding and presence • Resistance can be embraced to allow energy to move and transform • Commitment and consistency build confidence and self-trust • Creative consciousness begins with lived experience and embodiment • Mindfulness can transform ordinary routines into meaningful rituals • Every breath holds the opportunity for a fresh beginning • Creating moments of solitude is essential for self-care and clarity • The journey itself matters as much as the destination

Notable Quotes

"Every breath is a new beginning." "Your breath is your superpower." "You can create your own thing."

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to mindfulness and yoga 05:03 Mirela's journey of self-discovery through yoga 09:55 Breath, meditation, and grounding the body 14:39 Overcoming resistance and embracing change 19:34 The power of commitment and consistency 24:31 Creative consciousness and personal growth 29:19 Mindfulness in daily life 34:28 Closing reflections and future intentions

About the Guest — Mirela Mattos

Mirela Mattos is a yoga instructor, wellness and meditation coach, and mother of six. Her work centers on embodiment, mindfulness, and helping people reconnect with their breath, body, and inner wisdom. Through movement and presence, Mirela guides others toward a more grounded, intentional, and fulfilling life.

Follow her Instagram page @mirelamattoswellness

About the Host

Drica Lobo is an artist, author, and the creator of Creative Consciousness as a way of life. Through her work and the Decoding the Flow podcast, she explores how art, awareness, and imagination shape reality — inviting others to live from creation, not reaction.

DricaLobo.com | Instagram @dricaloboart | Get her Book Decoding the Flow

Summary

In this conversation, Sara Glupker, an award-winning full-time artist from Michigan, shares her inspiring journey of moving from part-time painter to professional creative. She opens up about the long path to becoming a full-time artist, the deep role of community support, and how authenticity has shaped both her work and her audience.

Sara discusses the lessons learned through solo exhibitions, the emotional experience of showing her work publicly, and how managing expectations can make or break the artist experience. She also speaks about navigating the balance between family life and creativity, honoring different creative seasons, and establishing non-negotiables that protect her artistic flow.

This episode is a heartfelt reminder that the artist journey is not linear — and that embracing your identity as an artist is one of the most powerful steps you can take.

Takeaways

• Every artist has unique opportunities available today. • Transitioning to full-time artistry takes time — often years. • Community support is a crucial pillar of an artist's evolution. • Authenticity attracts your aligned collectors. • Solo exhibitions teach lessons far beyond sales. • Managing expectations makes the show experience healthier. • Balancing art and family is challenging, but possible. • Creative seasons influence output and energy. • Non-negotiables protect your creative flow. • Embracing your identity as an artist is essential for success.

Sound Bites

• "You have to find a way to be honest with yourself."

• "The right painting is for the right person."

• "You can have both things at the same time."

Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Sara Glupker 02:55 — The Journey to Full-Time Artist 06:14 — Transitioning from Part-Time to Full-Time 08:58 — The Importance of Community and Support 11:53 — The Role of Authenticity in Art 15:03 — Lessons from Solo Exhibitions 17:59 — Managing Expectations and Creative Flow 21:07 — Finding Balance in Art and Family Life 23:57 — Creative Seasons and Non-Negotiables 27:13 — Encouragement for Aspiring Artists 29:48 — Conclusion and Future Plans

About Sara

Sara Glupker is an award-winning painter based in Michigan, creating vibrant, joyful, and expressive work inspired by the Midwest landscape, nature, and daily life. Working in acrylic, watercolor, and gouache, her style blends impressionism, illustration, and folk influences to create whimsical, dreamlike imagery full of color and emotion.

With a BFA in Painting from Western Michigan University and two decades of professional experience, Sara has exhibited internationally and earned numerous awards, including First Place at the 2022 Regional Juried Arts Competition at the Carnegie Center for the Arts. Her work is featured in corporate and private collections and has appeared in Create! Magazine, AQ Volume 1, and Wilder: Roam. She is also the host of The I Like Art Podcast, where she supports and inspires fellow creatives.

Contact

Website: https://www.saraglupkerart.com/ Instagram: @saraglupker Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaraStrongGlupkerArtist/ Podcast: https://ilikeart.libsyn.com/ Podcast Instagram: @ilikeart.podcast Substack: https://substack.com/@saraglupker

About the Host Drica Lobo

dricalobo.com | IG @dricaloboart

Get Her Book Decoding the Flow

Summary

In this episode, Drica Lobo sits down with Brazilian visual artist Lorenzo Cardim, whose multidisciplinary work explores the human body as both medium and message. Together, they revisit the origins of his artistic journey, the emotional and philosophical foundations behind his sculptures and performances, and how cultural roots shape identity and creative expression.

Lorenzo shares how living abroad expanded his sense of belonging, how the Notre Dame project deepened his relationship with architecture, and why artist residencies create fertile ground for vulnerability and connection. The conversation also touches on Creative Consciousness, flow states, and the power of presence in artistic creation.

This is a rich, intimate dialogue about body, memory, identity — and the universal human longing to connect.

Takeaways

• Lorenzo's work centers on the human form and the relationships we build through it.

• The body functions as both subject and medium, grounding his sculptures and performances.

• Emotional expression and storytelling are deeply tied to his Brazilian heritage.

• Travel and living abroad expanded his sense of identity and belonging.

• His Notre Dame project highlights the powerful intersection of art, architecture, and history.

• Creative Consciousness, for Lorenzo, involves deep listening, presence, and honesty.

• Flow requires space, time, and intentionality.

• Artist residencies offer sanctuary — a place where vulnerability and artistic expansion naturally unfold.

• Art can bridge personal experiences with collective narratives.

• Creating is a powerful act of connection — to oneself and to others.

Sound Bites

• "Art has the power to make us belong."

• "I felt connected… like we were family."

• "We are creators — we can't escape that."

Chapters

00:00 — Exploring Artistic Identity and Journey 07:50 — Cultural Roots and Belonging 16:04 — The Notre Dame Project: A Blend of Art and Architecture 22:59 — Creative Consciousness: The Power of Creation 39:16 — The Impact of Artist Residencies 48:03 — Art, Connection, and the Human Experience

About Lorenzo Cardim

lorenzocardim.com | IG: @lorenzocardim

National Geographic's Coverage of the Notre Dame Cathedral's Restoration

Notre Dame Interview

About the Host Drica Lobo

dricalobo.com | IG @dricaloboart

Get Her Book Decoding the Flow

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Summary:

In Episode 9 of Decoding the Flow, host Drica Lobo welcomes Marina Granger, founder of Manifesting for Artists, for a deep conversation on abundance, identity, and energetic alignment for creatives.

Marina shares her journey from being an artist to becoming a manifestation coach, and unpacks the real keys behind manifesting your creative desires: authenticity, identity upgrades, and the willingness to let go of scarcity thinking.

Together, they explore how to identify and transform limiting beliefs, why forgiveness is a crucial step in manifestation, and how quantum physics supports the creative process. Marina offers a simple yet powerful approach to becoming magnetic—one that blends energy, mindset, and aligned action.

Takeaways:

• Authenticity is the foundation of manifestation • You attract what aligns with your self-perception • Abundance begins where the idea of lack ends • Forgiveness clears the path to creative clarity • Artists often struggle with visibility and self-worth—but these can shift • Identity is the real engine of your creative power

This episode is a reminder that manifestation isn't magic—it's alignment.

Sound bites

"Manifestation is all about authenticity."

"You manifest from who you think you are."

"You can manifest anything you desire."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Manifestation for Artists

01:50 Marina's Journey: From Artist to Manifestation Coach

08:40 The Connection Between Abundance and Self-Worth

13:08 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs in the Art World

18:54 The Manifestation Process for Artists

22:40 The Importance of Forgiveness in Manifestation

24:22 Creating a Supportive Environment for Manifestation

25:33 Creating a Magnetic Space for Artists

28:12 Understanding Magnetism and Confidence

34:25 The Power of Identity in Manifestation

39:17 Integrating Spirituality and Practicality in Art

45:18 Resources and Community for Artists

Guest: Marina Granger Connect with Marina: manifestingforartists.com | @theartistadvisory

Host: Drica Lobo

Connect with Drica: dricalobo.com | @dricaloboart

Summary

In this inspiring episode of Decoding the Flow, host Drica Lobo sits down with Maria Brophy — creative strategist, artist advocate, and author of the timeless book Art, Money, Success.

Together, they explore the powerful intersection of creativity and consciousness, and what it truly takes for artists to build aligned, abundant, purpose-driven careers.

Maria shares her decades of experience working alongside her husband, world-renowned surf artist Drew Brophy, and the essential principles that help artists thrive in any era — from defining success on your own terms to building genuine relationships with collectors, and daring to think outside traditional systems.

She also opens up about Drew's near-death experience during COVID, and how love, gratitude, and resilience reshaped their perspective on life, art, and what really matters.

This conversation is equal parts practical and deeply soulful — a roadmap for artists who want to awaken their creative power and live from alignment, courage, and intention.

Key Takeaways

• Creativity and consciousness are inseparable on the artist's journey • Defining your version of success is the foundation of a thriving career • Relationships with collectors are timeless and irreplaceable • Thinking outside the box creates unexpected opportunities and visibility • Adversity can transform your perspective and deepen your purpose • Mindset shifts are essential for long-term success • Gratitude elevates emotional state — and your results • Practical steps can help artists transition from a job to full-time art • Self-trust is the most important ingredient for any creative path • Every choice you make should move you toward the life you truly want

Sound Bites

• "You have to know what success is for you." • "There's probably 10,000 ways to do it." • "You have to trust in yourself so much."

Chapters

00:00 — Introduction to Maria Brophy and Her Mission 01:43 — The Timeless Principles of Art, Money, Success 05:06 — Defining Success in the Art World 08:23 — Breaking the Mystery of the Art World 13:57 — Resilience Through Adversity: A Personal Journey 23:57 — The Turning Point: From Struggling to Thriving 26:45 — Journey to Financial Success 29:07 — Investing in Mindset and Purpose 32:38 — Transitioning from Job to Art 41:13 — The Energetics of Success 48:43 — Final Thoughts and Resources 50:10 — Embracing Your Creative Power

🔗 Resources & Links

Connect Drica Lobo: www.dricalobo.com | Instagram @dricaloboart

📖 Drica's Book: Decoding the Flow: Optimize Your Creative Power With Unshakable Confidence

Connect with Maria Brophy: https://mariabrophy.com/ | Instagram @mariabrophy

📖 Maria's Books:

Art, Money & Success by Maria Brophy

Covid, A Love Story by Maria Brophy

Summary

In this soothing episode of Decoding the Flow, host Drica Lobo sits down with artist and mentor Ali Futrell to explore how creativity becomes therapy for the soul. They delve into the importance of rituals in fostering creative flow, the balance between discipline and intuition, and the role of gratitude in the creative process. The discussion also addresses overcoming resistance and self-doubt, sustaining creativity during challenging times, and empowering others through art. Ali shares insights on encouraging aspiring creators and highlights her upcoming projects.

Key Takeaways

Art can be a therapeutic outlet for emotions. Creating art, regardless of skill, can be beneficial. Self-reflection through art helps in processing thoughts. Engaging in creative activities can improve mental health. Art provides a space for solitude and contemplation. The act of painting can lead to emotional release. Artistic expression can foster a sense of accomplishment. Creativity can be a form of self-care. Art helps in navigating personal challenges. Finding joy in the process of creation is essential.

Sound Bites

"I often do paint, even if it's the worst art — it helps me work through things."

"Art gives me a moment of solitude and reflection — like meditation with color."

"Art is a total meditation."

"Gratitude plays a huge role."

"Trust the process."

Chapters

00:00 The Spiritual Connection of Painting

03:21 Rituals and Flow States in Creativity

05:58 Balancing Discipline and Intuition

08:45 The Role of Gratitude in Art

11:15 Overcoming Resistance and Self-Doubt

13:46 Sustaining Creativity in Unsettled Times

16:11 Empowering Others Through Art Classes

19:07 Encouragement for Aspiring Artists

22:04 Future Projects and Creative Endeavors

29:26 Embracing Your Creative Power

🔗 Resources & Links

Connect with Ali Futrell: www.atfutrell.com | Instagram @alifutrell.art

Connect with Drica Lobo: www.dricalobo.com | Instagram @dricaloboart

📖 Drica's Book: Decoding the Flow: Optimize Your Creative Power With Unshakable Confidence

Recomended Books in this episode:

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

Art & Fear by David Bayles & Ted Orland