The “messy middle” is the part most of us want to skip—after the rush of a new beginning and long before the satisfying finish. In this solo episode, I share why this season is not a mistake, how it shows up in creative work, business, and relationships, and what actually helps you stay with it instead of self-isolating or burning it all down.

I tell two behind-the-scenes stories:

• Subway Dreams: the indie documentary I stopped promoting after a harsh review—plus the counter-example of a director who kept iterating, resubmitting, and ultimately premiered at Tribeca.
• Marriage in real life: what it looked like to stay through a rocky, high-conflict period with my now-husband—and the specific supports that got us through.

You’ll hear:

• What the messy middle is (and why it feels like tangled spaghetti)
• Why the instinct to self-isolate makes it harder—and what to do instead
• How to use pacing, breaks, and co-regulation so you don’t crash and torch the project
• Why holding a clear vision and finding pleasure now keeps you moving
• The mindset reframe: care more about connection than “saving face”

Try this:

• Get support (coach or buddy up)
• Pace yourself and take real breaks
• Keep your vision close—and let yourself enjoy the process now
• When fear of “how it looks” spikes, return to connection (clients, audience, partner, community, self)

Work with me
If you’re in your own messy middle and want steady support—nervous-system-safe, compassionate, and practical—I offer 1:1 coaching and a small group space.

• Website: www.annaholtzman.com
• Email: [email protected]
• IG: @anna_holtzman

Thanks for listening—and for staying with your process. You’re not behind; you’re in it.