When fear came knocking, Laurie Cochran learned that the only choice was to lean in... and do it anyway. Our latest conversation on the Empowered Creatives podcast features this awe-inspiring artist who, after a breast cancer diagnosis at 40, found her sanctuary in the arts. Laurie's tale is one of courage and the therapeutic power of creativity, as she recounts how she weathered life's storms—including an actual hurricane on her early days teaching art aboard a cruise ship—and the unwavering support of her partner through it all. Her experiences are a testament to the transformative potential of embracing your creative calling, no matter when it arrives.

Laurie also opens up about the humbling return to university, surrounded by younger peers, and how it shaped her voice as an artist. The episode peels back the layers of her evolution from a novice to hosting a triumphant art show amidst adversity. Through her story, we touch on the need for skilled educators who ignite passion and the ways in which art education can be a beacon, lighting the path towards profound personal change and fostering a sense of community.

(00:09) Overcoming Fear in the Creative Journey

(15:29) Art Education

(22:40) Challenges in Art, Building Confidence

(36:08) Facing Your Fears and Taking Action

One Thing This Week

Identify and confront a task or challenge that scares you, whether it's trying a new business strategy, reaching out to someone you admire, applying for a new opportunity, or initiating a conversation with someone you've always wanted to talk to. Despite any fears, take the leap to learn more about your capabilities and potentially open doors to new experiences and growth.

Connect with Laurie Cochrane

Learn more about  and their work at www.lauriejcochrane.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook, or Arterra Gallery

Connect with Victoria Hines

www.victoriahines.com OR on instagram @thevictoriahines

Feeling lost, stuck, or overwhelmed in your career? Grab my free Creative Career Audit to discover what's no longer working.

Keywords

Art, Creativity, Empowerment, Breast Cancer, Therapy, Courage, University, Growth, Resilience, Community, Education, Challenges, Confidence, Fear, Action, Comfort Zone, Support