Mending Creatively

In this episode of Mending Creatively, we explore the fascinating world of flow—that magical state where creativity and focus collide. Learn what flow is, why it matters for your creative work, and how to set yourself up to enter this zone of peak performance. Backed by psychology and packed with practical tips, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and ready to tackle your next creative project with confidence.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Key Takeaways:

Mentioned in This Episode:

Let’s Stay Connected! If you loved this episode, make sure to:

Find more inspiration and updates on Instagram: @MendingCreatively

Support the Show: Your support makes this podcast possible! Check out The Bunny Lass for artisan home fragrances that help set the mood for your next creative session.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and motivational purposes only. The information shared is based on research and personal experience and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. If you’re experiencing significant challenges, please consult a qualified professional.

Thank you for joining today’s episode. Remember: finding flow is a journey, and every step forward counts. Just keep going!

In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Janson, a coach who specializes in helping people tackle that inner critic head-on. Together, we explore how this voice affects creativity, the sneaky ways perfectionism creeps into our work, and why self-compassion is one of the most powerful tools we have. Melissa shares practical, actionable strategies to help you recognize that critical voice, turn down its volume, and reclaim your creative confidence.

Whether you’re a professional creative, an aspiring artist, or someone who just wants to feel more confident in their everyday life, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

What You’ll Learn:

Links and Resources:

https://melissajanson.com/

IG: @its.melissajanson

TikTok: @its.emjayy33

@mendingcreatively on all socials

[email protected]

Join us over at facebook.com/groups/mendingcreatively

Let’s keep creating together!

And remember: just keep going.

In this episode of Mending Creatively, we set out to explore the creativity of horror—the storytelling, atmosphere, and artistry that make the genre so compelling. But as often happens, the conversation took on a life of its own. With special guest Co-Host Michael Cortez, we ended up chatting about our favorite horror movies, the ones that left us scarred (in the best way), and why we think horror continues to resonate with audiences.

From classics to cult favorites, we dissect what makes certain films stick with us and how they inspire creativity in unexpected ways. Is it horror? Is it a freewheeling chat about movies? Yes. Either way, we had a blast.

Whether you’re a horror aficionado or just here for some lively conversation, this episode promises laughs, insights, and maybe a new movie recommendation or two.

🎥 Movies Mentioned:

💡 Takeaways:

🎧 Tune in, and let us know your favorite horror movies or how film has inspired your creativity! Share with us on Instagram by tagging @mendingcreatively or sending an email to [email protected]

This episode is brought to you by the letter D - for Dan, and ADHD (It counts!)

Disclaimer: As always, remember this is a space for sharing ideas and perspectives—we’re not medical professionals. Clearly.

In this episode of Mending Creatively, we dive into the challenge many creators face: the pressure to follow up. Whether it’s a sequel to a successful project, a second attempt at something new, or building on your past work, the weight of expectations can feel overwhelming. I share personal stories, practical tips, and a gentle reminder that every creative step—big or small—matters.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Join the Conversation:

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! You can:

Thank you for listening! Remember, the sequel doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to exist. As always, just keep going.

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to Mending Creatively so you never miss an episode!

In this episode of Mending Creatively, I’m diving into the realities of creating during tough moments—those times when the world feels heavy, chaotic, and just plain overwhelming. Whether it’s navigating the aftermath of major events like elections, personal challenges, or everyday struggles, finding the energy to make art can feel impossible. But it’s in these moments that creativity can become our greatest tool for healing, self-expression, and connection.

Here’s what I cover in this episode:

Whether you’re an artist, writer, or someone who just loves to create, this episode is here to remind you that there’s no “right” way to make art in hard times. You don’t have to do this alone, and your creativity—no matter how small or imperfect—has value.

Let’s Stay Connected:

Support the Podcast:
If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need a little creative encouragement today. And if you love the show, leaving a quick review would mean the world to me.

Remember: Creating through hard times isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up for yourself, in whatever way you can. Thanks for tuning in, and as always, just keep going.

In this heartfelt episode of Mending Creatively, I sit down with my dear friend Nadine Gibbs for an honest and inspiring conversation about the role of creativity in navigating life’s toughest moments. Together, we explore how our creative practices have helped us process challenges, uncover resilience, and recognize growth in ourselves and each other.

Nadine shares her personal journey of using art as a therapeutic outlet, while I reflect on the lessons learned through my own creative endeavors. We discuss the importance of giving ourselves permission to create freely, even when perfection feels out of reach, and how creativity can be a powerful tool for connection and self-discovery.

Key Takeaways:

Join us as we celebrate the beauty of creativity as a means of healing, connection, and growth.

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Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Mending Creatively! Your support helps us grow our creative community.

Join our Facebook community at www.facebook.com/groups/mendingcreatively

Just keep going.

Is your inner critic getting in the way of your creativity? In this episode of Mending Creatively, we’re diving into that little voice in your head that says, “This isn’t good enough” or “Why even bother?” Whether you’re just starting to create again after a break or dealing with perfectionism, this episode offers practical tips and encouragement to quiet the critic and find joy in the creative process.

In this solo episode of Mending Creatively, we explore what it means to reconnect with your creative flow after a period away. Whether life has pulled you in different directions, or you've simply felt a lack of inspiration, taking a break is a natural part of any creative journey. Drawing from my personal experiences with Mending Creatively, I dive into why it can be challenging to return to creativity, especially without instant feedback, and share tips to help you overcome these blocks.

If you're feeling stuck or struggling with guilt over a creative break, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about self-compassion, reframing perfectionism, and actionable steps to help you rediscover your passion and joy in the process of creating.

In This Episode, I Cover:

Solo Creativity Struggles: My journey with feeling isolated in solo podcasting and how bringing in co-hosts helps me stay motivated. If you struggle with creative isolation, consider ways to bring others into your process.

Overcoming Guilt and Self-Judgment: Practical tips to reframe feelings of guilt or failure after a break. A reminder to treat yourself with compassion and recognize that breaks are an important part of the creative process.

Steps to Reignite Creativity: Four actionable strategies to ease back into creativity:

Building a Supportive Routine: The benefits of creating a routine that works for you. Suggestions on integrating small bursts of creativity into daily life, plus tips on accountability and connecting with others to stay motivated.

Resources Mentioned:

Connect with Me:

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In this episode of Mending Creatively, we explore the transformative power of art with Wendie Appel, an experienced art as therapy facilitator passionate about using creativity for healing and personal growth. Together, we dive into how art therapy goes beyond being just a hobby, helping people navigate life transitions, reduce anxiety, recover from trauma, and build self-awareness. Wendie shares personal stories of how art has impacted those who have attended her workshops, explains the benefits for those who feel "not creative," and offers tips on how to incorporate art into daily self-care routines. Whether you’re curious about exploring art as therapy or looking for new ways to grow personally, this episode will leave you inspired to pick up a brush and discover the healing power of creativity. Plus, learn more about Wendie’s upcoming programs and how you can get involved!

Tune in for an insightful conversation about using art as a tool for well-being and self-discovery.