Joanna Penn writes New York Times and USA Today-bestselling thrillers as J.F. Penn — and, under her own name, runs one of the most respected resources for authors on the web. Between fiction, non-fiction and courses she has released 28 books, sold over half a million copies in 84 countries and five languages, and been named Digital Book World’s Publishing Commentator of the Year.
Her latest guide, The Healthy Writer (co-authored with Dr Euan Lawson), tackles an awkward truth: long hours at a screen can wreck a creative’s body and mind. In this conversation Joanna explains how she swapped painkillers for yoga, loneliness for community and “exercise” for joyful movement — lessons that apply to every creative discipline, not just writing.
‘Creation is therapy,’ Joanna says. ‘But you need a body that will carry you the distance.’ Listen below (or on your favourite app) for a practical, myth-busting guide to becoming a healthy creative.
Episode summary
Joanna Penn
Author-entrepreneur, podcaster and speaker, Joanna bridges commercial success with candid talk about the physical and mental toll of a creative life. Her collaboration with Dr Lawson distils medical research and personal experience into a survival manual for anyone who works at a screen.
Big ideas in this conversation
Creation as therapy – writing heals trauma and boosts mood, but only if the body is cared for too.From discipline to pleasure – swap ‘exercise’ for enjoyable movement and ‘diet’ for mindful food.The ergonomics upgrade – desks, laptop stands and voice dictation can prevent years of pain.Combatting isolation – online communities, conferences and group activities reverse the health risks of loneliness.Myth-busting the tortured artist – you can be prolific, ambitious and well-rested; suffering is optional.Advice worth hearing in full
Scan your body – notice tension or aches before they become injuries.Schedule movement – morning writing; mid-morning yoga; afternoons for admin.Reframe rest – evenings and weekends off aren’t indulgent, they’re fuel.Find the right teacher – a supportive instructor can turn exercise hatred into lifelong joy.Where next?
Explore The Healthy Writer — packed with medical insights and practical tips — at TheCreativePenn.com/healthy-writer or your preferred retailer.
Follow Joanna’s weekly articles and The Creative Penn Podcast at TheCreativePenn.com for advice on writing, publishing and making a living from your craft.
About The 21st Century Creative podcast
Hosted by creative coach and award-winning poet Mark McGuinness,
The 21st Century Creative podcast helps you succeed as a creative professional amid the demands, distractions and opportunities of the 21st century.
Each episode features insights from Mark and interviews with outstanding creators — including artists, writers, performers, commercial creatives, directors, producers, entrepreneurs and other creative thought-leaders.
Make sure you receive every episode by subscribing in Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen.
Join the mailing list to have every episode delivered to your inbox, along with the free 21st Century Creative Foundation Course.
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