In this recap episode of #The Creative Life Podcast hosts Coach Jessica and Dr. Gibbons reflect on their conversation with branding and marketing strategist Natalie Micale and break down the key takeaways creatives need to know as they prepare to build a social media strategy for 2026.

Together, they unpack what was learned in the interview and translate big-picture ideas into practical next steps creatives can actually apply. From clarifying your brand foundation and understanding your audience, to approaching content with intention and long-term strategy, this episode helps connect the dots between insight and action.If you listened to the Natalie Micale interview and wondered, “How do I apply this to my own creative work or business?”—this recap is for you.

Coach Jessica and Dr. Gibbons offer perspective, real-world examples, and encouragement to help creatives move from inspiration to implementation with confidence. This episode is perfect for creatives who want to:*

• Apply branding and social media principles without overwhelm
• Build a sustainable strategy instead of chasing trends
• Start 2026 with clarity, focus, and purposeListen in to solidify what you learned and take your next intentional step forward

Keep up with Natalie Micale: https://www.instagram.com/nataliemschultz/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecreativelifepodcastomaha/

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtm5ErrhqtaaTScxsIPeDmQ

Check our website: www.TheCreativeLifePodcast.com

Thinking about launching a social media strategy in 2026 but feeling overwhelmed about where to begin? This episode is your starting point. We sit down with Natalie Micale, a creative branding and marketing strategist, to break down what actually matters when building a social media presence in the year ahead. From clarifying your brand before you post, to choosing the right platforms, to creating content with intention (not burnout).

Natalie shares practical guidance for creatives, entrepreneurs, and small teams who want a strategy that works—not just trends that fade.Whether you’re starting from zero or resetting your approach, this conversation will help you understand how to align your brand voice, visuals, and messaging with your goals, and build a social media strategy designed for longevity in 2026 and beyond.

If you’ve been asking:

• Where do I even start with social media?*
• How do I build a brand people recognize and trust?*
• What should I focus on next year instead of chasing every trend?

This episode will give you clarity, confidence, and a smarter way forward.

Connect with our guest via Instagram @nataliemschultz

Like, share and subscribe! Can't get enough of the Creative Life Podcast? Follow us on social media @thecreativelifepodcastomaha and check out our website www.TheCreativeLifePodcast.com

🎙️ Episode Description — The Creative Life PodcastRecap Episode: “What We Learned From Jerry Banks: Turning Chaos Into Creative Fuel”In this reflective follow-up, Coach Jessica and Dr. Gibbons sit down to unpack their biggest takeaways from their inspiring conversation with author and entrepreneur Jerry Banks.Together, they explore how Jerry’s raw honesty, resilience, and “Internal GPS System” illuminate a powerful truth for every creator:Your hardest moments can become the most transformative chapters of your story.In this episode, Coach Jessica and Dr. Gibbons dive into:

✨ Why owning your story—especially the messy parts—unlocks creative freedom

✨ How life pivots can sharpen your voice, your purpose, and your craft

✨ The role of discipline and resilience in sustaining a creative life

✨ Practical ways to turn pain into perspective, and perspective into art

✨ What it really means to “smile” through the sh*t life throws at youWhether you’re a writer, artist, entrepreneur, or storyteller ready to channel your lived experiences into meaningful creative work, this recap brings clarity, depth, and direction.

This episode is your permission slip to keep going—and keep creating—no matter where you are in your journey.

#CreativeLifePodcast #EpisodeRecap #ShareYourStory #CreativeJourney #LifePivot #InspiredLiving #MindsetShift #Resilience #StorytellersOfInstagram #WriteYourTruth #CreativeMindset #TransformationStory #JerryGBanks #EatShitAndSmile #PowerOfThePivot #PersonalGrowthJourney #CreativesOfInstagram #InspirationPodcast #RiseAgain #LifeReinvented #HealingJourney #TurningPainIntoPurpose #PodcastLife #ListenAndLearn

Content Warning / Listener Discretion Advised

This episode discusses sensitive topics related to suicide and mental health. While the conversation is intended to inform and foster understanding, it may be difficult or triggering for some listeners. Please take care of yourself and consider skipping this episode if you need to.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available:

• United States: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988, or chat at https://988lifeline.org Available 24/7, free and confidential.
• United Kingdom & ROI: Samaritans — Call 116 123 or visit https://www.samaritans.org
• Canada: Talk Suicide Canada — Call 1-833-456-4566 or visit https://talksuicide.ca
• Australia: Lifeline Australia — Call 13 11 14 or visit https://www.lifeline.org.au
• International: Find a local helpline at https://findahelpline.com

You are not alone, and support is always available.

In this episode of The Creative Life Podcast, we sit down with author, storyteller, and entrepreneur Jerry G. Banks, whose book Eat Sh*t & Smile unpacks the messy, unfiltered reality of personal reinvention. Jerry’s journey—from near-bankruptcy and single parenthood to becoming a successful real estate leader—reads like the kind of character arc every creator longs to capture on the page… except it’s all real.

If you’re a storyteller searching for the courage to tell your truth, this conversation is your invitation.

Jerry walks us through his self-developed Internal GPS System, the framework that helped him navigate chaos and redirect his life with intention. Built on five creative and mindset-driven pillars—Dreaming, Decision, Determination, Discipline, and Resilience—it’s a system anyone can use, especially those building narratives from their own lived experiences.

Together, we explore:

🎙️ How to transform painful pivots into powerful stories

🎙️ Why creative breakthroughs often stem from life breakdowns

🎙️ How to own your narrative—even when it feels unfinished

🎙️ The art of reframing setbacks as creative opportunities

🎙️ How radical honesty can unlock your voice and your vision

Jerry shares candid moments of loss, fear, reinvention, and triumph—offering not just inspiration, but practical tools for turning your life’s hardest chapters into stories worth telling.

If you’re in the middle of a shift, a reinvention, or a creative reckoning, this episode will remind you that your story isn’t over—and your next pivot might be the beginning of your most meaningful work yet.

Learn more about Jerry's journey: https://jerrygbanks.com/

Follow us on Instagram @TheCreativeLifePodcast.

Check out our website: www.thecreativelifepodcast.com

In this recap episode, hosts Coach Jessica and Dr. Gibbons revisit their conversation with Adam Van Osdel—artist, entrepreneur, and the creative force behind Omaha’s immersive café, Edge of the Universe.

They unpack the biggest insights from Adam’s journey, from building tactile, story-driven spaces to navigating a multi-disciplinary creative career spanning museum exhibits, TEDx Omaha, PACE, and even Netflix’s Lucky.

This episode explores: ✨ How Adam designs creativity you can see, touch, and feel ✨ Why nonlinear career paths are a strength, not a detour ✨ The art of true collaboration and creative generosity ✨ Childhood sparks that shape visionary adults

Whether you’re an artist, an entrepreneur, or a creative soul in need of inspiration, this reflection highlights the lessons and moments that stuck with us—and how they can fuel your own creative life.

Follow along on Instagram: @thecreativelifepodcastomaha

Season 2 of The Creative Life Podcast kicks off with a creative powerhouse — Adam Van Osdel, artist, entrepreneur, and founder of Edge of the Universe, Omaha’s most imaginative café where art, atmosphere, and coffee collide. Hosts Coach Olsen and Dr. Gibbons dive into Adam’s journey from museum exhibits to immersive installations, exploring how he built a space that invites guests to see, touch, and feel creativity in every corner.

With over 20 years in the arts, Adam shares insights from his work as Vice Chair and Production Designer for TEDx Omaha, Creative Director for PACE, and his experience on the film Lucky (now streaming on Netflix). He also reflects on collaboration, education in the arts, and the childhood sparks that shaped his visionary path.

Coach Jessica kicks things off with a whimsical story about visiting Edge of the Universe on a first date — and discovering a Disney princess wonderland he’ll never forget.

Follow us on Instagram @thecreativelifepodcastomaha

Visit our website: www.thecreativelifepodcast.com

In this follow-up episode to The Art of Versatility, your hosts Jessica Olsen and Dr. Jaclyn Gibbons sit down to reflect on their inspiring conversation with multidisciplinary artist and performer Jewel Rodgers.

From her work in visual art and poetry to her role in community engagement, Jewel’s journey sparked a thoughtful dialogue on the value of creative range, resilience, and purpose-driven art. In this episode, the hosts unpack key moments from the interview—highlighting Jewel’s approach to navigating multiple artistic identities, what it means to be recognized in a regional and national context, and how her story resonates with today’s creative challenges.

Tune in as Jessica Olsen and Dr. Jaclyn Gibbons share their personal takeaways, behind-the-scenes insights, and what they learned from Jewel’s fearless commitment to artistic expression. Whether you’ve already heard the interview or are catching up, this is the perfect companion episode to dive deeper.

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On this episode of The Creative Life Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome the multi-talented Jewel Rodgers—an artist and performer whose dynamic career spans visual art, poetry, and community engagement.

Jewel’s impressive resume includes two nominations for the Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards, recognition as a 2022 Union for Contemporary Art Fellow, a 2023 Andy Warhol – Populus Fund Grantee, and a 2024 Blackberry Peach Poetry Slam finalist.

Join us as Jewel shares her journey navigating diverse creative fields, the inspirations behind her work, and how she harnesses her versatile talents to impact both the arts community and audiences alike.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, resilience, and the power of artistic expression.

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This week on The Creative Life Podcast, hosts Jessica Olsen and Dr. Jaclyn Gibbons sit down to reflect on the vibrant conversation with Haley Harrer—artist, entrepreneur, and founder of True Colors Face Painting and Body Art.

In this thoughtful recap, Jessica and Dr. Jaclyn break down the key takeaways from Haley’s journey, including what it really means to build a creative business that brings joy to others. From the unexpected ways art shows up in everyday life to the challenge of balancing creativity with entrepreneurship, the hosts explore how Haley’s story offers inspiration for anyone pursuing their passion.

They’ll dive into:

• The emotional impact of bringing art into public spaces
• Strategies for turning a creative side hustle into a sustainable business
• Why joy and play are essential ingredients in any creative career

Whether you’re an artist, a business owner, or just curious about what fuels creative success, this episode is full of insight and encouragement. Tune in for a heartwarming and energizing discussion.

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This week on The Creative Life Podcast, Olsen sits down with the incredibly vibrant and talented Haley Harrer — owner and operator of True Colors Face Painting and Body Art. From weddings and birthday parties to community festivals like the Midtown Merry Market, Haley brings joy and color to every event she touches.

Haley shares how she turned her natural love for art into a thriving business, creating unforgettable experiences for kids and adults alike. Creative coach Jessica Olsen first met Haley at — of all places — a birthday party, where a spontaneous face painting session sparked a fascinating conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, and the power of doing what you love.

Tune in as we explore:

• The behind-the-scenes of face painting at large-scale events
• How Haley balances artistry with business
• What it takes to bring joy to people, one brushstroke at a time

This episode is a celebration of turning passion into purpose — don’t miss it!

• Instagram - @TheCreativeLifePodcastOmaha
• X - @CreativeLifeONe
• Tiktok - @thecreativelifepodcast