Creativity is all about exploration and Laura Goehrke embraces this wholeheartedly. As an improviser, producer, and wedding officiant, Laura’s creative journey has been defined by curiosity, storytelling, and the powerful practice of saying "yes, and…"

In this episode, Laura sits down with Ikey Ajavon to discuss how improv shaped her perspective on life and teamwork, the joy she finds in storytelling through officiating weddings, and the power of community she fosters through her live storytelling show, Public Victories. They dive into powerful ideas like the importance of being intentional, breaking out of default modes of thinking, and how to find your personal reason for being.

If you've ever struggled with perfectionism, questioned your creative path, or simply want to feel inspired to explore your creativity more deeply, this episode is for you.

In this episode:

• The life-changing lessons from improv comedy and saying "yes, and…"

• How officiating weddings can fulfill creativity and connection

• Why your journey matters more than your destination (the arrival fallacy)

• Laura’s approach to storytelling and producing events that inspire community

Is your job your entire identity? Simone Stolzoff, author of The Good Enough Job, joins Ikey Ajavon to discuss the hidden creativity of setting boundaries, taking breaks, and cultivating a life beyond your work. From his roots studying poetry and journalism to his adventures traveling the world, Simone explores why pursuing a creative and balanced life leads to deeper fulfillment.

In this inspiring conversation, Simone shares insights on his creative writing practice, how journaling transformed his approach to storytelling, and why “good enough” might be exactly what we all need. Whether you're caught in the hustle culture or just looking to spark more creativity in your daily life, Simone’s thoughtful perspectives will encourage you to redefine what work and creativity mean to you.

In this episode:

• The transformative power of travel for creativity and perspective.

• Why your job should be part of your identity—not all of it.

• Practical strategies for balancing productivity and creativity.

• How journaling can fuel your best creative ideas.

• Why embracing "good enough" can unlock greater happiness and success.

Creativity is about exploration, and few people exemplify that spirit more than Shaun Huberts. From touring the world as a bassist with Tegan and Sara to becoming a passionate animator and filmmaker, Shaun has continuously found ways to reinvent his creative path. In this inspiring episode, Shaun joins Ikey Ajavon to dive deep into the joys and complexities of a life lived creatively.

Shaun shares his thoughts on how childhood experiences and family influence shaped his artistic pursuits, the magic and mayhem of touring life, and how trust and collaboration fuel creative success. They discuss the importance of letting go of perfection, the essential role of hobbies and passion projects, and even why soccer can feel like a performance art.

This conversation is packed with practical wisdom and playful insights, reminding us all that creativity isn't just what you make, but how you live.

In this episode:

• Shaun's journey from touring musician to animation artist.

• The surprising connections between music, stop-motion animation, and sports.

• How trust and collaboration lead to better creative outcomes.

• Why hobbies and passion projects are crucial for mental and creative health.

• The joy (and quirks) of life on a tour bus.

Social media can feel relentless — so how do we use it effectively without burning out? In this thoughtful episode, Ikey Ajavon chats with Julia Enns, a social media professor at Niagara College, about navigating creativity, intentional boundaries, and genuine connection online.

Julia opens up about her own experiences with burnout and shares practical strategies for balancing creative output and mental health. Together, they explore the importance of knowing your audience, why leadership matters deeply in social media, and how to use platforms strategically to solve problems, build communities, and foster authentic connections.

Whether you're managing a brand, trying to build your own presence, or simply looking to navigate social media more thoughtfully, Julia’s insights will remind you why creativity thrives when balanced with kindness and intention.

In this episode:

• Why knowing your audience transforms your social strategy

• Practical ways to avoid burnout and set effective boundaries

• How social media can help solve real-world problems

• Finding your creative spark through hobbies like running and DIY projects

• Leadership tips for clearer communication and aligned messaging

• The importance of positivity and empathy online and offline
  

Breaking into screenwriting isn’t easy—but sometimes all it takes is one great script and a willingness to break some rules. In this insightful episode, Ikey Ajavon sits down with screenwriter Nicolas Curcio (Sony, Blacklist) to talk about creativity, the realities of Hollywood, and how to stand out in a crowded industry.

Nic shares his unique path from film school and assistant jobs to landing on the prestigious Blacklist, working for Sony, and becoming a rising voice on TikTok. Together, they explore what it really takes to succeed in screenwriting, discuss the ever-changing landscape of AI in the film industry, and unpack the balance between creative authenticity and industry expectations.

Whether you’re an aspiring screenwriter, filmmaker, or just someone curious about storytelling, Nic’s practical advice and behind-the-scenes stories will inspire you to embrace your creativity—and maybe even break a few rules along the way.

In this episode:

• How Nicolas Curcio’s buzzy script landed him on Hollywood’s radar

• The importance of finding happiness through originality

• Realities of being a screenwriting assistant (and why connections matter)

• Navigating notes, collaboration, and creative integrity

• Why screenwriting "rules" are meant to be broken

• How TikTok opened unexpected doors in Nic’s creative journey

• The future impact of AI on screenwriting and storytelling

Connect with Nicolas Curcio:
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7050237/

- https://www.instagram.com/nicolascurcio/

-https://www.instagram.com/thehollywoodhang/

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What if the secret to creativity was hidden inside something as simple as a sandwich — or the playlist on your morning run?

In this energizing episode, Ikey Ajavon sits down with Annie Odell, a creative thinker who believes deeply in intentional curiosity, the power of zoning out, and the joy of crafting your own creative space.

Together they explore why creativity is essential for everyone, not just artists, and discuss practical ways to spark and sustain your creative energy. Annie shares her relatable experiences with burnout, social media, and finding happiness through small, intentional practices she calls the “Four Points of Happiness.”

From navigating social media's impact on our creativity, to balancing personal passion and paid work, this episode delivers fresh perspectives on how to make creativity accessible, enjoyable, and genuinely nourishing.

In this episode:

• Why zoning out is crucial to your creative process.

• How intentional curiosity can transform your work (and life).

• Annie’s playful “sandwich theory” of creativity.

• Practical ways to find happiness through intentional creative actions.

• Tips for balancing creativity, passion, and professional demands.

• The art of creating spaces that fuel your best ideas.

Connect with Annie Odell:

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Creativity often thrives when we lean into discomfort, embrace constraints, and bring our authentic selves to the table. In this episode, Ikey Ajavon is joined by Emmanuel "Manny" Afambu—a creative thinker whose career journey spans contemporary theater, performance art, and marketing.

Manny shares personal insights about how constraints can actually enhance creativity, the importance of being authentic in professional settings and so much more.

Together, they discuss how creativity isn’t reserved for artists alone — it's a mindset anyone can tap into. Manny reflects on key influences like Rick Rubin and his own experiences moving from the stage to the corporate world, emphasizing adaptability, curiosity, and the power of personal passion.

Whether you're navigating career shifts, looking to enhance your creativity at work, or just seeking inspiration to step outside your comfort zone, this episode is filled with practical advice and motivating insights.

In this episode:

• Why constraints can spark your most creative ideas.

• The importance of authenticity and bringing your full self to work.

• How your creative passions can align with professional goals.

• Manny's experience shifting from performance arts to digital marketing.

• The role of adaptability in sustaining creativity.

• Practical ways to embrace discomfort and foster personal growth.

Connect with Manny Afambu:

https://www.instagram.com/daffy_manny

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Creativity isn’t just about skill, it’s a mindset anyone can adopt. In this episode, Harlem-based artist and educator Erica Marksteiner joins Ikey Ajavon to explore the many dimensions of creativity, from personal passion to teaching art in NYC classrooms. Erica shares insights from her journey as an artist and art teacher, discusses the delicate balance between creating for love versus profit, and explains why everyone needs a creative outlet to thrive.

They also dive into the role of autonomy in art education, how technology like AI can serve as a creative tool, and why empowering students to see themselves as artists can have transformative effects. Whether you're an experienced creator or someone looking for ways to incorporate creativity into everyday life, Erica’s perspectives offer a refreshing reminder: creativity truly is for everyone.

In this episode:

• Why creativity is more mindset than skill.

• Navigating the tension between art for passion vs. profit.

• The unique joys and challenges of teaching art in Harlem.

• How autonomy and empowerment can transform art education.

• The role AI plays in the evolving creative landscape.

• Practical ways anyone can cultivate creativity in their life.

Connect with Erica:

• Erica's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emarks5/
• Erica's Website: https://www.ericamarksteiner.com/
• Erica's baking Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bakesteiner/

Follow Ikey Ajavon:

• Small Steps Newsletter: https://ikeyajavon.substack.com/
• Ikey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ikeyajavon
• Believe Divergent YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BelieveDivergentVideo

The AI revolution has undeniably arrived, whether we're ready for it or not. Amidst the surge of AI companies, one stands out as a true leader: OpenAI. If you haven't heard of OpenAI, chances are you've come across their remarkable creation, Chat GPT. This chatbot has taken the world by storm, captivating audiences everywhere. In a unique twist, this episode puts Chat GPT in the hosting seat, firing away with ten insightful questions inspired by the essence of "The Pursuit of Creativity" podcast.

During our conversation, we dive into the depths of my origin story as a creator, tracing the path that led me to where I am today. We also delve into an important topic: the impact of working in social media on mental health. Additionally, we touch upon the sources of inspiration that ignite my creative fire and keep me motivated along the way.

And yes, this was written by Chat GPT :)

Follow Ikey

⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ikeyajavon

⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ikeyajavon/⁠

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https://www.believedivergent.com⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/believedivergent/⁠

These interviews were recorded with Riverside. Click ⁠here⁠ to try it out for yourself!

Welcome to the Pursuit of Creativity podcast, where we explore the journeys and experiences of creative individuals from various fields. In this episode, we will be talking to Claire Manship, a trained actress, singer, and digital creator who is also the face and mind behind Carfax's social media presence.

In part one, we covered Claire's time as an actor in NYC before the pandemic shutdown broadway.

These interviews were recorded with Riverside. Click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠ to try it out for yourself!