What if the key to unleashing your creativity isn't found in hustling harder but in following the whispers of curiosity that most of us have been conditioned to ignore? Valerie and Mak McKeehan dive deep into how our education system and cultural messaging train us to become prisoners of outcome-based thinking, postponing joy until we achieve some distant goal.

From their earliest days in school, people learn to focus on test scores rather than the process of discovery. This mindset follows us into adulthood, where we become addicted—yes, literally addicted at a physiological level—to the stress hormones that keep us in a perpetual state of dissatisfaction. The most shocking revelation? Joy is actually one of the most vulnerable emotional states we can experience, which explains why our brains often sabotage moments of happiness with intrusive negative thoughts.

For those feeling stuck or uncertain about their creative direction, this episode offers liberating permission to experiment without judgment. Your creativity isn't just some frivolous hobby—it's the gateway to accessing your unique magic. As Valerie puts it: "You are made for what is whispering to you, because the only reason it's whispering to you is because it's in you."

Follow Valerie & Mak on Instagram: @valeriemckeehan and @thatmakguy

Valerie and Mak McKeehan launch their new podcast, The Unbound Creative, dedicated to helping creatives break free from societal constraints and self-imposed limitations to discover a more expansive, authentic creative life.

• Creativity is an essence of being, not just an act—bringing forth something that didn't exist before

• Our brains are wired to resist creativity and change, operating from a protection mechanism

• The soul craves adventure and expression while the brain seeks safety and comfort

• True fulfillment comes through experiencing flow state rather than merely achieving calm

• Permission to iterate and evolve is essential—you don't have to stick with your first idea forever

• Creativity operates from abundance—the more you light up, the more you light others up

• Breaking free from outdated myths like the "starving artist" narrative opens new possibilities

• Embracing discomfort is necessary for growth—when you feel comfortable, you're not expanding

Connect with us on Instagram @valeriemckeehan and @thatmakguy to share your thoughts and creative journey.

What truly sets successful creative entrepreneurs apart? It's not just about mastering pricing or nailing your branding—it's about how you show up every day. It comes down to having courage. This is the number one thing that sets apart someone who is finding success selling their art.

We all have fears and imposter syndrome to overcome, but when you can feel the fear and do it anyway, you open yourself up to creating a life you want. Embarking on any creative journey takes courage, but what if you could pair that courage with a powerful detachment from outcomes? 

Real change starts to happen. In this episode, Mak and Valerie explore how this combination can open you up to a fulfilling artpreneurial life. You’re not waiting for a permission slip or someone to choose you, you are choosing yourself. And by doing so through one, small, courageous act at a time, you’ll be amazed at what happens! 

• Begin your selling journey here: https://valeriemckeehan.com/sellwithpeace

Ever wondered how to craft a brand that truly embodies your authentic self? 

Valerie and Mak explore this vital question by examining the unique vibes of artists' personal brands, both online and offline. They provide insights on how having a personal brand will help you as an artpreneur, how to maintain authenticity while choosing which facets of your personality to highlight, and discuss how your brand's vibe extends beyond visuals to create meaningful connections with your audience.

By integrating your genuine interests and passions into your brand, you can foster a loyal following and true connection. 

• Begin your selling journey here: https://valeriemckeehan.com/sellwithpeace/

“I’d love to sell my artwork, but I just don’t have a big audience or following.” This is one of the first things a lot of artists interested in selling their artwork say. But having a big audience isn’t the answer. You can begin selling your art, today, whether you have 100 followers or 10,000. 

In today’s episode, Valerie and Mak McKeehan discuss the many ways you can kick-start your art business without a massive following. 

We also discuss the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and detaching from outcomes to find joy in the process of art-making and selling. Let us inspire you to take bold steps, cultivate resilience, and find fulfillment in your artpreneurial journey.

• Begin your selling journey here: https://valeriemckeehan.com/sellwithpeace

One of the most daunting aspects of being an Artpreneur is figuring out how to price your work. In this next episode of “Sell Your Work, Without the Stress” Series, long-time entrepreneurs Valerie and Mak McKeehan share their secrets and philosophies for not only pricing, but pricing in a way that is fulfilling and exciting! Whether you're struggling to set a price that feels appropriate or looking to transform your art business, this episode offers a fresh perspective and actionable advice that promises to change the way you view the rocky road of pricing your artwork.

Selling art isn't about the materials—it's about the emotions and experiences your work brings to others. We discuss the importance of selling feelings like joy and peace, rather than pain, materials, and time. We illustrate the magical connection art creates between people, emphasizing how value surpasses the tangible aspects. You'll learn how to simplify the selling process, start with what you have, and embrace the joy of selling through sharing your authentic creativity.

• Learn more and begin your selling journey here: https://valeriemckeehan.com/sellwithpeace

Imagine viewing your art not just as a creative endeavor, but as a powerful way to enrich lives and engage in a meaningful exchange of value. 

In this episode, Valerie and Mak McKeehan explore the often daunting intersection of business and creativity, offering a fresh perspective that can transform the fear of selling into an invitation to connect with others. By addressing subconscious money blockers and encouraging mindset shifts, they will inspire you to embrace new possibilities, break free from limiting beliefs, and help you confidently sell your art.

This episode is packed with insights and personal stories all aimed at inspiring you to celebrate your creative brilliance and the art of selling your work with peace and joy! Tune in to discover how you can transform your artistic passion into a thriving business and join a community that celebrates your wins every step of the way.

• Start your artpreneur and selling journey here: https://valeriemckeehan.com/sellwithpeace

What if the key to unlocking your creative potential lies not in the typical advice given to artists but in embracing the natural rhythms of rest and reflection?

Join me as we challenge the toxic myth that artists must suffer to create great art. Valerie shares her personal journey chasing an external view of success to finding alignment and a healing approach to art. When we embrace the natural rhythms of our creativity, it will open our heart and mind to a more fulfilling creative practice.

Together, we explore the cyclical nature of creativity, much like the cycles found in the natural world. By shifting our perspective from "discipline" to "devotion," we learn to honor our personal rhythms and find a state of flow that feels both authentic and sustainable.

Discover how recognizing and embracing these natural cycles can lead to more joy and fulfillment in your creative endeavors. Whether you're planting seeds or harvesting the fruits of your labor, this episode will inspire you to nurture your creative spirit and find joy in the journey.

Celebrate with us as we mark the first anniversary of our Magic Makers Membership, a nurturing community where creativity flourishes without the burden of pressure or expectation.

Join Magic Maker's Today for just $20 during the month of October!

Why do we still cling to the myth of the "struggling artist" when creativity can be a joyful and healing process? Join me as we challenge this outdated narrative, advocating for a new approach that prizes personal fulfillment and well-being over relentless toil. Let's question the tired wisdom that equates success with sacrifice, and instead explore how artists can redefine productivity by focusing on who they are, not just what they aim to achieve. This episode is an invitation to scrap the burnout and embrace a creative journey filled with spontaneity, wonder, and joy.

Dive into the transformative power of creating art from a place of ease and flow, where emotional well-being takes center stage. We'll discuss how approaching your craft from a mindset of scarcity only breeds more frustration, whereas prioritizing joy and balance opens up a more nurturing and authentic experience.

In addition, discover Magic Makers—a community of kindred spirits ready to enrich their creative souls through activities like painting, book clubs, and more. Let's shift from angst to peace, redefine success on our own terms, and forge a sustainable, fulfilling path in our creative endeavors.

Learn more about the Magic Makers here: valeriemckeehan.com/magic-makers

In this episode Valerie explores two different types of fear. One type tells you you’re going in the wrong direction, but another type is actually a good sign. It’s a sign of expansion and growth. Your brain is trying to protect you simply because it is unknown. Yet it is precisely in this unknown space where magic happens! Here’s how to say yes to the fear and open up to the whispers calling to you to step up. It’s time to stop playing small.