The Syncreate Podcast: Empowering Creativity

The Syncreate book by Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

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Marco De Molina on Instagram

Episode 125: Figuring it Out with Film Producer & Creative Entrepreneur Marco De Molina

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Marco De Molina is Grammy Nominated film producer who has received international acclaim throughout his career at prestigious film festivals worldwide including the Festival de Cannes. He has been recognized for his striking visuals, unique storytelling, a keen eye for developing new talent, and his ability to maximize production value. Marco has produced countless music videos for chart-topping musicians in all genres from metal to pop. He has received numerous nominations and wins at the MTV VMAs, and UKMVAs, including a Grammy Nomination for Best Music Video for LIL NAS X “Montero (Call Me By Your Name.)” He the Co-Founder of SPACEBRAIN Entertainment and One of Us, a prestige spirits platform, both of which he runs with his wife Roza Marchenko. Our conversation traces his journey from aspiring filmmaker to Grammy-nominated producer and creative entrepreneur.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, Marco suggests cultivating a daily discipline to hone your craft, and warns not to get caught up in other people’s successes, because as his mother once told him, “Excellence has no competition.”

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 21: The Walk of Faith and Courage with Shakespearean Actor Warren "Ren" Jackson, Episode 56: Asking the Questions with Broadway Stereophonic Cast Member Chris Stack, and Episode 119: Jazz Lessons with Musical Mathematician Lawrence Udeigwe, PhD.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

SPACEBRAIN Entertainment

One of Us Mezcal

One of Us Mezcal on Instagram

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Episode 124: Creative Spark Series - Finding Your Story with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Storytelling is a huge part of the creative process, and we all carry many stories within us. In this episode of our Creative Spark Series, we explore how to find the stories in our own life experiences, and how to begin working with them. We also explore the healing power of telling our stories, and how our personal (and sometimes painful) experiences can speak to larger, more universal themes. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to recall life experiences that still feel a little uncomfortable, “spiky,” or have stuck with you over time, and begin to express them in a creative way to see if you can find a new perspective on them.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 122: Sharing Your Creative Self, Episode 118: The Power of Imagination, and Episode 108: Breaking the Glass Ceiling in our Minds.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Carolyn Myss

The Syncreate book by Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

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Charles Cadbury on LinkedIn

Episode 123: The Surface Area of Serendipity with Tech Entrepreneur Charles Cadbury

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0500

What if you began each day outside, in nature, without technology, viewed your daily activities and connections as ways to increase the surface area of your serendipity, and spent Thursday evenings appreciating the sunset with friends? Welcome to Charles Cadbury’s world. A multi-award-winning technologist focusing on human-computer interaction and AI assistance, Charles is a creative entrepreneur who values the alchemy of connection. In this episode, we discuss the power of community and collaboration in innovation, as well as the vital importance of the creative journey itself. We also explore the creative potential of (and concerns around) emerging technologies such as AI assistants and agents.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, Charlie suggests taking time each day to unplug from technology and clear the mind, and to distill your to-do list down to three main things you can reasonably accomplish.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 111: Stories from the Podcast Studio with Grant Davis, Episode 107: Mindfulness in Life, Work, and Creativity with Hannah Williams, and Episode 14: Anatomy of a Song with George McCormack.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

sayitnow.ai

charlescadbury.com

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Episode 122: Creative Spark Series - Sharing Your Creative Self with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark Series, Melinda & Charlotte explore both the fears and the benefits of sharing our creative selves with family, friends, and the wider world. Many creatives feel misunderstood by those closest to us, such as family members who may not “get” or value our work, so we feel hesitant or resistant to share our creative ideas and expressions with them. However, we believe there’s a positive risk in sharing and allowing ourselves to be known in this way, because it can actually allow our loved ones to become interested and invested in our creative lives.This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to identify one trusted person in your inner circle that you could share your creative ideas with, take that initial step, and see where it leads.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 106: Creative Confessions, Episode 108: Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Our Minds, and Episode 120: Putting Yourself Out There.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

The Syncreate book by Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

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Zorana’s Website & Book: The Creativity Choice

Episode 121: Emotions and Choice in the Creative Process with Zorana Ivcevic Pringle, PhD

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0500

What either allows or prevents us from taking action on our creative ideas and bringing them into being? According to our guest Zorana Ivcevic Pringle, PhD, emotions and choice play a major role, including our fears about being judged, as well as both our sense of creative anxiety and identity. How we manage these emotions ultimately guides our creative freedom and efficacy.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, if you have more ideas than you can pursue at any given moment, we encourage you to practice what Zorana calls “idea stockpiling,” which involves finding a way to record our ideas, whether in a notebook or voice memos, or even in a physical drawer, so we can return to them later. We also encourage you to notice and utilize your feelings and emotions in service of your creativity, rather than fighting them. For example, energetic moods are great for creative ideation and brainstorming, whereas more subdued moods are better for critical thinking and revision.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 62: The Neuroscience of Creativity with Dr. Indre Viskontas, Episode 117: Creativity, Anxiety, and Authenticity with Amanda Beck, PhD, and Episode 119: Jazz Lessons with Musician Mathematician Lawrence Udeigwe, PhD.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Zorana’s Newsletter on Substack

Zorana Ivcevic Pringle on LinkedIn

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Out of the Blue Music Video on YouTube

Episode 120: Creative Spark Series - Putting Yourself Out There with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark Series, Melinda & Charlotte discuss both the fears and rewards of putting your creative work out into the world, sharing examples from their own experiences with music, film, and writing. While sharing your creations can feel uncertain, vulnerable and risky, you’ll never know the potential benefits unless you try. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to put yourself out there creatively, whether by submitting your work for publication, contests and prizes or simply attending a creative event like a reading or open mic.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 102: Creativity as a Path of Adventure, Episode 116: Creativity, Power & Agency, and Episode 118: The Power of Imagination.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Out of the Blue Song on Spotify

The Syncreate book by Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

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Four Lemmas Album on YouTube

Episode 119: Jazz Lessons from Musical Mathematician Lawrence Udeigwe

Thu, 28 May 2026 04:00:00 -0500

If music is a language of emotions, mathematics is a language of the nature of reality. In this episode, jazz musician and mathematician Lawrence Udeigwe reveals how these two languages inform each other, and the lessons they hold for everyday life. We discuss his new album, Four Lemmas, and how he bridges the worlds of music and math in his creative, academic, and teaching work. Dr. Udeigwe is a Professor of Mathematics at Manhattan University and a Research Affiliate in Brain and Cognitive Sciences at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). His work integrates teaching and research, with a focus on incorporating research-driven ideas into the classroom to advance mathematics pedagogy and curriculum development.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to be bold in bringing together your diverse talents and interests int something new and unique, and to be flexible with your To Do list - If you don’t get it done today, there’s always tomorrow!

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, Episode 113: Music Mindfulness and Healing with Dr. AZA Allsop, and Episode 117: Creativity, Anxiety, and Authenticity with Amanda Beck, PhD.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Lawrence’s Website

Lawrence’s Instagram

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Imagination: a Manifesto by Ruha Benjamin

Episode 118: Creative Spark Series - The Power of Imagination with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 14 May 2026 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark Series, Melinda & Charlotte explore the power of imagination, both as a driver of innovation and a pathway to liberation. If we want to play a role in shaping the future, we must use our imagination to envision possibilities, rather than simply letting politicians and tech leaders, who likely do not have our interests at heart, do it for us. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to reflect on ways you may be limiting your own imagination, and how you can bring more playfulness and imagination into your day-to-day life.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera, Episode 115: The Power of Play: Creativity, Play, and Embodiment with Dr. Tamara Russell, and Episode 116: Creativity, Power & Agency.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Nichelle Nichols on IMDb

The Syncreate book by Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

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Book: The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

Episode 117: Creativity, Anxiety & Authenticity with Amanda Beck, PhD

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0500

This episode explores the connections between anxiety, authenticity, and creativity, including the hidden gifts and messages of anxiety and their implications for personal development. Amanda Beck is an actress, writer, and doctor of humanistic psychology whose work lives at the intersection of creativity, anxiety, and the authentic self. She holds a PhD from Saybrook University with a specialization in Creativity Studies, where her dissertation explored the deep connections between anxiety, authenticity, and creative expression. Amanda’s research reframes anxiety not as a disorder to be eliminated, but as an alchemical signal pointing toward transformation and authentic becoming.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to explore your relationship to self-trust, authenticity, and creative expression. Sometimes this requires going within and tuning out the noise from the outside world in order to hear and express our own authentic voice.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera, Episode 103: Trauma, Creativity, and Mental Health with Tracy Sisk, LMHC, and Episode 115: The Power of Play: Creativity, Play, and Embodiment with Dr. Tamara Russell.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Amanda's Website

Amanda Beck on Instagram

Essay: The Uses of the Erotic by Audre Lorde (within Sister Outsider)

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Episode 116: Creative Spark Series - Creativity, Power & Agency with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark Series, Melinda & Charlotte explore questions of power and agency, and how they connect with creativity and creative empowerment. We explore power dynamics, focusing on power with (collaboration), power to (personal empowerment), and power within (personal agency and efficacy). These ways of understanding our personal power (as opposed to the traditional hierarchical model of power over, or domination), can help us take positive, creative action to be of benefit to others and to the world, even when we may be feeling powerless. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to consider your own creative empowerment, and how you could take action on it in a meaningful way in your life, either through collaboration, or in simply embracing your creative identity.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 104: Creativity Can Save Your Life, Episode 108: Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Our Minds, Episode 114: The Role of the Artist in Society.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Audre Lorde

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Mindfulness Centre of Excellence

Episode 115: The Power of Play - Creativity, Play, and Embodiment with Dr. Tamara Russell

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Dr. Tamara Russell is a clinical psychologist, neuroscientist, martial artist and mindfulness trainer. She works as an academic and clinician, exploring the use of embodied mindfulness in the work of transformation and self-development. Tamara is involved in international collaborations looking at how mindfulness training changes the structure and function of the brain. She is the Director of the Mindfulness Centre of Excellence, London, an organization dedicated to the wider dissemination of mindfulness, with a particular focus on innovation in the delivery of mindfulness across a variety of sectors and populations. In this episode, we discuss the importance of play and embodiment in learning, innovation, and personal development.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to turn your daily to-do list into a compassionate to-to list, emphasizing gratitude and self-care. It might just change your whole relationship to your daily rhythm and workflow!

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 2: Embodiment and Creativity with Thais Bicalho Silva, Episode 62: The Neuroscience of Creativity with Dr. Indre Viskontas, and Episode 113: Music Mindfulness and Healing with Dr. AZA Allsop.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

The Dragon Academy

Dr. Russell on Instagram

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Graden Keller on Substack

Episode 114: Creative Spark Series - The Role of the Artist in Society with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark Series, Charlotte and Melinda discuss the vital role that artists play in helping to envision and shape the future with their creative work. In keeping with our recent episode on Creativity for the Common Good (Episode 112), we explore how artists can use their vision and problem-solving skills to help make the world a better place, from pioneering new innovations and fostering community to helping others see into the possible future (as with science fiction). This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to reflect on how your creations (whatever they may be - from your cooking to your civic engagement) contribute to the world in a positive way.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 49: Creativity in Challenging Times, Episode 104: Creativity Can Save Your Life, and Episode 112: Creativity for the Common Good.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Ismet Prcic

Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o

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@azathemessenger on Instagram

Episode 113: Music Mindfulness & Healing with Dr. AZA Allsop

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0600

Dr. AZA Allsop is an artist, neuroscientist, and psychiatrist who conducts research at the intersection of social cognition, music mindfulness, and psychedelics. AZA received his MD from Harvard Medical School, PhD in Neuroscience from MIT, and was an Emerson Scholar at Berklee College of Music. He is currently an Assistant Professor in Yale’s Department of Psychiatry and Director of the Center for Collective Healing at Howard University. He combines art, science, and community to redefine culture and make social impact. Our conversation explores AZA’s current research, his music, and the question of how music and creativity can help heal the world.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to take a few mindful moments to pause and listen to what’s happening around you, as well as to take five minutes (or more, if possible) to set a timer and devote that time to your creativity on a regular basis. You may be surprised by what you can accomplish in a short amount of time.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, Episode 91: Envisioning the Possible with Vlad Glăveanu, PhD, and Episode 62: The Neuroscience of Creativity with Dr. Indre Viskontas.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

AZA Lab

Dr. AZA on LinkedIn

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Episode 112: Creative Spark Series - Creativity for the Common Good with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0600

Building upon our recent Creative Spark episodes on creativity in communication (Episode 110) and self-empowerment (Episode 108), Charlotte and Melinda contemplate how we can use our creativity for the common good, such as connecting in meaningful ways, supporting our local communities in challenging times, giving people the benefit of the doubt, and asking questions before jumping to conclusions. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to use your creativity to bring a more relational (rather than transactional) focus to your day-to-day interactions, and to find ways to support others in your local community.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 72: Creative Community, Episode 108: Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Our Minds, and Episode 110: Creativity in Communication.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Record ATX Studios Austin

Episode 111: Stories from the Podcast Studio with Record ATX Co-Founder Grant Davis

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0600

Grant Davis is the co-owner of Record ATX, a creative audio and video production studio in Austin, Texas, where we record The Syncreate Podcast.He’s also the longtime co-host of The Beerists Podcast, an award winning craft beer review show and host of Hello Crawlers, a book club podcast dedicated to the Dungeon Crawler Carl book series. Our conversation traces Grant’s journey from baby podcaster to studio co-owner, sharing stories and insights from both the creative and production sides of the podcasting process.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, if you’re thinking of starting a podcast (or any creative endeavor for that matter), remember that quality matters, perfection is the enemy of creativity, and just put it out there!

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 1: Audio Storytelling with Podcaster and Environmentalist Michael Osborne, PhD, Episode 52: Texas Poet Laureate Amanda Johnston, and Episode 109: Light and Shadow: The Art of Journaling with Keila Shaheen.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

The Beerists Podcast

Hello Crawlers Podcast

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Episode 110: Creative Spark Series - Creativity in Communication with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0600

,In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we reflect on how we can bring our creativity into our communication and relationships with others, using the “Yes, and…” principle from improv, which opens up possibilities, inviting dialogue, collaboration, and a deepening of connection. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to bring more flexibility, objectivity, and humor into your communication style for greater perspective, engagement, and collaboration.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 102: Creativity as a Path of Adventure, Episode 106: Creative Confessions and Episode 108: Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Our Minds.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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The Shadow Work Journal by Keila Shaheen

Episode 109: Light and Shadow - The Art of Journaling with Keila Shaheen

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0600

Keila Shaheen is a Brazilian–Puerto Rican American scholar, international bestselling author, and musician. She is the creator of the Zenfulnote app and author of The Shadow Work Journal, which has sold over a million copies and helped introduce shadow work to a new generation. Now pioneering the practice of Light Work, Keila’s mission is to guide others toward inner transformation and creative awakening. Keila integrates depth psychology and the arts to help people reconnect with their inner world. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Good Morning America, The Today Show, CBS News, and The Atlantic. Our conversation focuses on Keila’s personal, creative, and psychological journey, and previews her new book, The Light Work Journal.

For our creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage daily positive affirmations for psychological and creative development, such as those featured in The Light Work Journal.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 34: Creativity and Transpersonal Psychology Part 1 with Marina Smirnova, PhD, Episode 42: Creativity & Depth Psychology with Jennifer Leigh Selig, and Episode 60: Intuition & Creativity with Intuitive Medium and Spiritual Director Steven Ross.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Zenfulnote

Keila’s Website

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Episode 108: Creative Spark Series - Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Our Minds with Melinda Rothouse and Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we explore how our limiting beliefs and scarcity thinking can hold us back from personal, creative, and professional opportunities. With examples from our own lives, we share how to invite more abundance and expansiveness into our mindset, from actually seeing ourselves as creative to allowing ourselves little luxuries. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to invite a bit more softness or expansiveness into your daily life, whatever that looks like for you, from an afternoon nap to fancy underwear or silk pajamas. What’s a positive risk that might bring a little more abundance into your mindset?

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 102: Creativity as a Path of Adventure, Episode 104: Creativity Can Save Your Life, and Episode 106: Creative Confessions.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Hannah C. Williams on Instagram

Episode 107: Mindfulness in Life, Work & Creativity with Hannah C. Williams

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Hannah Williams infuses the practice of mindfulness into all aspects of her life, from songwriting and performing to her work in real estate, and to her podcast, Mindfully Austin. Our conversation explores how practicing mindfulness creates ripple effects, touching every person and situation we come into contact with, from our professional relationships to our families and our creative work, fostering greater authenticity, connection, meaning, and happiness.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to find what brings you joy and gather with others to amplify your efforts.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 21: The Walk of Faith and Courage with Shakespearean Actor Warren "Ren" Jackson, Episode 85: Living a Spiritual Life with Wisdom Pathways Co-Founders Jenny Fairbank and Steven Ross, Episode 89: The Joy of Awakening with Drupon Lama Dorje & Carolina Putnam.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Mindful Real Estate Team

Hannah Williams Music

Mindfully Austin Podcast

Hannah Wiliams Music on Instagram

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Episode 106: Creative Spark Series - Creative Confessions with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0600

In creativity, there’s no one “right” way to go about things; we all have our own unique creative habits and hacks. So, in this episode, Melinda and Charlotte reveal some of their creative quirks and strategies in the form of creative confessions. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to reflect on your own creative practices and habits, and to share your creative confessions with us. Those who share will be entered into a drawing to receive free coaching session with us!

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 41: Creative Practice, Process, and Product, Episode 51: Curiosity & Exploration, and Episode 67: Moving Through the World with a Creative Eye.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Marcus McQuirter, PhD Austin Community College Faculty Profile

Episode 105: Why Creativity Matters with Melinda Rothouse and Marcus McQuirter

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This episode is a co-release, originally recorded and released in August of 2025 on the podcast Intermission: Conversations with Theater People about anything but Theater, hosted by Marcus McQuirter. A previous guest on The Syncreate Podcast (Episode 73), Marcus is the Chair of the Drama Department at Austin Community College, where he teaches Voice, Acting, and Introduction to Theater. A storyteller at heart, he’s also a director, novelist, and podcaster. Our wide-ranging conversation touches on everything from the philosophy of art and arts education to religion, spirituality, and braving the creative wilderness.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 83: Proprioception with C. Prudence Arceneaux, Episode 73: Theatre, Storytelling, and the Labor of Creativity with Marcus McQuirter, PhD, and Episode 28: The Spirit of Collaboration with Attorney & Musician Randy Langford.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Austin Community College Drama Department Website

Intermission: Conversations with Theater People about anything but Theater

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Episode 104: Creative Spark Series - Creativity Can Save Your Life with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Have you ever used your creativity to navigate a difficult situation or make an important life decision? In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda and Charlotte describe how creativity can save your life, both literally and metaphorically, sharing stories from their own experience, including dislodging a boat that had run aground, to a hurricane rescue mission, to evading a water moccasin while kayaking. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to think about a time you used your creativity to deal with a difficult situation, so the next time you find yourself in a pinch, you can use your creativity more intentionally to deal with it.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 84: From Surviving to Thriving, Episode 98: Creativity and Humor, and Episode 102: Creativity as a Path of Adventure.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

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Episode 103: Trauma, Creativity, and Mental Health with Tracy Sisk, LMHC

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

The experience of trauma, in whatever form, can block our creativity and hinder our full flourishing. Creativity can offer a potent pathway for healing and working through trauma. In this episode we talk with Tracy Sisk, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and PhD Candidate at Saybrook University. Tracy offers mental health counseling under the name Honor Your Way Therapy in Clearwater, Florida. She is also the founder of The Practitioner’s Place, a supportive space for emerging therapists, counselors, psychologists, and social workers to connect, consult, and navigate their professional identities. We discuss the relationships between creativity, trauma, anxiety, and self-care practices for individuals and mental health professionals.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage a practice of mindful breathing whenever you’re feeling stressed or anxious, as Tracy describes in the episode.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera, Episode 87: Dreams and Creativity with Musician, Poet & Psychotherapist Linus Streckfus, and Episode 93: Creativity and Collaboration in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Work with Alisa Carr.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Honor Your Way Therapy

The Practitioner’s Place

Tracy Sisk on LinkedIn

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Episode 102: Creative Spark Series - Creativity as a Path of Adventure with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda and Charlotte explore creativity as a path of adventure, sharing specific examples from their own lives and creative journeys. Embracing our creativity brings many benefits, including the unanticipated experiences and connections that follow when we say yes to our creative urges, impulses, and callings. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to say yes to the next wild request in your life, whether external or internal, and see where it takes you.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 35: Navigating the Creative Wilderness, Episode 82: Healing the Creative Wound, and Episode 100: Celebrating and Reflecting.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

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Magenta & the Magenta Blog

Episode 101: Artificial Intelligence and Creativity - The End or Just the Beginning? with Douglas Eck, PhD

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0500

With the introduction of so many new AI tools for image, video, and music generation, is this the end of creativity as we know it, or the beginning of a new era? In this episode we explore the wild new world of creativity in the age of AI with Douglas Eck, PhD, Senior Research Director at Google DeepMind, and Research Co-Lead of Generative Media, which develops the AI tools Veo, Imagen and Lyria. He is the creator of Magenta, an open source research project exploring how machine learning can aid in music and art creation. His research focuses on machine learning and human-computer interaction. He holds a PhD in computer science and cognitive science from Indiana University.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, whether you’re a skeptic, curious, or just don’t know where to begin, we encourage you to check out the Magenta Blog and try experimenting with one of the many new AI creativity tools now available and see for yourself how they might enhance your creative work.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 91: Envisioning the Possible with Vlad Glăveanu, PhD, Episode 62: The Neuroscience of Creativity with Dr. Indre Viskontas, and Episode 58: Creative Problem Solving with BEST Robotics Executive Director Michael Steiner.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Douglas Eck on LinkedIn

AI: Your New Creative Muse? Google DeepMind Podcast Episode with Douglas Eck

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Episode 100: Creative Spark Series - Celebrating and Reflecting with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, to celebrate our 100th episode, Charlotte interviews Melinda about her own creative process of experience of envisioning, creating, hosting, and producing the podcast over the past two years. We reflect on lessons learned, how the show has evolved, insightful guests and conversations, and where we’ll go from here, including moving back to a bi-weekly release schedule. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to get out there and start a project you’ve been contemplating or dreaming about, but haven’t started yet. Take a risk, take a leap, follow your passion, and see where it takes you.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 1: Audio Storytelling with Podcaster and Environmentalist Michael Osborne, PhD, Episode 5: Creative Global Citizenship with Filmmaker and Screenwriter Shuja Uddin, and Episode 89: The Joy of Awakening with Drupon Lama Dorje & Carolina Putnam.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

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Episode 99: Working with Self-Doubt in Our Creativity with Dreux Carpenter, MFA

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

How do we work with self-doubt and mental health in our creative process? Dreux Carpenter is a multi creative and communications professional; he's a graphic designer, writer, and offers proofreading and editing services. He holds both Masters and MFA degrees in Writing and Consciousness, one from the New College of California and the other from the California Institute of Integral Studies. He served on the board of the Writers’ League of Texas for several years, and he’s married to Syncreate Co-Founder, co-author, and podcast co-host Charlotte Gullick. In this episode, Dreux opens up about his own experiences of self doubt in his creative journey, as strategies he uses to work with it and around it.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, if you’re feeling stuck with a creative project or struggling with self-doubt, try experimenting with a completely new medium or way of doing things. This can short-circuit the inner critic, allow you to be a beginner, and maybe offer new insights into your original project.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process in a variety of contexts, you might also like our conversations in Episode 83: Proprioception with C. Prudence Arceneaux, Episode 93: Creativity and Collaboration in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Work with Alisa Carr, and Episode 97: The Art of Jewelry Design with Geoffrey Good.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Dreux Carpenter on LinkedIn

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Episode 98: Creative Spark Series - Creativity and Humor

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

.In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we discuss the connections between humor, creativity, and health, specifically how we can use our creativity to find humor in difficult situations, including end-of-life medical situations. Melinda and Charlotte share their own experiences of medical challenges and sitting with dying parents who maintained their sense of humor to the end. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to to think about a difficult situation and see if you can find any humor in it. This is a great practice for seeing challenges through a different, and perhaps more creative lens.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 49: Creativity in Challenging Times, Episode 82: Healing the Creative Wound, and Episode 84: From Surviving to Thriving.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

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Geoffrey Good on Instagram

Episode 97: The Art of Jewelry Design with Geoffrey Good

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Geoffrey Good is a renowned fine jewelry designer based in Hudson, New York, internationally recognized for his elegant, minimalist designs. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, he has established himself as a master craftsman and artist, known for his attention to detail and exceptional skill in creating exquisite pieces of jewelry. Geoffrey discovered his passion for jewelry in college after designing a pair of earrings for his girlfriend out of glass-scrap. After earning a degree in jewelry design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, Geoffrey apprenticed with master jeweler Klaus Wisskirchen, assisting in jewelry-works for prestigious firms, including Cartier© and Christie’s© before starting his own atelier. His work has been featured in Vogue, The New York Times, and dozens of other renowned publications.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to continually explore your craft by drawing, writing, experimenting, and recording your inspirations on a regular basis

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 52: Texas Poet Laureate Amanda Johnston, Episode 56: Asking the Questions with Broadway Stereophonic Cast Member Chris Stack, and Episode 68: Wonders of Creation with Dr. Ladan Akbarnia.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

geoffreygood.com

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Episode 96: Creative Spark Series - Creativity Conference Reflections with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda shares insights and reflections from her recent experience attending and presenting at the Creativity Conference at Southern Oregon University, connecting and collaborating with friends and colleagues, and getting energized from being around others studying creativity. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to find and attend an event where you can connect with others around creativity, collaboration, and community in a way that’s meaningful and relevant to you.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD, Episode 48: Can You Learn Creativity? with Creative Director Chris McKenna, and Episode 91: Envisioning the Possible with Vlad Glăveanu, PhD.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Creativity Conference at Southern Oregon University

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Brian’s Poetry and Podcast Episode with the Haight Ashbury Literary Journal

Episode 95: Poetry, Nature, and Beautiful Mistakes with Brian Kirven

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Brian Kirven is a poet, traveler, and teacher living in Point Reyes Station in Northern California. He's the author of Shorelines: A Traveler Comes Home to the Tide Zone. He's served as a California Poet in the Schools, as well as the Poetry Inside Out program, and hosted a radio show on KWMR in Point Reyes for many years. His poetry has been featured in numerous literary journals, including California Quarterly, Inverness Almanac, The Kerf, West Marin Review, and most recently, the Haight Ashbury Literary Journal. His work is rooted in a deep sense of place and connection to nature. Our conversation focuses on his writing process, his sources of inspiration, and his teaching.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to explore the exercise of beautiful mistakes, as Brian shares in the episode, to closely observe the world around you and play with metaphor, even if silly and absurd, as a sense of inspiration.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 6: Gratitude, Gentleness, and Generosity with Mayela Padilla Manasjan, Episode 83: Proprioception with C. Prudence Arceneaux, and Episode 87: Dreams and Creativity with Musician, Poet & Psychotherapist Linus Streckfus.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Brian’s Book: Shorelines: A Traveler Comes Home to the Tide Zone (contact us at info@syncreate.org for direct ordering info)

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Episode 94: Creative Spark Series - The Joy in Collaboration with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we explore the benefits of collaboration, including the synergy that arises when two or more people join together in a creative endeavor, which can yield fresh ideas and perspectives, camaraderie and teamwork, as well as joy, fun, and levity. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to find a person or group to collaborate with on some kind of community project. This could be within your household or family, or with a group of creative collaborators. Maybe it's a community garden or neighborhood art project - just have fun or perhaps find a way to benefit your local community.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 31: The Power of Collaboration, Episode 51: Curiosity & Exploration, and Episode 84: From Surviving to Thriving

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

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Alisa’s Website: Eye of the Heart (eye4heart.com)

Episode 93: Creativity and Collaboration in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Work with Alisa Carr, LCSW

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

How do we work with the multiple energies, drives, and desires, sometimes conflicting, inside ourselves? Internal Family Sytems (IFS) is a therapeutic modality that focuses on healing the wounded and protective parts that we all carry within us, in service of internal connection and collaboration. Alisa Carr, LCSW, uses IFS in her therapeutic work to help clients find clarity, creativity, spiritual connection, and more satisfying relationships. Our conversation focuses on the IFS process and how it can enhance intra-personal, or inner, creativity and collaboration for a more joyful and vibrant life.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to pay close attention to your body and mind whenever you feel triggered or overwhelmed, as it likely signals a part of you that’s asking for attention and nurturance. Try dialoguing with it to learn how it’s trying to help you or what it needs from your Self energy.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 42: Creativity & Depth Psychology with Jennifer Leigh Selig, Episode 85: Living a Spiritual Life with Wisdom Pathways Co-Founders Jenny Fairbank and Steven Ross, and Episode 87: Dreams and Creativity with Musician, Poet & Psychotherapist Linus Streckfus.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review or drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

5th International Possibility Studies Conference

IFS Institute

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Episode 92: Creative Spark Series - Self-Mentoring and Creativity with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we discuss the inner mentor or inner coach as a counter-weight to the inner critic in our creativity, with inspiration from the book 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People by David Yeager, a professor of psychology at UT Austin. The ways we both challenge and support ourselves through our inner self-talk can make a big difference in our creative success. Are we beating ourselves up or empowering ourselves for success through our inner narrative? This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to pay attention to your self-talk and notice the tone and content of our inner narratives around our creativity. Our we critical and judgemental toward ourselves, or supportive and accepting?

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 35: Navigating the Creative Wilderness, Episode 49: Creativity in Challenging Times, and Episode 82: Healing the Creative Wound.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Book - 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People by David Yeager, PhD

Book - The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer

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Vlad Glăveanu on LinkedIn

Episode 91: Envisioning the Possible with Vlad Glaveanu, PhD

Thu, 29 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

How do we use our creativity to envision possibility and bring it into reality? Vlad Glăveanu, PhD, has spent his career exploring this question. He is the founder and president of the Possibility Studies Network (PSN). His work focuses on creativity, imagination, culture, collaboration, wonder, possibility, and societal challenges. He is a professor of psychology in the School of Psychology and Director of the DCU Centre for Possibility Studies at Dublin City University, as well as a professor at the Centre for the Science of Learning and Technology, University of Bergen. He has written and edited numerous academic articles and books on creativity and possibility studies, as well as The Wish Thief, a fantasy novel.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to pay attention to your immediate environment and to look at familiar scenes and objects with fresh eyes, considering the possibilities of each beyond their everyday, conventional purpose or use.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD Episode 62: The Neuroscience of Creativity with Dr. Indre Viskontas, and Episode 77: Collaborate, Innovate, Advocate with Beth Sundstrom, PhD.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Possibility Studies Network

The Wish Thief Website

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Episode 90: Creative Spark Series - Creativity, Meaning, and Psychological Growth with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 22 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

,In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda shares insights from her new article in the academic journal Possibility Studies and Society on how we can use our creativity to make meaning of our experiences, particularly the difficult and challenging ones, in service of psychological growth. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to reflect on your life journey up to this point–the highs and the lows; the good, the bad, and the ugly–through journaling, collaging, or any other medium that calls to you, and reflect on the lessons learned. This is how we make meaning, and how we can grow from our life experiences.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 47: Creativity and Meaning Making, Episode 82: Healing the Creative Wound, Episode 84: From Surviving to Thriving, and Episode 88: Practicing Courage with Our Creativity.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website. Connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Melinda’s Article: The Role of Creativity and Meaning in Psychological Development Across the Lifetime: Possibilities for Self and Society

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Lama Dorje Foundation Website

Episode 89: The Joy of Awakening with Drupon Lama Dorje & Carolina Putnam

Thu, 15 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This episode features Tibetan Buddhist meditation teacher Drupon Lama Dorje, and his assistant and translator Carolina Putnam, in an exploration of the Buddhist teachings on mindfulness and self-cultivation, as well as the role of art and creativity in Buddhism and everyday life. Lama Dorje became a Buddhist monk at the age of five, completed extensive training in Buddhist studies and meditation, and now teaches all over the world, primarily in Central and South America. Carolina Putnam is the Executive Director of the Lama Dorje Foundation and of Dewachen, Lama’s retreat center in Costa Rica. This episode is in both English and Spanish, as Spanish is Lama Dorje’s primary teaching language, with Carolina providing translations.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, Lama Dorje encourages us to cultivate a daily practice of mindfulness and gratitude in order to work with our minds and ultimately to be of benefit to others and to society.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 68: Wonders of Creation with Dr. Ladan Akbarnia, Episode 85: Living a Spiritual Life with Wisdom Pathways Co-Founders Jenny Fairbank and Steven Ross, and Episode 87: Dreams and Creativity with Musician, Poet & Psychotherapist Linus Streckfus.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback on the show as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Lama Dorje’s Mantras on Spotify

Lama Dorje Foundation YouTube Channel

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Episode 88: Creative Spark Series - Practicing Courage in Our Creativity with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 08 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we explore how practicing courage in our creative expression can build bravery in other areas of our lives, from speaking our truth to public speaking and performing. Honoring our creativity also honors our authenticity, so we can embrace who we truly are. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to build your courage muscle by doing something brave in service of your creativity, like telling someone how you feel, sharing a work-in-progress with someone you trust, taking a risk by singing or even humming in public, or whatever a step outside of your comfort zone looks like for you.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 39: Sharing Work in Progress, Episode 82: Healing the Creative Wound and Episode 84: From Surviving to Thriving.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Linus Streckfus on LinkedIn

Episode 87: Dreams and Creativity with Musician, Poet & Psychotherapist Linus Streckfus

Thu, 01 May 2025 04:00:00 -0500

How do dreams and dreaming play a role in creativity? We explore this question with musician, poet, and psychotherapist Linus Streckfus, as Melinda and Linus share stories of how dreams fuel their songwriting, the unconscious processes at play in dreams, and the archetypal and metaphorical images that often result. We also discuss Linus’ new poetry release, A Little Book of Loteria Riddles, and his process of writing it, as he shares several selections from it.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to pay attention to your dreams, and to record them if possible in a dream journal or voice memo, and then to practice holding the images you receive as you move about your daily life to see what it inspires for you – perhaps a song or creative work!

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera, and Episode 42: Creativity & Depth Psychology with Jennifer Leigh Selig.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

A Little Book of Loteria Riddles on Poshmark

Linus’ Psychology Today Profile

Find A Little Book of Loteria Riddles at ATown Boutique

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Episode 86 - Creative Spark Series: Receiving Difficult Feedback with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we share our own experience of receiving difficult feedback on one of our ideas, and how we dealt with it. It can be really vulnerable to receive critical or constructive feedback on our creative work, but if we can assume positive intent and digest it accordingly, it can result in a better quality final product. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to ask for feedback on your creative work, from someone you trust, and to listen with curiosity rather than certainty, so you can find what’s helpful to make the work even better.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 39: Sharing Work in Progress, Episode 41: Creative Practice, Process, and Product and Episode 84: From Surviving to Thriving.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreatel. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

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Jenny’s Website: jennyfairbank.com

Episode 85: Living a Spiritual Life with Wisdom Pathways Co-Founders Jenny Fairbank & Steven Ross

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

What does it mean to walk a spiritual path, to live a spiritual life, in the midst of our busy lives, as householders, in these complex and challenging times? Wisdom Pathways Co-Founders Jenny Fairbank and Steven Ross emphasize the importance of cultivating our intuition, opening our hearts, and connecting in community. Jenny and Steven work with individuals and groups to help clarify their deepest purpose and calling, and transcend the blocks and obstacles we all encounter along the way. We discuss the evolution of consciousness, the nature of personal and collective awakening at this particular time, and how we can embrace life’s challenges for the opportunities they offer.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to contemplate the yogic phrase, “Where the mind goes, prana (energy) goes.” In other words, our thoughts and mindset dictate the nature of our experiences in life. Are we placing our minds on the darkness and chaos of the news cycle, or are we placing our minds on how we can best cultivate ourselves, live our highest calling, and be of most benefit to the world?

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 34: Creativity and Transpersonal Psychology Part 1 with Marina Smirnova, PhD, Episode 42: Creativity & Depth Psychology with Jennifer Leigh Selig, and Episode 60: Intuition & Creativity with Intuitive Medium and Spiritual Director Steven Ross.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review, or drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Wisdom Pathways Website

Steven’s Website: stevenrossintuitive.com

Paramhansa Yogananda

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Episode 84: Creative Spark Series - From Surviving to Thriving with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we reflect on how embracing creativity, community, and a bit of levity can help us move from surviving to thriving, especially in difficult times. Sometimes we think of creativity as a luxury, but what if it’s actually a necessity for getting through life and keeping our spirits up? Maybe it’s as simple as a quick reframe. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we ask you to reflect on whether you’ve made yourself a little smaller lately, and if so, what’s one thing you can do to reclaim your joy? It could be singing in the car, or dancing in the shower, or wearing a colorful scarf, or underwear, or some crazy socks. Sometimes the little things, the silly things, can make a big difference.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 49: Creativity in Challenging Times, Episode 67: Moving Through the World with a Creative Eye, and Episode 82: Healing the Creative Wound.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

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Prudence’s New Poetry Collection: Proprioception

Episode 83: Proprioception with Poet and Professor C. Prudence Arceneaux

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Poet C. Prudence Arceneaux is Chair of the Creative Writing Department at Austin Community College. Her work has appeared in various journals, including The Academy of American Poets’ Poem-A-Day, Limestone, New Texas, African Voices and Inkwell. She is the author of two chapbooks of poetry — Dirt (awarded the 2018 Jean Pedrick Prize) and Liberty. Her new full-length collection Proprioception is now available Texas Review Press. Fellow Texas poet Naomi Shihab Nye writes of Propriception: “How Arceneaux manages to be wry, sexy, contemplative, and rueful all at once, is a wonder.” Our conversation ranges from the earthy sensuality of Arceneaux’s poems to the curiosity that inspires many of her poems, and she shares several poems from Proprioception.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, if you want to try your hand at writing a poem, begin with your grocery list, or someone else’s shopping cart. Then begin to explore the stories, needs, and desires behind the items in the list or the cart. Contemplate the items and see what language follows from them. If you try this, please share your creations with us!

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 6: Gratitude, Gentleness, and Generosity with Mayela Padilla Manasjan, Episode 52: Texas Poet Laureate Amanda Johnston, Episode 73: Theatre, Storytelling, and the Labor of Creativity with Marcus McQuirter, PhD.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Prudence’s Poem “Menopause”

Prudence Arceneaux on Instagram

Austin Community College Creative Writing Department

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Episode 82: Creative Spark Series - Healing the Creative Wound with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we explore what it means to heal the creative wound so we can fully embrace our creative selves. Many of us received messages in our youth that we weren’t creative or artistic, and we’ve internalized these messages in a way that stifle our creative expression. It’s important to recognize that these stories we tell ourselves may not be accurate, and that we can create new, more empowering and inspiring stories about our creative capacities. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to reflect on your creative wounds (large or small), and the accompanying stories you may have around your own creativity, and start to craft a new, more empowering story that embraces your creativity.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 22: Creative Play, Episode 35: Navigating the Creative Wilderness, and Episode 51: Curiosity & Exploration.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Mosaic Artist Isiah Zagar

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San Diego Spine Foundation

Episode 81: Creativity and Innovation in Medicine with Drs. Behrooz Akbarnia, Greg Mundis, and Bahar Shahidi

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This episode features three medical innovators working at the intersection of orthopedic surgery, medical technology, and orthopedic research at the San Diego Spine Foundation (SDSF), Scripps Clinic, and the University of California San Diego (UCSD).

Dr. Akbarnia is the Founder of the SDSF and former president of the Scoliosis Research Society, as well as a retired clinical professor and orthopedic surgeon. He developed an innovative, minimally invasive magnetic device for the treatment for pediatric scoliosis, eliminating the need for multiple surgeries.

Dr. Mundis is the current president of the SDSF, as well as an orthopedic spine surgeon specializing in deformities of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine for pediatric and adult patients.

Dr. Shahidi is an associate professor and researcher in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at UCSD.

Our conversation focuses on creativity and innovation in clinical practice, the development of new treatment protocols and technologies, and medical research.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage young people interested in the field of medicine to pursue their passions, explore interests outside their main field of study, and to focus your creativity on breaking new ground and making a positive impact in the world.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 58: Creative Problem Solving with BEST Robotics’ Michael Steiner, Episode 77: Collaborate, Innovate, Advocate with Beth Sundstrom, PhD, Episode 62: The Neuroscience of Creativity with Dr. Indre Viskontas.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Dr. Akbarnia’s SDSF Profile

Dr. Mundis’ SDSF Profile

Dr. Shahidi’s Faculty Profile at UCSD

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Episode 80: Creative Spark Series - Narrating the Syncreate Audiobook with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Charlotte and Melinda share the experience of narrating the audio version of our Syncreate book, including our flubs, insecurities, and humorous moments, the highs and the lows, warts and all. We think it’s important to share our own process, and how we all inevitably stumble along the way to a finished creative product. So if you’ve ever wanted to peer behind the veil of the creative process, this episode is for you. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we demonstrate a mirroring exercise (easier to follow in the video version of the episode) that can be used as a fun icebreaker or warm-up for any creative collaboration.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce, Episode 31: The Power of Collaboration, and Episode 41: Creative Practice, Process, and Product.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Jessica’s Book: Conducting Chaos

Episode 79: The Magic of Improvisation with Improv Teacher, Performer, and Author Jessica Arjet

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0600

As our guest, Jessica Arjet, describes in the episode, “one of the fundamental promises of improv is that you’re collaborating and working together to create something." It’s about being in the moment, saying yes, collaborating with others, and having fun! Jessica is a veteran improv performer, teacher, and the author of Conducting Chaos: A Guide to Teaching Improv to Kids and Teens. She is co-owner of the Hideout Theater in Austin, which offers improv performances as well as classes, workshops, and summer camps for all ages. Our conversation focuses on the lessons and benefits of improv training for kids as well as adults.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to go take an improv class and/or host a dinner party or salon that includes creative sharing from each guest, as Jessica describes during the episode.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 71: Acting Out of Character with John Cane, PhD, Episode 75: Asheville’s Story Parlor with Erin Hallagan Clare, and Episode 77: Collaborate, Innovate, Advocate with Beth Sundstrom, PhD.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Hideout Theater Austin

Jessica’s Website - jessicaarjet.com

yesandenterprise.com

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Episode 78: Creative Spark Series - The Art of Impermanence with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda shares insights from her recent Art of Impermanence Retreat, an annual contemplative arts retreats she leads each January in Patzcuaro, Mexico with her colleague Jake Lorfing. The Art of Impermanence explores the Buddhist teachings on impermanence, and their relationship to creativity and the arts. Essentially, it’s a mindful approach to creativity, grounded in present-moment experience. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we share a poem by Nancy Paddock called “Lie Down,” which describes a mindfulness practice of connecting to the earth. We encourage you to try it out, because when was the last time you laid down with your face to the ground? It’s quite a profound experience.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 49: Creativity in Challenging Times, Episode 51: Curiosity & Exploration, and Episode 67: Moving Through the World with a Creative Eye.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

The Art of Impermanence Retreat (2026 Dates Will Be Announced Soon)

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Beth’s Faculty Page at the College of Charleston

Episode 77: Collaborate, Innovate, Advocate with Beth Sundstrom, PhD

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Beth Sundstrom, PhD, MPH, is a professor of health communication at the College of Charleston, where she is the Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URCA) and the Founding Director of the Women’s Health Research Team (WHRT). She is a Fulbright Research Grant recipient and leading expert on health communication and reproductive health. Beth conducts applied research that informs the development of community-based public health interventions and nationally recognized communication campaigns. She is the author or co-author of three books and more than 80 scholarly articles on women’s health and health communication. Our conversation focuses on Beth’s innovative approach to research, writing, and health communication initiatives.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to just write, just create, just get your ideas down into some tangible form, and don’t be afraid to fail, because what we often label as “failure,” is actually an amazing learning experience that is vital to the creative process.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 12: Creativity, Inclusivity, and Community Theater with Sharanya Rao and Episode 62: The Neuroscience of Creativity with Dr. Indre Viskontas.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Beth’s Book: Catching Fire

Beth’s Book Birth Control: What Everyone Needs To Know

Bedsider Website

St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Network

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Episode 76: Creative Spark Series - Developing a Consistent Creative Practice with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Many of us aspire to a consistent, even daily, creative practice, but other life priorities and distractions make it difficult. So how can we commit to a regular practice in a way that feels sustainable and fun? We can begin by setting longer-term goals and then breaking them down into monthly, weekly, and daily tasks to make consistent progress over time. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to keep a decision journal to track your creative time alignment, and to put your creative time at the very top of your to-do list for at least one week and see how it feels. .

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 41: Creative Practice, Process, and Product, Episode 43: Creative Time Management, and Episode 70: New Year’s Creative Intentions.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Saybrook University Creativity Program

Episode 75: Asheville's Story Parlor with Erin Hallagan Clare

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Erin Hallagan Clare is the Founder and Artistic Director of Story Parlor, a narrative arts space in Asheville, NC. Erin studied film and theatre at Temple University, as well as psychology / creativity studies at Saybrook University, where she earned her master’s degree. She developed a creativity coaching practice called “Inward & Artward,” as well as an annual Creative Facilitator Training. She's also a writer, storyteller, and radio show host. Our conversation focuses on Erin’s creative journey, the history of Story Parlor, and the creative community in Asheville after Hurricane Helene.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to take an inventory of your past, present, and future creative projects, reflecting on common themes, in order to discover your creative DNA, so you can approach your future work with greater intention.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more, you might enjoy our conversations in Episode 7: The Syncreate Story, Episode 42: Creativity & Depth Psychology with Jennifer Leigh Selig, and Episode 73: Theatre, Storytelling, and the Labor of Creativity with Marcus McQuirter, PhD.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching, including a monthly creativity coaching group, to help you bring your work to the world. Visit our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. We’d love your feedback, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Story Parlor Website

Melinda’s Art of Impermanence Retreat

Book: Wintering by Katherine May

“Writing Down the Soul” Memoir Class

Book: Deep Creativity

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Episode 74: Creative Spark Series - Living a Creative Life with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

What does it mean to live a creative life? What meaningful steps can we take to infuse creativity into our day-to-day experience? We often tell ourselves stories about how we’re not creative, but the reality is that we’re all using our creativity on a daily basis just to get through life, whether that takes the form of “art,” or simply cooking a beautiful meal, tending a garden, or decorating our homes. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we we challenge you to begin a daily creative practice (even 10 minutes is significant) in service of living a more creative life.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Marcus McQuirter, PhD Austin Community College Faculty Profile

Episode 73: Theatre, Storytelling, and The Labor of Creativity with Marcus McQuirter, PhD

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Marcus McQuirter, PhD, is the Chair of the Drama Department at Austin Community College, where he teaches Voice, Acting, and Introduction to Theater. A storyteller at heart, he’s also a director, novelist, and podcaster. Dr. McQuirter holds a BFA in Theatre from Howard University, an M.A. in Theatre from the University of North Texas, and a Ph.D. in Performance Studies from the University of Texas, Austin. Our conversation ranges from the craft of audio storytelling to the labor of creativity, and theatre as an inclusive community space.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to sing and jam out in your car as a way of strengthening your vocal skills, overcoming inhibitions, and developing confidence. Go ahead, try it - it might be fun and liberating!

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 52: Texas Poet Laureate Amanda Johnston, Episode 64: Synesthesia, Consciousness, Creativity with Zoe Martell and Archie Frink, and Episode 71: Acting Out of Character with John Cane, PhD.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review, or reach out to us at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Austin Community College Drama Department Website

Marcus’ Podcasts: Intermission: Conversations with Theater People about anything but Theater and The Burden of Legacy.

Howard University

Amiri Baraka

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Episode 72: Creative Spark Series - Creative Community with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

How do you cultivate a sense of creative community? We believe that community and connection are vital to the creative process, especially for those of us who tend to create in solitude. For the new year, our Creative Spark series focuses on setting creative intentions and bolstering our creative habits so we can move toward our goals with greater clarity and flow. This mini episode focuses on the power of community to nurture our creative selves, especially in challenging times. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to join a creative community or reconnect with one you’re already a part of by attending an open mic or other creative event, or perhaps even starting a gathering of your own.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 49: Creativity in Challenging Times, Episode 69: Reflecting on the Year, and Episode 70: New Year’s Creative Intentions.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Acting Out of Character Website

Episode 71: Acting Out of Character with John Cane, PhD

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

How can acting and improvisation training improve your interpersonal and communication skills? We explore this question with John Cane, PhD, actor and integrative wellness psychologist. John is the Founder of Acting Out of Character, a training program offering workshops for turning acting skills into people skills. John received his PhD in psychology with a specialization in creativity studies, along with Melinda. We discuss how acting and improvisation relates to authenticity and emotional intelligence, including how John works with organizations to help with team building and collaboration. We also demonstrate the improv exercise of “Yes, And,” which can facilitate creativity, openness, and innovation.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to adopt a “Yes, And” mindset in your work, relationships, and daily life. Let us know what you discover!

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 21: The Walk of Faith and Courage with Shakespearean Actor Warren "Ren" Jackson, Episode 56: Asking the Questions with Broadway Stereophonic Cast Member Chris Stack, and Episode 66: Finding Ease Through Body Awareness with Jennifer Roig-Francoli.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

John Cane on LinkedIn

John’s Coaching Website

Book - Stolen Focus by Johann Hari

Saybrook University Creativity, Innovation & Leadership Program

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Episode 70: Creative Spark Series - New Year's Creative Intentions with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Happy 2025, Everyone! To kick off the new year, we encourage you to consider your creative intentions and aspirations for the next 12 months. We focus on three main areas, including your creative practice, process, and products. Creative practice encompasses your creative routines and daily habits, while the creative process includes how you go about making work and bringing your ideas to life. Finally, creative products are the finished works that you may wish to release, publish, perform and otherwise share with the world. Focusing on these three areas helps to clarify not only your yearly creative goals, but also how and when you’ll go about accomplishing them. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we suggest you take some time at the beginning of the year to jot down your creative intentions in a journal or create a vision board that you can return to for inspiration throughout the year..

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce, Episode 41: Creative Practice, Process, and Product, Episode 69: Reflecting on the Year.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Episode 69: Creative Spark Series - Reflecting on the Year with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, as we approach the new year, we discuss the benefits of taking time to reflect on our creative lives over the last year. It’s helpful to review the events of the year and projects we’ve engaged with, including highlights and accomplishments, as well as how we might want to approach things differently in the coming year. It’s a great way to consider where we’ve been creatively, how far we’ve come, and where we want to go next. Then we can begin to set our creative intentions for the year ahead (which we’ll discuss in Episode 71). This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to take some time to reflect on your creative life (and your life more generally) in 2024 and write down your reflections in a notebook or journal.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 41: Creative Practice, Process, and Product, Episode 59: How Creativity Opens Doors, and Episode 67: Moving Through the World with a Creative Eye.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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SDMA Wonders of Creation Exhibition Overview

Episode 68: Wonders of Creation with Dr. Ladan Akbarnia

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

This episode explores the theme of wonder as it relates to art and science in the Islamic world, as well as the role of museum curator. Dr. Ladan Akbarnia is Curator of South Asian and Islamic Art at the San Diego Museum of Art and a Commissioner of Arts and Culture for San Diego County. She conceived and curated the current exhibition Wonders of Creation: Art, Science, and Innovation in the Islamic World. Previously, she served as Curator of Islamic Collections at the British Museum from 2010-2019, Executive Director at the Iran Heritage Foundation in London, and Associate Curator of Islamic Art at the Brooklyn Museum. She holds a Ph.D. in Islamic Art and Architecture from Harvard University. Our conversation includes an overview of the exhibition, Dr. Akbarnia’s process for curating it, including many collaborations with other institutions and contemporary artists, and her role as curator more broadly.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to get out to your local museum (or online collection), and view some art to see what it inspires for your own creative process.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 48: Can You Learn Creativity? with Creative Director Chris McKenna, Episode 52: Texas Poet Laureate Amanda Johnston, and Episode 56: Asking the Questions with Stereophonic Cast Member Chris Stack.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Wonders of Creation Gallery Tour on YouTube

Dr. Ladan Akbarnia on LinkedIn

Book: Wonders of Creation

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Episode 67: Creative Spark Series - Moving Through the World with a Creative Eye with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, we discuss what it means to move through the world with a creative eye, to be a creative traveler, as it were, and how this approach can help us stay connected to our creativity in every moment. It can also help us find the humor, the beauty, and the story in everyday situations, including the good, the bad, the ugly, and the bizarre, like when we got shaken down in the bayous of Louisiana while rescuing Melinda’s mom and her cat after a hurricane. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to try something new, like going to a new place, even if it's in your home community, even if it's a place you pass by every single day, but just stop and linger and take the time to pay attention and notice what arises. Then create something based on the experience.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 22: Creative Play, Episode 51: Curiosity & Exploration, and Episode 65: Creative Flow.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. Please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Book: Writing Fiction by Janet Burroway

Book: Deepening Fiction by Sarah Stone and Ron Nyren

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Jennifer’s Website - The Art of Freedom

Episode 66: Finding Ease Through Body Awareness with Jennifer Roig-Francoli

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600

As creatives, and as humans more broadly, we can find ourselves holding habitual tension and pain in our bodies by virtue of our work, whether it be playing a musical instrument, performing physical labor, or simply sitting at a desk all day. Jennifer Roig-Francoli, a violinist and coach specializing in the Primal Alexander Technique, helps people rediscover ease and joy through body awareness. We discuss her personal and spiritual journey from professional concert violinist to coach and teacher, and she leads listeners through a guided body awareness practice using the Primal Alexander Technique developed by her partner, Mio Morales.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to practice the body awareness technique introduced in this episode, and to watch some of Jennifer’s YouTube videos to learn more.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 2: Embodiment and Creativity with Thais Bicalho Silva, Episode 4: Stewarding Change with Reem Khashou, and Episode 62: The Neuroscience of Creativity with Dr. Indre Viskontas.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Jennifer’s YouTube Channel

Book - Make Great Music with Ease, by Jennifer Roig-Francoli

The Alexander Technique

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Syncreate Podcast Episode 65: Creative Spark Series - Creative Flow with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, Charlotte interviews Melinda about her creative habits and daily practices, including meditation and journaling. Melinda is a musician, writer, and photographer, as well as a leadership and creativity coach, and a professor of creativity, innovation, and leadership. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to exercise your creativity every single day in whatever ways you can. Even 5 minutes per day can improve your creative flow and sense of creative identity. .

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 51: Curiosity & Exploration, Episode 59: Creativity Opens Doors, and Episode 63: The Writing Life with Charlotte Gullick.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Psychology Today Article on Synesthesia

Episode 64: Synesthesia, Consciousness & Creativity with Zoe Martell and Archie Frink

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Synesthesia is defined as a blending or mixing of the senses. It can take many forms, such as tasting colors, seeing visuals when hearing music, and s on. It’s said to be experienced by only about 3% of people, but it is highly correlated with creativity.

Zoe Martell and Archie Frink are both psychology Ph.D. students at Saybrook University, where Melinda teaches, as well as talented artists. They both also experience synesthesia. Zoe is a painter and budding musician. She holds master's degrees in an clinical psychology and the history and theory of art, as well as an MFA in painting. She has taught psychology at the college level for many years.

Archie holds an MBA, and he's an author, a consciousness researcher, a clinically trained practitioner of integrative health, and a photographer focusing on extreme environments. Our conversation focuses on the experience of synesthesia, and how it relates to consciousness and creativity.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to pay close attention to your sensory experience and how you experience the world, either through observing your moment-to-moment sensory experience, or through meditation, and see how it informs your creative practice.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 3: Creative Polymathy with Musician, Photographer, and Podcaster Michael Walker, Episode 52: Texas Poet Laureate Amanda Johnston, and Episode 54: Creativity as a Spiritual Endeavor with Musician and Author Peter Himmelman.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

YouTube Video: What Is It Like To Have Synesthesia?

Archie Frink on LinkedIn

Henri Bergson

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Episode 63: Creative Spark Series - The Writing Life with Charlotte Gullick & Melinda Rothouse

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, Melinda interviews Charlotte about her writing life, creative practices, and how creativity has made her a better person. Charlotte is a writer of both fiction and nonfiction, as well as a professor, Program Manager at Vassar College, and former Chair of the Creative Writing Department at Austin Community College. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, also includes insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to adopt a daily accountability practice, whether using an app or in a more analog form to support a regular creative practice.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 41: Creative Practice, Process, and Product, Episode 49: Creativity in Challenging Times, and Episode 57: Accountability Partnerships.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Dr. Indre Viskontas’ Website

Episode 62: The Neuroscience of Creativity with Dr. Indre Viskontas

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Dr. Indre Viskontas is a woman of many talents: an opera singer and director, a neuroscientist, a professor, host of the Inquiring Minds podcast (and several others), and the current president of the Society for the Neuroscience of Creativity. She bridges the worlds of music, performance, neuroscience, and education, sharing her academic insights with the wider world through public speaking, including a TED Talk, her book, titled How Music Can Make You Better, and her podcasts. Our conversation explores Indre’s current research, as well as her own creative process, how she’s teaching her own kids about creativity, and more.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, if you’re feeling stuck, whether it’s a creative project or business presentation, try introducing a plot twist. This is a narrative and storytelling device where instead of telling a story chronologically, you introduce a “but” or “therefore” to create interest or suspense, thus keeping your audience more engaged.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, Episode 25: Creativity, Neuroscience, and Psychedelics with Bradley Cooke, PhD, and Episode 48: Can You Learn Creativity? with Creative Director Chris McKenna

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Inquiring Minds Podcast

Society for the Neuroscience of Creativity

YouTube Video Clip: “But” & “Therefore” with Matt Stone & Trey Parker

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Episode 61: Creative Spark Series - Isolation vs. Solitude with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, we explore how isolation and solitude can show up in our creative process, how to distinguish between the two, and how to work with both. When we feel isolated, it’s important to reach out and connect with our communities. But sometimes we need to cultivate solitude in order to dig deep into our creative work. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to be strategic about solitude. Perhaps plan a retreat or just some concentrated alone time to focus on your current idea or project.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 31: The Power of Collaboration, Episode 37: Giving Back to the Community, Episode 35: Navigating the Creative Wilderness, and Episode 49: Creativity in Challenging Times.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes.

Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review! We’d love to hear your feedback as well, so drop us a line at info@syncreate.org.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Wisdom Pathways Website

Dr. Joe Dispenza

Episode 60: Intuition & Creativity with Intuitive Medium and Spiritual Director Steven Ross

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Steven Ross is the Co-Founder of Wisdom Pathways, co-host of The Way to Go podcast, and host of the Intuition Radio podcast. He is a gifted intuitive medium, ordained interspiritual minister, wellness facilitator and teacher of traditional yoga and meditation. With 20 years on the yogic path, he is a devotee of Paramhansa Yogananda. Steven holds a masters in divinity from All Paths Divinity School. Our conversation focuses on the connections between intuition and creativity and how we can each cultivate our innate intuitive faculties. Steven also gives Melinda a live reading during the episode so people can get a taste of his work and process.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, Steven walks us through the process of tuning into our intuition and allowing our creativity to flow naturally.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 10: Imagination & Creativity with Dr. Diana Rivera, Episode 34: Creativity and Transpersonal Psychology Part 1 with Marina Smirnova, PhD, and Episode 42: Creativity & Depth Psychology with Jennifer Leigh Selig.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Steven’s Website

The Way to Go Podcast

Intuition Radio Podcast

Father Thomas Keating

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Episode 59: Creative Spark Series - How Creativity Opens Doors with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, we discuss how creativity opens doors, and how saying yes to our creativity also helps to build connection and community. We each share our own experiences of creative connection, and how expressing our creativity has led to new experiences and relationships. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to reflect on how creativity has opened doors in your own life, and to take concrete action toward opening a new door, such as attending a book reading, an open mic, a gallery opening, and so on.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Charlotte Gullick’s Website

Book: The Anti-Racist Writing Workshop by Felicia Rose Chavez

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Michael Steiner on LinkedIn

Episode 58: Creative Problem Solving with BEST Robitics Executive Director Michael Steiner

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Michael Steiner is the Executive Director of BEST Robotics, an annual student robotics competition for middle and high school students that facilitates experiential, complex creative problem solving within the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Over 18,000 students across the US participate in the program each fall. Michael is also the co-founder of Your Global Strategy, a consulting agency that works with thought leaders and governments across the globe to manage projects and drive creativity towards growth. In our conversation, we discuss how the BEST Robotics competition fosters creative problem-solving skills among students, as well as Michael’s personal and professional insights into the creative process and how best to prepare young minds for creativity and innovation.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to explore and gain expertise across fields and domains of knowledge in order to maximize your creative potential and develop your own creative problem-solving skills.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD, Episode 38: Leadership for Creativity and Innovation with Jamie Gallagher, and Episode 48: Can You Learn Creativity? with Creative Director Chris McKenna.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

BEST Robotics Website

Michael’s Consulting Firm: Your Global Strategy

Creativity Researcher Mark Runco

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Episode 57: Creative Spark Series - Accountability Partnerships with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, we share our insights and best practices on accountability partnerships for our creative work. Accountability partners help us move more quickly and effectively toward our goals. We can form accountability partnerships with creative collaborators, peers, co-workers, coaches, family, friends, and so on. These are people with whom we can share our goals and milestones, and check in with on a regular basis about our progress. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to find an accountability partner if you don’t already have one. And if you do, reach out to that person to check in, refresh the relationship, and evaluate whether it needs any adjustments.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 24: Creative Planning, Episode 29: Iteration, and Episode 39: Sharing Work in Progress.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Episode 56: Asking the Questions with Broadway Stereophonic Cast Member Chris Stack

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Chris Stack plays the role of Simon in the current Broadway sensation Stereophonic, winner of a Tony award for best play, and the most Tony-nominated show of all time. Stereophonic follows a 70’s rock band in the process of recording their groundbreaking album, featuring original music by Will Butler of Arcade Fire. Chris and Melinda also happen to be high school classmates, so in this episode we catch up on Chris’ journey from his formative years in music and theater at Park Tudor School in Indianapolis all the way to Broadway. We also focus on his experiences with The Actor’s Studio in New York, the importance of perseverance in a creative career, and the spiritual side of his creative process.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to ask, and keep asking the deeper questions, even if there are no immediate answers, as questions open up possibilities for creativity and a greater sense of one’s life and work.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 8: Grief, Healing, and the Artist’s Life with Anne Myers Cleary, Episode 21: The Walk of Faith and Courage with Shakespearean Actor Warren "Ren" Jackson, and Episode 54: Creativity as a Spiritual Endeavor with Musician and Author Peter Himmelman.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:
Chris Stack on IMDB
Stereophonic on Broadway
Film: School of Rock
Band: Fleetwood Mac
The Actor’s Studio

Show / permanent hyperlinks:
The Syncreate Podcast
Syncreate Website
Syncreate Instagram
Syncreate Facebook
Syncreate LinkedIn
Syncreate YouTube
Melinda Rothouse Website

Episode 55: Creative Spark Series - Experimenting Across Media with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, we explore the possibilities that can emerge from experimenting across media in our creative work. For example, if we’re writing a poem, what if we expressed it as a dance? Or if we’re composing a song, how would it translate into a painting? Exploring our ideas across media can open up new possibilities, which can inform and deepen our primary project. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to explore your current project or idea in a different medium, or even multiple media, and see how it informs the work.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 22: Creative Play, Episode 29: Iteration, Episode 35: Navigating the Creative Wilderness.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Peter’s Website: peterhimmelman.com

Episode 54: Creativity as a Spiritual Endeavor with Musician and Author Peter Himmelman

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Peter Himmelman is a Grammy and Emmy nominated singer-songwriter, visual artist, best-selling author, film composer, entrepreneur, and rock and roll performer with over 20 critically acclaimed recordings to his credit. His new book, Suspended by No String, reflects on the spiritual elements that suffuse his life and creative work.In addition to his own creative work, Peter is the founder of Big Muse, a company, which helps organizations to leverage the power of their people’s innate creativity. We discuss Peter’s creative process in connection with his writing and music, and how his spiritual path and practice inform his work.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, We encourage you to turn off your phone and get your butt in the chair to show up for your creative work on a daily basis. Straight from the man himself!

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 3: Creative Polymathy with Musician, Photographer, and Podcaster Michael Walker, Episode 21: The Walk of Faith and Courage with Shakespearean Actor Warren "Ren" Jackson, and Episode 52: Texas Poet Laureate Amanda Johnston.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Peter’s New Book: Suspended by No String

Peter’s First Book: Let Me Out

Big Muse: Peter’s Creativity Consulting Services

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Amparo Garcia-Crow and The Living Room

Episode 53: Creative Spark Series - Preparation vs. Spontaneity with Melinda Rothouse and Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, we explore the delicate balance between preparation and spontaneity in our creative work. How do we invite structure and planning into our process, while also allowing for freshness, mystery, surprise, and improvisation? Maybe the thought of public speaking terrifies us, so we want to prepare meticulously. But no one wants to hear someone simply read from a prepared paper or script, so how do we prepare fully and then let go? This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to prepare fully for your next creative performance or presentation, and then let go and be in the moment as much as possible. Let us know how it goes!

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce, Episode 24: Creative Planning, and Episode 41: Creative Practice, Process, and Product.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Toastmasters International

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Amanda Johnston’s Website

Episode 52: Texas Poet Laureate Amanda Johnston

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Amanda Johnston is the 2024 Texas Poet Laureate, the first Black woman appointed to the role by the Texas State Legislature. She is also the recipient of a 2024 Academy of American Poets Laureate Fellowship. She is the author of two chapbooks, GUAP and Lock & Key, and the full-length collection Another Way to Say Enter. Her work has appeared in numerous online and print publications.

Named one of Blavity’s "13 Black Poets You Should Know," Amanda’s work has been featured on Bill Moyers, the Poetry Society of America’s series In Their Own Words, The Moth Radio Hour, and the Academy of American Poets Poem-a-Day series. She is the Founder of Torch Literary Arts, which amplifies Black women’s voices through publishing opportunities and an annual writer’s retreat. In this episode, we discuss her literary efforts and activities, as well as her creative process, and she recites two of her notable poems.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to build your creative community by going to events, connecting with other artists, and supporting your fellow creatives. The more you connect with your community, the more opportunities arise.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 6: Gratitude, Gentleness, and Generosity with Mayela Padilla Manasjan, Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, and Episode 12: Creativity, Inclusivity and Community Theater with Sharanya Rao.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Torch Literary Arts Website

Praisesong for the People Website

Amanda Johnston on Instagram

Academy of American Poets / poets.org

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Episode 51: Creative Spark Series - Curiosity & Exploration with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, we discuss the role of curiosity, exploration, openness to experience, and the spirit of adventure in the creative process. Following our curiosity opens up new ideas, connections, and inspirations, which then enhance our creative work. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we challenge you to go out and do something different, outside of your normal routine, maybe even something you’ve never done before. See what new thoughts, ideas, and inspirations it evokes.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Benjamin Kintisch on LinkedIn

Episode 50: Life Review: The Hospice Musical with Benjamin Kintisch

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Benjamin Kintisch is a cantor, chaplain, and music teacher. He created a musical based on his experiences as a chaplain working with patients and families involved in hospice care, called Life Review: The Hospice Musical. We discuss his inspiration for the musical, his songwriting collaborations, and his pandemic pivots, as well as his involvement with songwriting retreats and teaching music to children. The conversation includes many gems of insight into the creative process.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we suggest playing with a different medium, specifically a visual art or non-verbal medium, as a warm-up to a session of writing or songwriting. More broadly, whatever your primary medium, try beginning your work sessions with a few minutes of low-pressure play in a different medium to get your creative juices flowing in a low-stakes setting, and see how this informs your project.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, Episode 14: Anatomy of a Song with Singer/Songwriter George McCormack, and Episode 27: The Spirit of Collaboration with Attorney and Musician Randy Langford.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Benjamin Kintisch / Life Review Musical on Instagram

Life Review: The Hospice Musical

Freestyle Rapper Harry Mack

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical

Dame Cicely Saunders, Founder of the Modern Hospice Movement

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Episode 49: Creative Spark Series - Creativity in Challenging Times with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, Charlotte and Melinda discuss the importance of exercising our creativity in challenging times, not only for personal fulfillment and joy, but also to build community and be of benefit to the world. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to inventory your joy, and think about how creativity can contribute to your general happiness. Then, take intentional time in your schedule for a creative practice.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Charlotte Gullick’s Website

Folk Singer Ronnie Gilbert

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Chris McKenna on LinkedIn

Episode 48: Can You Learn Creativity? with Creative Director Chris McKenna

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Is creativity something you’re born with, or can you learn it? In this episode, we talk with creative director and writer Chris McKenna about creativity as a skill that we can learn and practice. Chris is the founder of Wee Beastie, a creative agency based in Los Angeles. Part of his work with clients and organizations involves teaching people about the creative process. We discuss his journey from technician to creative director, and his mission to help illuminate the creative process.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to print out a picture of a lightbulb and post it on your wall. Believe it or not, this is a proven technique to stimulate creative ideation. And for a bonus tip, whenever you start to feel stalled in your creative process, go for a walk in the woods. This is another way to stimulate your mind and get the creative juices flowing again.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 10: Imagination & Creativity with Dr. Diana Rivera, Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD, Episode 38: Leadership for Creativity and Innovation with Jamie Gallagher.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Wee Beastie Website

Final Pixel Website

Creativity Conference at Southern Oregon University

Dr. Ruth Richards, Creativity Scholar

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Episode 47: Creative Spark Series - Creativity & Meaning Making with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark series, Melinda shares the connection between creativity and meaning making. We can use our creativity in service of healing, integration and wholeness. This may involve paying attention to our dreams, and to messages from our unconscious, and then conveying them through a variety of creative media. This episode includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to start keeping a journal or picking up some other kind of creative practice, and returning to it on a regular basis.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more, you might also like our conversations in Episode 34: Creativity and Transpersonal Psychology Part 1 with Marina Smirnova, PhD, Episode 35: Navigating the Creative Wilderness, and Episode 42: Creativity & Depth Psychology with Jennifer Leigh Selig.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Article by Melinda: Navigating the Creative Wilderness

Saybrook University Creativity, Innovation & Leadership Specialization

Jungian / Analytical Psychology

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Better Call Daddy Podcast

Episode 46: Sharing Stories - Creativity & Podcasting with Reena Friedman Watts

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Reena Friedman Watts is the host of the Better Call Daddy podcast, which features guests from all walks of life with stories to share. She got her start chasing stories at the Jerry Springer Show, and worked for Court TV before starting her own show. We discuss storytelling, creativity, and the art of podcasting, as well as religion and spirituality, our relationships with our fathers, and more!

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, if you see someone doing something creative that you love, reach out to them and see if you can be a part of it. Find ways to collaborate!

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 1: Audio Storytelling with Podcaster and Environmentalist Michael Osborne, PhD, Episode 21: The Walk of Faith and Courage with Shakespearean Actor Warren "Ren" Jackson, and Episode 42: Creativity & Depth Psychology with Jennifer Leigh Selig.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Reena Friedman Watts on LinkedIn

Reena’s Instagram

World Podcast Network

Jerry Springer / Jerry Springer Show

Episode 42: Creativity & Depth Psychology with Jennifer Leigh Selig

Unconditioning Podcast Episode 66 with Melinda Rothouse, Hosted by Whitney Ann Jenkins

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Episode 45: Creative Spark Series - Giving and Receiving Feedback with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, we discuss the art of giving and receiving feedback in the context of our creative work. It’s so important to ask for and receive feedback to polish our work into its final form. But sometimes this feedback can be hard to receive in the moment, or we may need to take some time to digest it before we can incorporate the feedback. Similarly, when giving feedback to others, it’s important to be constructive and productive. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to ask for feedback on your work from someone you trust, and to receive that feedback in a mindful, present way, with generosity and gratitude. Then take some time to reflect on the feedback and find your sense of agency with it before returning to the work and incorporating it.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 33: Incubation & The Power of Time Away, Episode 35: Navigating the Creative Wilderness, and Episode 39: Sharing Work in Progress.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Jimmy’s Website - Innerve Consulting

Episode 44: Conscious Facilitation & The Power of Presence with Jimmy Johnny Juste

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Jimmy Johnny Juste leads groups and organizations through a process of conscious facilitation, helping them to resolve conflicts, navigate change, and embrace innovative solutions. At the core of his practice lies the liberation of self, employing diverse methods from somatic work to hypnosis and facilitative mediation. Facilitation, a transformative modality for meaning-making, empowers participants to express themselves authentically and boldly. Melinda met Jimmy at the 2024 Florida Creativity Conference, where she attended his presentation on Conscious Facilitation, and immediately knew she wanted to bring his work to The Syncreate Podcast. We discuss the principles of conscious facilitation, tools and techniques for grounding and presence, and how all of this relates to creativity.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, when things get tense or stressful interpersonally, or when we feel stuck creatively, instead of rushing to a solution, slow down, ground yourself with a deep breath, and allow your wisdom to arise instead of rushing into action.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 27: The Spirit of Collaboration with Attorney and Musician Randy Langford, Episode 38: Leadership for Creativity and Innovation with Jamie Gallagher, and Syncreate Podcast Episode 40: Creating a Culture of Innovation with Stephanie Crain & Shaniqua Brown.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can also find all of our podcast episodes on our website. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and if you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Jimmy’s Instagram

Article - What is Facilitation?

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Episode 43: Creative Spark Series - Time Management & Prioritizing Your Work with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark mini-episodes, we emphasize the importance of time management and prioritizing our creative work. Though we have a vision for a project, we may struggle with how to begin, or it may feel overwhelming. But if we break the process down into manageable goals, milestones, and tasks, we can move from start to finish with more ease. We may also have trouble prioritizing our work, but this is so important for completion and our sense of creative efficacy. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to put your creative work at the top of your to-do list, and block off time in your calendar, just like you would for any other meeting or appointment, to work on your projects. This is how we create lasting habits and commit fully to our creativity.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce, Episode 24: Creative Planning, and Episode 41: Creative Practice, Process, and Product.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project or a new venture, and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, find us at syncreate.org. Our book walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Jennifer’s Book: Deep Memoir

Episode 42: Creativity and Depth Psychology - The Underworld Journey with Jennifer Leigh Selig

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Our guest today is Jennifer Leigh Selig, author of the new book Deep Memoir, and founder of Mandorla Books, an award-winning boutique publisher. Our conversation explores creativity and depth psychology, which examines the deeper questions of life, meaning, and purpose. We discuss the proverbial underworld journey, or dark night of the soul, and how we can make meaning of pain and suffering for the sake of our own growth and development, as well as to benefit others.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, pay attention to what stories, myths, and archetypes resonate most for you at this time. Reflect on the wisdom you’ve gained from your life experiences, and to consider how you might share that wisdom with others.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Dr. Diana Rivera, Episode 23: The Corporate Mystic with Stephanie Crain, and Episode 34: Creativity and Transpersonal Psychology Part 1 with Marina Smirnova, PhD.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea for a project and you’re not sure how to get it off the ground, reach out to us! Our book, also called Syncreate, walks you through the stages of the creative process so you can take action on your creative goals. We also offer resources, creative process tools, and coaching to help you bring your work to the world. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Jennifer’s Website

Mandorla Books Website

Jung Society of Austin

Cheryl Strayed’s Memoir, Wild

Pacifica Graduate Institute

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Episode 41: Creative Spark Series - Creative Practice, Process & Product with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark series of bite-size, mini-episodes, Melinda & Charlotte explore the distinctions between our creative practice, process, and products, and how this can help us in bringing our creative work into the world. When working with clients, we find it helpful to look at our creative work through each of these lenses. Our creative practice includes our workspace, the time we put into our creative work, and our habits and routines around it. Our creative process is how we go about bringing our ideas into concrete form, and our creative products are our creations themselves. Once we understand these distinctions, we can approach them with intention and empowerment. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to examine your relationship to your own creative practice, process, and products, and to keep a reflective journal to better understand your own creative life.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce, Episode 29: Iteration, and Episode 35: Navigating the Creative Wilderness.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors, so if you have an idea for a project or a new venture, please reach out to us for 1x1 coaching or join our Syncreate 2024 Coaching Group, starting in July. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Melinda’s Book: A Mindful Approach to Team Creativity and Collaboration in Organizations: Creating a Culture of Innovation

Episode 40: Creating a Culture of Innovation with Stephanie Crain and Shaniqua Brown

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This episode is a co-release with From Illumination to Innovation Podcast (Episode 4) with Stephanie Crain and Shaniqua Brown, where I was a guest discussing creativity and leadership in organizational contexts, and how best to foster cultures of innovation. We discuss the Syncreate model of Play, Plan & Produce, as well as how companies that value creativity can truly nurture and support creative thinkers, processes, and solutions.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more, you might also like our conversations in Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD, Episode 23: The Corporate Mystic with Stephanie Crain, and Episode 38: Leadership for Creativity and Innovation with Jamie Gallagher.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Podcast: From Illumination to Innovation with Stephanie Crain and Shaniqua Brown

Stephanie Crain on LinkedIn

Shaniqua Brown on LinkedIn

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Episode 39: Creative Spark Series - The Vulnerability of Sharing Works in Progress with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 30 May 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark series of bite-size, mini-episodes, Melinda & Charlotte discuss the vulnerability of sharing work we know is not finished, but for which we need feedback in order to improve it. Sharing work before it feels complete can be a little scary, so it’s important to consider who we can trust for feedback to get the work where it needs to be. Then we can feel confident sharing it with the wider world. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to identify at least one trusted person that you can share your work in progress with and receive their feedback.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce, Episode 33: Incubation & The Power of Time Away, Episode 35: Navigating the Creative Wilderness, and Episode 37: Giving Back to the Community.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Jamie Gallagher on LinkedIn

Episode 38: Leadership for Creativity and Innovation with Jamie Gallagher

Thu, 23 May 2024 04:00:00 -0500

With a 40-year career in the toy and art supply industry, most recently as CEO at Faber-Castell USA, Jamie Gallagher brings a wealth of insight into how creative companies function. He is the founder of 4 the Win, which fosters creativity and innovation among individuals, teams, organizations and communities through four pillars of success: Purpose, Culture, Creativity, and Clarity. Drawing upon Jamie’s experiences leading teams at Lego, Playmobil, and Faber-Castell, we discuss both barriers and accelerants to innovation, which have everything to do with mindset, trust, and culture.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to contemplate the four accelerators of purpose, culture, creativity and clarity, and consider how you could bring them more intentionally into your creative and professional work.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD, Episode 23: The Corporate Mystic with Stephanie Crain, and Episode 27: The Spirit of Collaboration with Attorney and Musician Randy Langford.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

4theWin Partners

Book: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Book: Deep Work by Cal Newport

Faber-Castell USA

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Marina’s Faculty Profile at Saybrook University

Episode 37: Creative Spark Series - Giving Back to the Community with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 16 May 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this installment of our Creative Spark series of bite-size, mini-episodes, Melinda & Charlotte discuss the importance of giving back to our creative communities. This could take the form of mentoring or guiding others, or just simply lending a helping hand with someone’s creative work or process. Helping others can also help us out of our own creative ruts. We might not think we have anything insightful to share, but we probably have more wisdom than we realize; what might seem obvious or second-nature to us, could actually be a revelation to someone else. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, ask yourself: what's one way you can share your knowledge with others and/or give back to your creative community?

Episode 36: Creativity and Transpersonal Psychology Part 2 with Marina Smirnova, PhD

Thu, 09 May 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Picking up where we left off in Part 1 (Episode 34), we continue the conversation about creativity and transpersonal psychology with Marina Smirnova, Ph.D., head of the Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health specialization within the Humanistic Psychology program at Saybrook University, and a professor of transpersonal psychology, or the psychology of spirituality. We explore questions of meaning-making, integration, and expanded states of consciousness, as well as learning to trust ourselves and to honor our own intuitive guidance with respect to our creative and professional work.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera, Episode 23: The Corporate Mystic with Stephanie Crain, and Episode 34: Creativity and Transpersonal Psychology Part 1.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Dr. Stanislav Grof

Christina Grof

Article: Spiritual Emergency: The Understanding and Treatment of Spiritual Crises by Cristina Grof and Stanislav Grof

Carl Jung

Joseph Campbell

Dr. John Edward Mack

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Episode 35: Creative Spark Series - Navigating the Creative Wilderness with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 02 May 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, we explore the creative call to adventure and subsequent journey through the wilderness. We often start our creative projects with a sense of inspiration and excitement, only to flounder along the way, or plunge into self-doubt. Never fear - this is actually part of the process, and if we can learn to navigate this wilderness, our work can actually benefit from it. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to listen to the creative call to adventure, and to heed it, even if the way feels scary or uncertain. Sometimes following the call can change our wok and our lives in ways we never imagined.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce, Episode 22: Creative Play, and Episode 33: Incubation & The Power of Time Away.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Documentary - Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain

Institute of American Indian Arts

Internal Family Systems Therapy

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Marina’s Faculty Profile at Saybrook University

Episode 34: Creativity and Transpersonal Psychology Part 1 with Marina Smirnova, PhD

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Where do our creative ideas and inspirations come from? For many of us, our creativity is deeply intertwined with questions of meaning, consciousness, and spirituality. Our guest today is Marina Smirnova, Ph.D., head of the Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health specialization within the Humanistic Psychology program at Saybrook University, and a professor of transpersonal psychology, or the psychology of spirituality. Our conversation explores our own early childhood experiences of the transpersonal, as well as how landscape and environment affect our lives, and how we understand creativity as a meaning-making process.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD, and Episode 21: The Walk of Faith and Courage with Shakespearean Actor Warren "Ren" Jackson, and Episode 32: Creativity & Synchronicity with Dr. Steven Pritzker.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Article: The Practice of Transpersonal Psychology

Book: The Soul’s Code by James Hillman

Dr. Stanislav Grof

Dr. Joseph Campbell and The Hero’s Journey

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Episode 33: Creative Spark Series - Incubation & Time Away with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda and Charlotte emphasize the importance of creative incubation, and of stepping away from our work at key moments in order to gain the perspective to move forward in a productive way. This is not the same as procrastination or avoidance; it is a strategic move in the creative process that allows us to return to the work with fresh eyes. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to consider how you might meaningfully embrace creative incubation, or step away from a work in progress, whether for a day, a week, or more, in order for to gain the perspective or insight needed to return to it with a sense of freshness and renewed purpose.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce, Episode 29: Iteration, and Episode 31: The Power of Collaboration.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Dr. Steven Pritzker’s Saybrook University Profile

Episode 32: Creativity and Synchronicity with Dr. Steven Pritzker

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

How does synchronicity shape a creative life? In this episode, we explore how a shared connection, a chance meeting, or a risk taken can lead to opportunities we may never have imagined possible. Our guest is Dr. Steven Pritzker, Co-Editor of the The Encyclopedia of Creativity, Professor of Creativity Studies at Saybrook University, and a renowned television writer for Emmy-winning shows Room 222 and The Mary Tyler Moore Show, as well as writer/producer on a number of shows including Breaking Away, The Partridge Family, The Loveboat, and many more. We also discuss what it means to live a creative life.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to find ways to embrace and express your own unique creativity, to seize creative opportunities that arise, and to live a life that is fully engaged, whatever that looks like for you.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera, and Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Room 222 (TV Show)

The Mary Tyler Moore Show

The Encyclopedia of Creativity

The Creativity, Innovation, and Leadership Program at Saybrook University

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Episode 31: Creative Spark Series - The Power of Collaboration with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda and Charlotte discuss the power of collaboration. It’s in our name, Syncreate: synergy and co-creation. We can accomplish so much more through collaboration than we can on our own. We describe own experiences of collaboration, and how you can harness the power of collaboration in your own creative work. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to go on a walk in nature, observe the world around you, and all the ways you draw inspiration from your surroundings, which is also a form of collaboration. Alternatively, find and connect with a collaborator who complements your strengths so that you’re each bringing something different to the table in a creative synergy.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 7: The Syncreate Story, Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce, Episode 22: Creative Play, and Episode 29: Iteration.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Colors of Love Music Show

Syncreate Podcast Episode 3: Creative Polymathy with Michael Walker

Creative Mornings Austin

Syncreate Podcast Episode 30: Creative Mornings Austin

David Whyte Poem: Everything is Waiting for You

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Elizabeth Gilbert on Genius

Episode 30: Creative Mornings Austin with Ben Thoma & Brian Thompson

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ben Thoma and Brian Thompson are the Co-Founders of Creative Mornings Austin, a local chapter of Creative Mornings, a monthly creative gathering in cities around the world. Described as “church for creatives,” Creative Mornings includes coffee and breakfast, a musical guest, and a presentation by a member of the local community, in a different location each month. The mantra of Creative Mornings Austin is “Everyone is creative, and everyone is welcome.” Our conversation explores the nature of creativity, the importance of creative community, the notion of “genius,” and tips for sparking your own creativity.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, try giving yourself a creative prompt, along the lines of an advertising brief, with specific constraints. It’s hard to stare at a blank page or a blank canvas, so give yourself some parameters, a “box” to start within and work your way out from. For examples, you can find many prompts in our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera, Episode 17: Creative Collaboration with Syncreate Podcast Producer Mike Osborne, and Episode 28: The Spirit of Collaboration with Attorney & Musician Randy Langford..

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors, so if you have an idea for a project or a new venture, please reach out to us for 1x1 coaching or join our Syncreate 2024 Coaching Group, starting in July. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and YouTube @ Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Creative Mornings Global

Creative Mornings Austin

Austin Kleon - Author of Steal Like an Artist + Show Your Work

Ben Thoma on LinkedIn

Brian Thomas’ Website - brandwriter.com

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Episode 29: Creative Spark Series - Iteration with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda and Charlotte describe the process of iteration, where we revise, refine, rehearse, and otherwise fine-tune and polish up our creative work to bring it to completion. Sometimes iteration requires radical cutting, editing, and reworking. We liken this process to pruning, which actually allows a tree or bush to grow and thrive more fully. It can be painful, but it’s often necessary to bring a piece of work to its final form. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, take a piece of your creative work that’s in progress, and try editing it, radically re-working it, or starting it over in a completely new way. How might you tell the story differently? What needs cutting? What if you changed the tempo of the song? Notice how the project evolves as a result of this iteration.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors, so if you have an idea for a project or a new venture, please reach out to us for 1x1 coaching or join our Syncreate 2024 Coaching Group, starting in July. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram & TikTok under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Author: Katherine Anne Porter

Syncreate Podcast Episode 14: Anatomy of a Song with Singer/Songwriter George McCormack

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Eben’s Website

Eben’s Instagram

Episode 28: From Healing to Wholeness with Eben Britton

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

How do we move from healing to wholeness in body, mind, and spirit? How can we communicate and create from a place of deep integrity? We explore these questions with podcaster, workshop facilitator & former NFL player Eben Britton. After 7 years in the NFL, Eben has embarked on a journey of healing and wellness, which he shares via his podcast, workshops, and retreats. His work includes restorative practices such as yoga, meditation, and breath work, as well as practices to enhance communication, relationships, and authenticity. We discuss Eben’s journey from healing to wholeness, as well as the psychology of wellness, intuition, and individuation.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to take some time for retreat, whatever that means for you, in order to rest and rejuvenate. That could mean signing up for a formal retreat, or simply taking some time off the busyness of life to rest and refocus on what’s really important.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 2: Embodiment and Creativity with Thais Bicalho Silva, Episode 4: Stewarding Change with Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer Reem Khashou & Episode 15: Leadership, Burnout & Personal Sustainability with Dr. Katherine Semler.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors, so please reach out to us for 1x1 coaching or join our Syncreate 2024 Coaching Group, starting in April. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

The Eben Flow Podcast

Heal & Flow Event March 23-24 in Wimberley, TX

Book: The Way of the Superior Man by David Deida

Book: Iron John by Robert Bly

Book: Wild at Heart by John & Stasi Eldridge

Dave Meltzer

Book: Women Who Run with the Wolves by Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés

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Syncreate Website

Syncreate YouTube

Syncreate Instagram

Syncreate Facebook

Syncreate LinkedIn

Randy Langford’s Law Website

Episode 27: The Spirit of Collaboration with Attorney & Musician Randy Langford

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Collaboration is vital for getting things done, for innovation, and for solving complex problems. But do we really understand collaboration, and what distinguishes it from coordination, cooperation, and even teamwork? According to our current guest, Randy Langford, collaboration involves people in community using communication to express their needs, and offer resources to support one another, for a common purpose. It’s basically the opposite of competition.

Randy is an Austin-based attorney, professor, and musician with a focus on collaboration and restorative justice. He worked as a criminal defense attorney before turning his attention to more collaborative legal practices. We discuss his journey from the ranches of southeast Texas, through law school and the criminal justice system, to championing collaboration through his law practice and teaching. Randy is also a prolific singer-songwriter, and he and Melinda have recently been collaborating on music and performance. We discuss our musical collaboration and share a couple of songs from our current collaborative show, Colors of Love.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, reflect on how you collaborate in your creative, professional, and personal life. Try embracing the spirit of collaboration in asking for what you need, sharing resources, and supporting your collaborators toward a common purpose.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, Episode 11: Leadership, Values, and Criminal Justice Reform with Attorney Dylan Hayre, Episode 14: Anatomy of a Song with Singer/Songwriter George McCormack, and Episode 17: Creative Collaboration with Syncreate Podcast Producer Mike Osborne.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors, so if you have an idea for a project or a new venture, please reach out to us for 1x1 coaching or join our Syncreate 2024 Coaching Group, starting in April. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on social media and Patreon. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Restorative Justice

Shamanacana, Randy’s Music Site

Randy’s YouTube Channel, including full videos of the songs from this Episode

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Syncreate Website

Syncreate YouTube

Episode 26: Creative Spark Series - Produce! with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda and Charlotte describe the final phase of the creative process: Produce. In this phase, according to our Syncreate model, we move toward completion of our creative work. This is where we refine, iterate, polish, get feedback, and ultimately share our creative efforts with the world. It’s also where we celebrate and give back to our creative communities. This episode, like the mini-episodes that preceded it, includes insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to recognize how far you’ve traveled already on your creative journey, and to celebrate your milestones, along with your accomplishments. We also emphasize the importance of recognizing, celebrating, and empowering your creative community.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors, so if you have an idea for a project or a new venture, please reach out to us for 1x1 coaching or join our Syncreate 2024 Coaching Group, starting in April. You can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram & TikTok under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Syncreate Podcast Episode 14: Anatomy of a Song with Singer/Songwriter George McCormack

Syncreate Podcast Episode 17: Creative Collaboration - The Joy and The Pain with Syncreate Podcast Producer Mike Osborne

Book: Swim Home ot the Vanished by Brendan Shay Basham

Book: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Song: Fuel by Black Thought

Artist Ernie Barnes

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Bradley Cooke, Ph.D. on LinkedIn

Episode 25: Between Order & Chaos - Creativity, Neuroscience & Psychedelics with Bradley Cooke, Ph.D.

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

What distinguishes creativity from other modes of thinking and being? How do we understand creativity from a neuroscientific perspective, and how do psychedelics affect creativity? We explore these questions with Bradley Cooke, Ph.D., a neuroscientist and Program Director at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Cooke oversees the nation's portfolio of research into the neurobiology of obesity and diabetes. He’s also a visual artist with an interest in psychedelics research. We explore how creativity lives on a spectrum between order and chaos, between predictability and surprise, as exemplified by the Italian term sprezzatura, a sense of careless grace, casual elegance, or intentional nonchalance.

Our Creativity Pro-Tip encourages you to consider the times, places, and conditions where you feel most creative, and to intentionally foster those conditions to support your creative pursuits. This often requires setting aside the to-do list, and carving out time for our creative process.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, and Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera, and Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

The Art of Sprezzatura

Dr. Dan Siegel on Chaos, Rigidity, and Integration

My Funny Valentine - Miles Davis & John Coltrane

Brad’s Research Portfolio at the National Institutes of Health

Article: Psychedelics as Potential Catalysts of Scientific Creativity and Insight

Article: 7 Ways Psychedelics Impact Creative Thinking

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Episode 24: Creative Spark Series - Creative Planning with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda and Charlotte describe the Plan, or organizational, phase of the creative process. The word “plan” might not immediately come to mind when we think about creativity, but planning and organization are actually vital to bringing a creative idea to the world. We discuss how convergent and divergent thinking figure into the creative process, as well as the importance of setting creative goals and milestones. We also share personal examples of how planning allows us to move forward with our creative work in a productive way, along with insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we focus on accountability partnership, where we enlist the help of a friend, colleague, or collaborator to help hold us accountable to our creative goals. Accountability partnerships can be formal or informal, but they afford us that extra bit of extrinsic motivation to move forward with our work. Accountability partnerships are a powerful way to boost our creative output.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 7: The Syncreate Story with Syncreate Co-Founder Charlotte Gullick, Episode 20: The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce and Episode 22: Creative Play.

At Syncreate, we're here to support your creative endeavors, so if you have an idea for a project or a new venture, please reach out to us for 1x1 coaching or join our Syncreate 2024 Coaching Group, starting in April. So you can find more information on our website, syncreate.org, where you can also find all of our podcast episodes. Find and connect with us on YouTube, LinkedIn, FB, Insta & TikTok under Syncreate, and we’re now on Patreon as well. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Stephanie Crain / The Corporate Mystic on LinkedIn

Episode 23: The Corporate Mystic - Archetypes of Leadership & Creativity with Stephanie Crain

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, this episode explores the archetypes, personas, and roles we embody in our work life and beyond, beginning with the archetype of The Lovers. My guest is The Corporate Mystic, Stephanie Crain, an Austin-based leadership/ ethos coach and innovation consultant. She’s the founder of Tapas Innovation, and a Certified Master Jungian Coach with a Success Mindset specialization.

Stephanie works with executives, creators, and entrepreneurs to realize their full authentic expression and value activation. Our conversation focuses on the Corporate Persona Archetype Test she developed to help people better understand the roles and personas they adopt in the workplace, develop greater self-awareness, and embrace their full professional potential.

Our Creativity Pro-Tip for this episode invites you to take the free Corporate Persona Archetype Test and to consider the ways you show up at work, in your leadership, and in your wider life. Where do you shine? Where are you holding back? And how could you step forward with greater authenticity and confidence?

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 11: Leadership, Values, and Criminal Justice Reform with Attorney Dylan Hayre, Episode 15: Leadership, Burnout & Personal Sustainability with Dr. Katherine Semler, and Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD.

The Syncreate Podcast is now on Patreon. We’d love your support in continuing to grow the podcast and our Syncreate community. For a small monthly contribution, you’ll receive exclusive content and access, including previews of upcoming episodes, monthly calls with Melinda, and more.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Tapas Innovation

Free Corporate Persona Archetype Test

Tarot Cards

Personality Tests

Emotional Intelligence and Leadership

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Episode 22 - Creative Spark Series: Creative Play with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode of our Creative Spark series, Melinda and Charlotte describe the Play, or ideation, phase of the creative process. In our view of the creative process, we begin with play. This is where we dream, fantasize, imagine, and envision the work we want to create. It’s where we play with ideas, build our skills, and experiment with different ways of bringing our ideas to life. We share insights and prompts from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we focus on “woodshedding,” a term from the jazz world, which involves honing our craft, putting the time in to practice our scales (or the equivalent in whatever medium we’re working in), and developing our skills. It involves the (playful) discipline of building our skills so that we can be best equipped to actually bring our creative ideas into being.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 7: The Syncreate Story with Syncreate Co-Founder Charlotte Gullick, Episode 14: Anatomy of a Song with Singer/Songwriter George McCormack, and Episode 21: The Walk of Faith & Courage with Actor Ren Jackson.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Charlotte Gullick’s Website
Documentary: American Symphony

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The Delacorte Theater / Shakespeare in the Park

Episode 21: The Walk of Faith and Courage with Shakespearean Actor Warren "Ren" Jackson

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Following the creative path professionally requires faith and courage, as exemplified by our current guest Warren “Ren” Jackson. Originally from Indianapolis (where he and Melinda went school together growing up), Ren went on to earn an MFA from the University of Arizona, and then to a professional acting career with an emphasis on Shakespeare. He continued his artistic exploration amid the thriving theater and teaching artist community in New York.

A former company member with the Brooklyn based, site-specific theater company, Brave New World Rep, he has worked extensively in New York and regionally in the Midwest. Being a former competitive athlete, much of his approach to his artistic work is grounded in his exploration of a story's physicality. Whether through stage combat, dance, gesture or stylized movement, he has a commitment and enthusiasm to creating a physical narrative that supplements and highlights the writer's text.

Our conversation focuses on Ren’s approach to acting and directing, how growing up in the Black church helped to influence his understanding of creativity, and what he terms “the walk of faith and courage” required to follow the creative path with authenticity. Ren is currently performing with the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company in a production of Amen Corner by James Baldwin, followed by a production of Julius Cesar.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to consider how creativity lives in your body, in your gestures, your voice, your eyes, and your interactions with other others, and how you use that creativity to connect and communicate.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 3: Creative Polymathy with Musician and Multi-Creative Michael Walker, Episode 5: Creative Global Citizenship with Screenwriter and Filmmaker Shuja Uddin, and Episode 8: Grief, Healing, and the Artist’s Life with Anne Myers Cleary.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Ren’s Linked-In Profile
Play: The Crucible by Arthur Miller

Play: Master Harold and the Boys by Athol Fugard

Play: Titus Andronicus by William Shakespeare

Play / Book: Elijah Broke the Gate

Book: The Courage to Create by Rollo May

Play: Amen Corner by James Baldwin

Episode 20: Creative Spark Series - The Syncreate Model of Play, Plan & Produce with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode of our new Creative Spark series, Melinda and Charlotte give an overview of the Syncreate model of Play, Plan & Produce to help you move from ideation to completion with your creative work. Do you have an idea for a creative project but can’t seem to move it forward? Or maybe you’ve stalled out along the way, or can’t figure out how to bring it to completion? We share insights from our book, Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities to help you move through the creative process with greater ease and agility.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to pay attention to the “whispers of the creative mind”–those words, images, and flashes of inspiration we may receive throughout the day or in dreams–and actually document them in some way so you can come back to them later.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 7: The Syncreate Story with Syncreate Co-Founder Charlotte Gullick, Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, and Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Leah Shadwick / Bird’s Nest Acupuncture

Episode 19: Creativity, Sexuality & The Sacred Feminine with Leah Shadwick, Marie Commisso and Thais Bicalho Silva

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

For our first full-length episode of 2024, we’re taking things in a more personal direction, as Melinda shares the story of her recent hysterectomy journey, along with her team of women healers, Leah Shadwick, Marie Commisso, and Thais Bicalho Silva. We discuss the connections between creativity, sexuality, the body, and the sacred feminine, as well as womens’ health and healing through creativity, community, and the arts.

Many women deal with a range of reproductive health issues like endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, and menopause symptoms, often in isolation. Even in the 21st Century, women’s health often still feels like a taboo topic, so it’s time to have the conversation. We each share our deeply personal experiences, as well as how we’ve healed and continue to heal, by sharing our stories. May this episode be of benefit to anyone who has a body and seeks information, resources, and solidarity in their journey to health and well-being.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 2: Embodiment and Creativity with Thais Bicalho Silva, Episode 4: Stewarding Change with Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer Reem Khashou, and Episode 8: Grief, Healing, and the Artist’s Life with Anne Myers Cleary.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Marie Commisso Healing Website

Mayoli Movement - Thais Bicalho Silva’s Physical Therapy and Feldenkrais Practice

Book: Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom by Christiane Northrup, M.D.

Austin-Area OB/GYN

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Episode 18: Creative Spark Series - 2024 Creative Intentions with Melinda Rothouse & Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0600

For our very first episode of the new year, we’re doing something new! A couple of things, actually. We’re moving to a weekly release schedule, and introducing a new series we’re calling Creative Sparks to help stimulate your creativity. Every other week, Syncreate Co-Founders Melinda and Charlotte will co-host a mini-episode focusing on a specific aspect of the creative process to help stimulate your creativity. As with our longer episodes, we’ll end with a Creativity Pro-Tip that you can immediately put to use to enhance your creative work.

For this first Creative Spark episode and Creativity Pro-Tip, we encourage you to think about your own creative goals, intentions, and aspirations for 2024, and how you can establish a consistent creative practice, including discipline and accountability, in order to realize those aspirations.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the creative process, you might also like our conversations in Episode 7: The Syncreate Story with Syncreate Co-Founder Charlotte Gullick, Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, and Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

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Episode 17: Creative Collaboration - The Joy and The Pain with Syncreate Podcast Producer Mike Osborne

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0600

In our final episode of 2023, Melinda and Mike reflect on our collaboration in developing and producing The Syncreate Podcast over the last year, from its ideation phase to the present. We talk about Melinda’s inspiration for the show, some of the myths and stereotypes she wants to dispel about creativity, and (now that we can laugh about it) our creative friction in bringing the show to life. We’ve landed in a good place, so it’s all good. But collaboration isn’t always easy, and this episode offers a view behind the curtain into our own creative process, both the joy and the pain.

Mike is the co-creator of the Famous & Gravy podcast, and the Founder of 14th Street Studios in Austin, which he launched to help bring more people into podcasting. He’s a podcast veteran, with over twelve years of experience as a creator. Michael started his first show while working on his PhD in climate science at Stanford. He has three original productions and is involved in a number of ongoing productions.

For our Creativity Pro Tip today, think about your daily creative discipline. Whenever I work with clients, I encourage them to develop a regular practice. Maybe daily is not realistic, but sitting down and doing your work on a consistent basis allows the muse a place to land. Additionally, how do you collaborate in your creative work, whether in your family, in your professional life, in sports, and so on. What is the quality of collaboration?

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 1 on Audio Storytelling with Podcaster and Environmentalist Michael Osborne, PhD, Episode 7: The Syncreate Story with Syncreate Co-Founder Charlotte Gullick, and Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera.

The Syncreate Podcast is now on Patreon. We’d love your support in continuing to grow the podcast and our Syncreate community. For a small monthly contribution, you’ll receive exclusive content and access, previews of upcoming episodes, monthly calls with me and more.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Michael Osborne Website

14th Street Studios

Famous & Gravy Podcast

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Robert Cleve, PhD on LinkedIn

Episode 16: Creativity, Innovation & Leadership with Robert Cleve, PhD

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0600

What is creativity and how do we study it? If you’re curious to learn more about the study of creativity and innovation, this episode is for you.

My guest today is Dr. Robert Cleve, head of the Creativity, Innovation, and Leadership Specialization at Saybrook University. We talk about how Robert recently updated the curriculum to better address the complex problems we face as a global community. We also discuss everyday creativity, and how we can use our innate creativity not only to survive, but heal ourselves and to enrich our lives.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip today, think about how you utilize creativity in your everyday life, sometimes just to get through the day, and to make meaning of your experiences. Once we recognize and honor the ways we’re constantly using our creativity to navigate life, we can then direct our it toward healing, helping others, and maybe even changing the world for the better.

At Syncreate, we’re here to support your creative endeavors. If you have an idea and you’re interested in our help, please reach out to us about 1x1 coaching, or join our Syncreate 6-Month Coaching Group starting in April of 2024. We’ll guide you through our Syncreate process to help bring a creative project to life. More at syncreate.org.

Credits: The Syncreate Podcast is created and hosted by Melinda Rothouse and produced by Christian Haigis with assistance from Michael Osborne. Video editing by Devon Foster at Tishna Films. Artwork by Dreux Carpenter.

If you enjoy this episode and want to learn more about the psychology of creativity, check out Episode 8: Grief, Healing, and the Artist’s Life with Anne Myers Cleary, Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims, and Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera.

We're now on Patreon! We’d love your support in continuing to grow the podcast and our Syncreate community. For a small monthly donation, you’ll receive exclusive content and access.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

The Creativity, Innovation, and Leadership Program at Saybrook University

Humanistic Psychology

International Psychology

Dr. Ruth Richards

Everyday Creativity

The Four C Model of Creativity

Vlad Glaveneau

Robert’s Glass-Making Website

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Syncreate Website
Syncreate YouTube

Syncreate Instagram
Melinda Rothouse Website

Episode 15: Leadership, Burnout & Personal Sustainability with Dr. Katherine Semler

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0600

We’ve all likely experienced some degree of burnout or overwhelm in the course of our lives, especially since the pandemic. But what exactly is burnout? How can we recognize the signs of it, prevent it from overtaking us, and heal from it once we’ve experienced it? My guest on the show today is Dr. Katherine Semler. Katherine has worked for 25 years in the field of leadership development. She is a senior partner at Korn Ferry and an adjunct faculty member at Ashridge Hult Business School. She is the co-author of Running On Empty, a book about burnout and the practices that can protect us from it.

We recorded this episode together in Girona, Spain, where we recently led a retreat together on Personal Sustainability and Creativity Through Writing and Contemplative Arts. Our conversation focuses on leadership, Katherine’s research on burnout, and personal sustainability, including practices to help prevent burnout and refill our energetic wells, such as creativity, movement, and time in nature.

For our Creativity Pro-Tip for today, I encourage you to set aside some time in your schedule, even if it’s only 30 minutes or so, to put away the to-do list, write in a journal, get out some paints or markers, or play some music. Get your hands in the dirt and do some gardening, or cook a nice meal. Notice what happens. The more often you allow yourself to replenish in this way, the more energy you’ll have for your life, and the less you’ll be susceptible to burnout.

Credits: The Syncreate podcast is created and hosted by Melinda Rothouse, and produced by Christian Haigis with assistance from Michael Osborne in Austin, Texas. Creative development and video production by Shuja Uddin and Devon Foster at Tishna Films. Artwork by Dreux Carpenter.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 6: Gratitude, Gentleness, and Generosity with Mayela Padilla Manasjan and Episode 11: Leadership, Values, and Criminal Justice Reform with Attorney Dylan Hayre.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Dr. Katherine Semler

Book: Running on Empty by Amy Bradley and Katherine Semler

Ashridge Hult Business School

Maslach Burnout Index

Dr. Amy Bradley

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Son of Cormack on Spotify

Episode 14: Anatomy of a Song with Singer/Songwriter George McCormack

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0600

Songwriting, like many creative pursuits, can be a mysterious process. There’s no set formula for writing a song, and each songwriter approaches it in their own unique way. My guest today is George McCormack, a British singer-songwriter who performs as Son of Cormack. George and I were introduced by a mutual friend last year and started collaborating musically. You’ll hear us playing together during the episode, with George on guitar and lead vocals, and me on bass and backing vocals. Our focus in the conversation today is his songwriting process, with a focus on the song, ”Accelerate to a Standstill,” which is essentially a metaphor for the climate crisis and our collective inability to respond or take full responsibility for it.

George’s tagline is “An Irish boy, with an English Voice.” With Irish roots, George grew up in English pubs to jukebox lullabies in the 80s and went to a British boarding school. He lived in London for a decade and now lives in Austin, Texas, where he is writing and finally self-publishing his music. BBC INTRODUCING has picked up some of his songs and has been playing them on the radio. He appeared on the BBC Introducing stage at Lakefest Festival in the grounds of Eastnor Castle in 2022 and has been a guest live on air with BBC Hereford & Worcester.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 3: Creative Polymathy with Musician and Multi-Creative Michael Walker, Episode 8: Grief, Healing, and the Artist’s Life with Anne Myers Cleary, and Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist and Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Son of Cormack Website

Son of Cormack on YouTube

Son of Cormack on Instagram

Son of Cormack on Bandcamp

Son of Cormack on TikTok

BBC Introducing

Anne Lamott

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Article: “Pre-Trial Injustice” by Cyrus Gray with Matthew Clair

Episode 13: Creativity as a Foundation of Resilience with Cyrus Gray III

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500

This episode, featuring Cyrus Gray III, demonstrates how creativity can support resilience, even under extremely difficult circumstances. In Episode 11, I talked with Dylan Hayre about the creativity in his criminal justice reform work. In this episode, we hear about the criminal justice system from the perspective of someone who found himself behind bars for nearly five years, four of those awaiting trial for murder, all the while maintaining his innocence.

This episode is very personal to me, as you’ll hear. I served as a juror on Cyrus’ trial, which gave me a troubling window into the criminal justice system in Texas. It ended in a mistrial after the jury could not come to a decision. His case has now been dismissed.

Our conversation focuses on Cyrus’ story and his efforts to navigate the criminal justice system, advocate for himself and others, and ultimately win his release. He embraced the power of community to foster positive changes to the system. I see this as a fundamentally creative act.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 11: Leadership, Values, and Criminal Justice Reform with Attorney Dylan Hayre and Episode 12: Creativity, Inclusivity and Community Theater with Sharanya Rao.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Article: “Criminal Injustice: A View from the Juror’s Box” by Melinda Rothouse

Book: Privilege and Punishment: How Race and Class Matter in Criminal Court by Matthew Clair

Article: “Five Years, and Counting, Without Trial” by Brittany Kelley

Article: “Hays County Sets Trial Date for Man Stuck in Jail for Five Years” by Brant Bingamon

Free Devonte Amerson Linktree with Additional Links & Information

Mano Amiga - Criminal Justice Reform Organization in San Marcos, Texas

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Leela - An Indian Community Theatre

Episode 12: Creativity, Inclusivity and Community Theater with Sharanya Rao

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Sharanya Rao is a leadership, team, and career coach with an emphasis on equity and inclusion. She’s also the Artistic Director of Leela - An Indian Community Theatre in Austin, Texas. Her current project, Anklets in the Boardroom, gives voice to South Asian women’s experiences in the workplace. Her project is a living example of creating in community, in service of positive social change, which is one of Syncreate’s core principles. Our conversation in this episode focuses on how she’s brought together a “confluence of passions” with her work in coaching, DEI, and theater, culminating in Anklets in the Boardroom.

Sharanya’s story demonstrates how one person, with a bit of inspiration, can create something new, unique, and impactful for the benefit of the wider community. Our Creativity Pro Tip at the end of the episode encourages us to reflect on how we can each bring our own unique passions together in a new way to create something that may benefit the wider world. For me, this podcast is a synthesis of my own interests in creativity, psychology, spirituality, public speaking, performance, and my personal network of creatives all over the world. So, what’s your passion project, and how could you bring it to life?

Credits: The Syncreate podcast is created and hosted by Melinda Rothouse, and produced by Michael Osborne at 14th Street Studios in Austin, Texas. Creative development and video production by Shuja Uddin and Devon Foster at Tishna Films. Artwork by Dreux Carpenter.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 5: Creative Global Citizenship with Screenwriter and Filmmaker Shuja Uddin, Episode 6: Gratitude, Gentleness, and Generosity with Mayela Padilla Manasjan and Episode 11: Leadership, Values, and Criminal Justice Reform with Attorney Dylan Hayre

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Sharanya Rao

Kindle Life Coaching

Augusto Boal’s Theatre of the Oppressed

Book: The First, The Few, and The Only by Deepa Purushothaman

Vedanta

Book: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Overview of Criminal Justice Reform from the Equal Justice Initiative

Episode 11: Leadership, Values, and Criminal Justice Reform with Dylan Hayre

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Dylan Hayre is a leader in criminal justice reform focusing on supervision in probation and parole. We connected through his work and leadership, and from the start I was struck by his passion and drive, not only for criminal justice work, but in his striving for self-cultivation in leading from his core values and principles. Dylan is a highly creative thinker, bringing an innovative approach to solving the problems of a complex and highly entrenched institutional system. Our conversation in this episode focuses on the creativity in Dylan’s work, as well as the values and principles he brings to his leadership in the field.

Currently serving as Director of Criminal Justice Reform at Arnold Ventures, Dylan previously served in the ACLU’s Justice Division, where he led their advocacy work on clemency and death penalty repeal. Prior to that, he served as the Senior Policy Advisor at JustLeadershipUSA, where he led the organization’s policy analysis.

Our Creativity Pro Tip at the end of the episode focuses on creative, values-based leadership. We all lead in different ways in different contexts, whether explicitly or implicitly, so I encourage you to consider how you show up as a leader in your own life, whether based in formal leadership roles or positions, or in your family, community, and so on. Leadership is an exercise in creativity, and our values are the cornerstone of our leadership. So what are your core values and passions? Have you ever formally articulated them and how they guide your path and decision making? If not, today is a great time to start.

If you like this episode, you might also enjoy Episode 6: Gratitude, Gentleness, and Generosity with Mayela Padilla Manasjan and Episode 7: The Syncreate Story with Syncreate Co-Founder Charlotte Gullick.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Dylan Hayre on LinkedIn

History of Juneteenth from National Geographic

Overview of Sikhism

Overview of Stoicism from the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy

How To Reform Criminal Justice, When Prosecutors Hold The Power by Dylan Hayre

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Saybrook University Creativity, Innovation & Leadership Ph.D. Program

Episode 10: Imagination and Creativity with Psychologist & Creativity Coach Dr. Diana Rivera

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0500

What comes to mind when you hear the word “imagination”? Does it evoke a particular image, scene, or context in your mind’s eye? We often associate imagination with the visual sense, as a close relative and component of creativity. But imagination can be associated with any of the five senses or perceptual fields, and it is also closely linked with intuition, spirituality, and synchronicity. And what about the dark side of imagination? We discuss all of this and more in Episode 10 of The Syncreate Podcast with Dr. Diana Rivera.

Dr. Rivera is a licensed clinical psychologist and creativity coach in Los Angeles. She’s the owner of Empowerment Psychology, and she's worked for many years as a facilitator in performing arts education, as well as offering professional development coaching to artists, youth, educators, and corporate America. She holds two Bachelor’s degrees from the University of California at Santa Cruz in American Studies and Theatre Arts. She has a MA in Psychology with a specialization in Creativity Studies and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Saybrook University. She is also a certified personal/professional development coach as designated by the International Coaching Federation.

At the end of the episode, I offer a Creativity Pro Tip encouraging you to consider the transpersonal or spiritual element of your own creativity and imaginal work. In other words, what gives you a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Is there a spiritual dimension to your creative or professional work?

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 8: Grief, Healing, and the Artist’s Life with Anne Myers Cleary and Episode 9: Music and Psychology: "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Dr. Rivera’s Psychotherapy Website: https://www.empowermentpsychologyla.com/

Dr. Rivera’s Creativity Coaching Website: https://creativeempowermentcoaching.com/

Article by Dr. Rothouse on Jungian Psychology and Creativity: Navigating the Creative Wilderness in the Journal of Creativity

Buddhist Teacher Pema Chödrön

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Dr. Jeff Mims on LinkedIn

Episode 9: Music and Psychology - "The Pocket" Experience with Dr. Jeff Mims

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Dr. Jeff Mims is a psychologist, creativity expert, musician, and researcher. His work focuses on the relationships between music, health and well-being. He holds a doctorate in humanistic psychology with a specialization in creativity studies, as well as a master's in rehabilitation counseling, and a bachelor's in film and cinema studies. Currently he’s the operations lead at the Music and Expressive Arts Center of Oklahoma. For his doctoral research, Jeff focused on the musical experience of “the pocket.” This term comes out of the jazz world, when a group of musicians performing together come into a collective flow state.

Dr. Mims and Dr. Rothouse were in the same PhD program at Saybrook University, focusing on creativity, but he started the program right after she finished. So we knew of each other, and we were connected on LinkedIn, but we only recently finally got to meet in person at a creativity conference in Oregon. Through our conversations at the conference, we both recognized an opportunity to collaborate, so I’m excited to bring you our conversation today about the pocket experience and the healing power of music.

Once you’ve heard the episode, my creativity challenge is to think about your own experience of flow states, either individually or with others, in your creative or professional work. When do they happen? What does a flow state look and feel like for you personally? What’s possible from that place? How can you facilitate such flow states for yourself and others? Pay attention to your own energetic flows and see if you can create the conditions for them to happen more intentionally, because that’s where the creative magic happens!

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 3: Creative Polymathy with Musician, Photographer, and Podcaster Michael Walker, Episode 5: Creative Global Citizenship with Filmmaker and Screenwriter Shuja Uddin, and Episode 7: The Syncreate Story with Charlotte Gullick.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

The Music and Expressive Arts Center of Oklahoma on LinkedIn

Saxophonist Kenny Garrett

Saybrook University Creativity, Innovation & Leadership Ph.D. Program

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Saybrook University Creativity Studies Program

Episode 8: Grief, Healing, and the Artist’s Life with Anne Myers Cleary

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Anne Myers Cleary is a visual artist, as well as a writer and musician, based in Indianapolis. Anne majored in art at Kenyon College, and studied vocal performance and opera at Longy School of Music in Boston and the Jacob's School of Music at Indiana University. Her work has been featured as part of the Encore Sotheby’s Visiting Artist Series, The Harrison Center for the Arts, Kuaba Gallery, the Carmel Clay Library, and the St. Margaret’s Guild Decorator’s Showhouse.

Anne shares in her Artist’s Statement: I believe in the importance of imagination, make believe, magic, and mystery, and the truths that are revealed therein. My work is an emotional response to the natural world. I'm interested in the complex and varied emotionality of places and the meaning we attach to them. How we feel in them, or gazing at them, removed. They are reflections of our inner psychological and emotional spaces. I am a traveler, capturing these sacred spaces as they are revealed to me in an attempt to understand human existence and its relationship to the natural world.

We discuss how Anne discovered her own unique creative rhythms and routines, as well as her connection to the place she grew up, and how that sense of place figures into her work. We also explore her creative and meaning-making process in connection with a recent series of paintings in oil and spray paint that explore grief and healing, paradoxically expressed through bold, colorful abstract landscapes.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversations in Episode 3: Creative Polymathy with Musician, Photographer, and Podcaster Michael Walker, and Episode 7: The Syncreate Story with Charlotte Gullick.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Anne’s website: annelouiseart.com

Anne’s Instagram

Anne’s work on Saatchi

Artist Francis Bacon

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Episode 7: The Syncreate Story with Syncreate Co-Founder Charlotte Gullick

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0500

One of our primary areas of focus at Syncreate involves honoring the power of collaboration and community in the creative process. So I’m thrilled to bring you my conversation with Charlotte Gullick, my Syncreate Co-Founder. Charlotte is an author, novelist, memoirist, and educator. Her first novel, By Way of Water, was chosen by Jayne Anne Phillips as the Grand Prize winner of the Santa Fe Writers Project Literary Awards Program. Her nonfiction has appeared in a number of prestigious literary journals, including The Rumpus, The Best of Brevity, The Los Angeles Review, and Hippocampus.

Charlotte and Melinda first met in Austin when we were both teaching at Austin Community College. We founded Syncreate several years later, in 2013, to provide creativity coaching, consulting, workshops and retreats, and we co-wrote a book on the creative process called Syncreate: A Guide to Navigating the Creative Process for Individuals, Teams, and Communities, which came out in 2021 and won a Silver Nautilus Award for Creativity and Innovation.

We recently traveled to Ashland, Oregon for the 2023 Creativity Conference at Southern Oregon University, where we presented ideas for our next book on creativity and community. We recorded this podcast episode together in Ashland, and the conversation gave us an opportunity to reflect on our work together helping to empower creativity over the last 10 years.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversation in Episode 3: Creative Polymathy with Musician, Photographer, and Podcaster Michael Walker.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Charlotte’s Website: www.charlottegullick.com

Charlotte’s Novel: By Way of Water

Syncreate Website

Creativity Conference at Southern Oregon University

Austin Community College

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Tiny Climate Challenge Podcast

Episode 6: Gratitude, Gentleness, and Generosity with Mayela Padilla Manasjan

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

One of the most powerfully creative things we can do as leaders and changemakers in this complex world is to identify and live from our core values. As a creativity and leadership coach and consultant, I always encourage my clients to articulate their core values and utilize them as compass points in their work. My guest in this episode, Mayela Padilla Manasjan, exemplifies this values-driven creative leadership. Mayela is an environmental scientist as well as a poet and photographer. She’s also the Executive Director of Casa Werma, a Buddhist retreat center in Patzcuaro, Mexico. She leads from what she calls her “Three Gs”: gratitude, gentleness, and generosity.

If you enjoy this episode, you might also like our conversation in Episode 1 on Audio Storytelling with Podcaster and Environmentalist Michael Osborne, PhD.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Mayela’s Website: www.mayelapadilla.com

Casa Werma Retreat Center

Maya Angelou

The Climate Reality Project

Mayela’s Poetry Book: Orange Line to Tennessee

Tucson Festival of Books

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Short Film: Article 370

Episode 5: Creative Global Citizenship with Filmmaker and Screenwriter Shuja Uddin

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Creativity benefits from a diverse array of perspectives and experiences. The more creative inputs we have, the more we experience life and the world around us, the more stories and ideas we can observe, live, and share. In this episode, we talk with Austin, Texas-based Shuja Uddin, a screenwriter, filmmaker, and professor of media studies originally from Karachi, Pakistan. We discuss the diverse influences on his storytelling and creative process, from growing up in the bustling metropolis of Karachi, to traveling the world, to studying at Boston University, as well as moments of comedic impersonation.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Episode Transcript

Tishna Films

Karachi, Pakistan

Book: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Author Robert Greene

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Episode 4: Stewarding Change with Wellness Coach & Personal Trainer Reem Khashou

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Change is hard. Our natural tendency is often to resist it, even if we know it’s good for us. Change represents the unknown, and so we often fear it. That’s why we need people like Reem Khashou, a Wellness Coach and Personal Trainer, to help us implement lasting change in our lives. In this episode, we discuss the mind-body-spirit connection, Reem’s own health and wellness journey, and her approach to stewarding change in her clients. We also examine the transtheoretical model of change, transpersonal psychology, and the importance of daily practices like meditation on the path to wellness.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Reem Khashou’s Website: changewithreem.com

Transtheoretical Model of Change

Tara Brach - The Sacred Pause

Transpersonal Psychology

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Episode 3: Creative Polymathy with Musician, Photographer, and Podcaster Michael Walker

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Melinda came across the term “creative polymathy,” meaning interest and skill in multiple creative fields or disciplines, a few years ago at a creativity conference, and it really resonated. The nature of creativity is to make associations between disparate ideas and inspirations, so it makes sense that creative people often have talent and ability in more than one area. Michael Walker is one of these people; he’s a musician and songwriter, as well as a photographer, podcaster, and the Director of Many Things at Positive Energy, a building science consulting firm based in Austin, Texas. Michael recently released a couple of instrumental albums inspired by Palo Duro Canyon, near his hometown of Amarillo in the Texas Panhandle. In this episode, we discuss the creative process in Michael’s music, as well as his influences and inspirations, ranging from Buddhist meditation to the landscape of West Texas.

Credits:

The Syncreate podcast is created and hosted by Melinda Rothouse, and produced by Michael Osborne at 14th Street Studios in Austin, Texas. Creative development and video production by Shuja Uddin and Devon Foster at Tishna Films. Artwork by Dreux Carpenter.

Episode-specific hyperlinks:

Michael’s Website: sleepyburrito.com

Creative Polymathy

Palo Duro Canyon

Artists for Wild Nature

Red River War

Canyon Illuminant album

Red River War album

Johnny Greenwood (film composer)

Trent Reznor (film composer)

Ryuichi Sakamoto (film composer)

Positive Energy (building science consulting firm in Austin, TX)

The Building Science Podcast

Terry Allen (artist and musician)

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Episode 2: Embodiment and Creativity with Physical Therapist Thais Bicalho Silva

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0500

We often talk about the mind-body connection, but how does this relate to creativity? Embodiment refers to the state of fully inhabiting our physical selves, as well as our internal, phenomenological experience of living as a physical being. Many of us have complicated relationships with our bodies, especially those of us who have experienced trauma in some form or another (which is most of us). Yet, the body is also a fundamental source of creativity, as we explore in this episode with physical therapist, dancer, and Feldenkrais practitioner Thais Bicalho Silva. Our conversation explores the healing power of movement and touch, as well as what comes alive for us when we experience ourselves from the inside out, as opposed to self-objectifying, and what’s possible when we create from that place.

Thais’ Website: mayolimovement.com

Psychiatrist and Trauma Researcher Bessel van der Kolk

Book: The Body Keeps the Score

Psychologist Wilhelm Reich

Neuroscientist Antonio Damasio

Book: Descartes’ Error

Show / permanent hyperlinks:

Episode 1: Audio Storytelling with Podcaster and Environmental Scientist Michael Osborne

Thu, 18 May 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Podcasting has become such an important medium of creativity, carrying on a long tradition of oral storytelling that stretches back to the beginnings of human history and culture. But what makes a successful podcast and how do you create one? Today’s guest, Michael Osborne, PhD, stumbled into podcasting while working on a PhD in environmental science at Stanford, and never looked back. Over the last 12 years, he’s hosted and produced several very popular and critically acclaimed shows with themes ranging from humans’ impact on the environment and big data to dead celebrities and how to live a meaningful life. In this episode specifically, and in the show more broadly, we explore the creative process itself, as well as the multidimensional nature of creativity and innovation.

Generation Anthropocene Podcast

Michael Osborne Website

Famous & Gravy Podcast

Raw Data Podcast