The Anxious Creative
I know I’m not the only creative out there who struggles with anxiety. But I’m pretty sure we can all agree that it sucks. For a long time I felt so alone in my struggles. Like no one understood what I was feeling. I found the more I spoke up about it the more I connected with others just like myself. That’s why I’ve created this space, so you can come hang out while I chat about everything from business to relationships and all the awkward and interesting inbetweens of living a creative life. You’ll laugh, you...
How to stop a panic attack before it starts
Okay, confession time. This episode? It’s one of those episodes—the kind you always tell me you love most. The unscripted, emotional, straight-from-the-heart kind. Recorded from my bed, with a lump in my throat and no filter.
I’m taking you back to the night I truly believed I was going to die. What started as a weird gut feeling after a pizza night turned into vomiting, convulsions, numb limbs, and a hospital visit that I’ll never forget. But what I didn’t know then was that I was experiencing a full-on panic attack.
This epi...
How to Stop Overthinking and Start Taking Action (Even When You're Struggling)
Today’s not your typical polished podcast episode. It’s real, raw, and unfiltered—because that’s what I needed, and maybe you do too.
I recorded this right from my couch while processing a really tough day. My motivation was gone, my heart was heavy, and I was spiraling in overthinking. Then I cracked open Lessons for Living by Phil Stutz and felt seen. So I’m bringing three of the tools from that book straight to you:
Speed: Why taking quick, messy action (even if you fail) is better than overthinking your way into success.De...Work Less, Earn More – Building Consistent Income without Burnout
In this episode, you'll discover:
My personal burnout story: From pushing myself to the absolute limit to the life-changing realization that something had to change.The myth of overworking: Why we've been conditioned to believe that endless hours equal success, and why it's a complete lie.The power of self-awareness: Recognizing when you're pushing yourself too hard and understanding your emotional triggers.Shifting your focus from time to transformation: Understanding what your clients are really paying for (hint: it's not just your hours).The impact of emotional discounting and underpricing: How these common habits can drastically impact your...Raise Your Prices, Ditch the Guilt
What you'll hear in this episode:
Why raising your prices often brings up guilt (and how to deal with it)The surprising truth about what price guilt really says about your mindsetHow to stop emotionally discounting and undervaluing yourselfWhy you’re not responsible for your clients’ wallets (yep, even if you’re super empathetic)The difference between being kind and people-pleasingHow raising your rates can actually honor your clientsSimple ways to communicate your new prices with empathy and confidenceHow to rewire the stories you’re telling yourself about money, self-worth, and rejectionIf this episode hit home, I’d love...
Handling Tough Client Conversations
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The personal story behind my own struggle with client pushback and how it affected my self-perception.Why creatives often feel guilty about raising their prices, and the crucial business perspective you might be missing.The dangers of avoiding uncomfortable conversations and how it can lead to resentment and burnout.How to differentiate between genuine client confusion and your own insecurities coloring the conversation.Practical strategies for setting boundaries and enforcing policies with kindness and clarity.Why your self-worth is not determined by what your clients are willing to pay.The importance of...Overbooked & Over It – Breaking Free from People-Pleasing
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The sneaky ways people-pleasing shows up in your business (even if you don’t think you’re doing it!)How to set boundaries without feeling like a terrible personThe #1 mindset shift that will help you stop overcommittingActionable steps to start prioritizing yourself—guilt-free!If this episode hit home, take a screenshot and share it on IG—tag me so I can cheer you on!
Links & Resources:
Bourbon Doesn’t Give A Shit Podcast Episode
Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.
...
How to Know If You’re on the Right Path (Even When You Doubt Yourself)
Hey, friend! It’s Dawn, and if you’ve ever felt totally stuck trying to make a decision, you are not alone. I’ve been there—overanalyzing, questioning myself, and straight-up spiraling. In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really going on when we can’t make a choice and how to move forward with confidence.
What We’re Talking About:
Why Decision Paralysis HappensThe real reason you get stuck in overthinking mode.A peek into my own struggles with making choices.Fear vs. Intuition—How to Tell the DifferenceFear is loud, anxious, and panicky—it pressur...Fear of Raising Your Prices? Here’s How to Do It with Confidence
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The real reason raising prices feels so dang hardHow fear of rejection and people-pleasing keep you underchargingSimple mindset shifts to help you stop feeling guilty about charging moreA step-by-step game plan to raise your rates without losing all your clientsHow to handle pushback and attract clients who happily pay your worthIf you’re ready to stop undercharging and start making what you deserve, take one step from today’s episode and put it into action. And if you need support along the way, send me a DM on Instagram (@dawnbr...
ADHD in Business: How to Stop Overwhelm and Harness Your Superpower
ADHD in Business: Transforming Overwhelm into Your Superpower
Running a business with ADHD can feel chaotic, but your neurodiversity is a strength! In this episode of the Anxious Creative Podcast, I dive deep into how to turn your ADHD into your biggest business advantage.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Why ADHD brains are built for entrepreneurship.How to stop feeling like you're constantly failing.Strategies for working with your brain, not against it.The power of hyperfocus and how to manage it.How to overcome procrastination and fear of failure.The importance of self-compassion...Why Overthinking is Holding You Back (and How to Break Free)
In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why we get stuck in overthinking mode and, more importantly, how to break free from it. I’ll share some of my own experiences with decision paralysis, what finally helped me move forward, and the small, practical shifts you can start making today to stop second-guessing yourself and start taking action.
Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:
✅ The real reason you feel overwhelmed (hint: it’s not about how much is on your plate)
✅ Why asking for too many opinions can actually increase overwhelm
Why most service providers fail at charging their worth
In this episode, I’m breaking down the emotional and mental barriers that hold so many creative service providers back from charging their worth. From the fear of disappointing clients to the struggle with self-worth, I’m sharing my own pricing journey—including the pushback I got when I doubled my rates (yikes!)—and the lessons that changed everything for me.
💡 Here’s what we’re diving into:
✨ The fear of disappointing clients (and how it’s keeping you underpaid)
✨ Why your self-worth isn’t the same as your pricing
✨ How to calculate your rates based on facts, not...
How to Stop Procrastinating and Get Unstuck
In this episode, you'll learn:
The deceptive nature of procrastination and how it keeps you stuck.The role of self-worth and external validation in fueling procrastination.The importance of setting and enforcing boundaries in personal and professional life.Practical steps to embrace messy, immediate, and imperfect action.How to reframe mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than reflections of self-worth.✨ Key Takeaway:
Perfectionism and over-planning are just fancy forms of procrastination. The best way to break free is to take messy, imperfect action—because waiting for the "perfect" moment only keeps you stuck.
Time...
How I enforced my policies & had clients respect me more than ever
In this episode, I share:
The Root of People-Pleasing: Explore the fear of disappointing others and the need for external validation that drives people-pleasing tendencies.Cultivating Inner Confidence: Discover practical strategies for building self-worth and confidence, including journaling, meditation, and celebrating small wins.Communication is Key: Learn how to communicate boundaries and policies with compassion and authority, using specific phrases and techniques.Real-Life Examples: Hear personal anecdotes and client stories that illustrate the challenges and rewards of setting boundaries.✨ Key Takeaways:
Understand that prioritizing your well-being and enforcing your policies ultimately leads to greater respect and st...3 Steps to Speaking Clearly & Compassionately - even when you're under pressure
In this episode, I share:
Why avoiding difficult conversations can actually make things worse.How my personal experience with conflict avoidance led to the loss of a friendship.The 3-step AIR method to help you navigate challenging conversations with confidence and compassion.How to increase your adaptability in unexpected situations.Why improvisation is key to responding creatively when things don't go as planned.The importance of regulating your nervous system to stay calm under pressure.Practical techniques for regulating your nervous system, like box breathing and the pause method.✨ Key Takeaways:
Avoiding confrontation can sabotage your re...The Anticipation Trap: Why Fear Feels Bigger Than It Is (and How to Take Action Anyway)
In this episode, I share:
My terrifying yet exhilarating experience of skydiving and what it taught me about fear.Why the anticipation of a decision is often scarier than the decision itself.How overthinking keeps us stuck in fear and robs us of opportunities.The truth about decision-making—there’s no right or wrong, just movement forward.Why failure, regret, and mistakes are necessary stepping stones to growth.The power of focusing on your mission, vision, and goals to make aligned decisions.✨ Key Takeaways:
Fear is often rooted in anticipation, not reality.Inaction is a decision too—an...People Pleasing Is Manipulation: How to Stop Controlling and Start Connecting
Welcome to this week’s episode, where we tackle a hard truth: people pleasing isn’t about kindness—it’s about control. If you’ve ever found yourself abandoning your needs to keep others happy, this conversation is for you.
Here’s what we’re covering today:
💡 Key Takeaways:
People pleasing is born from a fear of unpredictability and rejection.Setting boundaries isn’t...Why Avoidance, People-Pleasing, and Playing Small Keep You Stuck
Have you ever wondered why you feel stuck in relationships, business, or life despite trying your hardest to be everything to everyone? In this episode, Dawn Bradley uncovers the hidden role your ego plays in self-sabotage. Spoiler: Ego isn’t just about overconfidence—it’s insecurity in disguise.
Dawn explores:
Why people-pleasing and playing small are ego-driven behaviors.How avoidance and defensiveness keep you in a loop of frustration.Why vulnerability is the antidote to ego and the key to authentic confidence.Practical strategies to initiate tough conversations and build stronger relationships.Through raw honesty and pe...
Finding Confidence to Speak Up for Yourself Without Guilt
In today’s episode, I’m sharing my own journey of learning to advocate for myself, along with the strategies that will help you find the confidence to speak up without guilt, fear, or second-guessing yourself.
We’re diving into:
If you’re tired of avoiding tough conversations—whether it’s with a client, a partner, or a friend—th...
The Anxious Creative Podcast Trailer
The Best Business Advice You've Heard All Year
Taking Imperfect Action: Conquering Procrastination, Perfectionism, and Anxiety
In this episode, Dawn shares a raw and candid look into her personal struggles with procrastination, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. From dealing with tech issues to fighting the urge to put off tasks, she details how taking messy, immediate action has been her best business advice. Dawn opens up about her experiences and the psychological hurdles she faces, all while encouraging listeners to embrace their imperfections. With humorous anecdotes and heartfelt advice, she emphasizes the importance of starting before you're ready and taking action despite fear or insecurity.
<...Overcome People Pleasing: Strategies for Success #338 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Breaking the People-Pleasing Habit with Dawn Bradley
In this episode of Business Breakfast and Bedhead, join Dawn Bradley as she dives into the world of people pleasing and its impact on life, business, and relationships. Dawn shares her own experiences as a hairstylist and provides relatable examples and tips on how to set better boundaries and communicate honestly with clients and loved ones. Learn how to give people choices, be compassionate yet firm, and ultimately shift from people pleasing to fostering genuine and healthy connections. Tune in and discover strategies to transform your approach and improve your...
Enforce Policies Without Losing Clients - The Compassionate Approach #337 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Mastering Client Policies with Compassion
In this episode of Business Breakfast and Bedhead, host Dawn Bradley discusses the importance of effectively enforcing business policies with kindness and compassion. She shares a personal story about a client's respectful adherence to her cancellation policy despite facing unforeseen circumstances. Dawn emphasizes the significance of building trust, respect, loyalty, and authority with clients through clear communication during consultations. She touches on her Policy Pathway program designed to help business owners confidently navigate policy enforcement while maintaining positive client relationships. Dawn also explains how to manage emotional reactions and improve adaptability to...
Paralyzed By Your Disorganization - Immediate Steps To Get Out #336 Business, Breakfast, & Bedhead
Embrace Imperfection: Taking Messy, Immediate Action in Business
In this episode of Business Breakfast in Bedhead, Dawn Bradley discusses the importance of embracing disorganization and taking action despite imperfections. Drawing from her own experiences as a creative and self-employed professional since 2010, Dawn shares insights on overcoming insecurities, particularly within the beauty industry, and the anxiety of maintaining business organization. She emphasizes the value of finding personalized systems and strategies, taking risks, and allowing for imperfect action to drive business success. The episode also touches on handling societal judgments and maintaining focus on revenue-generating activities over meticulous organization.<...
Transform Your Business With Effective Boundary Setting #330 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Embracing Boundaries: A Deep Dive into Self-Worth and Business Success
In this episode of Business Breakfast and Bedhead, Dawn Bradley shares her personal journey and insights on the importance of setting boundaries both in life and business. She highlights the common struggles of people-pleasing, overworking, and seeking validation from others, drawing from her own experiences. Dawn encourages viewers to create safe spaces for vulnerability, emphasizes the difference between boundaries and walls, and discusses how to confidently implement policies in business. Through interactive live chat, Dawn also addresses fears of confrontation and insecurity, guiding her audience towards self-worth...
Building Clientele on Autopilot - The ACTION, CARE and LAZY Methods Explained #325 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Building Clientele on Autopilot: Action, Care, and Lazy Method Explained
In this episode of Business Breakfast in Bedhead, host Dawn Bradley introduces her approach to attracting clients effortlessly using her 'Action,' 'Care,' and 'Lazy' methods. Drawing from over 25 years of experience, Dawn shares actionable insights for service-industry professionals who want to rebuild their client bases without appearing desperate or cringy. Highlights include her personal experiences, advice on staying optimistic, and keeping a realistic yet compassionate outlook while building a clientele. Dawn also discusses the importance of community, continuous learning, and personal accountability.
00:00 Introduction...
End Emotional Discounts and Grow Your Business Fast #331 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Conquering Emotional Discounting
Host Dawn Bradley invites viewers to join her live sessions on Instagram to discuss various business topics, specifically focusing on the issue of emotional discounting in the hairstyling industry. Dawn shares her personal experiences, offers practical tips on how to stop emotionally discounting, and speaks on developing confident communication skills. Emphasis is placed on self-worth and creating transparent and empathetic client interactions. Viewers are encouraged to participate in live discussions and share their own experiences.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:43 Understanding Emotional Discounting
01:29 Creating a Safe Space for Discussion
<...Navigating Late Cancellations and Enforcing Boundaries in Business #329 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Navigating Late Cancellations and Enforcing Boundaries in Business
In this lively and insightful episode of 'Business Breakfast and Bedhead,' host Dawn Bradley shares her approach to managing late cancellations and no-shows in a business setting. Dawn emphasizes the importance of enforcing cancellation policies with kindness, compassion, and empathy. She encourages participation from her audience as she discusses the reasons behind not enforcing policies and offers practical advice for creating clear, compassionate communication paths with clients. The episode also delves into setting and maintaining boundaries in business and personal relationships while ensuring long-term sustainability and profitability.
<...Boost Your Client Base With Authentic Marketing #327 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Breaking Myths: Building Your Clientele with Integrity and Magnetism
In this episode of Business Breakfast in Bedhead, host Dawn Bradley invites listeners to join her live Instagram calls and explores the myths surrounding building a clientele. Dawn emphasizes creating magnetism and integrity in marketing rather than playing to social media algorithms. She shares her personal journey of relocating and quickly rebuilding her business, highlighting the importance of authenticity and core values. Through engaging in positive self-talk and rejecting aggressive techniques, Dawn encourages listeners to cultivate self-awareness, accept rejection, and attract the right clients by being true to...
Building Clientele on Autopilot #324 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Building Clientele on Autopilot: Action, Care, and Lazy Method Explained
In this episode of Business Breakfast in Bedhead, host Dawn Bradley introduces her approach to attracting clients effortlessly using her 'Action,' 'Care,' and 'Lazy' methods. Drawing from over 25 years of experience, Dawn shares actionable insights for service-industry professionals who want to rebuild their client bases without appearing desperate or cringy. Highlights include her personal experiences, advice on staying optimistic, and keeping a realistic yet compassionate outlook while building a clientele. Dawn also discusses the importance of community, continuous learning, and personal accountability.
00:00 Introduction...
Understanding Emotional Discounting and Charging in Business #334 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Understanding Emotional Discounting and Charging in Business
In this episode of 'Business Breakfast and Bedhead,' Dawn Bradley discusses the concept of emotional discounting and charging within the service industry. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity and confidence in pricing services, and how emotion-driven pricing decisions can negatively impact the sustainability and profitability of a business. Through personal anecdotes and interactive discussions, Dawn encourages listeners to evaluate their own pricing strategies and how they may be influenced by fear of rejection or perceived client wealth. She also highlights the significance of effective communication and building real...
How to Quit Emotional Discounting in Your Service Business #335 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
How to Quit Emotional Discounting in Your Service Business
In this episode of Business Breakfast and Bedhead, host Dawn Bradley discusses the common issue of emotional discounting in the service industry. Dawn explains the importance of maintaining professional boundaries, setting fair prices, and preventing the manipulation of prices based on clients' personal stories. She emphasizes the need for clear, compassionate communication, building self-confidence, and fostering self-worth. The episode also touches on the significance of separating intuition from ego, the benefits of facing discomfort for personal growth, and the importance of owning one's business decisions. Dawn invites listeners...
The Power of Vulnerability in Business and Life with Djay Mcgrath #328 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
In this episode of Business Breakfast and Bedhead, Dawn Bradley hosts DJ McGrath @djaymcgrathhockey, a mental health advocate and former hockey player. They discuss the significance of vulnerability in personal growth, mental health, and entrepreneurship. DJ shares personal stories of overcoming addiction, dealing with past traumas, and the importance of transparency and openness. DJ talks about his journey towards sobriety and the challenges of breaking the stigma around men's mental health. The conversation emphasizes the power of sharing one's struggles and the positive impact it can have on others.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:44 The Power of...
Mastering Client Policies: Overcome Cancellations and No-Shows #332 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Mastering Client Policies: Overcome Cancellations and No-Shows
In this episode, the speaker addresses the significant financial loss service providers face due to client cancellations and no-shows, despite having policies in place. They emphasize the importance of creating a safe, judgment-free zone for learning and interaction. The speaker talks about the necessity of not only having a cancellation policy but also effectively communicating and enforcing it. Key strategies discussed include building trust, respect, loyalty, and authority through clear communication. The episode also touches on recovering from poor client interactions and the value of maintaining personal boundaries in business...
Unblock Your Business - Attract Clients With E.A.S.E. #326 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Overcoming Fear of Rejection and Building Clientele
In this episode of 'Business Breakfast in Bedhead,' Dawn Bradley addresses common fears that prevent business owners from attracting clients. She emphasizes the importance of putting oneself out there despite the fear of judgment and rejection from peers, family, or even strangers. Dawn reassures her audience by sharing personal experiences, highlighting the necessity of creating a supportive community, and introducing her 'Client Magnet' program. Throughout the live call, she encourages viewers to embrace vulnerability, take action, and develop client magnetism as a continuous part of their career journey.
<...Stop Undervaluing Yourself: Combat Emotional Discounting For Good #333 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Overcoming Emotional Discounting in Your Business
In this episode of Business Breakfast and Bedhead, host Dawn Bradley discusses the struggles of emotionally discounting in your business due to feelings of guilt and fear of confrontation. Bradley shares personal experiences and offers advice on developing confidence and communication skills to help service providers maintain fair pricing without feeling the need to discount services. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-worth and structured communication to avoid financial losses and build a sustainable business. Additionally, listeners are encouraged to join live discussions on Instagram for real-time advice and support.
<...Effortlessly Attracting Clients A.C.T.I.O.N. Method For Business Success #323 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Effortlessly Attracting Clients: Action Plan for Business Success
In this episode of Business Breakfast and Bedhead, the focus is on strategies to quickly attract clients without the need for hard selling or persuasion. The host emphasizes creating a magnetic allure around your services by acknowledging your current state, showing compassion for yourself, tackling problems head-on, staying inspired and optimistic, and navigating outcomes. This safe and judgment-free space encourages real, raw, and honest discussion, highlighting the cyclical nature of building a clientele. Additionally, the host promotes the 'Client Magnet' live container program aimed at providing deeper, actionable steps...
Building Clientele with Courageous and Imperfect Action #318 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Building Clientele with Courageous and Imperfect Action
In this episode of Business Breakfast and Bedhead, the host shares insights and personal experiences on how to attract new clients and fill up an empty schedule. The discussion focuses on the importance of taking responsibility, showing up courageously, and taking imperfect action. The host recounts her journey of building clientele multiple times across different continents and emphasizes the necessity of getting out of one's comfort zone. Listeners are encouraged to take immediate action, embrace rejection, and prioritize active engagement over passive activities like social media scrolling. The episode serves...
Why Clients Aren't Rebooking - Here's The Fix #320 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Creating Client Magnetism and Overcoming Industry Struggles
In this episode of 'Business Breakfast in Bedhead,' Dawn Bradley addresses the common challenges faced by service industry professionals, especially hairstylists, in attracting and retaining clients. Dawn encourages listeners to join her live calls on Instagram, where she shares insights on combating slow booking periods and feeling irrelevant. She introduces her 'Client Magnet' program, aimed at helping seasoned professionals create a magnetism around their services without relying on discounts. Dawn emphasizes taking wild responsibility and messy, immediate, imperfect action to rekindle passion and attract the right clients. She also...
How To Attract Clients Without Appearing Desperate - Become A Client Magnet #321 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
How to Attract Clients Without Appearing Desperate: Become A Client Magnet
In this episode of 'Business Breakfast and Bedhead,' Dawn Bradley shares valuable insights on acquiring new clients without coming across as desperate. She discusses overcoming the fear of embarrassment and the importance of taking courageous and vulnerable actions to build confidence. Dawn also introduces her 'Client Magnet Workshop,' designed to help entrepreneurs rebuild their clientele and create a magnetism that naturally attracts clients. She emphasizes the significance of changing one's perspective, investing in education, and not letting fear and ego hinder progress. Tune in...
Build Your Clientele With the ACTION Method #322 Business, Breakfast & Bedhead
Building Your Clientele with the Action Method
In this episode of Business Breakfast and Bedhead, Dawn Bradley discusses the key factors in building your clientele using her ACTION method. She elaborates on the importance of acknowledging your current situation, having compassion for yourself, tackling problems head-on, getting inspired, staying optimistic, and navigating outcomes. Dawn emphasizes the necessity of taking messy, immediate, and imperfect action to achieve success. She also shares details about her upcoming Client Magnet Live Workshop, designed to help participants fill their schedules with quality clients. Join Dawn for an insightful session on creating magnetism...
