Create Art Podcast

Get ready for a wild ride as we dive into a conversation with David Dean Haskell, a talented writer and drummer who's all about exploring the messy, beautiful process of creativity! We kick things off by chatting about his journey from penning speculative fiction to navigating the intricate waters of memoir and recovery writing. David's work is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to make sense of a chaotic world, and trust me, he’s got some profound insights on the struggle of being human. We also groove into how his drumming influences his writing, and how creativity ca...

Why does making time for creativity sometimes feel selfish?

In Episode 9 of Create Anyway: You’re Allowed to Make Art, we explore a feeling many adult creatives struggle with but rarely discuss openly: the guilt of choosing yourself.

When you have a full life — a career, family responsibilities, and daily obligations — carving out time for art can feel uncomfortable. You may wonder whether spending time painting, writing, recording music, or pursuing another creative passion is irresponsible or indulgent.

But creativity isn’t selfish.

This episode examines why so many adults experience guilt wh...

Today, we’re diving into the inspiring world of creative resilience with our guest, Daniel Curtis. With a stellar track record of orchestrating massive charity campaigns and collaborating with big names like Sir Paul McCartney and Will Ferrell, Daniel's journey offers a treasure trove of insights for any artist. We're chatting about how to tackle that pesky imposter syndrome and the importance of anchoring yourself in your purpose, especially when the world throws a “no” your way. Plus, we’ll share a few laughs as we discuss how to embrace the creative process, even when it gets a little messy. S...

Let’s dive right into it—creativity doesn’t have to mean blowing up your life! We’re busting the myth that to take your art seriously, you need to ditch your day job and set fire to your comfort zone. Instead, we’re chatting about how to weave your artistic passions into the fabric of your everyday responsibilities—bills, relationships, and all that adulting stuff that can feel like a creativity killer. Spoiler alert: It’s totally possible to build a sustainable creative practice without turning your life upside down or sacrificing the stability you’ve worked hard to create. So, g...

We're diving into the juicy topic of fear today, specifically that pesky fear that creeps in when we think about creating later in life. You know, it's not just about failing; it's that gnawing sensation of feeling like it's too late to matter or make an impact. We chat about how this fear can feel like a ton of bricks when you've got a career and responsibilities weighing you down, but guess what? Starting your creative journey now might just be your secret weapon. Seriously, being seen later in life is not about failure; it could actually be about...

One of the biggest creative buzzkills is the idea that your art has to start paying rent right away. Seriously, who decided that every hobby needs to be a side hustle? In this chat, we dive into the concept that you don't have to monetize your creativity just yet—let's keep the pressure cooker off and focus on what really matters: enjoying the process! We’ll explore how the pressure to sell can suck the joy right out of your artistic endeavors, and why giving yourself the freedom to create without the weight of expectations is essential. So, grab your...

Ever feel like you're nailing everything in life—career, family, and that sweet 9-to-5 grind—yet your passion for art feels like a clumsy dance move at a wedding? Well, grab your metaphorical paintbrush because we’re diving into the curious conundrum of being good at everything except what you love! This episode is all about why your creative pursuits often come with a side of awkwardness and how that’s totally normal. We’ll chat about the struggles of choosing art as your thing, the reality that passion doesn’t equal instant mastery, and how your past skills might just h...

Art doesn’t have to take a backseat when life gets busy; in fact, it might just be the secret ingredient to making our responsibilities more bearable! This episode dives into the juicy idea that art and responsibility can totally coexist without you feeling like you’re sacrificing your sanity. We’re chatting about how creativity doesn’t have a designated time limit, and yes, you can still be an artist while juggling a career, family, and all those delightful adulting tasks. Whether you’ve been waiting for the “perfect moment” to get back into your creative groove or you think it’s...

Let's dive right into it! Today, we're unraveling the myth of what a "real artist" looks like. Spoiler alert: they don’t exist! We chat about how that pesky image keeps so many of us from picking up a paintbrush or writing that next big hit. It’s all about recognizing that the artist stereotype is more smoke and mirrors than reality, and that it’s okay to not fit that mold. Trust me, you don’t need a beret or a dramatic backstory to claim your artist badge—just a willingness to create and express yourself is all you need...

Who told you that you weren't an artist? This episode dives deep into that pesky little question and explores how those offhand comments can stick to us like gum on a shoe. We unravel the mystery of why so many of us have let someone else dictate our creativity, and trust me, it's time to take that word "artist" back! We'll chat about the wild journey of reclaiming your artistic identity, including the struggles and triumphs that come with it. So grab your paintbrush, your notebook, or whatever your creative weapon of choice is, and let’s remind ourselves th...

Create Anyway: You’re Allowed to Make Art is a limited podcast series for people who did the responsible thing—built careers, supported families, stayed busy—and still feel a quiet pull toward creativity.

This series is for:

Episode Summary

If you’ve ever felt like there’...

We're diving headfirst into the art of creating, and let me tell you, it’s all about giving yourself a big ol' permission slip to make art—yes, you heard that right! No more of that “be realistic” nonsense; it’s time to shake off the chains of responsibility and embrace your inner creative beast. This series, aptly named "Create Anyway," is for all you busy bees and responsible adults who might think it’s too late to pick up that paintbrush or guitar. We’re here to remind you that you can totally juggle your responsibilities and still squeeze in you...

We're diving deep into the world of creativity and transformation, reflecting on a year filled with unexpected changes rather than just a highlight reel of accomplishments. This episode isn’t just about the art I created; it’s about how I evolved while creating it. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t chasing mastery; I was all about following my curiosity, and boy, did I get my hands dirty with acrylics, music, and poetry along the way. I’m here to remind you that showing up is what really counts, way more than how polished your work is. So, grab your favorite...

Creative goals, my friends, are where it’s at! We're diving into how to set those goals without letting them suck the joy right out of your artistic soul. You know, the kind of goals that don’t just live in a dusty spreadsheet and make you feel guilty when you skip a day. We’re talking about the spark that keeps the creative flames burning bright, not the pressure that turns your passion into a job description. Join me as we explore redefining success, embracing the process, and remembering that joy isn’t the opposite of discipline; it’s the reas...

Ever had one of those weeks where your creative spirit is ready to burst, but your to-do list is acting like an evil overlord trying to squash it? Yeah, I feel you! This week on the Create Art Podcast, we’re diving into the art of finding that elusive balance between life’s chaos and your creative pursuits. Spoiler alert: it’s not about doing everything; it’s about giving the important stuff the space it needs to flourish. We’ll chat about how to manage your time like a pro, prioritize your mental vibes, and embrace those moments when life...

Feeling like your artistic creations are just drifting in the void? Yeah, we’ve all been there, pouring our hearts into art that feels unseen and unheard. That’s why we’re diving into the essential topic of finding or building your own artistic community. Because, let’s face it, no one—absolutely no one—grows creatively in a vacuum. We’ll explore how to spot supportive spaces, brainstorm ways to create your own if the perfect tribe seems MIA, and keep that warm fuzzy sense of belonging alive, even when pesky imposter syndrome tries to crash the party. So grab a snac...

How do you really know if you’re leveling up as an artist? Spoiler alert: it’s not just about the number of likes on your latest post or how many pieces you’ve sold. We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of measuring your creative growth in ways that matter, like boosting your confidence, honing your technique, and even how you bounce back from flops. It’s all about celebrating those sneaky little wins that often go unnoticed. So grab your favorite beverage and join me as we chat about tracking your skills, redefining what success looks like for you, and f...

Ever freeze up when someone casually asks you what you do, like you just spotted a ghost? Yeah, we’ve all been there! Today, we're diving into that pivotal moment when you finally give yourself the green light to call yourself an artist. Spoiler alert: it’s time to mean it! I’m here to chat about breaking down those pesky barriers that keep you from owning that title and embracing your creative self. So, whether you’re painting toenail clippings or sculpting with spaghetti, let’s tackle the fears and societal expectations that make this journey feel like an episode...

Staying motivated as an artist is a tricky beast, isn’t it? We kick things off by diving into the nitty-gritty of what it really takes to keep that creative fire burning, especially when life decides to throw us a curveball—hello, Netflix binge! I’ll spill some secrets on how to build a lasting relationship with your art, share personal stories (yes, even my artistic slumps), and toss in some gold nuggets of wisdom to help you find your rhythm and reconnect with why you started in the first place. Think of this as your friendly nudge to cultiv...

Criticism and rejection in art can feel a lot like passing a kidney stone—sharp, painful, and definitely not something you want to experience. In this episode, we're diving deep into this rather unique analogy, exploring how those pesky critiques can actually help us grow stronger, just like surviving a kidney stone ordeal. I'll share my personal adventures with these little buggers and how they’ve surprisingly mirrored my creative journey. We’ll also chat about the importance of separating ourselves from our work, because let’s be honest, nobody wants to be called ugly—especially not our artistic babies! So...

Why do artists feel the urge to create? That's the big question we dive into with our guest, Kristan Swan, in this episode. We explore the motivations behind artistic expression and share our own journeys of creativity. With over 30 years of experience in the arts and education, I, Tim Kimo Brien, along with Kristen, discuss the challenges and triumphs that come with embracing our creative sides. From the importance of community to the healing power of art, we aim to inspire fellow creators to push past their inner critics and unleash their full potential. So grab your sketchbook, your...

Ready to conquer the digital world, my friends? This episode dives headfirst into that pivotal moment all artists face: sharing your work online for the first time. It’s a wild ride of emotions, right? I mean, the fear of judgment can feel like a monster lurking under your bed—totally terrifying! But here’s the scoop: it’s less about being “ready” and more about being brave. We’ll spill some juicy tips on picking the right platforms, building your confidence through consistency, and flipping that vulnerability into your secret weapon. So, buckle up, grab your courage, and let’s show the...

Creative constraints are the secret sauce to unlocking our artistic potential, and that's exactly what we're diving into today! Join me, Timothy Kimo' Brien, as we explore how limitations can actually fuel creativity instead of stifling it. Ever find yourself overwhelmed by the endless possibilities? Well, we're flipping the script and chatting about how embracing what we lack can lead to some pretty awesome breakthroughs in our art. From experimenting with just two colors to setting time limits on our creations, we’ll share playful strategies to help you turn those pesky constraints into your best pals. So grab yo...

Today, we’re diving into the heartfelt intersection of mental health and creativity with the incredibly inspiring Robert B-Cide Cardillo Jr. This episode is all about checking in on our mental well-being as creative souls, because let’s face it, we need it! Robert shares his raw and real journey navigating life with multiple sclerosis, turning struggle into art, and how music has been his therapy. We’re getting deep, but we’re also keeping it light, exploring the balance between dealing with our challenges and expressing ourselves through creativity. Join us as we unpack the importance of mental health i...

Get ready to dive into the creative abyss with Brien and Kimo as we kick off this episode of Create Art Podcast! We're talking about something super essential for every artist: your creative space. Whether it looks like a serene desert oasis or a chaotic trash dump, we’re here to help you transform it into your very own mad scientist lab of creativity. We’ll explore five nifty ways to set up your space to supercharge your artistic flow, because let’s face it, we all need a cozy nook to let our imaginations run wild! So grab your p...

Welcome to the New Artist Compass, where we’re diving headfirst into the wild and wonderful world of art! Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or dusting off your old sketchbook, this series is all about empowering new artists to embrace their creativity and conquer that pesky inner critic. We're spilling the tea on everything from setting up your dream creative space (even if it's just a cozy corner of your kitchen) to tackling the dreaded imposter syndrome—yeah, we see you hiding back there! And don't worry, this isn’t just a monologue; we’re ke...

Time to tidy up, folks! In our final episode of the "Make Fun a Habit" series, I’m all about the importance of a little creative cleanup—both in our messy studios and in our chaotic minds. We dive into the concept of the "10 Second Tidy," inspired by kids’ shows, and how it can help us organize our thoughts for maximum creative output. Not only does this quirky cleanup reduce stress and boost productivity, but it also gives our motivation a nice little kick in the pants! So grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and join me as we wrap u...

Let’s dive right into the fun! This episode is all about transforming mundane tasks into exciting challenges, because who said cleaning up your room has to feel like a chore? Timothy Keemel Bryan, our head instigator, is continuing the “Make Fun a Habit” series, inspired by Mike Brennan’s workbook that helps inject some joy into your creative routine. We’ll chat about gamification—yes, that's a fancy word for turning boring stuff into a game—so you can tackle your to-do list with a playful spirit. Whether you're studying, working, or even cleaning the cat litter (ugh, right?), we’re...

Ready to kick your creativity into high gear? Today, we're diving into the art of supersizing ourselves, inspired by the classic documentary "Supersize Me"—but don’t worry, we’re not talking about fries and burgers! Instead, we're all about amping up our creative juices and having a blast while doing it. I’ll share some golden nuggets on how to reflect on your values, set achievable goals, and surround yourself with a supportive crew. So, whether you're an artist, a dreamer, or just someone looking to add a little sparkle to life, this episode is for you! Let’s get read...

Today, we’re diving into the art of tinkering, and trust me, it’s not just for the DIY enthusiasts or that friend who can fix anything with duct tape! We're chatting about how to bring the fun back into our creative lives with insights from Mike Brennan's book, "Make Fun a Habit." I mean, who doesn’t need a little sprinkle of joy while navigating the wild world of creativity? We're sharing stories that’ll make you chuckle, like Mike's childhood escapades with model cars and milk bone sculptures (yes, you heard that right). Plus, we’ll tackle some thoug...

We're diving into some creative mashup magic today, friends! Timothy Kimo Brien is here to sprinkle a little fun into your artistic habits, inspired by Mike Brennan's workbook, *Make Fun a Habit*. We're tackling Chapter 25, aptly named "Monster Mashup," where we learn that mixing things up can lead to some surprisingly tasty outcomes—yes, even that Elvis burger with peanut butter and bananas! So, whether you're a culinary whiz or just someone who likes to throw random pantry items together, this episode's all about experimenting, blending, and creating something uniquely you. Grab your favorite snacks and get ready to un...

Finding possibilities is the name of the game in this episode, and let me tell you, we’re diving into some seriously fun territory! We’re back with our Make Fun of Habit series, inspired by Mike Brennan’s workbook that’s all about injecting joy into your creative practice. I mean, who doesn’t want to turn their artistic endeavors into a playground of possibilities? Together, we’ll explore how to flip challenges into opportunities and uncover those hidden gems in our creative journeys. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let's chat about how we can all sprinkle...

Andrew Davies is on a mission to transform the corporate world with the magic of improv! In our chat, we dive deep into how he uses his skills as the Better Meetings Director at Artly Working to help teams ditch the snooze-fest meetings and embrace creativity and collaboration instead. Imagine a workplace where brainstorming feels like fun instead of a chore—yeah, that’s what we’re talking about! We also get into the nitty-gritty of how you don’t have to be the funniest person in the room to rock improv; it’s all about being present and supportive...

Get ready to dive into a chat with the ever-charismatic Paul Cram! This episode kicks off with some juicy insights straight from Paul, who’s not just your average actor but also a voracious reader and the mastermind behind the Men Who Read book club. We dig into the ups and downs of creativity, tackling everything from that pesky inner critic to the importance of just getting in there and doing the work—because hey, even a four-year-old on a sugar rush can create something beautiful! We also explore how art can be a powerful tool for healing, especially afte...

Today we're diving into the world of art and AI with the talented David Miller, a multimedia artist based in sunny Los Angeles. David's got some serious chops in photography, animation, and sound design, and he’s all about blending lo-fi vibes with cutting-edge tech. We kick things off by exploring how AI can actually enhance our creative processes instead of taking over, which is a hot topic these days. Trust me, whether you're a skeptic or a believer, David's insights might just flip your perspective on using AI in your artistic endeavors. We also chat about his latest bo...

David Richards joins me today to shake up our ideas about leadership and creativity, and trust me, you don't want to miss this. With a background as a Marine Corps officer and a corporate leader, he's got the chops to help us rethink how we can elevate our personal and professional lives through mindfulness and self-leadership. We dive into his journey from military life to becoming a bestselling author, where he shares how blending biblical wisdom with neuroscience can transform the way we approach success. Plus, get ready for some fun banter about our favorite pop culture references, including...

We're diving into the chaos of creativity and the struggle to maintain focus, folks! Today, we're taking a fun spin on the "Make Fun a Habit" series, where I'm all about helping you wrangle that wild inner critic and actually create stuff instead of just dreaming about it. We’ll chat about the importance of honing in on one or two creative pursuits—because let’s face it, trying to juggle all your passions at once can lead to a big ol’ mess (cue the classic Bic pen analogy!). I’ll share my own journey, from podcasting to poetry, and how I...

Terry Whalin joins us today to drop some serious knowledge bombs about the wild world of publishing. This guy has authored over 60 books and written for more than 50 magazines—yeah, you heard that right! He’s not just a writer; he’s practically a publishing wizard, and he's here to share some of his top insights that every author needs to succeed. We dive into everything from the do's and don'ts of publishing to how to tackle that pesky inner critic that tries to keep us from creating. Plus, we’ve got a special treat for you listeners—Terry's got an exc...

We're diving deep into the importance of believing in ourselves, folks! This episode, titled "Don't Stop Believing," is all about that glorious inner cheerleader we all need, especially when tackling our creative projects. Inspired by Mike Brennan's book, we explore how belief can be the magical ingredient that turns our artistic dreams into reality. I’ll share a heartfelt story about a shy, 13-year-old Mike who bravely stepped out of his comfort zone to impress a crush with his art. Spoiler alert: it’s a classic tale of courage that reminds us all to take those leaps of faith in o...

Today's chat is all about how fitness can supercharge your creativity, and we're diving deep with the one and only Trey the Fit Artist! Yup, this guy’s not just flexing his muscles; he’s also a fitness coach for artists, helping them dodge burnout and keep their creative juices flowing. We get into how fitness isn’t just about looking good—it's about feeling good and fueling that artistic fire. So, whether you’re a painter, musician, or any kind of creator, you'll want to stick around for tips on how to keep your energy up and your art game s...