Created Creative Podcast

Today’s guest, Dawn Marie Duncan, is doing ALL the things. We're talking music industry veteran turned children's book author, visual artist, AND creativity coach. Because apparently one creative pursuit just wasn't enough. Dawn Marie gets real about her transformation journey (spoiler alert: Julia Cameron's 'The Artist's Way' was involved), and how she went from industry burnout to leading creativity workshops that actually change people's lives. She's not here for your perfectionist nonsense - this is about getting messy, being vulnerable, and discovering what happens when you stop overthinking and start creating. Fair warning: this conversation might just inspire yo...

Dawn and Ruth are diving into the age-old struggle every creative person knows by heart: how do you keep your artistic soul alive when real life keeps happening every day. Chapter 11 of "The Artist's Way" gets the full treatment here, including some thoughts on how the Creator influences our creating and why your body might be trying to tell your brain something important about art.

Fair warning: This episode might make you realize that creativity isn't something you squeeze into your spare time - it's something that wants to show up in every corner of your life...

Note: This episode is also available on our YouTube channel (https://youtu.be/SC2Pr2i2JhI) - you might enjoy seeing some of the scenes we filmed.

Dawn and Ruth dive headfirst into the beautiful chaos of Minnesota's greatest gathering, where you can get hot dish on a stick (because of course you can) and witness the genuine artistry of butter sculptures that'll make you question everything you thought you knew about dairy products.

They're not just wandering around eating corn dogs - though there's definitely corn dog eating happening. They're exploring what happens...

Spirituality and creativity aren't just connected—they're practically best friends who finish each other's sentences.

On this episode, Dawn and Ruth sit down with the absolutely delightful Brey Noelle (actress, model, musician, and honestly, is there anything this woman can't do?) who decided to go full-time creative and somehow made it work. We're talking Cannes Film Festival, people. CANNES. While the rest of us are over here trying to figure out how to juggle a side hustle with Sunday service.

Brey spills the tea on everything—the messy middle of chasing dreams, how faith keeps her...

You're Not Lazy, You're Just Scared (And That Changes Everything)

This week we’re calling out that sneaky little lie we tell ourselves: that we're just being "lazy" when we can't seem to start that project. Spoiler alert: you're not lazy, you're scared. And that's totally normal, so quit beating yourself up about it.

Hosts Dawn and Ruth get wonderfully honest about their own creative fumbles – like when Ruth completely blanked on work commitments (been there!) and Dawn's white-knuckle journey launching her business course. They're diving into why enthusiasm beats discipline every single time when it c...

Yes friends, We're Going There: Jesus, Mushrooms, and Mental Health with the Ligare Folks

We’re diving headfirst into the deep end today, friends! After Dawn and Ruth catch up on their weekend shenanigans (including some quality time at WeFest), we're serving up a conversation that'll make your church ladies raise their eyebrows.

The Ligare folks, a Christian psychedelic society, are out here doing some pretty remarkable work that might surprise you. These lovely humans are bridging the gap between faith and psychedelic therapy, and before you do a double-take into your hot dish, just st...

Ruth and Dawn are discussing something that nobody talks about in seminary: pastors are natural salespeople who cast vision, build programs, and run stewardship campaigns. But when it comes to using those same skills to start a side hustle? Suddenly we're "too commercial" or "not focused on ministry." After 20 years watching talented women pastors struggle financially while apologizing for wanting financial stability, we have some thoughts, and a program called Discern by Doing for Business that's changing everything.

LINKS:

Talk with Dawn about being part of Discern by Doing for Business: https://bigpicturebigpurpose.lpages.co...

We're diving headfirst into why vulnerability makes us squirm, why effort actually matters, and how abundance shows up when you're not trying so dang hard. Dawn and Ruth are back with another episode of 'Created Creative,' and we're not messing around.

Broadcasting live from the parking lot of Hector International Airport in Fargo, ND, we're talking Chapter Six of 'The Artist's Way' focusing on all the messy stuff nobody wants to admit: chasing dreams that might be pipe dreams, making real connections in a world full of fake ones, and figuring out how to want nice...

Dawn and Ruth tried media deprivation week from 'The Artist's Way' - no social media, no binge-watching, and no podcasts. Turns out cutting the digital noise actually works for unleashing creativity. Skip our podcast this week and do some morning pages instead - your brain will thank you!

It's a great week to get coaching! Contact Dawn to set up an exploratory session: bigpicturebigpurpose.com

Or maybe you could send a thoughtful gift to your favorite minister! Consecrate.cratejoy.com

Everyone thinks their story has already been told. But it hasn't been told by you yet, and that makes all the difference. On this episode of Created Creative, Dawn and Ruth are getting real about kicking self-doubt to the curb and why your voice matters in this noisy world.

We reflect on last week's theme from 'The Artist's Way' - reading deprivation. Sounds terrible, right? Well, buckle up buttercup, because it's actually pretty amazing what happens when you step away from everyone else's words for a hot minute.

Then we sit down with Laurie Neill...

Look, we need to talk about something that's going to sting a little: you can't pour from an empty cup, but somehow we keep trying anyway. In this episode of Created Creative, Dawn and Ruth are getting real about Chapter 4 of Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way – and it's about to call us all out.

Here's the thing nobody wants to admit: we're so busy being everything to everyone that we've completely lost touch with who we actually are. Sound familiar? Yeah, we thought so. We are diving deep into why integrity isn't just about being honest with ot...

This conversation is going to hit you right in the feels. Dawn and Ruth talk with Stephanie Lape about how the Enneagram completely changed her relationships—including helping her reconnect with her father in a deep, healing way. Stephanie's journey from comparative religions professor to pastor is fascinating, but what really gets us is how she breaks down the Enneagram without judgment. We're covering the basics, how different types interact, and why this system makes you more compassionate, not more critical.

Find out more about Stephanie Lape at: https://stephanielape.com/

Join our Artist’s Way...

Do you suffer from time sickness? In this episode of Created Creative, co-hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss their summer journey through the book 'The Artist's Way'. In particular, they focus on Chapter 2 which covers the themes of time management and dealing with 'crazy makers'. Dawn shares her experience with an occupational therapist, while Ruth touches upon her attendance at her son's recital and visiting a museum event. They also discuss their personal strategies for time management, the concept of time sickness, and how they incorporate creative pursuits into their lives. The episode wraps up with encouragement for listeners to...

This episode of 'Created Creative' features a conversation with Paul Drees, a ELCA Lutheran pastor and social media influencer, who shares his journey of blending traditional ministry with modern platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Paul discusses the challenges and triumphs of using social media as a medium for progressive Christian evangelism, the need for institutional support, and the importance of creating meaningful digital content. The discussion also touches on monetization strategies, the potential impact of creative collaboration, and the broader implications of connecting with audiences in today's digital age.

Join our Artist’s Way Accountability Group: https://bpb...

In this episode of 'Created Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss the importance of everyday creativity and methods to stay grounded in a world driven by monetization. They are joined by guest Meta Herrick Carlson, a pastor and poet, who shares her experiences around recent significant events like family graduation and birthday celebrations. Meta delves into her creative journey, from embracing poetry during challenging times of postpartum anxiety to publishing multiple books including her upcoming children's book 'We Remember Your Baptism.' She talks about the importance of community and support for creative endeavors and provides insights into...

After 80 consecutive weeks of brand new episodes we are doing a throwback this week to one of our very first interviews! Enjoy this re-release of Pottery, Parables, and Portable Communionware: A Conversation with Lisa Kaufer. In this whimsical kickoff of "Created Creative from November of 2023," hosts Dawn and Ruth embark on an Advent adventure, debating when the season truly begins. Meet their first guest, Lisa Kaufer—part minister, part potter, and an all-around Renaissance woman. Lisa spills the clay on her current projects, juggling finger labyrinths and curriculum creation. Unveiling how she’s crafted her multi-hyphenate identity, she confesses the...

In this episode, we dive into an insightful quote from renowned author and artist Julia Cameron, known for her book 'The Artist's Way.' During her interview, Cameron shared a thought-provoking idea that deeply resonates with the core themes of our podcast: 'Creativity and spirituality intertwine like dancing partners.' This elegant metaphor illuminates how creative expression and spiritual growth are closely connected, inspiring us to explore these synergies in our own lives. We discuss how embracing this perspective can enhance both our artistic endeavors and spiritual journeys, offering practical insights and reflections on integrating creativity and spirituality. Tune...

In this episode of 'Creative', hosts Dawn and Ruth explore a spectrum of engaging topics surrounding everyday creativity and community impact. They delve into personal routines and the joys and challenges of balancing professional and personal life, including anecdotes from the hosts' daily experiences. Mayor Latham Hetland of New York Mills, Minnesota, joins the discussion, sharing his unexpected journey into local politics, the dynamic growth of his community, and his role in launching the Continental Divide restaurant. Hetland recounts the intricacies of community-driven investments, the trials within his mayoral tenure, and his creative strategies for fostering local development. He...

Join Our Patreon and Enhance Your Creative Journey

In this episode of Created Creative, Dawn encourages listeners to join their Patreon by Thursday. She details the benefits of supporting the podcast at various levels, including participation in the 'Created Creative Container,' an interactive creative coworking session with fellow supporters and former podcast guests. Higher-tier supporters can also receive quarterly laser coaching sessions. Dawn emphasizes the importance of community, creativity, and connection, inviting everyone to engage and enrich the collective creative experience.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:03 Join Our Patreon for Exclusive Benefits

00:36...

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss the rise of gendered Christian nationalism and the challenges white men and boys face with guest Rev. Angela Denker from Minneapolis, author of 'Red State Christians' and 'Disciples of White Jesus.' The conversation explores radicalization, the influence of Christian masculinity, and how positive male identity can be fostered in communities. Angela provides insights into her transition from sports writing to ordained ministry and her ongoing role as a public theologian and columnist for the Minnesota Star Tribune. Additionally, practical ways to engage with these complex issues in...

In this episode of 'Creative Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal road trip adventures to the intricacies of side hustles and the unique challenges faced by women in ministry. Dawn shares her experiences with her subscription box service 'Consecrate,' detailing its impactful support for ministers, particularly women, by curating items that balance inspiration, utility, and humor. They explore the connection between creativity and spirituality, emphasizing the roles of both discipline and inspiration. Additionally, the episode covers practical advice on adapting to changing social media algorithms, and touches on the importance...

Dawn and Ruth engage in a detailed conversation with Chris Stevens-Yu, a professional photographer and speech-language pathologist. Chris discusses his journey in photography, from childhood fascination with photos to developing his craft through community education and practice. He shares insights on street photography, the challenge of finding unique perspectives, and the therapeutic nature of capturing moments. The episode also touches on Chris’s involvement in photography clubs and collectives, his notable trips for photography, and the significance of being an open vessel to creativity. The conversation concludes with Chris offering advice for aspiring photographers.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Re...

In this episode, Dawn and Ruth welcome Rev. Lizzie, an Episcopal priest from Austin, Texas, who shares her experiences in ministry, her new book 'God Didn't Make Us to Hate Us,' and her journey as a church planter. Lizzie also discusses the intersection of creativity and spirituality, the unique culture of Austin, and her use of social media for evangelism. The conversation touches on a variety of topics, including her writing process, the importance of community, and the role of art and creativity in faith.

00:00 Introduction: The Role of Silence in Spirituality

02:26 Community and...

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth dive into personal narratives on healing and creativity. Special guest Paul Lutter, an ELCA Pastor, shares his transformative journey following a stroke and minor heart attack. Paul reflects on learning self-compassion, the importance of rest, and the interplay between healing and creativity. Ruth relates her own experience with Guillain-Barre syndrome, emphasizing the non-linear nature of recovery. Together, they explore themes of personal vulnerability, the value of community support, and finding creative inspiration even in times of adversity. The episode underscores the importance of accepting life's ebbs and flows while...

In this episode of Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth delve into a conversation with Becca Ehrlich, an author and advocate for Christian minimalism. The discussion covers a range of topics, starting with the importance of intentional living and its connection to Christian faith. Becca shares insights from her book, 'Christian Minimalism,' and reflects on her experience on the reality show 'Lost Resort.' The episode explores the challenges and rewards of minimalist living, the nuances of hosting diverse spiritual retreats, and the development of Becca’s spirituality center. The conversation concludes with practical advice on managing time and co...

Dawn and Ruth discuss the courage it takes to share personal and creative work publicly. Artists and creators, including Joe Davis, David Gate, Christine Davies, Andrea Roske-Metcalfe, Julie Hoplamazian, and Rob Bell share their personal journeys of overcoming fear and vulnerability to share their creative talents. The session explores various forms of creativity, such as poetry, storytelling, dance, and writing, emphasizing the importance of community support in empowering artists to be brave. The video encourages viewers to embrace their creativity and take brave steps in sharing their work, supported by a community.

Visit our Patreon: patreon.com...

This episode dives into Project 412 in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing community engagement through public art and events. Hosts Ruth and Dawn interview Amy Stearns, the executive director, discussing the project's origins, initiatives like public sculptures, murals, and free events like Hot Dish, a great program for entrepreneurs to share their ideas for the community and receive starter money. Amy also shares her personal journey and insights on building community, encouraging creativity, and handling project priorities. Throughout, they touch on the impact of public art, community support, and the importance of dreaming big in small...

In this episode, Dawn and Ruth delve into 'The Let Them Theory' by Mel Robbins, discussing its core principles and applications. They explore how relinquishing control can lead to emotional peace and improved relationships, both personally and within larger systems. The hosts share personal anecdotes, discussing challenges in ministry, parenting, and professional environments. They also contemplate the theory's boundaries, such as where it may not apply, like in situations requiring direct intervention. Special emphasis is placed on applying these ideas in faith-based contexts, aligning with personal and communal growth.

Download discussion guide here: https://createdcreativepodcast.com/let-them/<...

In this episode of 'Created Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth engage in a delightful conversation with guest Tara Lamont Eastman, a pastor and practitioner of holy shenanigans. They discuss the significance of creative processes within spiritual and community contexts. Tara shares her experiences in podcasting, leading a vibrant community art initiative, and how her journey through seminary shaped her current work. The conversation touches upon the importance of creativity as a core aspect of identity rather than just an extra hobby. The hosts and guest explore the intersection of creativity and spirituality, the value of live and in-person...

In this episode of 'Created Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss the impact of the February podcast challenge that invited participants to engage in daily creative acts. Joined by several guests who took part in the challenge, they share experiences, lessons learned, and new perspectives on creativity. The guests, from diverse backgrounds and professions, describe their journeys of experimentation, play, and the unexpected ways creativity manifested in their lives. The discussion also explores the deep connections between creativity and spirituality. The episode concludes with the announcement of the challenge winner, Diane Harpster, and an invitation to join a...

 In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth interview author Marla Taviano. Marla shares her journey from conservative evangelical Christianity to a more progressive, socially just form of faith. The discussion includes Marla's transition through faith deconstruction and her experiences with unschooling her children. Ruth also shares a personal story about a recent hospital experience and how it has impacted her creative processes. The conversation explores themes of creativity, spirituality, and personal growth, while Marla discusses her current writing projects and plans to attend a secular homeschool conference. The episode wraps up with a promotion for the C...

In this episode of Created Creative, Dawn and Ruth engage in a lively conversation with Kika Wright, a professional musician, arts administrator, and new public school music teacher in NYC. Kika shares her unconventional theory about Vivaldi, discusses her multifaceted career, and explores her transition from freelancing and arts administration to teaching. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the often invisible work of women, shares heartwarming experiences from her teaching journey, and discusses the interconnectedness of creativity and spirituality. The episode concludes with an encouragement for listeners to participate in the 28-day creativity challenge. Find out more at createdcreativepodcast...

In this episode, Dawn and Ruth are joined by Krista Wiger, a multifaceted medical doctor and musician who shares insights about her journey in music, particularly her well-loved camp song Psalm 25 (To You, Oh Lord}. Krista also talks about her current projects, including plays, music, and a book that aims to dismantle the medical-industrial complex in cancer care. The podcast emphasizes the importance of daily creative practice and features a 28-day creativity challenge encouraging everyone to try new creative activities. Join Dawn, Ruth, and Krista for an inspiring conversation about the intersections of creativity, spirituality, and personal growth.

In this episode of 'Created Creative Podcast,' hosts Dawn and Ruth interview Christine Davies, a Presbyterian minister and CPE supervisor at a Level One trauma center. Christine shares her journey from writing privately to gaining a thousand followers on Substack and talks about her experiences and thoughts on grief, self-care, and spirituality. The episode also covers Christine's participation in podcasts, her creative processes, her unique hobbies like beekeeping, and her plans for writing a book. Additionally, the hosts discuss their February creativity challenge and encourage listeners to participate. Find Christine's growing substack here: https://journeyingalongside.substack.com/

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth welcome back Richard Bruxfort Colligan to discuss creativity, spirituality, and Psalms. The conversation touches on Richard's experience living in Strawberry Point, Iowa, his relationship with dogs and his dream of owning a cat, and the intersection of creativity and spirituality. Richard shares insights from his career, his songwriting practice, and his new book about Psalms. The hosts also discuss ways to incorporate creativity into daily life and announce a 28-day creativity challenge for February. Listeners are encouraged to explore new creative activities and share their experiences on social media...

Dawn and Ruth welcome Ruth's son, Jesse Hetland Peterson, a passionate theater aficionado and high school senior. Jesse shares his journey in theater, discussing everything from his experiences in community and school productions to his aspirations for a career on Broadway. The conversation delves into his recent experiences playing Willy Wonka, the joys and challenges of acting, and his plans for the future including attending film festivals and auditioning for roles. The episode also features practical advice on being proactive in pursuing creative opportunities and announces an upcoming 28-day creativity challenge for listeners.

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss the origins and impact of camp songs, particularly focusing on the work of Cathy Pino. They explore Cathy’s background working at various Bible camps, the story behind her popular song ‘Light of the World', and how it gained widespread popularity. Cathy shares insights into her journey as a musician, songwriter, and caregiver, and discusses her current creative endeavors.

Creating Forward: Elevate Your Life Goals - Dawn and Ruth welcome special guest Kris Bjorke for an inspiring conversation about moving forward, setting goals, and embracing new beginnings. The group discusses their personal journeys and their unique, creative approaches to life and ministry. They also delve into their struggles with physical space, organization, and achieving financial stability while maintaining a strong spiritual and emotional balance. Additionally, they explore the importance of community, the power of self-belief, and practical steps to elevate one's life and career. Listeners are encouraged to join in a 28-day creativity challenge in February to further...

In this episode of 'Created Creative', Dawn and Ruth discuss the importance of attitude and positive thinking when working towards goals. They delve into the 'one little word' concept from Allie Edwards which frames an entire year with a guiding word, and compare it to 'Star Words'. The hosts explore the concept of manifesting, examining its limitations in light of what former guest Callie Swanland shared with them and the necessity of doing the groundwork. They also touch upon various creative ways to set and achieve goals, including vision boards, mind movies, Bingo cards, and recognizing different personality types...

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth chat with Heidi Renney, a soap maker and yoga enthusiast from Detroit Lakes. Heidi shares her journey from quitting her corporate job to starting Nature's Embrace Soap Company. She discusses her creative process, the growth of her business, and the importance of staying connected to her spiritual practices. The conversation touches on managing a small business, balancing creativity and discipline, and maintaining a local, community-focused business model. They also explore Heidi's past creative endeavors, such as designing stage sets for a rock and roll church, and her plans for...