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Creativity Found: Finding Creativity Later in Life

Claire Waite Brown

Real-life stories of finding or returning to creativity in adulthood.
I'm Claire, and I re-found my creativity after a time of almost crippling anxiety. Now I share the stories of other people who have found or re-found their creativity as adults, and hopefully inspire many more grown-ups to get creative.
I chat with my guests about their childhood experiences of creativity and the arts, how they came to the creative practices they now love, the barriers they had to overcome to start their creative re-awakening, and how what they do now benefits their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here

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#150
August 31 · 28 min
From Banking to Broadway with Norman Calvo
A conservative New York mortgage banker turns his hand to performing cabaret solos and tap-dancing in Manhattan's Times Square. In this episode, Norman Calvo shares how a devastating childhood choir audition silenced his voice for decades, and how an unexpected encounter with an opera singer client in his 60s allowed him to find his voice once more. We explore the power of starting from scratch as an adult, the vulnerability of freezing during your first public solo, and how embracing a creative outlet can completely redefine your social life and personal identity. Norman also offers advice for anyone afraid of putting themselves out there, emphasizing that when it comes to finding joy in retirement, you truly have nothing to lose and everything to gain. The Choir Audition Scar: Norman shares the devastating childhood experience of being rejected from his seventh-grade choir, which sidelined his artistic confidence for decades. The Hand-Written Mortgage Magic: How a face-to-face meeting with opera singer clients in his 60s sparked a late-in-life journey into singing lessons at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Falling on Your Face to Learn: Norman recounts freezing on stage during his first-ever solo and explains why making mistakes is the ultimate way to grow as an adult. Tuxedos, Top Hats, and Tap Dancing: From a conservative Wall Street uniform to performing 'Putting on the Ritz' with a cane, Norman describes the pure fun of adding physical performance and tap lessons to his creative toolkit. The Holistic Banker: How performing cabaret completely transformed Norman's social life, broadened his conversations, and led to a heartwarming joint talent show with his granddaughter. You might also like: Dirty Blues and Dorothy Fields with Suzanne Noble From Corporate Career to Paris Playwright with Cecilia Poullain From Serving Fries to Performing Stand-Up with Rabiah Coon I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#149
August 17 · 26 min
From Outer Space to Inner Place with Justine Guillermou
Engineering a life of colour. Justine Guillermou transitioned from a rigid career in space engineering to the vibrant world of professional interior design. In this episode Justine shares how her childhood experiences of home renovation in France planted the seeds for her future, despite being pushed towards more traditional academic paths. We explore the therapeutic benefits of colour, Justine’s experience as a contestant on a Channel 4 interior design show, and how embracing a creative outlet helped her manage the challenges of living with endometriosis. Justine also provides insight into her signature Rainbow Shaker style, and offers advice for those who believe they lack a creative spark, emphasizing the importance of the process over the final outcome. You might also like: Dreaming, Planning and Painting with Annie Sloan Art You Can Touch with Furrah Syed Making Creatures Great and Small with Emma Brassfield I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#148
July 27 · 35 min
The Care Manager's Canvas with Lora Arbrador
At the intersection of medicine and masterpieces. Lora Arbrador is a nurse and artist who uses the ancient technique of egg tempera to explore profound human experiences. In this episode Lora shares her childhood memories of art lessons in New York, her experience of the counterculture movement in Berkeley during the 1960s, and how her career in nursing – specifically during the height of the AIDS crisis – became the catalyst for her most significant works. Lora and I discuss the meticulous nature of egg tempera, the emotional weight of painting stories of loss and immigration, and Lora's decision to document her life and art in her memoir, Art and Love. Lora also reveals her unique 'adoption' approach to finding homes for her large-scale paintings and explains why she chooses to embrace a slow, deliberate creative process in her 70s. Connect with Lora here You might also like: Medicine and Mysteries with Tammy Euliano Problem Solving in Science and Art with Claude Larson Policy Advising and Portrait Painting with Sally Ward Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#147
July 20 · 18 min
Thrilling New Chapters with Michael Wendroff
Turning a lifelong dream into a published reality. Marketing-consultant-turned-thriller-writer Michael Wendroff shares his fascinating journey of being raised within a literary family – surrounded by manuscripts and legendary authors like Robert Ludlum – before carving out his own successful career in marketing. He discusses how the pandemic finally provided the opportunity to overcome a lifetime of procrastination and pen his debut novel, What Goes Around. Michael offers invaluable insight into the traditional publishing process, the essential role of literary agents, and the importance of perseverance when receiving editorial feedback. We explore the 'self-actualising' power of fulfilling a lifelong creative dream and the positive impact it has on mental and physical wellbeing, while Michael also provides practical advice for aspiring writers, from exercising the 'writing muscle' daily to the necessity of self-promotion in the modern publishing landscape. Connect with Michael here. Buy books by Creativity Found guests here. You might also like: From Nomad to Novelist with Douglas Robbins Blending Fact and Fiction with Shirley Novack Medicine and Mysteries with Tammy Euliano Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#146
July 6 · 29 min
Rom-Com Lessons for Real Life with Sheila Kazan
"I know what it feels like to be the bird in the cage that doesn't sing. I know that feeling and I don't want to go back to that again." Sheila Kazan, creator of the podcast Small Talk with Sheila chats with me about navigating the expectations of her Iranian immigrant parents – who envisioned her becoming a lawyer – and her own desire for creative expression. From discovering the power of acting in a sixth-grade English class to dropping out of law school and working in the heart of Hollywood, Sheila discusses the 'messiness' of a creative life. Now balancing a career in tech with her passion for storytelling, she explains why we should give ourselves the same grace we afford our favourite rom-com characters and why perfectionism is the greatest barrier to artistic fulfilment. The Law School Dropout: Sheila recounts the 'messy and dark' moment she realized she was living someone else's life and her bold move to Arizona to discover who she actually was. Creativity in Corporate Spaces: How Sheila carves out room for her expressive self while working for tech giants like Meta and Slack. The 'Bird in the Cage' Warning: A powerful discussion on the emotional price of suppressing your creative side and why 'just doing it' is the only cure for perfectionism. Ambition vs. Burnout: Practical advice on managing the 'pendulum swing' of a multi-passionate life and recognizing when you’re steering towards a crash. You might also like: From Serving Fries to Performing Stand-Up with Rabiah Coon Cakes, Crochet and Connecting in the Metaverse with Shawna Curee From Law to Literature with Mary Adkins Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#71
June 22 · 44 min
Science, Silver and Staying Awake with Ruth Chipperfield
'I was unaware that it wasn't normal to fall asleep when you're sat still.' This episode was first released in April 2023. Ruth Chipperfield, a goldsmith and jewellery designer, had always experienced excessive tiredness, but didn’t think anything more of it until a chat with a friend at uni revealed to her that not everyone struggled to stay awake at their desk in the same way she did. With the advice of her great uncle in Australia – where the condition was more recognised – Ruth was diagnosed with narcolepsy, an autoimmune disease that affects the brain’s ability to regulate the sleep-wake cycle: when wanting to sleep a sufferer can wake up every second, and when awake they will want to sleep. At its worst for Ruth this meant collapsing up to 30 times a day, and needing constant care from her husband and mum. Ruth took time out from studying chemistry at university to apply for funding for the medication she needed to improve her life – with the help of her mother – and then to get used to it and the fundamental physiological and emotional effects that had on her. During those three years Ruth was able to visit antique fairs – always accompanied, for obvious reasons – where she was inspired to take her childhood love of junk modelling to new heights, and taught herself to work with precious metals and gems, as well as how to solder, make moulds, cast metal, and more, to create her own jewellery designs. Ruth was determined to return to uni, and completed her chemistry degree and Masters, which she is rightly very proud of, even though she had already decided that jewellery designing was the field she wanted to pursue. CreativityFound.co.uk Instagram: @creativityfoundpodcast Facebook: @creativityfoundpodcast and Creativity Found group YouTube @creativityfoundpodcast Pinterest: @creativityfound Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips Artworks: Emily Portnoi emilyportnoi.co.uk Photo: Ella Pallet I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#145
May 25 · 39 min
Songwriting at 70 with Dennis Welch
The transformative power of words and music. Singer-songwriter Dennis Welch shares his journey from a Texas childhood filled with libraries and country music to a creative renaissance that has earned him multiple Grammy ballot considerations in his 60s and 70s. We discuss the pivotal teachers who changed his life path, the moment he almost walked away from music forever, and how dinner with friends in a Mexican restaurant reignited his passion for recording. Dennis offers heartfelt advice on why adult creators should ignore cultural expectations regarding age, the benefits of creative pursuits for mental wellbeing, and the importance of perseverance in the face of uncertainty. You might also like: Purpose, Piano and the Goosebump Compass with Steve Goldberg Strings, Spirituality and Stillness with Jennifer Roig-Francolí Rich Chambers keeps rocking I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#144
May 4 · 32 min
Fuzzy Sharks Reimagine Marine Conservation with Jessica Adanich
Merging professional expertise with a lifelong passion for ocean conservation. Jessica Adanich shares her journey from a childhood immersed in creativity to founding Fuzzy Sharks and Sharkapalooza, a non-profit art and conservation festival in Florida. Jessica chats with Claire about the challenges of art school, the resilience required to pivot careers during economic downturns, and the importance of separating personal identity from professional critique. We touch on the scientific theory of biophilia and how Jessica's 'fuzzy shark' soft sculptures help people connect with misunderstood marine life. Hear about the bravery involved in moving across the country to follow a dream, the realities of balancing a design agency with passion projects, and why taking a chance on yourself is the ultimate creative act, as well as: How art can hit differently than verbal communication in conservation efforts. The transition from corporate marketing at Mace to launching an independent design studio. Overcoming the fear of failure and the importance of pushing out of your comfort zone. The growth of Sharkapalooza from a microbrewery event to a city-wide festival featuring major aquariums and OSEARCH. Connect with Jessica here. Find Fuzzy Sharks here. I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#143
April 20 · 27 min
Ancient Worlds and New Chapters with Neil Laird
Blending filmmaking and fiction: Neil Laird is a veteran documentary filmmaker and television executive who rediscovered a new creative spark in midlife through writing fiction. In this episode Neil shares his journey from a small steel town in Pennsylvania to directing documentaries for the Discovery Channel and National Geographic, and eventually finding the courage to self-publish his own novels at the age of 50. Inspired by the fearless reinvention of David Bowie, Neil discusses the transition from the 'tedious' corporate side of television back to the joy of making things up. He delves into his Prime Time Travelers series of novels, which blends his deep knowledge of ancient history with satirical takes on the chaos of TV production, and offers inspiring advice for adults looking to reignite their own passions: stop waiting for the stars to align, don't be afraid of the first 'rubbish' draft, and surround yourself with cheerleaders rather than naysayers. Finding Inspiration in the Unexpected: Neil recounts how a period of unemployment led him to the New York Public Library, where a chance encounter with a book on ancient history completely shifted his creative trajectory and led to his first documentary on the Great Sphinx. The Midlife Creative Shift: Turning 50 served as a catalyst for Neil to explore fiction. Inspired by the fearless innovation of David Bowie, he decided to move beyond the constraints of documentary filmmaking to imagine historical worlds with a fresh coat of paint. Blending Expertise with Satire: After struggling to find an agent for a traditional historical novel, Neil found his unique voice by blending his professional background with fiction in his Prime Time Travelers series – a satirical look at a film crew messing up history. The Power of Creative Independence: Neil discusses his decision to self-publish, allowing him to maintain creative control over his characters and storylines, including diverse and LGBTQ+ representation that might have been lost in traditional publishing. Advice for Aspiring Creatives: Neil emphasises the importance of starting now, surrounding yourself with cheerleaders rather than naysayers, and not being afraid of the inevitable first draft being a load of rubbish. I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#142
April 6 · 27 min
Puzzled About Everything with Monica Marlatt
Monica Marlatt is a Toronto-based puzzle influencer who rediscovered her love for jigsaw puzzles while navigating the challenges of the empty-nest stage. In this episode Monica shares how she transformed a solo, traditional hobby into a vibrant creative practice by mastering stop-motion animation, hosting location shoots across her city, and even launching puzzle-themed cruises with Royal Caribbean. The conversation explores the importance of lifelong learning, the global speed puzzling phenomenon, and practical advice for adults looking to fill the void after their children leave home. Preparing for Life Transitions: Monica discusses the unexpected emotional toll of the empty-nest stage and the importance of proactively finding new interests to fill the space left by growing children. Innovating a Traditional Hobby: By embracing technology, Monica uses stop-motion reels and location shoots across Toronto to present jigsaw puzzles in creative, artistic ways, building a following of over 17,000 people. Lifelong Learning and Social Connection: The episode highlights how engaging in creative pursuits in adulthood provides essential mental stimulation and social interaction, whether through global speed-puzzling competitions or online communities. The 'Boutique' Puzzle Movement: Discover the shift from mass-produced puzzles to high-quality, artist-led boutique brands that offer diverse textures and materials like wood, cork, and acrylic. Advice for Finding Your Passion: Monica encourages listeners to experiment with different hobbies without the pressure of perfection or perseverance. Trying something new provides valuable life experiences and conversational starting points, even if it doesn't become a long-term commitment. I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#141
March 16 · 35 min
From Corporate Stress to Creative Success with Bonny Snowdon
How coloured pencils changed Bonny's life. World-renowned artist and teacher Bonny Snowdon shares how a stressful period in her life and a gift of coloured pencils from her daughter led to a profound creative awakening that helped her manage anxiety and navigate personal challenges. We explore Bonny’s horse-mad childhood in North Yorkshire, her early experiences in the advertising and graphic design industries, a challenging '360' management review and her transition into executive coaching. Bonny discusses the 'leap of faith' required to turn her artistic passion into a thriving business, including the launch of the Bonny Snowdon Academy. We discuss the importance of self-belief, Bonny offers insight into her restorative daily rituals involving journalling and sketching, and provides encouraging advice for anyone looking to start their own creative journey. In this episode: The role of creativity in Bonny’s childhood and her early love of horses. Navigating the shift from traditional graphic design to managerial roles. How coloured pencils provided a meditative escape during difficult times. The transition from executive coach to full-time professional artist. Building a successful creative membership and online academy. The importance of daily journalling and sketching for mental wellbeing. Practical advice for beginners: starting small and embracing the learning curve – don't be afraid to produce 'rubbish' work while you learn. You might also like: Blossoming in Art with Bianca Giarola Medicine to Masterpieces with Dr Vasu Tolia The Listening Eye with Ashton Rodenhiser I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#140
March 2 · 32 min
From Blueprints to Brushes with Emily-Jane Sarroff
Finding a balance between career and creativity. Have you ever built a "successful" career only to realize it was draining the very creativity you intended to nurture? Artist Emily-Jane Sarroff spent a decade navigating the worlds of architecture and high-level business consulting before realizing that her most important work was the art she made for herself. Emily-Jane shares her journey of deconstructing the "societal programming" that linked her worth to her career and explains why she recently pivoted to real estate to provide her nervous system the safety it needed to create again. In this episode, we discuss: The "Disappointment" Narrative: How the internal pressure to succeed led Emily-Jane away from her creative roots after high school. The Architecture Trap: Why a "creative" degree can sometimes feel more technical than expressive, and the brave decision to "leap" away from a career that wasn't fuelling her soul. Choosing Self over Scale: Why Emily-Jane closed a successful, six-figure business to stop "proving herself" and start living from a heart space. “Weird and Woo Woo” Art: A look into Emily-Jane’s spiritual, abstract style and why she prioritizes creating for her own healing and expression rather than for commissions. Practical Creativity: How to set up a permanent art space (even in a garage corner!) and the importance of scheduling “buffer zones” to transition your brain from logical work to creative flow. You might also like: Rediscovering the Inner Artist with Kerry Lyons Peonies, Paint and Personal Growth with Sally Jean Fox Society, Stereotypes and Sparkle with Jessie Elliott I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#139
February 16 · 34 min
Painting Peace Leads to Finding a Voice with Jaime Townzen
Physiological peace and rewiring a creative soul. Creative pursuits helped my guest, Jaime Townzen, to overcome years of grief and caregiving stress to complete and publish her first novel, but it's not all about writing! In this episode Jaime shares her journey from high-achieving, people-pleasing pre-med student to embracing her passion for storytelling, a transition sparked by a pivotal moment of encouragement from a college professor. A period of caregiving and loss stalled Jaime's writing career, but a spontaneous decision to try watercolour painting during the pandemic provided her with a sense of physiological peace that years of traditional self-care could not reach, while also serving as a bridge to transport her back to writing. Her Masters' thesis became the springboard for her novel, Absorbed, a coming-of-age story that explores themes of 1990s nostalgia, teen identity and the complexities of consent. The conversation also touches on the importance of granting oneself grace during seasons of emotional exhaustion and the value of following the 'spark''of excitement to reignite inspiration. Jaime’s story serves as a powerful reminder that creative outlets are not just hobbies, but vital tools for navigating life's most difficult transitions. You might also like: Blossoming in Art with Bianca Giarola Tech, Translations and Storytelling with John Guiver Adventures in all Dimensions with Gina Farrar I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#138
February 2 · 27 min
From "What If?" to "Why Not?" with Kathy Kyle
From statistics to sustainability via collaboration, community and creativity. Kathy Kyle is an illustrator and entrepreneur who successfully pivoted from a 25-year career in marketing and statistics to launching her own sustainable art business. In this episode Kathy shares her journey of finding her creative voice later in life and the courage it took to prioritize joy and beauty over utilitarianism. Throughout our conversation, we explore: The intersection of data and art in effective communication. How a background in statistics and sociology informed Kathy’s approach to community building. The personal and professional catalysts for her move from the US to the UK. Overcoming stress-related health challenges by returning to a childhood passion for painting. The creation of her brand, featuring hand-painted silk scarves and sustainably sourced products. The importance of collaboration and supporting women-owned independent businesses. Kathy offers a professional perspective on why it is never too late to "bet on yourself" and how embracing creativity can lead to a more fulfilling and relaxed lifestyle. Find Kathy's art here. You might also like: Tricia Duffy: Planning for Creativity Rachel Peru: From Retail to Runway Joanne Robinson: From Armed Forces to Art Classes I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#137
Dec 15, 2025 · 35 min
Purpose, Piano and the Goosebump Compass with Steve Goldberg
Creativity as a necessity in the age of AI. Steve Goldberg is a passionate advocate for the role of creativity in a rapidly changing world, and in this episode he shares his conviction that finding meaning and purpose beyond professional life will become increasingly vital as artificial intelligence reshapes the future of work. Steve, a former tenured professor and global consultant, shares his philosophy of "following my nose" and staying "awake to possibilities," which has led him down some truly "magical and unexpected paths". In this episode, we explore: The Power of Synchronicity: How a spontaneous bicycle ride led Steve to a Harvard scholarship, and how an overbooked flight resulted in him meeting Nelson Mandela the day after his release from prison. The Late Bloom: Steve’s journey to becoming a composer of "healing piano for a noisy world", despite being convinced for decades that he "did not have a creative bone in my body". He didn't start playing the piano until he was 50 years old. The Goosebump Compass: Steve reveals his unique method of improvisation and composition – working without reading music and instead relying on his "goosebump compass" to guide the emotional impact and structure of his work. Leaving Stability for Opportunity: Why Steve resigned from a tenured college position at age 28 to pursue a consulting job that took him "literally around the world" for four decades. Creativity as a Necessity, Not a Luxury: Steve argues that with artificial intelligence accelerating job changes and disappearances, creative expression and finding purpose outside of professional life will become vital for society. Languishing or Blossoming: Discussing the concept behind Steve’s book, which encourages people to choose a continuous "blossoming" process over a fixed mindset, particularly in the face of life's challenges. Find Steve's music and book here. You Might Also Like Rich Chambers Keeps Rocking Piano à Deux: Music, Marriage and Modern technology Suzanne Noble – dirty blues and Dorothy Fields I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#136
Dec 1, 2025 · 37 min
Regina Linke: Traditional Training Unlocks Modern Creativity
Cultural heritage, a challenging mentor and the bridge between free expression and disciplined practice. Regina Linke is an illustrator and writer dedicated to celebrating traditional Chinese art and philosophy in a modern way. Regina's childhood interest in drawing was initially stifled by rigid instruction, and she went on to study business in college followed by a career in international development. It wasn't until a move to Taiwan, her parents' homeland, that she reconnected with her artistic passion. In Taiwan, Regina immersed herself in traditional Chinese brush painting. Despite an initial struggle with the structured learning environment, she credits her critical teacher with pushing her to develop a unique artistic voice, one that blends her Western upbringing with Eastern aesthetics. This fusion led to the creation of The Oxherd Boy, an online comic that grew from her desire to explain complex philosophical concepts to her young son. Regina discusses the evolution of The Oxherd Boy into published books, and the challenges of adapting her deeply personal work for diverse audiences while staying true to the core message. In this episode Regina offers invaluable advice for aspiring creatives: find joy in the process, but also embrace the discipline of practice and the humility to learn, while illustrating how unexpected paths can lead to profound artistic expression. Key Takeaways Embrace structured learning to build foundational skills, even in creative fields, as it deepens your understanding and respect for the art form. A challenging or critical mentor can be instrumental in pushing you beyond your comfort zone to discover your unique artistic voice. Blending diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives can lead to a richer, more distinctive creative style. Consistent creative practice is essential for growth, even when inspiration wanes; it keeps your skills sharp and fuels further development. Be open to the evolution of your work when collaborating with others, understanding that adaptation can broaden your reach and create new stepping stones for your message. Buy Regina's book here I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#135
Nov 17, 2025 · 31 min
Marneta Viegas: Silence and the Creative Spark
Mime, movement and the Relax Kids revolution. Marneta Viegas, founder of Relax Kids, was the "fame school" student haunted by self-doubt who went on to become a pioneer of accessible children's relaxation. In this episode she details the emotional toll business growth had on her, and how she now fiercely guards her creativity. From Self-Doubt to Mime: Marneta shares her supportive, yet complex, childhood, including attending ballet and tap classes where she struggled with self-esteem. Despite graduating with a degree in performing arts (and crying daily over the music requirements), constant rejection from the children’s TV industry led her to pivot to the "silent way," studying mime. She funded this non-verbal training by entertaining children as a clown. The Accidental Birth of Relax Kids: While working as a clown Marneta noticed a critical drop in children’s concentration, and using accumulated skills (breathing, drama, mime, silence), she created her unique seven-step system and made relaxation for children "acceptable" by turning fairy stories into meditations, drafting her first book in just three days. The Struggle: Losing the Creative Spark: As Relax Kids grew, the administrative burden took over, and Marneta experienced a loss of creativity, as well as feeling physically sick and struggling with "dark days". Creativity Found and Fiercely Guarded: There is, of course, a happy ending, and Marneta explains how she was able to find her path back to creativity, and how she now prioritizes new creative channels, including performing unique standup comedy, mindful movement, and forest bathing. Marneta's story is about the power of silence, stillness, and childlikeness to feed the soul and fuel creative liberation. Find Relax Kids here Buy Relax Kids books here I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#134
Oct 27, 2025 · 28 min
Joseph Bolton: The Soldier, The Shawl and The Trickster Animals
From combat engineer to creative conjurer, discover how Joseph Bolton merges magic, ancestry and the northern lights in his new-found love for writing folklore and fantasy. Joseph joined the US Army straight out of high school, and in his 25 years of service graduated from West Point and Ranger School and worked as a combat engineer (a role that involved building bridges and blowing things up), an infantry officer, and even a space operations officer. After the passing of his younger brother from ALS in 2013, Joseph felt a profound need to reflect on the value of time and growing older. This led him first to an expressive blog and eventually to the highly unusual creative project that would define his next chapter. The Old Grandmother’s Tree collection of stories began life as a charming French Canadian folktale about farm animals (who surprisingly 'smoke cigars and drink wine'), and soon became a series of highly illustrated tales rooted in Joseph's ancestry and featuring magic, ghosts, and trickster animal characters – a magic shawl with the colour of the northern lights was a feature of the first short story and later became the genesis for the entire series. Joseph is a highly visual writer who sees stories unfold 'as a movie within my mind', and collaborates with artists Masami Kiyono and Natasha Pelley-Smith to create this unique hybrid format – a series so heavily illustrated it features close to 700 images across its first three volumes, blurring the line between a traditional novel and a graphic novel. This episode offers a compelling look at how creativity can emerge in unexpected moments and how personal loss can spark artistic expression. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in family history, creative late-blooming, and the surprising ways our life experiences shape our storytelling. Find the Old Grandmother's Tree books here creativityfound.co.uk Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#134
Oct 13, 2025 · 39 min
Strings, Spirituality and Stillness with Jennifer Roig-Francolí
Jennifer Roig-Francolí shares her journey from a young violinist finding solace in her art, to a place of spiritual exploration and self-discovery. We discuss the challenges she faced in her artistic life, including a pivotal moment when she realized she was not using her creativity in a healthy way, and the profound neck pain that changed her path. Through the Alexander Technique, Jennifer found not just relief from her physical discomfort, but also a new way to reconnect with her creativity. Jennifer discusses her creative childhood, Suzuki training and meteoric run of competitions and solo work, before the ambition dissolved, orchestra life set in, and her relationship with music dimmed. When no treatment could alleviate her stubborn neck pain, a friend urged Jennifer to revisit the Alexander Technique. Within a few lessons, the pain vanished and something deeper shifted – mood, movement, and a sense of ease that didn’t require effort. Together, we unpack what Alexander work actually is beyond posture, and Jennifer shares a simple on-air exercise that anyone can try in seconds, demonstrating how noticing without fixing often melts strain and steadies the voice. Jennifer is the creator of the Art of Freedom Method built around five pillars – purpose, mind, body, spirit, artistry – to help musicians and non-musicians create from presence rather than pressure, and author of Make Great Music with Ease: The Secret to Smarter Practice, Confident Performance, and Living a Happier Life. Find out more about The Art of Freedom and Jennifer here creativityfound.co.uk Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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#133
Sep 29, 2025 · 20 min
Medicine to Masterpieces with Dr Vasu Tolia
Discovering and sharing the healing power of art. What happens when a distinguished physician with over 150 published papers walks away from a 40-year medical career? For Dr Vasu Tolia, an unexpected artistic awakening filled the void. Dr Tolia's story begins in Calcutta, where she grew up in an academically-driven household with little exposure to the arts. Her path to medicine was serendipitous, influenced by a friend who convinced her to take biology despite her inclination toward humanities. This "accidental doctor" went on to build an impressive career as a paediatric gastroenterologist in the United States, mentoring over 20 fellows and serving as principal investigator in more than 50 clinical trials. When a toxic work environment forced her to leave medicine, Dr Tolia faced a profound identity crisis: "I had been a doctor for more than 40 years and then suddenly I was no one." Her journey into art began tentatively, with early frustrations as she compared her beginner efforts to accomplished artists. Everything changed during the pandemic when she found her voice through abstract and semi-abstract painting. Recognition followed swiftly, with her work being selected by the Washington Post among the nation's top 20, and solicited by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) for journal covers. The connection between her two careers runs deeper than coincidence. Dr Tolia's medical training taught her to observe "the body's incredible capacity for renewal," an energy she now captures in flowing forms and organic shapes that echo natural healing processes. She explains how art triggers the release of dopamine and reduces stress hormones, providing neurological evidence for creativity's healing power. Today, Dr Tolia creates "visual sanctuaries" that promote wellness in hospitals, corporate spaces and homes while supporting causes like women's empowerment and autism advocacy. Her message is clear: don't wait for burnout to engage in creative practices that can heal your mind and spirit. Explore Dr. Tolia's artwork and download a free creativity resource for Creativity Found listeners at https://www.vasutolia.art/mindfulartforrenewal and discover how your own creative awakening might be waiting just around the corner. creativityfound.co.uk Researched, edited and produced by Claire Waite Brown Music: Day Trips by Ketsa Undercover / Ketsa Creative Commons License Free Music Archive - Ketsa - Day Trips I would love some financial support to help me to keep making this podcast. Visit buymeacoffee.com/creativityfound Affordably advertise on this podcast by emailing claire@creativityfound.co.uk, or book a call here. Support the show Follow @CreativityFoundPodcast on Instagram Want to be a guest on Creativity Found? Send me a message on PodMatch, here Podcast recorded with Riverside and hosted by Buzzsprout
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