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Creativity as a Lifeline: A Conversation with Jaime Townzen What happens when grief, loss, and uncertainty open a doorway back to creativity? In this soulful episode of The Creative Genius Podcast, host Kate Shepherd speaks with artist and author Jaime Townzen about how watercolour became her lifeline during a dark time, and how following her spark led her to write and publish her debut novel Absorbed. Together they explore creativity as healing, intuition as guidance, the courage to embrace being an artist, and how art helps us through times of crisis. Listeners will hear about Jaime’s journey from stay-at-home mom to professional artist and novelist, the power of daily creative rituals, the role of curiosity as an antidote to anxiety, and how to trust your own calling. This conversation is a balm for anyone longing to reconnect with their creative spark and live more fully as themselves. This week on the Creative Genius Podcast, I sat down with artist and author Jaime Townzen. Her story is one of grief, healing, and rediscovering herself through creativity — a path that eventually led her to publish her first novel Absorbed. We talked about why art matters in times of crisis, how daily creative rituals can reorient your whole life, and what it means to follow your calling even when it doesn’t make sense on paper. Jaime’s journey is a beautiful reminder that creativity isn’t indulgent — it’s essential.

What if your nervous system—the very force that protects you—was also the key to unlocking your creativity, joy, and deeper self-connection? In this profound and heartfelt conversation, Kate sits down with emotional healing specialist and nervous system guide Natalie (NatNat) Bédard of LiftOneSelf. Together, they explore how our nervous systems shape our experiences, how integrating soul and humanity allows us to embrace the full spectrum of being alive, and why vulnerability is at the heart of creative expression. Natalie (NatNat) Bédard is the founder of LiftOneSelf and a devoted emotional healing specialist and nervous system guide. After surviving a life-threatening health crisis that left her in the hospital for 40 days, Natalie embarked on a profound journey of somatic healing, meditation, and self-discovery. She now teaches others how to navigate the “force field” of the nervous system, turning survival instincts into pathways for creativity, resilience, and joy. Her upcoming book, The Gift Wrapped in Sandpaper: Untamed Power, blends science, story, and practice to help readers integrate both soul and humanity. Through one-on-one sessions, group programs, and her own podcast, Natalie creates safe spaces where people can process trauma, embrace vulnerability, and access the deep creative intelligence within. Based in Ottawa, Canada, she is also a solo parent and brings lived experience, wisdom, and compassion to her work. Learn more at LiftOneSelf.com Key Takeaways Why Natalie calls nervous system healing “warrior work” and how it transforms our relationship with emotions. How to move beyond fear vs. love into true integration of the human and the soul. The nervous system as a wild stallion: learning to ride with it instead of fighting against it. Parenting, trauma, and authenticity: how to navigate messy real life with compassion. Playful, simple ways to reconnect with intuition, creativity, and joy. Resources Mentioned Natalie Bédard’s website: LiftOneSelf.com Natalie’s upcoming book The Gift Wrapped in Sandpaper Kate’s jewelry & podcast community: KateShepherdCreative.com Call to Action If this conversation stirred something in you, subscribe to The Creative Genius Podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. For deeper practices, meditations, and community, join us on Patreon at patreon.com/creativegeniuspodcast.

In this episode of The Creative Genius Podcast (the finale for Season 4!) Kate sits down with Albert Bramante — talent agent, psychologist, and author — to explore why so many creatives hold themselves back, how to reframe rejection, why fear isn’t the enemy, and how to trust yourself enough to rewrite your own script. From Kate: Today I’m bringing you a conversation that feels especially alive and needed right now. I sat down with Albert Bramante — a rare soul who bridges the world of psychology and the performing arts. For over two decades he’s walked alongside actors, dancers, and other artists as both a talent agent and a guide through the invisible terrain of mindset, fear, self-doubt, and that sneaky self-sabotage we all bump up against when we dare to put our true selves out in the world. In this conversation, Albert opens up about how rejection isn’t really rejection, how fear can be a strange protector, and how staying open to the unknown — in our art, our work, our relationships — can free us to live bigger, truer lives. I hope as you listen you feel a soft invitation to loosen your own grip a little, to see where you might be clinging too tightly to other people’s scripts for you — and maybe, just maybe, to let yourself play again. Highlights: Why rejection is rarely personal How our childhood shapes creative courage What fear of success really means The power of playing instead of performing Real stories about people pleasing, burnout, and letting go

About This Episode What if the collapse of old systems — the patriarchy, relentless productivity, and hollow doing — is really the birth pangs of something necessary and beautiful? In this conversation, I sit down with Leo Marrs, a writer, creative strategist, experience designer, and the author of the upcoming The New Creator: Rise of the Mindful Artist in the New Meaning Economy. Leo’s story begins in the wilds of Alaska and weaves through entrepreneurship, breathwork, altered states of consciousness, and a deep remembering that we are it — the universe expressing itself creatively through us. In this episode, we explore: How the collapse of old systems can feel like existential fight-or-flight — and yet a creative rebirth. Leo’s spontaneous awakening that revealed the creative intelligence suffusing everything. The essential role of art, vision, and imagination in shaping futures worth living. How to engage with technology — including AI — without losing our humanity. Why presence might be our greatest creative “technology” yet. How to drop the striving and become the mindful artist you already are. If you feel called to make things that truly matter, this conversation is for you. Listen Now Apple Podcasts: [listen here] Spotify: [Lissten here]   Links & Resources Connect with Leo Marrs: https://www.leomarrs.com Leo’s upcoming book: The New Creator: Rise of the Mindful Artist in the New Meaning Economy (sign up on Leo’s site for updates) Referenced in this episode: Integral Theory by Ken Wilber — https://integrallife.com/ The Image of the Future by Fred Polak — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Polak Moga Dot (AI & ethics)  The Telepathy Tapes podcast — https://thetelepathytapes.com/  Aphantasia resources — https://aphantasia.com Timestamps 00:00 — Welcoming Leo and the collective moment we’re in 04:00 — Leo’s spontaneous awakening in the shower 12:00 — The power of image, vision, and art to shape the future 20:00 — Engaging with AI and collective intelligence mindfully 30:00 — Aphantasia, inner knowing, and hidden gifts of not seeing 42:00 — Why we must learn to trust uncertainty 50:00 — The billboard message: You’re it — becoming the mindful artist you already are Go Deeper Read my blog reflections on this episode inside Patreon Get bonus episodes, reflections, and community connection: [Patreon] Subscribe to the Creative Genius Newsletter here If You Loved This Episode Share it with a friend — it helps so much. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts — your words help Creative Genius reach more people who need it. Join our warm, growing community on Patreon for more bonus episodes, guided reflections, and ways to connect with others on this path. Stay Connected Follow me on Instagram: @kateshepherdcreative & @thecreativegeniuspodcast Follow Leo: @theleomarrs Reach out to me directly here Thank you for listening — keep making things that matter.

In this episode of The Creative Genius Podcast, I talk with designer, writer, and thinker Ben Rennie, author of a new book that explores the transformative power of curiosity and creativity. Together, we unpack the dynamic relationship between curiosity, creativity, and confidence, and how this path can guide us to overcome fear and step more fully into our potential. Ben shares his personal story—sparked by a promise to his late mother—that led him to examine how people find themselves in powerful, unexpected places. We explore the idea that creativity isn’t limited to the arts but is instead the ability to see things differently, solve problems, and bring ideas to life. Through vivid stories and practical wisdom, Ben and I explore how curiosity is the antidote to fear, how creativity naturally flows from curiosity, and how confidence is built by simply beginning—and continuing—to create. From imposter syndrome at a Dolce & Gabbana event to finding inspiration in nature, this conversation is a powerful invitation to get curious, stay creative, and be kind to yourself in the process. Topics Covered: How curiosity dissolves fear Why creativity is about seeing possibilities, not just making art Reframing repetition: why doing what’s been done before is still meaningful How creative confidence is earned through action The role of environment and nature in creative flow Navigating imposter syndrome and Honouring your path Resources & Mentions: Ben Rennie's new book Ben’s “Wednesdays” blog on Medium Brene Brown Steve Jobs: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward…” Meredith Hite-Estevez: “Join a song already singing” Rick Rubin: on creativity and remixing existing ideas Takeaways / Call to Action: Follow your curiosity—it’s the best antidote to fear Just start, even if it’s been done before—your voice matters Practice regularly and create space for your creativity Capture your ideas on the go Be gentle with yourself Spend time in nature to reset and reconnect

A FEW THINGS WE TALKED ABOUT Why joy is not frivolous—it’s essential. How to observe chaos without absorbing it Alchemizing anger into action Grounding techniques to pull you back to yourself (barefoot walks, simple rituals) Why online friendships and community can be just as real—and healing—as in-person ones How feminine energy can help rebalance a world spinning off its axis What it actually looks like to embrace your authentic self in a world that often shames it Why creativity is your most reliable compass during uncertain times Letting go of the pressure to save the world while still lending a hand The truth about money and how it amplifies who you already are SOUND BITES "The matriarchy is the highest good for all." "We have to focus on joy every day." "Community is not a one-way street." "Walking outside barefoot is grounding." "Ten minutes a day is all it takes." "Life is to savour it and enjoy it." "Your soul will never lead you astray." "That was medicine for my soul." CALLS TO ACTION If this episode stirred something in you, I’d love for you to support this work. Join my Patreon to help keep these conversations going and get access to bonus content, meditations, and other goodies I create just for our community. And if you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with a friend. That’s how we grow this beautiful circle—and how we get these conversations into the hearts of those who need them most. RESOURCES + LINKS The Shabby Creek Cottage The Soft Life Society Join Kate's Patreon MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Patriarchy and the extinction burst The importance of grounding practices Creativity as guidance and resilience Building and rebuilding community with intention This one’s tender, fierce, and exactly what we need right now. I hope it lands in your heart the way it did in mine.  

In the ever-evolving landscape of art and technology, the fusion of creativity and artificial intelligence is opening new horizons for artists worldwide. In a recent episode of Creative Genius, host Kate Shepherd engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Troy Plota, the visionary behind Plotaverse, exploring how AI can serve as a powerful ally in the creative process. The Intersection of Art and Technology: Troy Plota's journey from a seasoned photographer to the founder of a groundbreaking digital platform exemplifies the transformative potential of embracing technological advancements. Plotaverse, his innovative app, brought motion to still images, captivating audiences and achieving remarkable success with over 10 million downloads.  Democratizing Creativity: A central theme in the discussion is the democratization of art through AI. Troy emphasizes that AI tools can empower individuals with creative visions but limited resources, enabling them to bring their ideas to life without the need for substantial budgets or technical expertise. Spiritual Insights and Creative Inspiration: Beyond technology, the conversation delves into the spiritual dimensions of creativity. Troy shares a profound personal experience where he was inspired by a dream, awakening with a complete screenplay in mind. This narrative underscores the mysterious and often transcendent nature of artistic inspiration. Building Creative Communities: The episode also highlights the importance of community and service in the artistic journey. Troy discusses how platforms like Plotaverse can foster connections among artists, creating supportive environments that nurture creativity and innovation. The dialogue between Kate Shepherd and Troy Plota offers valuable insights into how embracing AI can enhance, rather than hinder, human creativity. By viewing technology as a collaborative partner, artists can unlock new realms of expression and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive creative landscape. To explore more about Troy Plota's work, visit Plotaverse Key Topics: The inception and impact of Plotaverse AI as a tool for creative empowerment Balancing technology with human artistry Spiritual insights and their influence on creativity Building communities through shared artistic endeavors Notable Quotes: "Creativity is a universal calling." "AI can enhance creativity rather than replace it." "Community and service to others can help combat fear and anxiety." Resources: Plotaverse Official Website Troy Plota's Personal Site Dor Brothers Video Mentioned Guest Bio: Troy Plota is a seasoned photographer and digital artist with over 30 years of experience. He is the founder of Plotaverse, a platform that revolutionized digital art by animating still images, garnering over 10 million downloads and reaching #1 in the App Store. Troy's work has been featured in prominent publications like Vanity Fair, GQ, and Rolling Stone.  Episode Highlights: Discussion on the role of AI in democratizing creativity Insights into the development and success of Plotaverse Exploration of spiritual experiences influencing artistic endeavors Emphasis on building supportive creative communities Subscribe to Creative Genius, leave a review, and support us on Patreon at patreon.com/creativegeniuspodcast.

What do we do when we feel frozen in the face of manufactured crisis and overwhelm? I sit down with wise and wonderful Sharazad Jamal to talk about finding your way back to your inner truth, using creativity, intuition, and ancient wisdom tools to navigate fear and chaos. In this deeply resonant conversation, artist and soul-guide Sharazad Jamal joins me to explore how we navigate ongoing chaos, collective trauma, and personal overwhelm. We dive into tools and practices that help move through fear, reconnect to intuition, and activate creativity during crisis. With wisdom rooted in somatic therapy, spiritual insight, and creative resilience, this episode is a balm for anyone feeling frozen, scattered, or exhausted. Sharazad shares frameworks for understanding our different bodies (mental, physical, emotional, and soul) and how to support each when fear takes over. If you’ve been struggling to stay grounded in the noise, this episode is a must-listen. Topics We Cover Why artists are uniquely prepared for uncertainty and change Irene Lyon’s somatic trauma work and the freeze response Understanding the four "bodies": mental, physical, emotional, soul How to get unstuck when you feel frozen or overwhelmed The power of imagination and emotion in shaping our future Why beauty and creativity are revolutionary, not indulgent Using Byron Katie’s "The Work" to unhook from unhelpful beliefs Building journaling and creative rituals as grounding practices Trusting intuition even when it feels disorienting Discerning your feelings from the collective or others’ energy Resources & Mentions Irene Lyon (Somatic Therapist, Vancouver) Byron Katie’s "The Work" Morning Moon Jewelry (lovemorningmoon.com)

As the world feels increasingly unstable, many of us are seeking ways to stay grounded, to keep our hearts open, and to resist despair. In this timely encore episode, Buddhist teacher and author Lama Rod Owens reminds us that joy is not only possible in times of crisis—it is essential. Lama Rod shares deeply from his lived experience as a Black, queer spiritual teacher in America. We talk about how rage can be holy, how rest is sacred, and how joy can serve as a radical, defiant act in the face of oppression. This conversation is an anchor for anyone navigating stress, overwhelm, or heartbreak right now. May it nourish you deeply. In this episode: How joy functions as a tool for resistance What it means to stay emotionally present without being consumed Why creative expression is essential for survival How to begin cultivating inner spaciousness, even in chaos Practices to help you return to your centre 💡 BONUS RESOURCES Join my Patreon for additional tools to support your creative and spiritual journey. Get access to exclusive guided meditations, creativity worksheets, and more. Sign up for the newsletter to receive weekly inspiration, behind-the-scenes podcast updates, and timely tools to help you stay connected to your inner wisdom. Resources Mentioned: Lama Rod Owens' book: The New Saints: From Broken Hearts to Spiritual Warriors lamarod.com

In this episode of the Creative Genius podcast, I interview Rebe Huntman about her debut memoir, "My Mother in Havana, a memoir of magic and miracle." Rebe shares her personal story of losing her mother at a young age and the subsequent decades of feeling disconnected from her memory. Driven by a deep longing and intuition, Rebe embarked on a 30-day DIY pilgrimage to Cuba to seek a different perspective on grief and connection.  The conversation delves into how Rebe's background as a Latin dancer led her to discover the spiritual roots of Cuban dances and the traditions of honoring the deceased.  Rebe recounts her experiences immersing herself in rituals dedicated to the goddess Oshun, visiting the sanctuary of Cuba's patron saint, and meeting with a spiritist who she hoped would connect her with her mother. Rebe and I discuss the importance of intuition and following one's unique path, even when it doesn't seem logical. We also explore the disconnect in Western culture from ancestral connections, magic, and meaningful rituals, contrasting it with the Cuban traditions of keeping the dead close. The conversation touches on the challenges of staying creative and connected to one's inner voice in the face of overwhelming global issues and personal fears. Rebe shares her belief in creativity as a portal and emphasizes the importance of honouring inner longings and choosing to champion humanity. She also shares her personal rituals for grounding and connecting with her intuition and ancestors, offering practical advice for listeners seeking to do the same. Ultimately, Rebe's story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, the wisdom of intuition, and the potential for magic and miracle in our lives, even in the darkest of times.   

In this deeply moving episode, Kate Shepherd sits down with Gabrielle Savory Bailey for a Listener Lab conversation that explores creativity as a force for connection, healing, and resistance in difficult times. Gabrielle shares her experiences as a Quaker, an artist, and a facilitator of creative communities, weaving together insights on spirituality, vulnerability, and the power of shared creative expression. Together, they discuss: ✨ How creativity helps combat loneliness and fosters belonging ✨ The role of spirituality in creative practices ✨ The power of creativity as resistance in a divided world ✨ How difficult conversations can lead to deeper understanding ✨ Why creativity is not frivolous—it is necessary Through stories, laughter, and moments of deep reflection, this conversation highlights the essential role creativity plays in restoring balance and helping us navigate life’s challenges. Takeaways: 🎨 Creativity is a form of prayer and meditation. 🌿 When we create together, we build bridges instead of walls. 🤝 Loneliness is an epidemic, and creativity can help combat it. 💬 Difficult conversations, grounded in love, can bring people together. 🌀 Surrender is not giving up—it’s joining with something greater. 💖 Beauty is everywhere, and noticing it is an act of resistance. Memorable Quotes: 🖌 "Creativity is a form of prayer." 💬 "Your existence is the resistance." 🌎 "Finding beauty is not to be ignored." 🎨 "Creating is the point, not the thing." ❤️ "We are relational beings—we need each other." Takeaways: Creativity is a vital form of expression and connection.Community and creativity can help combat loneliness.Listening to our inner voice is essential for personal growth.Creative practices can serve as a form of prayer and meditation.Engaging in hands-on activities fosters deeper connections.The act of creating together can bridge divides.Creativity is not frivolous; it is a necessary response to challenges.Finding common ground through shared experiences is crucial.The importance of nurturing relationships in our communities.Creativity can be a powerful tool for resistance and healing.Memorable Quotes: "Creativity is a form of prayer." 💬"We are relational beings." "Your existence is the resistance." "Creating is the point, not the thing." "Finding beauty is not to be ignored."

In this episode The connection between the oppressive forces we see in the world and the inner critic we battle withinHow to recognize and stop the trance of negative thoughtsWhy rebuilding the world starts with inner transformationThe importance of community and leaning into support systemsIf you’re craving connection, join us for Pod Club—our live community gathering for Creative Genius listeners—on Monday, March 10th, at 7 PM Pacific. This is a space to share, reflect, and support one another. Learn more at The Creative Genius Patreon.

In this encore episode of The Creative Genius Podcast, with a brand new intro - I revisit a powerful conversation with the wise and insightful Jane Dunnewold. In a time of uncertainty and upheaval, I'm reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster so many of us are experiencing—fear, despair, hope, and the flickering light of creativity. I am candidly shares my own struggle with doom scrolling, the paralysis it caused, and the steps I am taking to reclaim my inner peace. Jane’s wisdom offers a timely and profound exploration of the inner bullies that live within us—those relentless voices of self-doubt, fear, and unworthiness that hold us back. I connect this concept to the larger external forces at play in the world today, recognizing that until we learn to defeat the bullies in our own minds, we will struggle to stand up to the ones outside of us. This episode is an invitation to step into deeper self-awareness, to recognize the power of creativity as a means of resistance, and to become part of the essential ‘islands of sanity’ in a chaotic world. Join me as I share my thoughts, vulnerabilities and inspiration along with, Jane’s transformative insights, and a heartfelt call to reconnect with creativity as an act of personal and collective resilience. Join an island of sanity inside the Creative Genius Patreon

In this episode, I explore how the world we’ve known is broken—and how we are the ones being called to rebuild it. But before we can take on the external challenges, we have to confront our own inner bullies—the self-doubt, fear, and conditioning that keep us small. This episode is a call to arms for creatives, visionaries, and healers. The world needs you, but first, you must reclaim your power from within. Resources & Links: Morning Moon Nature Jewelry Access a Library of resources and community support Patreon Follow me on Instagram: @kateshepherdcreative

In this week’s episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Cami Smith, an incredible artist and community builder who shared her inspiring creative journey. We explored the importance of connecting with our creative selves and overcoming the limiting beliefs that hold us back. Cami spoke of her passion for building community, how her mother influenced her art, her creative evolution from fiber arts to painting, and we discussed how creativity gives us a sense of control, and acts like a rudder for our lives. We also reflected on the wisdom of Jane Dunnewald, and how her message of self-love and acceptance is the foundation for a good life. We talked about the importance of being curious and that the universe does not take away gifts but uses them to propel us forward. How does your creativity make you feel more in control? Listen to the full episode for insights and ideas on how to trust your creative intuition. In our latest episode, we had the privilege of diving deep into a conversation with Cami Smith, a truly inspiring artist, community builder, and all-around creative force. Cami’s journey, from fiber art and quilting to her current passion for painting, is a testament to the power of embracing change and trusting your own unique path. We discussed how our creativity helps us to feel in control of our lives, and how those feelings can guide us through difficult moments. One of the most compelling themes of our conversation was the importance of community. Cami, who says that “community is my middle name,” has spent years actively building connections within the fiber art world, and now as a painter. For Cami community provides a way for artists from around the world to connect. She is also very active in the digital gaming community, supporting programmers and other introverted creatives through community events. As Kate pointed out, the importance of community is vital, even though she herself is an introvert. We also delved into the challenge of overcoming our inner critics. Those nagging voices that tell us we’re not good enough or that we’re not doing things right. Cami shared how her own evolution as an artist has helped her silence that voice, as has her work in the game industry, where she encourages others to find their space. She has learned how to identify and reframe her negative thoughts, a practice that has been transformative for her, and Kate shared her process of journaling and reframing her thoughts by understanding the feelings and actions they provoke. Cami’s personal journey is also deeply rooted in the influence of her artist mother. Cami shared stories about her mother's artistic practice, her unique way of seeing the world and the challenges she faced as a female artist in her time. Cami’s mother inspired her to be independent and this value became an important part of Cami's life as well. We explored the idea that sometimes our life’s experiences, including loss and change, can be seen like peeling an onion. Each layer that comes off reveals more of who we are and the potential for growth, and every loss is another opportunity. Drawing on the wisdom of Jane Dunnewald, we discussed the notion that creativity makes us feel more in control. Jane’s powerful message of self-acceptance and self-love resonated deeply, as it is the starting point for a fulfilling and authentic life. Jane’s work emphasizes curiosity, clarity, confidence and community, and these pillars act as guideposts for us as we navigate our way. Cami and Kate also explored the idea of bridging the gap between the art world and large corporations. This led to a discussion about the ways that larger institutions can incorporate human touches into their practices, and how the art community can build relationships that support these changes. Cami noted that Amazon has supported some of her community events for people in the digital games industry. Cami shared a bit about her sketchbook practices, and how she uses them to record her ideas, her random thoughts and her colours. During the pandemic she led an online course based on maps, and she is currently creating a piece that weaves memories into her art. Finally, we closed out our discussion with a reflection on one of Jane's most important messages: that the universe doesn't just give you something only to take it away. We acknowledged the truth in that, that sometimes things may feel like they are being taken away, however, in hindsight, we can see that those “losses” are really just catalysts for something new. This conversation left us feeling empowered and inspired. We hope that you will take a moment to listen, embrace your creativity and connect with your community.  The universe is always giving, even when it seems like it is taking away.