Shows
Mending CreativelyEpisode 46 - Inspired by Special Interests – Turning Passion Into Creative PowerIn this heartfelt episode of Mending Creatively, Jen opens up about the intense, beautiful, and sometimes isolating world of special interests—especially through a neurodivergent lens. If you've ever fallen deeply in love with a topic, a person, a band, or a fictional universe, and felt both joy and shame about how much it meant to you—this one's for you.Jen explores how special interests can be both a refuge and a launching pad. She offers gentle, practical ways to transform that all-consuming love into creative expression and connection—without guilt or pressure to be anything but yo...2025-04-1407 minMending CreativelyEpisode 45 - The Creative Seasons: Honoring Growth, Rest, and RenewalCreativity isn’t a constant—it moves in seasons. In this episode of Mending Creatively, we’re exploring the natural cycles of creative energy and how to embrace them instead of resisting them. From the vibrant inspiration of spring and summer to the reflective stillness of autumn and winter, each phase plays a role in our creative process.If you've ever felt guilty for not being "productive enough" or struggled through a creative lull, this episode is for you. We’ll talk about:Recognizing and working with your creative seasons instead of against them.2025-03-1705 minMending CreativelyEpisode 44 - What Is Creativity Anyway?What does it really mean to be creative? Is creativity just about making art, or is it something bigger—something we all have, even if we don’t call ourselves artists? In this episode of Mending Creatively, we’re breaking down the myths around creativity, exploring why it’s more than just talent, and redefining it as a way of thinking, problem-solving, and seeing the world.If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re “creative enough” or felt stuck in your creative journey, this episode is for you. We’ll talk about why creativity isn’t a switch you turn...2025-03-1207 minMending CreativelyEpisode 43 - The Intersection of Art and IdentityHow does creativity shape who we are? And how do we stay true to our artistic voice when everything around us is constantly shifting? In this episode of Mending Creatively, I explore the deep connection between art and identity—how our creative work reflects who we are, how it helps us grow, and how we can navigate the push and pull of authenticity in a world full of outside influences.If you’ve ever felt like your creative work is evolving faster than you can keep up with—or if you’ve struggled with balancing personal...2025-03-1009 minMending CreativelyEpisode 42 - Mental Health, Comparison, and Creativity W/ Guest Co-Host Courtney Proctor
Welcome to Mending Creatively! In this heartfelt episode, we're diving into the complexities of mental health, the weight of comparison, and how these factors impact creativity. Joining me is the incredible Courtney Proctor, who brings thoughtful insights and valuable perspectives to the conversation.
Together, we unpack:
The Connection Between Mental Health and Creativity: How your mental well-being shapes your creative flow, and vice versa.
The Comparison Trap: The pitfalls of comparing yourself to others and how to break free from its grip.
Practical Tips for Creative Self-Care: Simple, actionable steps to nurture both...2025-01-2229 minMending CreativelyEpisode 41 - When Creativity Feels Like Work: Rekindling Joy in Your Projects
Are you feeling uninspired, burned out, or like your creative projects have become just another task on your to-do list? You’re not alone. In this episode of Mending Creatively, we’re diving into why creativity can sometimes feel like work, how burnout impacts our artistic flow, and practical strategies to rekindle the joy that brought you to your craft in the first place.
We’ll explore:✨ The subtle signs of creative burnout and why it happens.✨ How external pressures, perfectionism, and neglecting rest can steal your creative spark.✨ Practical tips for navigating b...2025-01-2009 minMending CreativelyEpisode 40 - The ADHD Creative
In this episode of Mending Creatively, we explore the unique relationship between ADHD and creativity. From the endless stream of ideas to the moments of hyperfocus, ADHD brains are wired for innovation and artistry. But with that creative spark also come challenges like overwhelm and difficulty finishing projects. Together, we’ll unpack why ADHD brains are naturally creative, how to embrace the chaos, and strategies for harnessing your creative potential.
Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or someone looking to tap into your creative side, this episode is packed with insights, encouragement, and practical tips to h...2025-01-1515 minMending CreativelyEpisode 39 - Mindfulness and Making
Mending Creatively is for educational and inspirational purposes only. The content shared in this podcast reflects personal experiences and cited research but does not constitute professional mental health or medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance
In this episode of Mending Creatively, we explore the powerful connection between mindfulness and creative expression. How can practicing mindfulness enhance your ability to create? Jen dives into the science, shares personal insights, and offers actionable mindfulness techniques tailored for busy creatives. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just starting your creative journey, this episode wi...2025-01-0809 minMending CreativelyEpisode 38 - 5 Top Ways to Make 2025 Your Most Creative Year Yet
As we close out 2024, this episode of Mending Creatively is all about helping you prepare for an incredible, creativity-filled 2025. I’m sharing the top five ways to make next year your most creative yet. Whether you’re looking to spark new ideas, overcome creative blocks, or simply enjoy the process of creating, this episode is packed with actionable tips, personal insights, and encouragement to get you started.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Reframe Creativity as a Daily Practice
How small, consistent actions can lead to big creative breakthroughs.
Build a Crea...2024-12-3008 minMending CreativelyHappy Holidays!A quick Merry Christmas from your favorite pod 2024-12-2501 minMending CreativelyEpisode 37 - The Science of Creative Flow
In this episode of Mending Creatively, we explore the fascinating world of flow—that magical state where creativity and focus collide. Learn what flow is, why it matters for your creative work, and how to set yourself up to enter this zone of peak performance. Backed by psychology and packed with practical tips, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and ready to tackle your next creative project with confidence.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The psychological science behind flow and its benefits.
How to match challenges to your skil...2024-12-2313 minMending CreativelyEpisode 36 - [Interview] Evicting Your Inner Mean Girl with Melissa Janson
In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Janson, a coach who specializes in helping people tackle that inner critic head-on. Together, we explore how this voice affects creativity, the sneaky ways perfectionism creeps into our work, and why self-compassion is one of the most powerful tools we have. Melissa shares practical, actionable strategies to help you recognize that critical voice, turn down its volume, and reclaim your creative confidence.
Whether you’re a professional creative, an aspiring artist, or someone who just wants to feel more confident in their everyday life, this episode is pa...2024-12-1834 minMending CreativelyEpisode 35 - Are You There, Dan? It's Us, Ciaccio and Cortez
In this episode of Mending Creatively, we set out to explore the creativity of horror—the storytelling, atmosphere, and artistry that make the genre so compelling. But as often happens, the conversation took on a life of its own. With special guest Co-Host Michael Cortez, we ended up chatting about our favorite horror movies, the ones that left us scarred (in the best way), and why we think horror continues to resonate with audiences.
From classics to cult favorites, we dissect what makes certain films stick with us and how they inspire creativity in unexpected wa...2024-12-1633 minMending CreativelyEpisode 34 - Creating Without Comparison
In this episode of Mending Creatively, we dive into the challenge many creators face: the pressure to follow up. Whether it’s a sequel to a successful project, a second attempt at something new, or building on your past work, the weight of expectations can feel overwhelming. I share personal stories, practical tips, and a gentle reminder that every creative step—big or small—matters.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Why sequel pressure feels so daunting
How to separate the creative process from the outc...2024-12-1109 minMending CreativelyEpisode 33 - Why Can't We Just be Bears? Creating Through the Holiday's with Guest Co-Host Courtney ProctorIn our very first video episode, I’m joined by guest co-host Courtney Proctor for a playful, honest chat about what it means to create during the holiday season—especially when all we really want to do is curl up like hibernating bears. We share personal stories, poke fun at holiday expectations, and try to figure out why we can’t just take a long winter’s nap. Expect plenty of laughter, a relaxed vibe, and gentle reminders that it’s okay to do less when life feels like a snow globe someone’s been shaking a bit too vigorously.
What You’ll...2024-12-0926 minMending CreativelyEpisode 32 - Messy Art and Healing HeartsIn this episode of Mending Creatively, I’m diving into the realities of creating during tough moments—those times when the world feels heavy, chaotic, and just plain overwhelming. Whether it’s navigating the aftermath of major events like elections, personal challenges, or everyday struggles, finding the energy to make art can feel impossible. But it’s in these moments that creativity can become our greatest tool for healing, self-expression, and connection.
Here’s what I cover in this episode:
Why creating for yourself (and no one else) can be a game-cha...2024-12-0409 minMending CreativelyEpisode 31 - Creating Through Tough Times with Guest Co-Host Nadine Gibbs
In this heartfelt episode of Mending Creatively, I sit down with my dear friend Nadine Gibbs for an honest and inspiring conversation about the role of creativity in navigating life’s toughest moments. Together, we explore how our creative practices have helped us process challenges, uncover resilience, and recognize growth in ourselves and each other.
Nadine shares her personal journey of using art as a therapeutic outlet, while I reflect on the lessons learned through my own creative endeavors. We discuss the importance of giving ourselves permission to create freely, even wh...2024-12-0230 minMending CreativelyEpisode 30 - Quieting the Inner Critic and Finding Joy in Creating AgainIs your inner critic getting in the way of your creativity? In this episode of Mending Creatively, we’re diving into that little voice in your head that says, “This isn’t good enough” or “Why even bother?” Whether you’re just starting to create again after a break or dealing with perfectionism, this episode offers practical tips and encouragement to quiet the critic and find joy in the creative process.
I share my personal experiences with the inner critic—hello, “Perfectionist Patty”—and explore ways to reframe fear, set boundaries, and celebrate small wins. Remember, creativity isn’t about being perf...2024-11-2008 minMending CreativelyEpisode 29 - Rediscovering your creative flow after a break
In this solo episode of Mending Creatively, we explore what it means to reconnect with your creative flow after a period away. Whether life has pulled you in different directions, or you've simply felt a lack of inspiration, taking a break is a natural part of any creative journey. Drawing from my personal experiences with Mending Creatively, I dive into why it can be challenging to return to creativity, especially without instant feedback, and share tips to help you overcome these blocks.
If you're feeling stuck or struggling with guilt over a creative break, this...2024-11-1822 minMending CreativelyEpisode 28 - Healing through Art with Wendie Appel
In this episode of Mending Creatively, we explore the transformative power of art with Wendie Appel, an experienced art as therapy facilitator passionate about using creativity for healing and personal growth. Together, we dive into how art therapy goes beyond being just a hobby, helping people navigate life transitions, reduce anxiety, recover from trauma, and build self-awareness. Wendie shares personal stories of how art has impacted those who have attended her workshops, explains the benefits for those who feel "not creative," and offers tips on how to incorporate art into daily self-care routines. Whether you’re curious ab...2024-10-3031 minMending CreativelyEpisode 27 - Creative RitualsWhat are creative rituals and why are they important? In this episode we discus why having a simple ritual can be essential to your creativity. We'll go step by step to help create your own ritual and guide your success. ****OUR WEBSITE IS LIVE! Pardon the dust while it's still being set up, but you can now visit mendingcreatively.com to schedule a coaching call, buy official MC merch, join our email list, and more!We'd love to hear about what sets your creative wheels in motion. Tag us on instagram @mendingcreatively...2024-10-0921 minMending CreativelyEpisode 26 - [Interview] Finding Your Light with Lia Valencia KeyLia Valencia Key is one of a kind. From poverty to a pure manifestation of light, Lia shares with us her inspiring story of perseverance, using her past to help others grow, and her love for designing beautiful jewelry to reflect your own light.
If you want to connect with Lia (trust us, you do) visit her website valenciakey.com and connect with her on instagram @liavalenciakey 2024-09-3053 minMending CreativelyEpisode 25 - [Busted Seam] Should You Still Show Up When You Don't Feel Like It?Welcome to episode 25 of Mending Creatively. In this episode Jen talks about the idea of "showing up when you don't feel like" and the pros and cons that come with it. If you have ever been in the wrong mindset to create, but felt that you still HAD to show because that's what's expected, then this episode is for you.
If you enjoy the show and want to support, please rate and share the episode. Or why not buy me a coffee? https://buymeacoffee.com/mendingcreatively2024-09-2509 minMending CreativelyEpisode 24 - [Interview] Finding Your Voice with Michael Cortez
In this episode of Mending Creatively, we sit down with an aspiring writer to explore the highs, lows, and everything in between on the path to becoming a storyteller. From finding inspiration in the everyday to battling self-doubt, we get real about what it means to turn your passion into words on a page. Join us as we peel back the layers of the writing journey and talk about the courage it takes to share your voice with the world.
Michael Cortez was born and raised in Southern California and is a graduate of UCR's...2024-09-2330 minMending CreativelyEpisode 23 - Creativity on a Time Budget
In today’s episode, we’re tackling a common challenge many creators face: how to keep your creative practice alive when you’re pressed for time. Whether you’re juggling a busy job, family life, or just a packed schedule, finding time to create can feel overwhelming. But fear not! We’ll share strategies and tips for fitting creativity into small pockets of time and explain how little bursts of inspiration can lead to big results.
Join the conversation in our Facebook group here https://www.facebook.com/groups/mendingcreatively
If you want to sh...2024-09-1818 minMending CreativelyEpisode 22 - Breaking Through Creative BlocksIn this inspiring episode, we tackle the universal challenge of creative blocks that artists, writers, entrepreneurs, and innovators face at some point in their journeys. Feeling stuck can be frustrating, but it's also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Join us as we explore the root causes of creative stagnation and share practical strategies to overcome it. We'll discuss techniques like mindfulness, altering routines, and seeking new experiences to reignite your creative spark. Tune in for insightful conversations, expert advice, and real-life stories that will empower you to break through barriers and unlock your full creative potential.
2024-09-1618 minMending CreativelyEpisode 21 - A New BeginingA very quick episode updating you all on where we have been and where we are going.2024-09-0903 minMending CreativelyEpisode 20 - Deleting the Word "Talent" From my Vocabulary2024-04-1011 minMending CreativelyEpisode 19 - [Interview]The Nurture of Creativity with Dana BellJen and Dana discuss the Idea of Natural Talent and the work that it actually takes.2024-04-0824 minMending CreativelyEpisode 18 - Bouncing Back From NoIn this episode we talk about putting a distance between ourselves and rejection, and doing what we want to anyway.2024-04-0113 minMending CreativelyEpisode 17 -Hello Executive Dysfunction, My Old FriendIn this episode Jen explains her long delay in recording and how mental health has impacted it. 2024-02-2811 minMending CreativelyEpisode 16 - Making It Count With Stephanie ErhardJen speaks with guest Stephanie Erhard about entrepreneurship, the importance of taking time to make little moments count, and how things happen when they are supposed to.
Stephanie Erhard is a former event planner turned candle maker, podcaster & entrepreneur. Her first ever business, Homemade NJ Candles, is a soy wax candle company that aims to create an animal cruelty free & natural product that allows people to feel inspired to burn their candle in their home for a cozy, comforting aesthetic, with a rustic feel! Homemade NJ Candles' values also involve collaborating with local small businesses to empower one another & bring...2023-12-1352 minMending CreativelyEpisode 15 - Staying Positive Through False StartsHow many times have you started something thinking "This is it! This is the thing!" Only to find out...it is not in fact... the thing. Jen talks about some of her previous career paths, finding what she thought was perfect over and over, until she finally found the one that is. 2023-12-1122 minMending CreativelyEpisode 14 - This is a Tribute to the Greatest Episode in the World with Courtney ProctorIn episode 14 of Mending Creatively Jen talks to Courtney Proctor about baking, getting in your own way....and bread.
Courtney is a pop-music-loving, sarcastic, overthinking millennial living in Los Angeles with her husband and menagerie of pets. She’s an amateur home-baker aspiring to receive a Paul Hollywood handshake (and scheming on how to become British to make that happen). Since she started baking in the mid 2000’s in a small college-apartment kitchenette, she’s dabbled in all sort of sweet and carby goodness – pies, breads, cookies, cupcakes and everything in-between. Whether baking for friends...2023-12-0639 minMending CreativelyEpisode 13 - Bringing This Mission to LifeToday Jen talks about her plans with bringing Mending Creatively into the real world and how you can help.2023-11-1310 minMending CreativelyEpisode 12 - Breaking Up With Playing It SafeJen talks about where playing it safe her whole life has gotten her. She's leaving that behind and wants you to come with her. If you didn't fear failure, can you imagine what you could create?2023-11-0815 minMending CreativelyEpisode 11 - [Interview] Creating Your Dream Life with Gemma LuzzToday we talk to mindset coach and entrepreneur Gemma Luzz. Gemma tells us her inspiring story of how she left her life of being on auto-piolet in the corporate world and spread her wings into a life that she loves. Gem is incredibly passionate about teaching other woman to do the same and help providing them with the tools that they need so that they can also create their dream life.
Gemma is multi-passionate, goofy, animal obsessed entrepreneur. Her journey started in January of 2021 when she made the commitment and decision that by the end of the...2023-11-0630 minMending CreativelyEpisode 10 - The Importance of Finding SupportIn this episode, Jen talks about how important it is to find people who support you.2023-11-0108 minMending CreativelyEpisode 9 - [Interview] Panic at the Dungeon! With Michael ChabollaIn episode 9 we have our first ever interview! Listen to our discussion with Michael Chabolla and his insight into world building, creativity, and story telling. The way Michael shares his story, even though it's mostly centered around D&D, can really be applied to any creative outlet.
Michael Chabolla is a house cat stuck in a 36 year-old man’s body. Once upon a time, he wanted to be an archaeologist, then a paleontologist, then a firefighter, and eventually a Pokemon trainer. Now he spends his days pretending he is a writer and his nights ye...2023-10-3059 minMending CreativelyEpisode 8 - [Busted Seam] An open and emotional talkThis episode was incredible difficult to record. We stray away from our regular talks about creativity and talk about real life struggles with mental health. As this was a difficult episode to record, it may also be a difficult to listen to. Please take care of yourselves.
If you or someone you know need to talk to someone dial 988 for the suicide prevention hotline. It's free and they are available 24/7 by phone call or text message.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 9112023-10-2313 minMending CreativelyEpisode 7 - [Busted Seam] An open talk about inspirationI had just felt *inspired* to record this episode on a whim one night while making some wax melts. Have a listen to what has inspired me through my life, and why music is such an important thing to me.2023-10-1612 minMending CreativelyEpisode 6 - The Perfectionist ProblemAn episode with terrible editing. By mistake. But it really drives the point home, you know?2023-10-1616 minMending CreativelyEpisode 5 - The D WordExploring depression and creativity.2023-10-1619 minMending CreativelyEpisode 4 -Those Other PeopleEpisode 4 -Those Other People2023-10-1611 minMending CreativelyEpisode 3 - Exploring Grief's Impact on CreativityEpisode 3 - Exploring Grief's Impact on Creativity2023-10-1614 minMending CreativelyEpisode 2 - Are You the Imposter?Episode 2 - Are You the Imposter?2023-10-1618 minMending CreativelyEpisode 1- An IntroductionEpisode 1 an introduction2023-10-1612 min
Besties & Business106. How SLOWING DOWN serves you, your business & your communityAt the end of 2022, we decided to take a 2 week break! We made this decision because we KNEW we were getting close to burn out and really needed some time to step away from our responsibilities & rebalance ourselves! During 2023, we plan to take that same 2 week break at the end of the year! However, we've also decided to add in a 1 week break from besties & business during July!Next week, our break begins! We will be coming out with 1 episode next week on Wednesday, July 5th, because it is our ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF LAUNCHING THE BESTIES...2023-06-2921 minBesties & Business69. [Interview] Finding STRENGTH in obstacles & creating a business you LOVE with Jennifer CiaccioWow, besties... this is a DEEP episode. Our bestie Jennifer was BEYOND vulnerable in the most beautiful way.We do want to give a quick trigger warning before you get into this episode incase you aren't in the mental headspace to listen to us talk about the following topics: suicide, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, bullying, & being neurodivergent.We are BEYOND proud of our girl, Jen. We met Jen early on in our Besties & Business journey, and we have had the privilege of seeing her GROW so freaking much. The vulnerability that she brought...2023-02-2853 min
UFO Buster RadioUFO Buster Radio News – 296: Space Sucks and Clouds Masquerade as UFOsCan SpaceX Reach Influence The Minds and Minds of The People Like The Shuttle?https://youtu.be/QQ74dGEXhYcStrange UFO-shaped hole appears in the clouds, but alien landing not likely in NCLink: https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/local/article237241784.htmlNot long after, photos from other people began to appear on Facebook, with some commenting — perhaps tongue-in-cheek — that the shape was not unlike the gap that might be left by a descending flying saucer ... or a cloaked USS Enterprise (a Star Trek reference.)“ALIENS!” wrote Dan Ciaccio on Facebook.“Wo...2019-11-1636 min