The Create! Podcast
The Create! Podcast (formerly Art & Cocktails) is your space for inspiration, encouragement, and practical insight at the intersection of contemporary art, creative business, and mindset. Hosted by artist, coach, and Create! Magazine founder Ekaterina Popova, the show is designed to help you grow your art career, expand your creative vision, and build a sustainable, joyful life. Through candid conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, writers, curators, and thought leaders—as well as empowering solo episodes—you’ll find tools, ideas, and stories that remind you that life itself is your canvas, and you have the power to create a career and future that truly supports you. Find us at www.createmagazine.co/podcast — where the conversation about art and business starts.
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Sober Magic, Art & The Year of the Magician: A Conversation with Sarah Potter
01/07/2026
Sober Magic, Art & The Year of the Magician: A Conversation with Sarah Potter
In this magical start to the new year, host Kat sits down with her dear friend—psychic medium, curator, and author Sarah Potter. As we step into 2026, Sarah shares wisdom from her life-changing new book, Sober Magic: Using the Tarot and Ritual in Your Journey Away from Drinking. Together, they explore the deep intersection of art and spirituality, discussing how to navigate the "party culture" of the art world while honoring your boundaries. Sarah opens up about her transition from full-time art curator to professional witch, the power of "Glamour Magic" to armor yourself for difficult social situations, and why asking for help is a brave creative act. Plus, we dive into a Tarot forecast for 2026! Sarah reveals why this is a "Magician Year," filled with manifestation power, and how you can harness this energy to create the life (and art) you desire. Whether you are sober, sober-curious, or simply seeking a spiritual reset, this episode is a nourishing guide for your soul. Key Takeaways: Sober Magic: How to replace the "ritual" of drinking with nourishing spiritual practices like Tarot and altar work. The Art World & Alcohol: Navigating gallery openings and networking events without the crutch of a drink. Glamour Magic: Using fashion and intentional adornment (like heirlooms or specific colors) as spiritual armor. The 2026 Forecast: Why 2026 is the "Year of the Magician" and what that means for your creative potential. Embracing Discomfort: Why sitting with uncomfortable feelings is actually a superpower for artists. About the Guest: Sarah Potter is a psychic medium, Tarot reader, and professional witch based in New York City. A former art curator, she now uses her intuitive gifts to help clients craft their dream lives through color magic, ritual, and Tarot. She is the author of Sober Magic and the creator of the Cosmo Tarot deck for Cosmopolitan. Her work has been featured in Refinery29, InStyle, and Teen Vogue. Connect with Sarah: Book: Instagram: Website: Substack: Mentioned in This Episode: The Witch Wave Podcast with Pam Grossman Create! Magazine’s Winter Solstice Issue (Curated by Sarah Potter) Supported by Create! Magazine: Join the Community: Submit Your Work (Women’s Issue): Subscribe to our Substack:
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Bonus Episode: Creating for Pleasure, Intuition, and Sustainable Practice with Victoria Fry, Founder of The New Visionary Art Collective
12/30/2025
Bonus Episode: Creating for Pleasure, Intuition, and Sustainable Practice with Victoria Fry, Founder of The New Visionary Art Collective
In this special bonus episode of the Create! Podcast, Kat (Ekaterina Popova) sits down with artist and curator Victoria Fry, founder of The New Visionary Art Collective, for a grounded and nourishing conversation about creativity, intuition, and building a sustainable creative practice and career. Together, they explore the importance of making art for pleasure separate from career expectations, balancing multiple creative roles, and staying connected to intuition and inner joy. Kat also shares insights from her 100-Day Painting Challenge and reflects on how daily practice can transform both studio work and mindset. This episode is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with why you make art, and create from a place of trust rather than pressure. Topics Covered: • Making art for pleasure, not performance • Balancing creative business with studio practice • Letting go of perfectionism and expectations • Daily practice as devotion and self-trust • The role of intuition and the inner child in artmaking • Creating sustainable momentum as an artist Links & Resources: Create! Magazine Paint With Kat 100-Day Painting Challenge Visionary Art Collective Connect with the Podcast: Subscribe to the Create! Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen. Leave a review to support the show and help more artists discover these conversations. About the Host: Ekaterina Popova is an artist, educator, and founder of Create! Magazine, an international platform supporting contemporary artists through publishing, education, and community.
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Coming Home to Your Art: The Science of Joyful Practice & Creative Flow
12/28/2025
Coming Home to Your Art: The Science of Joyful Practice & Creative Flow
In this solo episode of the Create! Podcast, host Ekaterina Popova explores why maintaining a personal art practice is essential not only for artistic growth, but for mental and nervous system regulation, resilience, and overall well-being. Whether you are a professional artist navigating deadlines or a creative seeking to reconnect with your practice, this episode breaks down the neuroscience behind why our brains need art. Kat shares research-backed insights, practical studio strategies, and mindset shifts to help you build a sustainable creative routine, even with a busy life. This episode is both grounding and actionable, offering permission to create imperfectly and consistently, without pressure or performance. Join the 100 Day Painting Challenge: In This Episode, You Will Learn: Why art-making is a powerful tool for nervous system regulation. How creative flow quiets the inner critic and reduces anxiety. Why habit and process matter more than finished results. Simple ways to lower friction in your studio and make starting easier. How to separate the creator from the editor to protect your daily practice. Key Takeaways: The Science of Art Research from Drexel University found that just 45 minutes of art-making led to a significant drop in cortisol levels for 75 percent of participants, regardless of skill or experience. Silencing the Inner Critic Entering a creative flow state—a concept popularized by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi—quiets the Default Mode Network (DMN), the part of the brain linked to rumination and self-judgment. The “Bad Art” Rule Strong bodies of work are built by allowing yourself to make "bad art" and prioritizing consistency over perfection. The focus should be on habit formation rather than a final product. Mise en Place for the Studio Borrowing from the culinary world, preparing your materials and workspace in advance (even if just a simple setup) reduces friction and makes it easier to begin your next session. Creator vs. Editor When you are in the studio, you are the creator; judgment and editing come later. Separating these roles prevents the pressure to produce "portfolio-ready" work from paralyzing your practice. Memorable Quotes: “When I say come home to your art, I mean physically altering your brain chemistry to reduce stress, silence your inner critic.” “The nervous system does not give a crap... it cares about the process, it cares about the meditative act of art making.” “The key isn't necessarily finding more time is protecting the time that you have and prioritizing your own work over everyone else's.” “At its core, [art] is a survival mechanism for sensitive people. It's the way we process life.” “Don't think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it's good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.” — Andy Warhol (referenced in episode) Mentioned in This Episode: Your Brain on Art (Book) Atomic Habits by James Clear Drexel University Cortisol Study Connect & Resources: Join the 100 Day Painting Challenge: Website: Substack:
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NeuroArts, Manifestation, and Healing: How to Rewire Your Brain with Creativity feat. Anna Denning
12/21/2025
NeuroArts, Manifestation, and Healing: How to Rewire Your Brain with Creativity feat. Anna Denning
In this episode of the Create! Podcast, Ekaterina Popova sits down with Anna Denning, a multimedia artist and the founder of the NeuroArts School, to decode the powerful science behind creativity and healing. Anna shares her fascinating background—growing up with a psychotherapist mother who used drawing to analyze and soothe emotions—and how that evolved into her expertise in "Neuroesthetics," the study of how aesthetic experiences influence the brain. Together, they discuss her collaboration with Colette Baron-Reid on the "Art of Manifesting" book and how "intentional synchronicity" can help you co-create with the universe. Whether you are an artist facing creative blocks or simply looking for a way to process the noise of the outside world, this episode offers accessible tools to regulate your nervous system and manifest your desires through art. IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER: • Defining NeuroArts: How art therapy and neuroscience combine to balance hormones and emotions. • The Science of Manifestation: Using "intentional synchronicity" to switch on your brain's reticular activating system and spot opportunities. • Practical Self-Care: Why you should "start small" with tiny paper to overcome overwhelm and perfectionism. • The Witch’s Wound: Anna’s research into healing deep, unconscious wounds through the NeuroArts membership. • Daily Rituals: How simple practices like doodling before bed or lighting a candle can shift your mindset. QUOTES FROM THE SHOW: "Art is not just create something beautiful, a beautiful picture. It's also a very powerful tool to work with your mind, to calm down, to balance your emotions." — Anna Denning "When you're concentrating on something and trying to bring something positive into your life, you're also switching on the reticular activating system in your brain that helps you to look for opportunities." — Anna Denning "I always advise my students or people who start drawing, start really small, just take a tiny little paper... and just start drawing." — Anna Denning CONNECT WITH ANNA DENNING: YouTube: Instagram: NeuroArts School and A.M. Method Teacher Training CONNECT WITH CREATE! MAGAZINE: Website: Substack: Instagram: @createmagazine Love the episode? If you enjoyed this conversation, please leave a review and share it with a friend! Don’t forget to subscribe to for more resources, interviews, and opportunities for artists.
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Finding Your Voice: Todd M. Casey on Art Education, Social Media Fatigue and Staying Curious
12/14/2025
Finding Your Voice: Todd M. Casey on Art Education, Social Media Fatigue and Staying Curious
In this insightful conversation, Kat sits down with celebrated realist painter, author and educator Todd M. Casey. Known for his bestselling books The Art of Still Life and The Oil Painters’ Color Handbook, Todd opens up about the winding road that shaped his artistic life, from studying at MassArt to discovering the atelier system and developing a deep appreciation for classical training. He shares refreshing honesty about navigating art school, finding mentors, resisting social media pressure, and staying connected to the curiosity that fuels meaningful work. Whether you’re a painter refining your technique, a creative searching for direction, or an artist feeling overwhelmed in a content-driven world, this episode offers clarity and grounded wisdom for your path ahead. What We Cover • Todd’s early years discovering art alongside his brother and studying at MassArt • How returning to foundational training transformed his approach to painting • What traditional art education gets wrong, and what artists actually need to grow • Why guidance and consistent mentorship are essential for developing strong technique • The double-edged sword of social media for artists: visibility, burnout, and boundaries • How curiosity, awareness and everyday life become the fuel for new ideas • Navigating commercial expectations, artistic identity and pivoting when your work evolves • The importance of resisting fear-driven creativity and choosing work that feels true • Todd’s upcoming books and teaching philosophy About Today’s Guest Todd M. Casey is an artist, author and teacher whose work blends classical realism with a contemporary, introspective approach. Born and raised in Lowell, Massachusetts, he studied at MassArt, the Academy of Art University, and eventually trained under Jacob Collins at the Water Street Atelier. His paintings and teachings emphasize discipline, observation and a deep respect for the craft of oil painting. He is the author of bestselling books The Art of Still Life and The Oil Painters’ Color Handbook, with two new books forthcoming in 2026 and 2027. Todd teaches at the Lyme Academy of Fine Art and through online programs offered worldwide. Links & Resources • Follow Todd M. Casey: Website / Instagram / Patreon • The Art of Still Life and The Oil Painters’ Color Handbook • Learn with Todd: Online workshops and mentorship • Explore Create! Magazine: • Support independent art publishing on our Substack: createmagazine.substack.com Want More Conversations Like This? Subscribe, leave a review and share this episode with a fellow artist who needs a dose of real-world wisdom and encouragement.
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When the Hustle Falls Away: Finding Your Creative Flow with Felicia Forte
12/07/2025
When the Hustle Falls Away: Finding Your Creative Flow with Felicia Forte
In this episode of the Create! Podcast, Kat sits down with painter and creative mentor Felicia Forte for a deep and refreshing conversation on creative flow, intuition, burnout, and finding your true pace as an artist. Felicia shares how she moved through a major creative block, rebuilt her relationship with painting, and allowed a slower, more intuitive rhythm to guide her back to the work. She speaks openly about dropping the hustle, choosing resonance over pressure, and trusting the quiet seasons where ideas grow underground. This conversation is full of warmth, honesty, and wisdom for anyone navigating their own creative path. In this episode, we explore How Felicia rebuilt her painting practice after burnout The difference between hustle driven output and intuitive flow Using intuition, resonance, and curiosity as your compass Why creative blocks often have internal roots The power of slowing down and listening to yourself Reframing mistakes as discovery Balancing ambition with compassion for your present season Allowing a body of work to unfold without forcing it Supporting artists through creative coaching and technique programs Connect with Felicia Website: Instagram: Connect with Create! Website: Substack: createmagazine.substack.com Instagram: @createmagazine Submit Your Work to the Women’s International Edition Create! Magazine is thrilled to announce the open call for our 2026 Women’s International Edition. This annual print and digital issue highlights exceptional artists whose work contributes meaningfully to today’s creative landscape. This year’s edition is curated by Sonia Borrell, an internationally respected art collector, curator, and advisor known for her thoughtful global perspective and dedication to supporting artists. This special issue celebrates artistic excellence, clarity of vision, and the dynamic practices shaping contemporary art today. Submit your work:
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Faith Over Fear: Creating Immersive Art Installations in the UK and Marrakesh with Amy Griffith
12/01/2025
Faith Over Fear: Creating Immersive Art Installations in the UK and Marrakesh with Amy Griffith
In this episode of The Create! Podcast, host Kat (Ekaterina Popova) sits down with creative visionary Amy Griffith. Best known for founding the iconic pink Eaton House Studio in the UK, Amy shares the journey behind her latest, soul-stirring project: The Star Seed House in Marrakesh, Morocco. Amy opens up about the massive transition from creating a playful, celebrity-favorite party house in Essex to renovating an ancient, spiritual sanctuary in the heart of the Medina—a project requiring patience, donkeys for transport, and deep trust in the process. This conversation is a masterclass in letting faith be stronger than fear. Amy and Kat discuss the practicalities of funding long-term creative visions, the importance of diversifying income to protect your artistic joy, and how to design spaces that engage all the senses. Whether you are an artist planning a massive installation or an entrepreneur looking to pivot, Amy’s intuitive approach to life and business will inspire you to take the leap. In this episode, we cover: From UK to Marrakesh: The serendipitous story of how Amy fell in love with Morocco and decided to build her second immersive art installation there. The Star Seed House: Renovating a centuries-old property without cars, learning local craftsmanship, and honoring the "soul" of a building. Faith vs. Fear: How to navigate the anxiety of big, expensive creative projects and why Amy painted "Let your faith be stronger than your fear" on her walls. Creative Process & Neuroscience: Amy discusses her photographic memory, sensory filing system, and how she visualizes spaces before they exist. Financial Sustainability for Artists: The importance of having non-creative income streams to relieve pressure on your art practice. Slowing Down: What living in the Medina has taught Amy about patience, devotion, and the spiritual side of creativity. Guest Bio: Amy Griffith is an artist, creative director, and the founder of Eaton House Studio, a world-renowned, pink-hued art installation and location hire in the UK. Most recently, she founded the Star Seed House in Marrakesh, Morocco, a spiritual sanctuary and immersive design project. Amy is known for her intuitive design process, creating spaces that are not just visually stunning but emotionally resonant. She is currently launching a curated shop in Marrakesh featuring vintage caftans and natural perfumes. Connect with Amy Griffith: Website: Instagram: @eatonhousestudio Resources & Links Mentioned: Create! Magazine on Substack: Subscribe for fresh articles, art tips, and insights at Call for Art: Apply to our latest open calls, exhibitions, and publishing opportunities at Create! U: Explore our online learning platform for artists at Support the Podcast: If this episode lit you up, please share it with a friend! We would also be so grateful if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts to help more artists find the show. Website: Instagram:
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From Fear and Scarcity to Abundance: Overcoming Burnout and Building a Creative Life That Feels Safe with Uncomfy (Tammy Dinh)
11/24/2025
From Fear and Scarcity to Abundance: Overcoming Burnout and Building a Creative Life That Feels Safe with Uncomfy (Tammy Dinh)
In this episode of the Create Podcast, Ekaterina Popova speaks with artist and creator Tammy Dinh, known online as Uncomfy. Tammy is a sculptor, storyteller, and YouTuber whose gentle clay characters and narrative films have reached millions of viewers. She shares how returning to polymer clay during college helped her reconnect with creativity and build an online art practice that blends play, comfort, and storytelling. Tammy discusses growing up during the 2008 recession, navigating scarcity, and learning to trust that a creative life can also be a stable one. She and Kat explore the role of routine, rest, and community, as well as the challenges of burnout and how Tammy rebuilt her practice with new boundaries and a more sustainable mindset. This conversation offers honest insight into starting from scratch, finding your creative voice, and building a long-term career that supports both your art and your well-being. Topics Discussed • Rediscovering polymer clay and reconnecting with childhood creativity • Building an online art career through storytelling and character design • Growing up with financial uncertainty and navigating scarcity • Burnout, recovery, and creating a sustainable art practice • Using small, consistent habits to rebuild creative momentum • The value of community, friendship, and in-person creative connection • Writing, Substack, and expanding creative identity • Returning to handmade work with new boundaries and care About Our Guest Tammy Dinh is an artist, sculptor, and storyteller creating imaginative clay characters and narrative videos under the name Uncomfy. She shares her process and creative practice through YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and her online shop. Find Tammy Online Website: YouTube: Instagram: @uncomfyco TikTok: @uncomfyco Follow Create Magazine and Ekaterina Create Magazine: Kat Popova: Instagram: @katerinaspopova
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Tax and Money Conversations for Sensitive Creatives with Hannah Cole of Sunlight Tax
11/20/2025
Tax and Money Conversations for Sensitive Creatives with Hannah Cole of Sunlight Tax
Welcome back to the show! We are thrilled to host the incredible Hannah Cole of Sunlight Tax to talk about her new book, Taxes for Humans: A Simple Guide to the Taxes That Rule Your Life. This episode is must listen material for artists, curators, freelancers, and gallery professionals who want a kinder, clearer way to deal with money and taxes. Hannah is an exhibiting artist turned tax professional. She shares the personal story of being dismissed by an accountant and how that experience inspired her to build a more humane, accessible approach to taxes for creatives. If you have ever felt judged, confused, or “bad with money,” this conversation will feel like a deep exhale. You will hear Hannah reframe money as a tool for good, with examples like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, and offer encouragement for anyone who has avoided looking at their numbers out of shame or fear. ✨ Current Open Call at Create! Magazine Share your work with us for upcoming issues and opportunities here: In this episode, we talk about: ✍️ The inspiration behind Taxes for Humans and why Hannah put everything she teaches in her programs into one affordable, comprehensive book (just 27 dollars). 🚫 How being dismissed by an accountant pushed her to create Sunlight Tax and become an advocate for creative people who are tired of feeling talked down to. 🤯 Why the fear of “not having it together” is the number one thing creative entrepreneurs have in common and how it fuels imposter syndrome. 🎨 The artist and accountant divide, and how Hannah bridges two very different worlds so artists can step into their power as entrepreneurs. ✨ How to get good at taxes and money management while keeping your soul, your vision, and your unique creative spark. 💰 A simple mindset shift to see money as a powerful tool for impact instead of something scary or shameful. 📈 Hobby versus business, what the IRS actually looks for, and why the bar for being considered a business is much lower than most artists think. 🧾 The single most important first technical step you can take today to get organized and compliant, even if you feel behind. Hannah’s approach is a beautiful balance of order and creative chaos. She shows you that you can be a serious artist and also be excellent at money and taxes. Do not let fear keep you out of the studio or away from the career you really want. Connect with Hannah Cole and Sunlight Tax 📚 Get the Book Taxes for Humans: A Simple Guide to the Taxes That Rule Your Life 🌈 Free Tax Deduction Guide Download Hannah’s rainbow colored visual guide to tax deductions to print and pin above your desk: 🌐 Website 📸 Instagram @sunlighttax
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Finding Harmony, Gratitude, and Bringing Art into Communities with Artist Leslie Braginsky
11/12/2025
Finding Harmony, Gratitude, and Bringing Art into Communities with Artist Leslie Braginsky
We’re celebrating one million downloads! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for tuning in, sharing the show, and leaving us love on iTunes. I’m so grateful to be able to share this program with you and our creative community. In this episode of Create! Podcast, host Ekaterina Popova sits down with Colombian artist and designer Leslie Braginsky to talk about gratitude, harmony, and the beauty of bringing art into communities. Leslie shares her inspiring journey from Colombia to the U.S., how gratitude shaped her perspective as an artist and mother, and how she began creating inclusive, meditative coloring books that celebrate women of all backgrounds and body types. Together, Kat and Leslie discuss how to reconnect with creativity for joy—not just productivity—and how to create harmony between art, business, and life. Leslie also shares how she’s using art to build connection in her local community through collaborative coloring gatherings. Before the interview, Kat reflects on balance and alignment and invites artists to submit their work to Create! Magazine’s Winter Solstice 2026 Print Issue, curated by Sarah Potter, celebrating transformation, renewal, and light through the dark. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How gratitude can transform your creative practice Finding beauty and self-acceptance through art The importance of making art for joy, not just results How to bring art into your community and create meaningful connections Leslie’s story of healing, motherhood, and creative flow Links Mentioned: ✨ Submit to the Winter Solstice 2026 Issue: 🎨 Explore Create! Magazine: 💖 Learn More About Leslie Braginsky: Website: Instagram: Amazon Author Page: 🖌️ Connect with Kat: Website: Instagram:
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Learning to Trust Your Creativity and Falling in Love with Your Art with Carrie Schmitt
11/05/2025
Learning to Trust Your Creativity and Falling in Love with Your Art with Carrie Schmitt
Inspiring episode of The Create Podcast, host Ekaterina (Kat) Popova sits down with artist, author, and creativity coach Carrie Schmitt to explore what it means to fall in love with your creativity again — to trust it, surrender to it, and let it lead you toward healing and joy. Carrie shares her powerful story of transformation, from facing a life-threatening illness to rediscovering painting as a divine and loving force that carried her through darkness and back into light. Together, Kat and Carrie discuss creativity as a sacred relationship — one rooted in devotion, acceptance, and self-compassion rather than perfection or control. You’ll hear insights on: Reconnecting with your creative spirit through trust and love Letting go of judgment, pressure, and self-criticism Finding inspiration and meaning in difficult seasons Healing creative wounds and learning to create for joy, not approval Viewing creativity as a living, supportive presence in your life Carrie’s book, Awakening Creativity: A Sacred Journey to Reclaim Your Inner Artist, is an invitation to remember the beauty and wisdom that flow through you every time you create. 🕊️ Mentioned in This Episode Awakening Creativity: A Sacred Journey to Reclaim Your Inner Artist by Carrie Schmitt Create Magazine’s Winter Solstice 2026 Print Issue, curated by Sarah Potter → Submit your work: Explore micro-courses and creative business resources at 🎧 Connect Follow Kat on Instagram: Follow Create! Magazine: Discover Carrie’s art, retreats, and programs:
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Detours are Destiny: Chasing Dreams, Secret Art, and Approaching Business with Creativity with Nishant Jain (The Sneaky Artist)
10/30/2025
Detours are Destiny: Chasing Dreams, Secret Art, and Approaching Business with Creativity with Nishant Jain (The Sneaky Artist)
Sometimes the most meaningful parts of our creative journey are the detours — the moments when we think we’ve failed or lost our way, only to realize we’ve discovered something new. Like a labyrinth, life guides us toward the next best thing, often better than we could have imagined. In this episode, host Ekaterina (Kat) Popova sits down with Nishant Jain, also known as The Sneaky Artist, to talk about curiosity, permission, and finding beauty in the everyday. Nishant shares how writer’s block led him to a thriving art practice, how he built a loyal global community through Substack, and why keeping secrets and creating privately can reignite your passion. If you’ve ever questioned your creative direction or struggled to share your art meaningfully in the digital age, this conversation will remind you that detours are destiny — and that creativity doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. 🖋️ About the Guest Nishant Jain is an artist, writer, and podcaster known as The Sneaky Artist. He sketches people and places in public spaces, capturing the quiet poetry of daily life. A former engineer and scientist, Nishant left academia to pursue storytelling full-time. His new book, Make Sneaky Art, invites readers to build a joyful sketchbook habit rooted in curiosity and play. Book Tour → Buy the Book → Follow Nishant → ✨ Episode Highlights How creative detours become the path to purpose Reframing failure through curiosity and exploration Balancing art-making with building a creative business Why keeping a “secret sketchbook” protects your voice Building authentic connection through storytelling Thank you to Our Sponsor Welcome to the Jungle — Josh Brown’s immersive exhibition — opens in New York City this November. For two days only, canvases pulse with color, hidden gazes peek from the leaves, and the city transforms into something wild, alive, and untamed. 📍 147 Broome St, NYC 🗓️ November 14–16 Join Josh Brown’s studio list at for RSVP access, collector previews, and behind-the-scenes as the jungle comes to life. Interested in sponsoring The Create! Podcast or advertising with Create! Magazine? Contact for information and options. 💖 About the Host Ekaterina Popova is an artist, certified master coach, and founder of Create! Magazine and Create U. Through her podcast and platforms, she helps artists and visionaries build joyful, sustainable careers on their own terms. Explore: Learn: Read: Follow: @katerinaspopova @createmagazine
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Sneaky Ways Your Ego is Sabotaging Your Growth (and How to Shift It) + Q&A with Kat
10/24/2025
Sneaky Ways Your Ego is Sabotaging Your Growth (and How to Shift It) + Q&A with Kat
Hello, beautiful souls. Welcome back to The Create! Podcast with me, your host, Kat. In today’s episode, I’m diving into a topic that’s been deeply present in my own creative journey — the sneaky ways our ego can sabotage our growth and how to shift it. Our ego often shows up in disguise: through comparison, fear, doubt, or even the desire to “grow too fast.” It’s that part of us that tells us we need a certain number to feel safe or successful, that we “should be further ahead,” or that our current progress isn’t enough. I’ll share how these patterns have shown up in my own business and art career — and the lessons I learned while reclaiming gratitude, trust, and presence in the process. Then, I’ll be answering your amazing questions from our Create! community over at @createmagazine broadcast channel, including: How to handle taxes or debt while starting your creative business What to do during slower art seasons and how to prepare for them How to navigate criticism from friends or other artists And how to start attracting more collectors and buyers on social media Before we dive in, a quick reminder that enrollment is now open for my live coaching program, The Art of Money — a six-week experience designed to help you release money blocks, rewrite your money story, and step into a new level of abundance and confidence as a creative entrepreneur. We begin November 4, and I would love to guide you through this next chapter. 👉 Join here: You can also explore Create! Magazine, discover featured artists, and stay inspired at If this episode resonates, share it with a creative friend, tag me on Instagram , and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new release. Thank you so much for tuning in — I’m so grateful for you. If this episode resonates, please leave us a review on iTunes, it means the world!
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How to Build Unshakable Belief in Yourself and a Healthy Money Mindset with Emily Williams
10/19/2025
How to Build Unshakable Belief in Yourself and a Healthy Money Mindset with Emily Williams
In this episode, host Ekaterina Popova talks with coach and author Emily Williams, founder of I Heart My Life and creator of the I Heart Money Method. Emily shares how belief fuels action, how to move through comparison and setbacks, and how simple micro upgrades can shift your relationship with abundance. This is a grounded conversation for artists and creative entrepreneurs who want growth without burnout. 💡 What You’ll Learn How to generate belief before results Practical ways to move through fear, doubt, and comparison Micro upgrades that shift money mindset without overspending Turning setbacks into leadership and service Blending simple strategy with mindset for sustainable growth 🔗 Links Join Art of Money Coaching with Kat → Create! Magazine → Ekaterina Popova on Instagram → Create! Magazine on Instagram → Emily Williams Website → Emily on Instagram → The I Heart My Life Show Podcast →
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Facing the Haunted House of Our Finances: How to Release the Ghosts Holding Creatives Back from Success and Abundance with Kat
10/14/2025
Facing the Haunted House of Our Finances: How to Release the Ghosts Holding Creatives Back from Success and Abundance with Kat
Hello, beautiful friends. It’s spooky season, with cold mornings, hot coffee, and time to face the real ghosts that haunt artists and creative entrepreneurs: scarcity, unworthiness, dabbling, and fear of expansion. In this episode, we walk room by room through the haunted house of money. Kat shares practical tools, mindset reframes, and nervous system rituals to help you release fear, build self-trust, and transform your financial story into fertile ground for growth. Nothing is wasted. Even past mistakes can become compost for future abundance. In This Episode The ghost of scarcity and how to feel safe in success The phantom of unworthiness that hides behind perfectionism The spirit of dabbling and how to replace distraction with devotion The fear of expansion and how to stay grounded while growing Practical rituals for safety, clarity, and abundance Listen If You Want To Stop letting money anxiety control your art practice Reconnect with your creativity as a source of abundance Learn how to regulate your nervous system when success feels scary Feel empowered to charge your worth and grow sustainably Join The Art of Money If you’re ready to heal your relationship with money, worth, and abundance, join Kat’s live group program: 👉 Inside this experience, you will: Identify and release money blocks and old stories Build financial safety and self-trust Create practical structure for your creative income Learn tools to manage and grow your money with ease Program runs November through December. Spaces are limited. Connect & Learn More 🌐 — Read new artist features, open calls, and creative career articles. 📚 — Explore micro-courses for artists and creative entrepreneurs. 💌 — Weekly essays, artist spotlights, and creative business advice. 🎨 — Daily art, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes updates. Disclaimer This episode is for educational and coaching purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult a licensed professional for personalized guidance.
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Meet Your Shadow: How to Go Deeper in Your Creative Practice with Chelsey Pippin Mizzi
10/06/2025
Meet Your Shadow: How to Go Deeper in Your Creative Practice with Chelsey Pippin Mizzi
In this week’s episode, Kat is joined by Chelsey Pippin Mizzi, author of The Shadow Path, to explore how shadow work can deepen your creative process and bring more honesty and depth into your art. Together, they discuss how the parts of ourselves we often avoid might hold the key to the work we’re truly meant to make. Discover gentle, practical ways to meet your shadow through tarot, dream journaling, and ritual—and learn how to see this work as a safe retreat rather than a confrontation. 🌒 Highlights What shadow work is and what it isn’t How to meet and name your shadow with curiosity and compassion The creative power of what’s hidden: why your “shadow” often holds your best ideas A gentle 10-week structure for working through The Shadow Path How shadow work can help you reconnect with authenticity, depth, and creative flow One simple daily practice to begin integrating your shadow today 🔮 Resources Mentioned The Shadow Path by Chelsey Pippin Mizzi Tarot for Creativity and The Tarot Spreads Yearbook by Chelsey Pippin Mizzi Tarot for Change by Jessica Dore The Artist’s Way and The Listening Path by Julia Cameron — an educator and writer guiding inner work through archetypal studies and Jungian psychology, offering structured yet intuitive frameworks and tools for personal growth Jungian Online courses on self-portraiture and shadow work Upcoming Dark Shadow, Golden Shadow by Shannon of The Tarot Diagnosis Chelsey’s website: Instagram: Sponsored by Create! Magazine This episode is brought to you by Create! Magazine, your destination for contemporary art, inspiration, and opportunity. ✨ Open Call: The Spirit World is now live! Submit your work to be part of our upcoming curated virtual exhibition and printed catalog exploring the mystical, spiritual, and uncanny. Deadline: October 31, 2025 👉 Submit your art at 🖤 Connect Explore Create! Magazine: Read our Substack: Join our learning platform: Follow Kat on Instagram: Follow Create! Magazine:
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Being a Magic Maker: Pam Grossman on Magic, Creativity, and the Enchanted Path of Art
10/02/2025
Being a Magic Maker: Pam Grossman on Magic, Creativity, and the Enchanted Path of Art
Welcome back to the Create Podcast. Just in time for the fall season, I am joined by Pam Grossman, a writer, curator, teacher, and practicing witch whose work beautifully bridges creativity, culture, and magic. Pam is the host of The Witch Wave podcast (called “the Terry Gross of witches” by Vulture), the author of Waking the Witch: Reflections on Women, Magic, and Power, and co-editor of Taschen’s Witchcraft volume in the Library of Esoterica series. Her essays have appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, TIME, and more. She has also organized exhibitions such as Language of the Birds: Occult and Art at NYU and spoken at institutions including MoMA and Columbia University. Her brand-new book, Magic Maker: The Enchanted Path to Creativity (Penguin Life & Hay House UK, October 14, 2025), is a guide to connecting with the creative force through ritual, history, and practice. It explores how artists and visionaries such as Hilma af Klint, David Bowie, Octavia E. Butler, and Leonora Carrington have used magic as part of their creative process, and how you can do the same in your own life. In This Episode, We Discuss Pam’s creative roots and how she began merging her artistic and magical practices Misconceptions about witchcraft and how the archetype of the witch has evolved How Magic Maker links art and magic, showing that creativity itself can be a spiritual practice Practical rituals to protect your studio time and invite inspiration, from lighting candles to leaving offerings or simply asking for guidance The idea of “low frequency” and “high frequency” desires in art and business, and how to balance material needs with higher intentions Pam’s experiences speaking at institutions like MoMA and casting a love spell on stage at Carnegie Hall with Jinkx Monsoon The role of research, fascination, and intuition when writing a book Artists who inspire her including Leonora Carrington, Remedios Varo, Hilma af Klint, Max Ernst, and Kurt Seligmann Resources and Mentions Books by Pam Grossman Magic Maker: The Enchanted Path to Creativity (Penguin Life & Hay House UK, 2025) → Waking the Witch: Reflections on Women, Magic, and Power (Simon & Schuster, 2019) What Is a Witch (Tin Can Forest Press, 2016) Witchcraft (Taschen’s Library of Esoterica series, co-edited with Jessica Hundley, 2020) Podcast – Pam’s long-running podcast on art, culture, and magic Exhibitions and Projects Language of the Birds: Occult and Art (NYU, 2016) → Art of the Occult by S. Elizabeth (recommended resource) The Spiritual in Art: Abstract Painting 1890–1985 (Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 1986) Artists Mentioned Hilma af Klint David Bowie Octavia E. Butler Leonora Carrington Remedios Varo Max Ernst Kurt Seligmann Create! Magazine Open Call We are now accepting submissions for our fall curated exhibition and catalog: The Spirit World. This virtual show explores the mystical, eerie, and uncanny, making it the perfect theme for the season. Deadline: October 31, 2025 What selected artists receive: inclusion in the curated online exhibition, a feature in the professionally designed print and digital catalog, a blog post on Create! Magazine, and a spotlight across our international platforms. 👉
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The 2025 Creator Stack for Artists: What's Working to Grow Business, How to Use Time Wisely, and Not Burn Out While Showing the F Up
09/23/2025
The 2025 Creator Stack for Artists: What's Working to Grow Business, How to Use Time Wisely, and Not Burn Out While Showing the F Up
In this episode, I (host Ekaterina Popova) dive into what I call The 2025 Creator Stack for Artists. These are the four simple tools you need to build trust, grow your audience, and create consistent income without burning out. We are in what I call a trust recession. Algorithms keep changing, AI noise is everywhere, and collectors are more selective than ever. That does not mean your art business has to suffer. I am sharing what has been working for me this year, the lessons I have learned, and how you can lean into connection, trust, and real growth. 🎉 Special Announcement Create! Magazine is celebrating its ninth anniversary. To mark the occasion, we have opened our Call for Art for Issue #54, our anniversary edition. Selected artists will be featured in print and digital editions, on our blog, and across our social platforms. The deadline to apply is September 30, 2025. Submit your work here: 🎙 What You’ll Hear in This Episode I share what the trust recession means for artists and why it can actually be an opportunity. I break down the four pillars of the Creator Stack, including community platforms, email lists, AI workflows, and simple sales systems that support growth without leading to burnout. You will also hear how I have been using these tools in my own practice and how you can adapt them to fit your creative business. 🌐 Connect + Explore Create! Magazine → Create U Courses → Instagram → | Substack →
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How to Talk About Art, Connect with Collectors Authentically, and Stay Nimble in Shifting Times with Liz Lidgett
09/17/2025
How to Talk About Art, Connect with Collectors Authentically, and Stay Nimble in Shifting Times with Liz Lidgett
Are people still buying art? The answer is yes. But how you talk about your work, connect with collectors, and navigate uncertainty can make all the difference. In this episode of The Create! Podcast, host Ekaterina Popova sits down with gallerist, author, and art advocate Liz Lidgett to discuss her upcoming book Art for Everyone, how to make art conversations more accessible, and the principles that keep artists and entrepreneurs resilient through shifting times. Liz shares powerful insights on: Why collectors are still buying and how to build trust in today’s market Simple, accessible ways to talk about your art without overcomplicating it The key role consistency, systems, and flexibility play in long-term success How to stay authentic and connected while showing up online and in person This conversation is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement for artists and entrepreneurs ready to thrive in today’s art world. 📚 Resources & Links Pre-order Liz’s book Art for Everyone: Collect art: Submit your work to Create! Magazine: Explore on-demand courses at Create U: Read more stories, tips, and interviews: Connect with us on Instagram: @createmagazine
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Our Next Chapter: Podcast, Magazine, and Community Together
09/13/2025
Our Next Chapter: Podcast, Magazine, and Community Together
In this special solo episode, I, Ekaterina Popova, share important updates about the future of the podcast, the magazine, and our community. What began back in 2018 as Art & Cocktails has now grown into more than 400 episodes featuring painters, sculptors, writers, mystics, musicians, and healers. After all these years, it is time for the next chapter. I am bringing the podcast back under the Create! Podcast name, and this shift reflects my broader vision of uniting the magazine, the membership, and the podcast under one roof. For me, this is about simplicity, synergy, and building a stronger creative home for artists, writers, entrepreneurs, and seekers of all kinds. In this episode, I share the journey from Art & Cocktails to Create Magazine and now back to Create. I explain why simplifying brands makes creative work stronger, how this rebrand will make resources and community more accessible, what the future of our membership will look like as it evolves into the Create Collective, and why this is not an ending but a natural expansion. Whether you have been here since the beginning or you are tuning in for the first time, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the heart of Create and where we are heading together. Explore Create Magazine’s Substack: Learn more about open calls and membership:
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Fortifying Your Money and Success Mindset Despite the Times
09/06/2025
Fortifying Your Money and Success Mindset Despite the Times
In this episode, I, Kat Popova, founder and editor of Create! Magazine and certified master coach, share practical ways for artists and creatives to strengthen their money and success mindset, even during uncertain times. You will learn how to release what is outside your control, rewrite limiting beliefs, focus on your desires and goals, and take small but powerful actions toward the future you want to create. Connect with us: Instagram: @createmagazine Resources:
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Reconnecting to Your Why and Finding Harmony in Art, Business, and Life
09/02/2025
Reconnecting to Your Why and Finding Harmony in Art, Business, and Life
Have you ever wanted to quit it all? The studio, the business, the endless to-do list? If so, you’re not alone. In this episode of Art & Cocktails, I share how I nearly walked away, and what brought me back. From seeing members across the world to a simple but powerful reminder about harmony, I’ll take you behind the scenes of my own turning point. Inside, you’ll discover: How to identify your roots and branches and use pruning season to your advantage Why harmony (not balance) helps you integrate art, business, and life Five practical strategies to help you move forward with clarity and confidence Reflection exercises you can apply right away ✨ Special Invitation Enrollment is now open for Art Queens Society. Early bird closes September 15, 2025 Final day to join this year is September 30, 2025 This is your chance to step into a supportive, inspiring community of ambitious women artists. Learn more at . Learn More & Connect With Us
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The Club: Discovering the Forgotten Parisian Haven for Women Artists with Jennifer Dasal
08/21/2025
The Club: Discovering the Forgotten Parisian Haven for Women Artists with Jennifer Dasal
In this episode of Art & Cocktails, Kat Popova sits down with art historian, author, and podcast host Jennifer Dasal to talk about her latest book, The Club: Where American Women Artists Found Refuge in Belle Époque Paris (Bloomsbury, 2025). Jennifer shares the little-known story of the American Girls’ Club in Paris—a home-away-from-home for women artists during the late 19th century that became a vital hub for creativity, education, and connection. We dive into her passion for art history, her research process, and why community was just as important for artists in Belle Époque Paris as it is today. We also discuss: How Jennifer uncovers forgotten stories in art history Why Paris was a critical destination for American women artists The parallels between the struggles of 19th-century women artists and today’s ongoing inequities in the art world The importance of building supportive communities for artists at every stage ✨ Learn more about Jennifer and her work at ✨ Order Jennifer’s new book ✨ Join the waitlist for the Art Queens Society, Kat’s community for ambitious women artists:
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From Dream to Published: Kristy Gordon on Writing, Publishing, and Inspiring Artists
08/13/2025
From Dream to Published: Kristy Gordon on Writing, Publishing, and Inspiring Artists
Kristy returns to Art and Cocktails to share the inspiring story behind writing and publishing her book. We talk about the dream that began in childhood, the process of bringing it to life, and the milestones that followed. These include holding the finished copy in her hands, receiving an endorsement from Jerry Saltz, and seeing her work translated into Taiwanese. Kristy also addresses the myths that hold artists back from writing, why you do not have to identify as a “real writer” to publish a book, and how to navigate both traditional and self-publishing while keeping your vision intact. She shares details about her upcoming Essential Publishing Bootcamp with Frannie, a live two-day workshop that helps artists and creatives turn their book ideas into reality. Participants will learn about the different publishing paths, receive a step-by-step workflow for bringing a book to life, and review examples of real winning pitches that secured book deals. Whether you are interested in traditional publishing, indie presses, or self-publishing on Amazon, this workshop will provide the tools to make it happen. Kristy Gordon is a Canadian-born artist based in New York City whose paintings have been exhibited internationally, including at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Uris Center, the European Museum of Modern Art in Barcelona, and the National Academy Museum in New York City. She is a three-time recipient of the Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant and earned her MFA from the New York Academy of Art, where she now teaches. Her work appears in more than 600 collections worldwide and has been featured in Vogue, Hyperallergic, and Fine Art Connoisseur. She is represented by Garvey|Simon, Blumka Contemporary, and Grenning Gallery. Learn more about Kristy’s Essential Publishing Bootcamp and sign up at . Create! Magazine is now accepting submissions for our upcoming issue. Apply to the current call for art at . Publish your own art catalog:
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Back to Basics: Falling in Love Again and Building a Fun Art Practice with Kat
08/09/2025
Back to Basics: Falling in Love Again and Building a Fun Art Practice with Kat
Hello friends, and welcome to Art & Cocktails. In this solo episode, I’m Ekaterina Popova ( Kat), inviting you to return to the joy, curiosity, and grounding that comes from showing up for your art without overcomplication or pressure. This summer, I started a 100-day painting challenge that has completely reignited my love for the process. I share how working small, limiting my decisions, and committing to consistent daily practice has kept me inspired and overflowing with ideas. We discuss why slowing down and simplifying can help you create more, how to eliminate decision fatigue in your practice, the power of small daily creative commitments, using challenges to build confidence and spark inspiration, and how to protect your joy in art while still pursuing professional goals. Whether you’ve been in a creative rut or simply want to fall in love with making again, this episode will remind you why you started. Join the 100-Day Painting Challenge & Course. We start August 18, 2025. Learn alla prima techniques, get weekly demos, safe material tips, and join a supportive community committed to creating every day. Perfect for oil or acrylic painters. 👉 Enroll here: Mentioned in this episode: Emergency Exit group exhibition at Cole Gallery, Menorca — available works on Artsy: Read on Substack: If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and leave a review on iTunes. It helps us reach more creatives like you.
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Danielle Clough: Painting with Thread, Embracing Craft, and Following Creative Instincts
08/04/2025
Danielle Clough: Painting with Thread, Embracing Craft, and Following Creative Instincts
In this special episode of Art & Cocktails, artist Danielle Clough joins host Ekaterina Popova (Kat) to share her journey to becoming an internationally recognized embroidery artist. Known for her bold, painterly thread work and playful approach to fiber, Danielle opens up about finding her voice, building a creative career on her own terms, and embracing the power of intuition and process. She reflects on the evolution of her practice—from sewing plush toys and experimenting with “thread sketching” to creating intricate embroidered portraits that feel like paintings. Danielle also discusses her breakout moment with Colossal, the inspiration behind her newest solo show Crewel Intentions at Paradigm Gallery, and how she reimagines vintage imagery through a contemporary lens. This episode explores the value of craft in the art world, the importance of protecting what you love when working with commercial brands, and the joy of slowing down through hands-on making. Danielle offers heartfelt encouragement for emerging fiber artists and shares the story behind her iconic Instagram handle, . If you're in Philadelphia, don’t miss her solo exhibition Crewel Intentions, now on view at Paradigm Gallery. More info: Stay Connected Follow Danielle Clough: Website: Instagram: Apply to be featured in Create! Magazine’s 9-Year Anniversary Print Issue: Subscribe to Create! Dispatch on Substack: Explore artist courses and resources at Create U: Follow us on Instagram:
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How to Build a Daily Drawing Habit and Grow a Creative Career with Samantha Dion Baker
07/29/2025
How to Build a Daily Drawing Habit and Grow a Creative Career with Samantha Dion Baker
In this episode of the Create! Podcast, artist, illustrator, and author Samantha Dion Baker joins host Ekaterina Popova to talk about building a sustainable art practice, finding joy in the everyday, and growing an authentic audience through her sketchbooks and writing. Originally trained as a designer, Samantha spent over two decades in the art world before reconnecting with her creative voice through daily sketchbook drawing. That personal practice became the foundation for her successful books, including her latest release Draw Your Adventures. This conversation explores the intersection of discipline and pleasure in creative work, and how consistency, simplicity, and presence can lead to powerful personal and professional transformation. In this episode, we cover: – How Samantha transitioned from designer to full-time artist and author – Why a sketchbook is a powerful tool for growth, memory, and meaning – Building a sustainable daily practice without burnout – Using drawing to stay present and connected to your life – Growing a community and creative platform through Substack Resources & Links: • Samantha Dion Baker’s website: • Samantha’s Substack: • Read Create! Magazine: • Submit your work: • Explore our courses: • Join us on Substack: Hosted by: Ekaterina Popova, artist, author, and founder of Create! Magazine and Create! U
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Thriving as an Introvert in the Art World: Openings, Exhibitions & Networking on Your Terms
07/22/2025
Thriving as an Introvert in the Art World: Openings, Exhibitions & Networking on Your Terms
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, awkward, or drained by art openings or networking events, this episode is for you. Host Ekaterina Popova (Kat) shares supportive and practical advice for introverted artists who want to show up with authenticity and confidence without sacrificing their energy. You’ll learn how to prepare, what to say, and how to care for your emotional well-being before and after events. From conversation tips to grounding practices and confidence, this quick solo episode offers a gentle guide for navigating the social side of the art world in a way that honors your personality. Whether you are just beginning to attend shows again or want to expand your network while staying true to yourself, this conversation will help you feel less alone and more empowered. Topics Covered: • Mindset reframes for introverts • How to prepare for gallery events and conversations • Conversation starters and meaningful ways to connect • How to feel good in your body through wardrobe choices • Boundaries, exit strategies and post-event grounding • Alternatives to traditional networking Helpful Questions to Ask at Openings: • What brought you out tonight? • Are you one of the artists in the show? • Which work stood out to you? • I follow your work. It's so nice to see it in person. • I'm new to this space. Do you come here often? Recommended Resources: — online courses and community for artists Connect: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow artist and tag or on Instagram. We would love to hear what resonated with you or how you're learning to show up in your own way.
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Make It Weirder: Maggie Smith on Poetry, Success, and Creative Survival in the Age of AI
06/15/2025
Make It Weirder: Maggie Smith on Poetry, Success, and Creative Survival in the Age of AI
This episode is a dream come true. I sit down with bestselling author and poet Maggie Smith, whose viral poem Good Bones captured hearts around the world. We talk about navigating creative life with honesty and resilience—from managing unsupportive friends to staying grounded when the world starts watching. We also dive into her newest book, Dear Writer, and how artists can protect their joy, set boundaries, and thrive in the AI era by getting weird, staying real, and honoring their process. If you're a writer, artist, or creative soul trying to stay true to your work in a noisy world—this one's for you. In this episode, we talk about: What happened when Good Bones went viral (14:40) Why you don’t need to monetize everything you make (18:25) Dealing with unsupportive family and friends (30:00) How to write personal stories safely and honestly (42:10) Maggie’s approach to creative rhythm vs. consistency (52:30) Why imperfection, eccentricity, and “making it weirder” matter now more than ever (1:02:00) Guest Bio: Maggie Smith is the author of You Could Make This Place Beautiful, Good Bones, Goldenrod, and Keep Moving. Her poems and essays have appeared in The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Paris Review, and Best American Poetry. A recipient of fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and Ohio Arts Council, her next book Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life will be released in April 2025. Connect with Maggie Smith: Website: Instagram: Substack: For Dear Life Presented by Create! Magazine Submit to our open calls or subscribe to the digital edition at Let’s connect: Instagram: Host:
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Let the Place Speak: On Art, Life After Academia, Building a Practice on Our Own Terms, and Starting Again with Cheryl Agulnick Hochberg
06/05/2025
Let the Place Speak: On Art, Life After Academia, Building a Practice on Our Own Terms, and Starting Again with Cheryl Agulnick Hochberg
In this heartfelt and grounding conversation, Kat reconnects with her former professor, artist and printmaker Cheryl Agulnick Hochberg, to explore what it truly means to live a creative life—on your own terms. Cheryl shares how her work is shaped by place, walking, and deep observation—drawing inspiration from time spent in Wyoming, China, Finland, and her new home in Arizona. Together, they reflect on life after academia, the courage to start over, and the unexpected clarity that comes with experience, loss, and listening to the land. This episode is a balm for any artist feeling overwhelmed, out of place, or unsure of what comes next. It’s a reminder that your work doesn’t have to be impressive—it just has to be yours. In this episode, they discuss: Life after academia and what changed in higher education Making time for your art while raising a family or working full-time How Cheryl approaches residencies, place-based work, and listening Letting go of external pressure and creating from authenticity The real markers of a fulfilling creative life Advice for artists just beginning—or beginning again Cheryl Agulnick Hochberg Website: Instagram: ✨ Resources to Support Your Creative Path: Submit to Create! Magazine’s open call: Explore free artist tools + micro-courses at
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