Episode 42 - Mental Health, Comparison, and Creativity W/ Guest Co-Host Courtney Proctor

Episode 46 - Inspired by Special Interests – Turning Passion Into Creative Power

In 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 yourself. * What a special interest feels like from the inside * The double-edged sword of safety vs. isolation * How to lovingly shift from hiding to creating * Practical tips and creative exercises to channel your passion into art * The power of mood boards, rituals, and sharing without pressure * Neurodivergent experiences of creativity and love You’re not broken for loving something deeply. Your passion is not too much. It’s your superpower—and it deserves to live outside of you, too. Follow Jen on Instagram at @mendingcreatively [https://www.instagram.com/mendingcreatively] Have a topic you’d love to hear covered? Send a DM or message through the link in bio! 💛 What You'll Hear:🛠️ Mentioned in This Episode:🦋 A Reminder:💌 Connect: Follow Jen on Instagram at @mendingcreatively [https://www.instagram.com/mendingcreatively] Have a topic you’d love to hear covered? Send a DM or message through the link in bio!

Episode 45 - The Creative Seasons: Honoring Growth, Rest, and Renewal

Creativity 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. * Why rest and reflection are just as important as output. * Practical ways to honor where you are in your creative cycle. Whether you’re in a season of growth, refinement, or quiet rest, your creativity is still alive—and it’s okay to move at your own pace. Listen now and learn how to trust the rhythm of your creativity. 📲 Connect with me on Instagram: @mendingcreatively [https://www.instagram.com/mendingcreatively]🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if this episode resonated with you! And as always—just keep going.

Episode 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 on and off, how to recognize it in everyday life, and what to do when you feel disconnected from it. 💡 In This Episode, We Talk About: * Why creativity isn’t just about art—it’s a way of thinking * The myth of “natural talent” and why creativity is a skill, not a gift * How creativity shows up in unexpected places * What to do when creativity feels distant or blocked * The power of curiosity, reinvention, and seeing the world differently ✨ Let’s Continue the Conversation: * What’s a time in your life when you felt truly creative? * Do you define creativity differently after this episode? * What’s one small way you can nurture your creativity today? Tag me on Instagram @mendingcreatively [https://www.instagram.com/mendingcreatively] or send me a message—I’d love to hear your thoughts! As always, just keep going. 💛

Episode 43 - The Intersection of Art and Identity

How 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 expression and external expectations—this episode is for you. In This Episode, I Discuss: ✨ How art acts as a mirror for our identity ✨ The challenge of staying authentic while growing as an artist ✨ What to do when outside opinions start shaping your creativity ✨ How to embrace evolution without losing your creative voice ✨ Why remembering your “why” is crucial to long-term creative fulfillment Resources & Links:🎙️ Follow Mending Creatively on Instagram: @mendingcreatively [https://www.instagram.com/mendingcreatively] Have thoughts on this episode? Send me a DM or leave a comment! 📢 If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow creative! Let’s Keep the Conversation Going! How do you see your identity reflected in your creative work? Have you ever struggled with balancing authenticity and outside expectations? Let me know—I’d love to hear your thoughts. 💡 And remember: just keep going.

Episode 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 your mind and your artistic spirit. * Courtney’s Insights: Real-world advice and wisdom from her unique experiences and creative journey. This episode is a gentle reminder that creativity isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up for yourself, your process, and your passion. Whether you’re struggling with self-doubt or looking for ways to support your mental health, we hope this conversation leaves you feeling seen, inspired, and empowered to keep going. Just keep going.