It’s Never Too Late to Create: Storytelling, Creativity, and a Navy Veteran’s 50-Year Journey with John Chadwell

From Depression to Healing: How Creativity Changed David Sandum’s Life

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2219255/fan_mail/new] Most people think creativity comes from talent or inspiration — but for artist David Sandum, it’s been a deep, healing journey shaped by depression, trauma, and rediscovery. When life’s darkest moments hit, he turned to art, transforming pain into powerful visuals and stories that challenge how we see suffering, resilience, and self-expression. Now, David reveals how embracing instinct, symbolism, and spontaneity can break you free from creative blocks and open new pathways in your mind and heart.In this compelling conversation, you’ll discover:  How David’s depression sparked a 25-year artistic journey that culminated in exhibits worldwide and a poignant Auschwitz series honoring his grandmother’s past.  The spiritual and emotional significance behind his signature roots and network-inspired symbols—patterns that reflect grounding, interconnectedness, and personal history.  Why creativity acts as a catharsis—empowering you to process overwhelming feelings and regain control during life's toughest storms.  Practical tips for overcoming creative stagnation: creating a nurturing space, starting with instinctive doodles, and embracing mistakes as part of the process.  The surprising differences between painting, printmaking, and writing as emotional outlets—and why allowing accidents can lead to your most authentic work.  How moving physically, exploring nature, and shifting mediums—like photography—can reignite your inspiration when you're stuck in darkness. Whether you’re battling personal struggles, feeling creatively blocked, or simply craving a deeper connection to your art, this episode offers transformative insights. David’s resilience and openness show that healing one stroke at a time is possible—and that your story deserves to be told through your art. Perfect for artists, dreamers, and anyone seeking a way back from despair, this conversation will inspire you to find beauty in vulnerability and strength in imperfection. Visit David Sandum’s website or follow him on Instagram @davidsandum for more of his inspiring work. This episode reminds us: your greatest growth often comes from life’s hardest lessons—and your art can be your most powerful healing tool. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/biz/profile/painterlylife] Please like, subscribe and share! For more information and to connect with us visit PainterlyLife.com [http://painterlylife.com]

Diane Breuer: Creativity Across Continents

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2219255/fan_mail/new] Discover how Diane Breuer’s international artistic journey shaped her unique style, her approach to fostering creative communities, and her advice for tapping into your own creativity—regardless of experience level. This episode offers inspiring insights into artistic growth, mediums, and the importance of collaboration. In this episode: * Diane shares her lifelong love of art, influenced by her family history and early childhood experiences across different cultures. * The conversation explores how Indian and Brazilian art traditions have enriched her work, especially her use of color and space. * Learn about Diane’s eclectic artistic training, and her preferred mediums like pastel and oil, including her process for creating portraits. * The importance of community in art—through her Art Hub and local collaborations—is a central theme. * Practical tips on overcoming creative blocks, starting new art projects, and the value of joining artist groups and classes. * Diane discusses her inspiring journey living abroad and how it influenced her artistic perspective and techniques. * Find out where to see her work online and how she encourages everyone to explore their creative potential—no matter their age or experience. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/biz/profile/painterlylife] Please like, subscribe and share! For more information and to connect with us visit PainterlyLife.com [http://painterlylife.com]

Colette Lafia: Art as Prayer~The Creative Process as a Path to the Divine

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2219255/fan_mail/new] In this episode of the Made to Make Podcast, host Shannon Grissom talks with spiritual director and author Colette Lafia about the powerful connection between creativity and spirituality. Together they explore how creativity can become more than a skill or hobby—it can be a sacred practice that connects us with the divine. Colette shares how creative expression can deepen self-awareness, nurture our inner lives, and help us cultivate a meaningful relationship with ourselves, others, and something greater. From simple rituals like lighting a candle before beginning creative work to free-writing exercises that unlock inspiration, this conversation offers practical ways to bring intention, gratitude, and spiritual awareness into your creative process. Drawing from insights in her books Comfort and Joy, Seeking Surrender, The Divine Heart, and Leaving the Shore, Colette encourages creators to see their work as an ongoing dialogue—one that invites curiosity, openness, and trust. If you’re an artist, writer, maker, or anyone seeking deeper meaning in the creative process, this episode will inspire you to embrace creativity as a sacred path. ✨ In this episode we discuss: • Creativity as a sacred act and spiritual discipline • How artistic materials and mediums can become teachers • The connection between contemplative practices and creativity • Free writing exercises to unlock inspiration • Simple rituals to bring intention and presence to creative work • Maintaining creative energy and nurturing the inner artist Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/biz/profile/painterlylife] Please like, subscribe and share! For more information and to connect with us visit PainterlyLife.com [http://painterlylife.com]

It’s Never Too Late to Create: Storytelling, Creativity, and a Navy Veteran’s 50-Year Journey with John Chadwell

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2219255/fan_mail/new] What does a lifetime of storytelling look like? In this episode of the Made to Make Podcast, host Shannon sits down with Navy veteran, journalist, and author John Chadwell to explore a creative journey that spans decades—from military service to combat photojournalism, scriptwriting, and book publishing. John shares how creativity can flourish even in highly structured environments like the military, and how the same storytelling instincts can move across mediums—from journalism to film scripts to historical fiction and children’s books. Along the way, we dive into the timeless craft of storytelling, how new tools like AI are expanding creative possibilities, and why it’s never too late to pursue the work you feel called to make. If you’ve ever wondered whether creativity fits into a disciplined life—or whether it’s too late to start—this conversation will remind you that the creative path is always open. In this episode we explore: * How storytelling evolves across different creative mediums * Finding creative freedom inside structured careers * Using AI tools to support research, artwork, and storytelling * Lessons from a lifetime of writing and creating Memorable moments: * “My creative process is the same across genres.” * “It’s never too late to pursue your dreams.” * “You’re the only person stopping you.” Whether you're a writer, artist, filmmaker, or simply someone who feels the pull to create, this episode is a reminder that creativity isn't a phase—it’s a lifelong calling. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/biz/profile/painterlylife] Please like, subscribe and share! For more information and to connect with us visit PainterlyLife.com [http://painterlylife.com]

Jason Shepherd: Chasing Dreams

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2219255/fan_mail/new] Kentucky singer-songwriter Jason Shepard joins the Made to Make podcast to share his journey through songwriting, creativity, and building a music career while balancing family and a full-time job. (Sometimes two jobs!) In this inspiring interview, we explore his musical influences, creative process, the evolution of his sound, and how he stays committed to his artistic calling through setbacks and successes.  In this heartfelt conversation, Shepherd opens up about the road that shaped his music—from early influences and first songs to finding his unique sound. He shares the stories behind his lyrics, how he navigates creativity alongside family life and a full-time job, and what failure has taught him about staying the course. If you’re a fellow creative chasing a dream in the middle of real life, this episode will inspire you to keep going. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/biz/profile/painterlylife] Please like, subscribe and share! For more information and to connect with us visit PainterlyLife.com [http://painterlylife.com]