The Modern Creative Woman

151. “Play” Like Yourself Every Time: Authentic Style and Creativity

Ask me a question or let me know what you think! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/fan_mail/new] What does it actually mean to have YOUR style? Not just in how you dress—but in how you think, create, relate, and move through the world. In this episode of The Modern Creative Woman, Dr. Amy Backos explores style as a way of being—a deeply personal, psychologically rooted expression of self. Inspired by a moment at a San Francisco Symphony League event, where a pianist shared, “I try to play like myself every time,” this episode becomes an invitation to examine where you may be editing, performing, or over-referencing others in your own life. This is not a surface-level conversation about “being yourself.” It’s a deeper, clinically informed look at psychological flexibility, authenticity, and creative alignment. Dr. Backos weaves together art therapy, neuroscience, and lived experience to explore: * Why over-referencing (social media, celebrities, trends) disconnects you from your own voice * The psychological cost of self-editing before rejection * How authenticity is built through alignment—not performance or perfection * The role of novelty and neuroplasticity in reigniting creativity * Why technically “good” art—and even a well-curated life—can still feel emotionally flat * How developmental conditioning, trauma, and social expectations shape your personal style Drawing on the artistic philosophy of Georgia O’Keeffe and the deeply original work of the Gee’s Bend Quilters, this episode highlights what becomes possible when you stop performing and start creating from within. You’ll also be guided through a powerful self-audit practice to help you identify: * Where your life feels natural, easeful, and aligned * Where you may be over-editing or borrowing from others * How to begin reconnecting with your own creative instincts This episode is both a reflection and a challenge: Where are you not “playing like yourself”? And what might shift if you did—just once this week? Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/support] Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com [https://arttherapycentersf.com/] Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ [https://mcusercontent.com/53c5579a5feca0090377003c7/files/b4f5b916-6160-01d5-e760-40b1327eac06/Modern_Creative_Woman_Manifesta.pdf] Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/ [https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/]

150. Power, Perception, Prestige & Desire: Interview with Dr. Tanetha Jamay Fisher

Ask me a question or let me know what you think! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/fan_mail/new] What if the biggest limitation on your creative work isn’t your talent—but your perception of its value? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Tanetha Jamay Fisher—leadership professor, former Capitol Hill strategist, and luxury business advisor—to explore the powerful intersection of power, perception, and prestige. Together, we unpack how high-level creative women can move beyond the “starving artist” myth and into positions of leadership, influence, and meaningful wealth creation. Dr. Fisher brings a rare and compelling blend of academic rigor and real-world strategy. With a background spanning political science, education, and high-stakes PR, she now helps experts translate their innate brilliance into language that resonates in the marketplace—without losing integrity or depth. This conversation moves far beyond business tactics. We explore: * The psychology of prestige and how desire shapes leadership, visibility, and success * How emotions drive decision-making—in politics, business, and personal growth * The role of feminist, Indigenous, and anti-racist research methodologies in expanding how we understand human experience * Why narrative, phenomenology, and qualitative inquiry create more human-centered, impactful work * The shift from luxury products to luxury experiences—and what that means for creative entrepreneurs * How to monetize your genius in a way that reflects your values and expands your impact * The hidden cost of scarcity thinking in helping professions—and how to move beyond it We also talk about the importance of creative rest, mentorship, and prestige positioning—and why investing in yourself is not indulgent, but essential for sustaining your mission. Dr. Fisher challenges conventional narratives around money, success, and creativity. Her work reframes financial growth not as excess—but as an act of leadership, agency, and legacy-building for the modern woman. If you’ve ever felt the tension between creativity and income, purpose and power, or artistry and visibility—this episode will expand what feels possible. Connect with Dr. Fisher Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jamayfisher/]@jamayfisher References Feminism and Intersectionality in Academia [https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-319-90590-7] Pedagogy of the Oppressed [https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/pedagogy-of-the-oppressed-9781501314162/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/support] Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com [https://arttherapycentersf.com/] Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ [https://mcusercontent.com/53c5579a5feca0090377003c7/files/b4f5b916-6160-01d5-e760-40b1327eac06/Modern_Creative_Woman_Manifesta.pdf] Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/ [https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/]

149. Art as Medicine: The Science of Creativity and Well-Being

Ask me a question or let me know what you think! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/fan_mail/new] When was the last time you intentionally engaged with the arts—not just as background noise, but as a tool for your well-being? In this episode, Dr. Amy Backos explores the powerful intersection of creativity, neuroscience, and health. Drawing from the landmark 2019 World Health Organization report analyzing over 3,000 studies, she unpacks why the arts are now being recognized as a critical component of whole-person care—supporting mental, physical, and social well-being. You’ll learn how engaging with visual art, music, movement, and storytelling activates the brain, supports emotional processing, reduces loneliness, and even improves recovery outcomes from illness. This episode also explores how creativity functions as both prevention and intervention—enhancing resilience, supporting trauma recovery, and increasing overall life satisfaction. From global policy shifts to practical, everyday access points, this conversation reframes creativity as essential—not optional. This is your invitation to see the arts differently—and to begin using them more intentionally in your own life. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: * Why the arts are being called the “fifth pillar of health” * Key findings from the World Health Organization’s 2019 report on arts and health * How creativity impacts the brain through sensory stimulation and emotional activation * The role of the arts in preventing illness and supporting recovery * How engaging with the arts can reduce loneliness and improve mental health * Why access to the arts is a public health issue—and what’s changing globally * Simple ways to begin incorporating the arts into your daily life Resources Mentioned: * WHO Report: What is the Evidence on the Role of the Arts in Improving Health and Well-being? [https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/what-is-the-evidence-on-the-role-of-the-arts-in-improving-health-and-well-being-a-scoping-review] * The Modern Creative Woman [https://moderncreativewoman.com/mini-coaching-package/] If You Loved This Episode: Leave a 5-star review and share a few words about what resonated with you. This helps more women discover the power of creativity as a tool for transformation. You can also support the podcast for as little as $3/month to help sustain and grow this work. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/support] Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com [https://arttherapycentersf.com/] Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ [https://mcusercontent.com/53c5579a5feca0090377003c7/files/b4f5b916-6160-01d5-e760-40b1327eac06/Modern_Creative_Woman_Manifesta.pdf] Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/ [https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/]

148. The Million Dollar Question

Ask me a question or let me know what you think! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/fan_mail/new] Have you ever noticed the kinds of questions you ask yourself throughout the day? In this episode of The Modern Creative Woman Podcast, Dr. Amy Backos explores the powerful role of our inner dialogue and how the questions we ask ourselves shape the answers our brains produce. Many women are familiar with harsh inner questions like “What’s wrong with me?” or “Why am I always like this?”—questions that tend to generate equally harsh responses. Dr. Backos introduces the idea that if we want better answers, we need to start by asking better questions. Drawing from principles in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, this episode explains how thoughts are not facts but natural biological events happening in the brain. When we begin to observe our thoughts rather than automatically believing them, we create space to choose how we respond. Dr. Backos offers a simple practice of noticing thoughts throughout the day to build awareness of the patterns that often run on repeat in our minds. From there, she introduces the concept of “thousand-dollar questions.” If every question you asked your brain cost $1,000, would you spend that money on criticism and self-doubt—or would you invest it in meaningful questions that guide you toward your values? Questions like “What matters most right now?”, “How do I want to show up in this moment?”, and “What action would help me feel proud of myself today?” invite curiosity, creativity, and self-compassion. The episode also includes an art-based reflection exercise. By journaling and responding visually to your questions through drawing or collage, you can deepen your insight and engage the creative process as a way of understanding yourself. Combining writing and art allows for a richer form of reflection than thinking alone. This episode is an invitation to rethink how you use your mind. When you begin asking higher-quality questions—questions rooted in curiosity, values, and possibility—you give your brain the opportunity to generate far more meaningful answers. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/support] Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com [https://arttherapycentersf.com/] Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ [https://mcusercontent.com/53c5579a5feca0090377003c7/files/b4f5b916-6160-01d5-e760-40b1327eac06/Modern_Creative_Woman_Manifesta.pdf] Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/ [https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/]

147. Creative Rest in Turbulent Times

Ask me a question or let me know what you think! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/fan_mail/new] In this episode of The Modern Creative Woman Podcast, Dr. Amy Backos explores an important question: How do we care for ourselves when the world feels overwhelming? Drawing from positive psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, she reminds listeners that acknowledging suffering in the world does not require abandoning our own joy, rest, or creativity. Sustainable advocacy and meaningful engagement depend on our ability to restore ourselves. True self-care isn’t selfish—it’s what allows us to keep showing up for our communities and the people we love. Dr. Backos introduces the concept of creative rest, inspired by the work of physician and author Sandra Dalton-Smith. Creative rest goes beyond sleep or relaxation; it involves resting the brain by nourishing the part of ourselves that seeks beauty, inspiration, and wonder. One powerful way to experience this kind of restoration is by engaging with art—even if we’re not making it ourselves. The episode highlights the therapeutic value of visiting museums and experiencing art as a viewer. Rather than worrying about art history or whether we “understand” a piece, Dr. Backos encourages listeners to approach art with curiosity and playfulness. A simple practice like playing “I-Spy” with artworks can transform a museum visit into an interactive, reflective experience that sparks creativity and emotional renewal. Dr. Backos also shares examples of women artists who have created powerful work around themes of peace and resilience, including Yoko Ono and contemporary artists responding to conflict and social change. Their work reminds us that art has always been a way for humans to process difficult realities while still imagining something better. Ultimately, this episode is an invitation to step away from constant productivity and news consumption and reconnect with the restorative power of creativity. Whether through visiting a museum, noticing street art, or simply allowing yourself moments of awe and reflection, creative rest can help restore energy, perspective, and hope. Women Artists creating peace mentioned in this episode Yoko Ono [https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-yoko-onos-5-iconic-works] Imagine Peace Tower, 2007 Juana Alicia, Miranda Bergman, Edythe Boone, Susan Kelk Cervantes, Meera Desai, Yvonne Littleton, Irene Perez [https://www.womensbuilding.org/our-building/the-mural]  Maestrapeace Mural 1994 Käthe Kollwitz [https://new.artsmia.org/programs/teachers-and-students/teaching-the-arts/art-in-context/making-peace] Never War Again!, 1924 https://www.google.com/search?q=Hisako+Hibi&client=safari&hs=ScpU&sca_esv=103eda2c29df25d7&rls=en&sxsrf=ANbL-n5xiDOEWoyYnROdRUvKQJaauGhucA%3A1773187915109&ei=S7Owab2eBs790PEPzZDboQs&biw=910&bih=743&ved=2ahUKEwjQhN3ox5aTAxXxDTQIHbgYAq0QgK4QegQIAxAK&uact=5&oq=famous+art+about+peace+by+women&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiH2ZhbW91cyBhcnQgYWJvdXQgcGVhY2UgYnkgd29tZW5IpxBQ5wNYyw5wAXgBkAEAmAGXAaAB1geqAQM0LjW4AQPIAQD4AQGYAgmgAsoHwgIKEAAYsAMY1gQYR8ICCBAAGBYYChgewgIGEAAYFhgewgILEAAYgAQYhgMYigXCAggQABiiBBiJBcICBRAAGO8FwgIFECEYoAHCAgUQIRirAsICBRAhGJ8FmAMAiAYBkAYIkgcDMS44oAeuJrIHAzAuOLgHxAfCBwUwLjIuN8gHI4AIAA&sclient=gws-wiz-serp Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199359/support] Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com [https://arttherapycentersf.com/] Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ [https://mcusercontent.com/53c5579a5feca0090377003c7/files/b4f5b916-6160-01d5-e760-40b1327eac06/Modern_Creative_Woman_Manifesta.pdf] Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/ [https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/]