Our creative practice can be not only healing to ourselves but also to others.  In a near-post pandemic world, many people are dealing with the stress of lives "upended as we make our way back to what was supposenly "normal".  The demand for ways to deal with and become more balanced through wellness practices are becoming more and more a much needed and welcomed part of our lives.

On this podcast,  my friend and guest Artis Moon Amarché talk about how art and creativity can be a part of that recovery through the healing arts. 

A Washington, DC native, Artis has lived a rich life as a independent interdisciplinary artist and educator, teaching and performing tap dance & percussion in the U.S. and abroad, producing & directing numerous residencies and performances; teaching visual & language arts; and working as a photographer, writer, & editor.  During this time she has also worked with a range of mindfulness and meditation disciplines, and thrilled to be fully on her path in the healing arts.  

Artis earned a BFA in Fine Arts​ from the Corcoran College of Art + Design in DC, and hold the following certifications - Usui Reiki Master Teacher, Life Coach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, BOLD Childbirth Educator, Diploma of Advanced Training from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, Television Producer through DCTV - and  trained in Somatic Approaches to Healing Trauma as well as guiding Yoga Nidra.  

Artis  currently serves as an Eclectic Soul - an interdisciplinary artist & holistic healing guide through her company The Boundless Life, based in Washington, DC.  With meditation, sound healing, Reiki, Transformational Coaching, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Psychology, the arts, and more, she works with multiple complimentary modalities in an intuitively customized and holistic way, in order to offer deep Restoration & tools for Transformation, provide balance on all levels,  to find the practices which resonate with her clients. 

During our discussion, we talked about how she infuses her artistic and creative practice through healing arts such as crystal bowls, drums, flute etc. And how the arts benefits wellness practices, as a form of sacred "medicine."

You can learn more about Artis Moon below:

Website: https://www.theboundlesslife.net/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/theboundlesslife
Twitter: https://twitter.com/boundlessvoice


This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching.  Learn more about our services for artists, creatives and writers at www.sparkyourcreative.com and follow us on Instagram: @sparkyourcreative, Twitter: @spark_create or Facebook: Facebook.com/SparkYourCreative.

Theme music for the Spark Your Creative Podcast was created exclusively by Melvin Rodgers: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

Episode 34:  Art as Medicine

As we continue to move through these unprecedented times, it's important to find ways to stay centered and stay creative. We can find ourselves overwhelmed and frustrated, and finding it more and more difficult to connect to our creative muse in light of COVID 19, natural disasters and social and economic strife that has affected our communities, families or ourselves. I thought it would be helpful to reach out to my friends, clients and colleagues to share how they are navigating these times to reach their full creative potential. I will be sharing their advice and stories in this new series entitled Creating in Uncertain Times of the Spark Your Creative Podcast that I hope will help those of you who may need support to stay creative.   

Our first topic in this series is The Joy of Journaling for Calmness and Creativity.  I am pleased to have Lisa Tener, award-winning book writing coach and author of the new book, The Joy of Writing Journal: Spark Your Creativity in 8 Minutes A Day" as the first guest in this special series.

The Joy of Writing Journal guides you to get into the creative flow and develop a writing practice with a month’s worth of daily eight-minute exercises. The book includes: soul-excavating daily writing prompts,, links to exclusive guided meditations, access to inspirational videos from accomplished authors, guidance to turn your writing exercises into short stories, essays, or books and helpful tips for working through creative blocks.  You can purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FS5D14T

I was thrilled to be a part of her writing workshops for my ongoing writing project and was one of the subjects of her accompanying videos for this book under the topic "Words we Love" which you can check out here: https://www.lisatener.com/words-we-love/

During our discussion, we talk about the power of writing as a way to work through these current uncertain times to help us move past creative blocks.  Lisa also shares some ways she has been able to write this book through through these challenging times as well.  

About Lisa Tener:

Lisa Tener is an award-winning book coach and founder of "Bring Your Book to Life." Whether teaching an intimate retreat, leading a lively Zoom writing session, or inspiring hundreds of health and wellness practitioners in a filled-to-capacity conference center, she is known for her ability to help writers bring forth their best work.

Learn more about Lisa Tener:

Instagram: @lisa_tener_writes
Website:  lisatener.com
Facebook: writeandcreatewithlisatener
Twitter @LisaTener
This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching.  Learn more about our services for artists, creatives , and writers at http://sparkyourcreative.com and follow on Instagram: @sparkyurcreative, Twitter: @Spark_Create or Facebook: Facebook.com/SparkYourCreative  You can find the Spark Your Creative podcast on SoundCloud, Stitcher or Google Play.

Theme music for the Spark Your Creative Podcast was created exclusively by Melvin Rodgers: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

Episode 36: The Joy of Writing for Calmness and Creativity

This is the last of the mini-series of Filling the Well: Self Care and Wellness for Artists, Writers and Creatives which began in 2022.  This podcast, Sharon Burton, CEO of Spark Your Creative podcast discusses tips to keep physically healthy and mentally well during the age of COVID.
Theme music for the Spark Your Creative Podcast was created exclusively by Melvin Rodgers: store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching founded by Sharon Burton, certified creativity coach for creatives at mid-life looking to revitalize, reclaim, discover or unblock their creative gifts. You can learn more about Spark Your Creative at sparkyourcreative.com. You can also follow on social media at Instagram: @sparkyourcreative, Facebook: Spark Your Creative Coaching and Twitter: @spark_create.

Please drop a comment and subscribe to this podcast to keep up with creative tips and information.

Episode 45 - Self-Care for Creativity

Is it ever too late to be the creative that you always wanted to be? Can you have a thriving creative life well into your "golden years?"

Yes, yes you can!  

Engaging in a creative life as an older adult can bring numerous advantages, contributing to physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Whether it's painting, writing, music, or any other form of creative expression, the key is to find joy and fulfillment in the process. 

In this latest episode which is part of the In The Flow: Creating Over 40 I interview a thriving artist, musician and writer who is finding joy by living her best creative life in her "golden years."

My special guest for this podcast is Dr. Sandra E. Wilson, a vibrant  multi-passionate creative whose life highlights the epitome of creativity.  Art, writing and music has been a passion of hers since she was a child and in her 30s, she began painting and writing which she has continued non-stop until this day.

Dr. Wilson is a published writer of poetry, prose, plays and fiction.  She is also a award winning painter having participated in  
in numerous exhibits in galleries and art spaces  in the Greater Philadelphia and Washington, DC areas including the African American Museum of Philadelphia.  She is accomplished pianist as well.

An extra special note....Dr. Wilson is also my cousin who I have the privilege of getting to know on a personal and creative basis since 2020!

During our discussion, we talked about the following topics: 

-How Dr. Wilson started her creative journey and what was her inspiration.

-How she stays creative and her creative routine.

-The advantage of maintaining a creative practice at this time of her life. 

-  Her advice for people who think it's too late to launch a creative life. 

About Dr. Sandra Wilson:

With a background in education, Dr. Sandra E. Wilson holds a B.A. in Elementary Education with a concentration in Special Education from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, an M.A. in Education from Montclair University, an M.A. in Humanities with a concentration in Fine Arts from Beaver College ( now Arcadia University), and a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Urban Education with a Minor in Communications from Temple University. She has served as a Adjunct Professor of Education at Montgomery County Community College (PA) and Temple University, inspiring and educating future generations.

Dr. Wilson is currently writing a book of historical fiction which she hopes to publish in 2024.  She is a member of the Women's Caucus of Art, Greater Washington, DC chapter.
Follow me on social media at 

Instagram: @sparkyourcreative
Faceboook: Spark Your Creative Coaching
Youtube: http://youtube.com/@sparkyourcreativecoaching6582

Video versions of this podcast can be found at the Youtube link above.

Please drop a comment and subscribe to this podcast to keep up with creativity tips and information.

Theme music for the Spark Your Creative Podcast was created exclusively by Melvin Rodgers: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

Episode 52: Staying Creative in Your Golden Years

We're BACK!

Join me for an inspiring interview with NakitaJay Poet, a talented writer who discovered her passion for poetry at just 9 years old. Since then, NakitaJay has been captivating audiences with her words, winning first place with her poem "A World In Tune" and going on to perform at poetry events across the country.

NakitaJay is a true artist, participating in local showcases in the Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina area and even co-authoring a book of quotes titled "Life, & I Quote." She's also the CEO of YourBestLifeCurator LLC (focused on intimacy, self care and business) and  co-founder of Poetic Divas LLC, a platform dedicated to using poetry as a tool for healing and self-expression, especially for women.

But NakitaJay's talents don't stop there. She's also a skilled photographer, the founder of GotYouInTheScope Photography, and a Bedroom Kandi Independent consultant, offering a range of adult intimate items, bath and body products, and makeup. Additionally, NakitaJay is a trained Life Coach, ready to help clients achieve their goals and overcome obstacles.

During our conversation, we talk about how she has become her Best Creative Life Curator.  Specifically we talk about 

-Her personal  creative journey from a small town in Alabama. 
-Her challenges with maintaining her creative process and how she  stays inspired.
-Her advice to people over 40 who want to launch a creative life.

Don't miss our conversation with NakitaJay Poet, and be sure to check out her out at the links below. to learn more about her work and upcoming projects!

Website: YourBestLifeCurator.Life
Instagram: @yourbestlifecuratorllc and @gotyouinthescope (photography)

Episode 53: Be Your Best Creative Life Curator

Ever feel that you're not really are not artists, writers, musicians, etc. because it's an identity you don't feel "qualified" to be?

In this new episode of the Spark Your Creative Podcast, we are exploring how to shift our view of imposter syndrome, especially for creatives over 40. 

I am joined  by Christina Smith, a life coach specializing in confidence for midlife women. Christina's insights into imposter syndrome and her book, "Inviting Shift," have helped many navigate tough transitions with grace and authenticity.

In this episode, Christina shares her personal journey with imposter syndrome and its prevalence among those over 40 who are stepping into new creative ventures. She offers practical advice for overcoming feelings of inadequacy and embracing your authentic self.

Join us as we delve into these important topics and learn how to be more gentle with our humanness so we can shine as we choose to. If you're ready to embrace your authenticity and truth with confidence, this episode is for you.

To learn more about Christina and her work, visit:

Website: https://christina-smith.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christina_smith_xoxo/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/invitingshift

A video version of the podcast may be found on the Spark Your Creative YouTube Channel at @sparkyourcreativecoaching6582

This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching.  Learn more about services for artists, authors, and other creatives at http://SparkYourCreative.com.

Follow on the socials at Instagram: @SparkYourCreative, Facebook: Spark Your Creative .

Theme music for the podcast was created by Melvin Rodgers: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

Episode 54: Shifting Our View of Imposter Syndrome

Join us for this exciting new episode of the Spark Your Creative Podcast as Chris Miller, also known as The Spiritual Artist, shares his inspiring journey into the world of art. From his early beginnings to his evolution as an artist, Chris will delve into the pivotal moments, challenges, and revelations that shaped his path. Hear how his unique perspective on creativity and spirituality intertwined to form his distinctive artistic voice.  

We dive into a discussion about  his book, "Spiritual Artist: We Are Designed to Create," providing insights into its core themes and messages. He  outlines what readers can expect from the book and how it serves as a guide to unlocking and nurturing their creative potential. Whether you're an experienced artist or just starting, find out how this book can offer valuable lessons and inspiration for your creative life and passions.

Chris also shares what it means to be a Spiritual Artist. Discover how he integrates spiritual practices with his creative process and how this fusion enhances his artistic expression. Learn about the philosophies and approaches that define a Spiritual Artist and how this perspective can transform one's artistic journey.

Finally, Chris offers practical advice for those at midlife looking to revive, rediscover, or launch their creative endeavors. Drawing from his personal experiences and insights, he provides actionable tips and encouragement for midlife individuals to embrace their creativity, overcome obstacles, and embark on a fulfilling artistic journey.

Learn more and follow Chris below:

Website: http://spiritualartisttoday.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cjmillerart/  
YouTube (The Spiritual Artist Podcast): https://www.youtube.com/@thespiritualartist123
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cjmillerart

Note:  I was thrilled to be a guest with Chris on the Spiritual Artist podcast which focused on my new book Creative Sparks: 21 Affirmations and Inspiration for Creativity at Midlife.  You can check that out at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Erp58mEd6o&t=13s



A video version of the podcast may be found on the Spark Your Creative YouTube Channel at @sparkyourcreativecoaching6582

This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching.  Learn more about services for artists, authors, and other creatives at http://SparkYourCreative.com.

Follow on the socials at Instagram: @SparkYourCreative, 
Facebook: Spark Your Creative .

Theme music for the podcast was created by Melvin Rodgers: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

Episode 55: The Making of a Spiritual Artist

Join us for Episode 56 of the Spark Your Creative Podcast to hear Wendy Battles' expert advice and encouraging words on how to embrace your creativity at midlife. Whether you're looking to rediscover a long-lost passion or embark on a new creative journey, this episode offers valuable guidance and inspiration.

In this episode, Wendy Battles shares her inspiring journey as a coach dedicated to empowering midlife women and her advice for embracing your creativity at midlife. Cybersecurity Awareness expert at Yale University by day, Wendy Battles pursues her passion for celebrating, illuminating and elevating midlife and older women, by night.

As the host of the Reinvention Rebels podcast, Wendy interviews brave and unapologetic women, 50-90 years young, who have reinvented themselves later in life to see new possibilities. From starting a natural beauty brand for silver-haired women at 54 to traveling solo around the world with a carry-on bag at 60, to launching a modeling career at 72, these women are boldly making their dreams a priority and reality. Wendy shines a light on the notion that we can reinvent ourselves at any age or any stage and is helping to disrupt limiting beliefs about the value of aging women in our society.

At 59, Wendy is a Reinvention Rebel herself, having reinvented herself many times during her life including as a management consultant, voice actor, and health coach. Her most recent reinvention as a podcast host is by far her most rewarding. Along her journey of greater self-awareness, she's learned the art of living on purpose, valuing her worth, and embracing life with more joy, 
ease, and trust.

For those who may be hesitant about embracing their creative potential, Wendy provides practical advice on gaining the confidence to move forward. She shares strategies and tips to overcome self-doubt and take bold steps towards a more creative life. Wendy's insights will inspire you to trust in your abilities and pursue your artistic dreams with enthusiasm and assurance.

Learn more and follow Wendy at the links below:

Podcast/Website : https://reinventionrebels.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reinventionrebels/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReinventionRebels
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyabattles/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reinventionrebels

Also, check out 5 Questions to Spark Your Curiosity and Ignite Your Reinvention Rebel Journey, a brief audio that walks you through five questions that will you explore new possibilities to dream bigger and reinvent with joy. at https://wondrous-composer-3107.ck.page/84cc8de5f5

This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching.  Learn more about services for artists, authors, and other creatives at http://SparkYourCreative.com.   A video version of some of the podcasts may be found on the Spark Your Creative YouTube Channel at @sparkyourcreativecoaching6582.

Follow me on the socials at Instagram: @SparkYourCreative, Facebook: Spark Your Creative.

Theme music for the podcast was created by Melvin Rogers: https//store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.


Like, subscribe and share this episode and others.  Comment on your thoughts below!

Episode 56 Embracing Your Creativity at Midlife

In this insightful episode of the Spark Your Creative Podcast, I sit down with actress, filmmaker, and producer Nicole T. Carr to explore the unexpected twists and turns that often arise in a creative journey. 

Nicole's (Nicci as she is affectionately called) acting career was moving to new heights as she began her career as a background actress, where she was featured on  television and movies such as The West Wing, Fat Albert and Beauty Shop.  You’ve probably seen Nicci on TV – frequently! That’s because she was featured on a popular nationwide Adweek's 2021 Commercial of the Year GEICO- Tag Team Helps with Dessert!

In the midst of her growing career success in acting and higher education administration, she suddenly had to face a personal experience that temporarily sidelined her accomplishments.  Nicci shares her wisdom on navigating detours, overcoming obstacles, and staying resilient in the face of challenges. 

Whether you're an aspiring artist or an established creative, this conversation will inspire you to embrace the unpredictable path of creativity and find new opportunities in the most unlikely places. Tune in for a dose of motivation and practical advice on how to keep your creative spirit alive, no matter where the road takes you.

About Nicole (Nicci) Carr:

Affectionately known as Nicci with 2c's, she was born in Harlem, New York and spent her formidable years living in The Bronx, New York before relocating to Richmond, Virginia.  Through the guidance of her mother and aunt,  Nicci quickly immersed herself into the arts, participating in SPARC, a performance based after-school program,playing the harp in school plays and also singing and playing the piano at church.

After completing her BA in Political Science at Saint Paul's College (SPC) and working towards a Masters degree while working in the field of education in Washington, DC, Nicci caught the acting bug and relocated in Los Angeles to pursue a career as an actress.

After a number of years in Los Angeles,  Nicci  relocated to Atlanta, Georgia and decided to return to school to earn a bachelor's degree in film and media (2022). As part of her program requirements, she created a documentary on the life and legacy of James Solomon Russell, founder of Saint Paul's Normal and Industrial Institute, later becoming Saint Paul's College.  While completing the documentary and also beginning graduate school for a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theatre, Nicci was diagnosed with Triple Negative Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (TBNC) in 2021.  Nicci completed 15 rounds, multiple surgeries and has consistently tested N.E.D. (No Evidence of Disease) since completing chemo in November 2022.  

She completed the documentary in 2023 entitled "James Solomon Russell: Adventures in Faith", premiering it on March 25, 2023 which has since been featured in several independent film festivals across the country, receiving the DMV International Film Festival Best Documentary Short Award in June of 2024.

Nicci is currently completing her MFA in Theatre (Acting and Directing) at Randolph College, Lynchburg, Virginia and works in the Archives at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. 

Learn more and follow Nicci below:

Website: https://www.niccicarr.com/
Instagram: @iamniccismiles2u
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NicciSmiles/

This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching.  Learn more about services for artists, authors, and other creatives at http://SparkYourCreative.com.  A video version of some of the podcasts may be found at the Spark Your Creative YouTube Channel at @sparkyourcreativecoaching6582.

Follow me on the socials at 

Instagram: @SparkYourCreative
Facebook: Spark Your Creative

Theme music for the podcast was created by Melvin Rogers:
https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers

Episode 57: Overcoming Detours and Roadblocks

Are you ready to rediscover, reclaim or reignite your creative flame and embark on an exciting journey of self-expression and imagination?

Welcome to a new series of the Spark Your Creative Podcast which is focusing on the book Creative Sparks: 21 Affirmations & Inspiration for Creativity at Midlife by Sharon J. Burton, CEO of Spark Your Creative Coaching.

This episode introduces the new series and provides an overview of the book, which was published in 2024 through Swiner Publishing Company.  During this series, Sharon will be sharing a few chapters and interviewing some of the artists, writers, and other creatives whose testimonies and advice is featured throughout the book on a number of topics that affect creative process.

Within the pages of Creative Sparks: 21 Affirmations & Inspiration for Creativity at Midlife, you'll discover:

21 Empowering Affirmations: Harness the power of positive thinking to silence your inner critic and awaken your creative genius. These affirmations are like a secret code, unlocking the gates to your boundless imagination.

Creativity Tips: Gain invaluable wisdom from an artist, poet and creativity coach who’s been there…and who has worked with artists, writers and other creatives to unblock and move forward with their creative flow..

Inspiration: From visual artists, writers, and creatives who have ventured into the uncharted realms of inspiration. Learn their secrets, habits, and techniques to channel your creativity into something remarkable.

Unleash Your Unique Brilliance & Hidden Potential: Midlife is a season of self-discovery and reinvention. "Creative Sparks" will help you through journal exercises to rekindle your artistic passions, guiding you to create your most meaningful and fulfilling work yet.. From painting to writing, music to crafts, you'll find the inspiration to embrace your artistic calling, no matter your chosen medium.

Creative Sparks is available on Amazon.com (Kindle or Paperback) and a signed copy can be ordered on the Spark Your Creative website at SparkYourCreative.com/store/html.

A video version of the podcast may be found for certain episodes on the Spark Your Creative YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@sparkyourcreativecoaching6582

This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching. Learn more about services for artists, authors, and other creatives at SparkYourCreative.com.

Follow on the socials at Instagram: @SparkYourCreative, Facebook: Spark Your Creative .

Theme music for the podcast was created by Melvin Rodgers: store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

Subscribe, like, comment and share!

Episode 58: Creative Sparks Unleashed- A New Podcast Series

This episode is a second of the new podcast series entitled Creative Sparks Unleashed  focusing on the book Creative Sparks: 21 Affirmations & Inspiration for Creativity at Midlife by Sharon J. Burton, CEO of Spark Your Creative Coaching, which was published in 2024 through Swiner Publishing Company. During this series, Sharon  will be sharing a few chapters and interviewing some of the artists, writers, and other creatives whose testimonies and advice is featured throughout the book on a number of topics that affect creative process.

This episode is focusing on Affirmations as a Tool for Creative Flow and features Roxanne Bradley-Tate, of Roxanne Bradley Designs, who did the cover for Creative Sparks.

The book features 21 Empowering Affirmations that are designed to harness the power of positive thinking to silence your inner critic and awaken your creative genius. These affirmations are like a secret code, unlocking the gates to your boundless imagination.

During this episode, Sharon talks about why she highlighted affirmations as the basis for the book, what affirmations are and how they can help creatives become more positive about their artistic work and their contributions.  Roxanne shares how affirmations work for her as a graphic designer, illustrator and botantical artist.

About Roxanne Bradley-Tate:

Roxanne Bradley-Tate is a multifaceted creative who has worked for several well-known and respected legacy, luxury and lifestyle brands. After graduating from the Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in graphic design, she began her career at Hallmark Cards and worked her way up to art director leading a full creative team. She later attended graduate school at the Savannah College of Art and Design while working with Gulfstream Aerospace. After graduating with a MFA in graphic design, Roxanne worked as an art director with Target’s in-house creative agency.

Roxanne acted as design director for multiple luxury and lifestyle brands at Marriott International, creating design solutions for every touchpoint along the customer journey. Most recently, she completed a consultant role with MGM Resorts International as lead communications designer on their digital team.

She is currently an independent designer in the Washington, DC metro area where she resides with her husband and two children, exploring new nature trails and creating botanical art in her free time.

Creative Sparks is available on Amazon.com (Kindle or Paperback) and a signed copy can be ordered on the Spark Your Creative website at SparkYourCreative.com/store/html.

A video version of the podcast may be found for certain episodes on the Spark Your Creative YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/@sparkyourcreativecoaching6582

This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching. Learn more about services for artists, authors, and other creatives at SparkYourCreative.com.

Follow on the socials at Instagram: @SparkYourCreative, Facebook: Spark Your Creative .

Theme music for the podcast was created by Melvin Rodgers: store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

Subscribe, like, comment and share!

Episode 59: Creative Sparks Unleashed - Affirmations as a Tool for Creative Flow

This episode is the third of the  podcast series entitled Creative Sparks Unleashed  focusing on the book Creative Sparks: 21 Affirmations & Inspiration for Creativity at Midlife by Sharon J. Burton, CEO of Spark Your Creative Coaching, which was published in 2024 through Swiner Publishing Company. During this series, Sharon  will be sharing a few chapters and interviewing some of the artists, writers, and other creatives whose testimonies and advice is featured throughout the book on a number of topics that affect creative process.

This episode is focusing on  Affirmatiion 2: I Embrace My Inner Creativity (Chapter 2)  and features Maria Geary, a mixed media artist from North Carolina, who was interviewed for the book. 

Sharon believes that the most important part of unblocking and sparking our creative flow is acknowledging our creative identity.  But why do we find ourselves fending off any reference to being an artist, writer, or musician when someone may call us that?  Why do we feel like we are an imposter when we refer to our creativity and our creative selves?

During this episode, Sharon and Maria talk about their journeys to owning their creative identity as artists and  and share tips on owning that part of yourself.

About Maria Geary: 

Maria Geary is a Durham, NC based mixed media and fiber artist with a passion for visual journaling.  She creates bold and expressive art and her work is influenced by her spirituality, journaling practice and social issues. She incorporates texture and found objects and encourages viewers to contemplate the feelings the art unveils.

You can learn more about Maria and her work below:

Website: https://relaxinginart.com/
Facebook:  Relaxing In Art
Instagram: @relaxinginart

The book, Creative Sparks is available on Amazon.com (Kindle or Paperback) and a signed copy can be ordered on the Spark Your Creative website at SparkYourCreative.com/store/html.

A video version of the podcast may be found for certain episodes on the Spark Your Creative YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/@sparkyourcreativecoaching6582

This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching. Learn more about services for artists, authors, and other creatives at SparkYourCreative.com.

Follow on the socials at Instagram: @SparkYourCreative, Facebook: Spark Your Creative .

Theme music for the podcast was created by Melvin Rodgers: store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

Subscribe, like, comment and share!

Episode 60:  Creative Sparks Unleashed - Embracing Our Inner Creator

This episode is the fourth of the podcast series entitled Creative Sparks Unleashed focusing on the book Creative Sparks: 21 Affirmations & Inspiration for Creativity at Midlife by Yours Truly,  Sharon J. Burton, which was published in 2024 through Swiner Publishing Company.  During the series, I will be sharing a few chapters and interviewing some of the artists, writers, and other creatives whose advice is featured throughout the book on an number of topics that affect the creative process.

In this inspiring episode of the Spark Your Creative Podcast, we're diving into the world of Feel Good Spaces—the focus of a powerful chapter in my book entitled Affirmation  6:  My Space Nurtures and Supports My Creative Practice (P. 52).  I'm joined by my best friend and twin sister, Sherry Steine—author, artist, and multidisciplinary wellness consultant and founder of Aligned Expressions.

Together, we explore what it means to create a nurturing environment that supports your creative flow, no matter how much (or how little) space you have. From the importance of lighting and aromatherapy to using color, sound, and intention, Sherry shares her holistic insights on how to turn any corner of your life into a sanctuary for expression and well-being.

Whether you're working from a full studio or a kitchen table, you'll come away with accessible, soulful tips to design a space that truly feels good—and inspires your best creative work.

About Sherry Steine:

Sherry is  a Certified therapeutic yin yoga teacher, home energy practitioner, and aromatherapist, specializing  in using ancient techniques for physical, mental, and spiritual resiliency.  She is also an accomplished art doll and watercolor visual artist. 

Sherry received her 500 Hour Yoga Teacher training and  specializes in Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda,  Trauma Sensitive Restorative Yoga , Depression and Yoga, Yoga & Mindfulness for Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma,  Women, Embodiment, and Trauma Recovery.  She is currently completing studies for her International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) Certification.

In addition, Sherry has been an artist for a number of years and has exhibited her art dolls and watercolor artwork in juried art exhibitions across the country.

Learn more about and follow Sherry:

Artwork: https://www.facebook.com/SankofaStudio
Website (Wellness): https://www.sbwaligned.com/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/SBWAlignedInstagram (Wellness)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alignedexpress/  (Wellness) or https://www.instagram.com/sankofaartsstudio/  (Art) 

The book, Creative Sparks is available on Amazon.com (Kindle or Paperback) and a signed copy can be ordered on the Spark Your Creative website at SparkYourCreative.com/store/html.

A video version of the podcast may be found for select episodes on the Spark Your Creative YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/@sparkyourcreativecoaching6582

This podcast is a service of Spark Your Creative Coaching.  Learn more about services for artists, authors, creatives, etc. at SparkYourCreative.com.

Follow on the socials at Instagram: @SparkYourCreative or Facebook: Spark Your Creative Coach.

Theme music for the podcast was created by Melvin Rodgers: store.cdbaby.com/cd/melvinrogers.

Subscribe, like, comment and share!


Episode 61: Creative Sparks Unleashed - Feel Good Spaces for Creative Living

The Spark Your Creative Podcast (formerly the Mindfully Creative podcast) explores how art is being used for personal and community healing as well as some tips on how creatives can break through barriers to make their “art” whatever that might look like.  Hosted by Sharon Burton of Powered by Spark Your Creative Coaching  (www.sparkyourcreative.com) and SJB Creative Ventures.  Intro music by Melvin Rogers (https://store.cdbaby.com/Artist/MelvinRogers)

Spark Your Creative Podcast

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