Created Creative Podcast

Dawn and Ruth are back with another book group, and this time they're diving into Jen Hatmaker's new book Awake, which is basically a masterclass in personal growth, resilience, and figuring out who the heck you are when everything falls apart.Look, we're getting real real here: ministry challenges, full-blown identity crises, and the messy, beautiful work of adapting when life throws you a curveball the size of Minnesota. Because here's the thing—change is coming whether you're ready or not, and you've got two choices: resist it or lean in and see what's on the other side.They're talking about the guts it takes to be authentic in leadership (spoiler: it's harder than it looks), how major life transitions can actually set you free instead of breaking you, and why community matters when you're in the thick of it. Because you can't do this alone.This episode is for anyone who's ever felt stuck, lost, or like they need permission to reinvent themselves. Consider this your permission slip: You don't have to stay who you were. You get to become who you're meant to be. So grab your coffee, settle in, and let's talk about staying true to yourself when life gets messy. Because it will. And that's okay.LINKS:Check out Dawn's coaching (and new Discern by Doing for Business group starting January 5!) at https://bigpicturebigpurpose.com/discern-by-doing-2/ConseCrate Subscription Box: consecrate.cratejoy.com00:23 Book Club Dynamics and Reading Habits01:30 Discussion on Jen Hatmaker's Book01:49 Themes of Awakening and Personal Growth03:26 Identity and Role in Ministry05:19 Navigating Personal and Professional Transitions07:25 Freedom After Loss11:31 Midlife Transitions and Wisdom12:54 Authenticity and Public Image13:55 Balancing Personal and Public Life as a Pastor14:14 Navigating Personal Challenges in the Public Eye14:38 The Importance of Privacy and Boundaries15:01 Impact of Family and Personal History16:26 Gender Roles and Personal Growth17:55 Challenges in Ministry and Coaching20:08 Systemic Issues in Church Support25:12 Building a Business Alongside Ministry27:01 Reflections on Jen Hatmaker's Book

You don't need a massive budget to change lives. Sometimes all it takes is a little bit of money in the right hands and a whole lot of heart.Dawn and Ruth host Blessing, who is doing something absolutely beautiful. She's running a grassroots micro grant program that's spreading joy in both Zimbabwe and New York City—proof that small projects and faith-based initiatives can create massive ripples in communities. We're talking real people, real needs, real transformation.This episode is your reminder that you don't have to wait for some big organization or perfect moment to make a difference. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is see a need, gather your people, and just start.LINKS:Check out Dawn's coaching at bigpicturebigpurpose.comConseCrate subscription box: consecrate.cratejoy.com00:00 Introduction00:19 Parenting and Letting Go01:23 Memories and Early Childhood04:54 New York Politics and Community08:21 Introducing Blessing09:58 Blessing's Background and Cultural Identity13:59 Christmas Joy Project18:15 Grassroots Initiatives and Organizational Dynamics19:22 Role and Responsibilities at the Synod Office19:33 Faith Formation and Deia Program20:51 Experiences with the Cross and Clergy Perception22:33 Sparkle Joy Project in New York City24:19 Funding and Expanding Micro Grants29:44 Future Projects and Personal Reflections31:14 Creativity and Spirituality33:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This week’s wisdom: Focus on what you can control, and let the rest go. Seriously. Let it go.Dawn and Ruth are breaking down the whole "circle of concern versus circle of influence" thing, which sounds fancy but really just means stop spinning your wheels on stuff that's out of your hands. Instead, find tangible ways to help, create, and show up for your people. It’s exactly what Ruth has been doing for FIVE YEARS with her ConseCrate subscription box (which is a whole milestone worth celebrating), these two are getting real about the challenges, the joys, and what it takes to build something that lasts. Five years of curating meaningful resources for church leaders? That's not nothing, friends.Oh, and they're spilling the tea on Dawn’s small group 'Discern by Doing for Business‘—a space where people start and sustain real, successful businesses by actually doing the thing instead of just talking about it. Revolutionary concept, right? So if you're feeling overwhelmed by everything you can't control, this episode's your permission slip to focus on what you can do.LINKS:Check out Dawn's coaching and groups at bigpicturebigpurpose.comConseCrate Subscription Box - consecrate.cratejoy.com00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:17 Halloween Festivities00:51 New York Trick-or-Treatingrate.cratejoy.com02:11 Circle of Influence vs. Circle of Concern02:27 Voting and Local Government04:02 Community Involvement and Despair06:39 Finding Joy Amidst Challenges09:46 Historical Context and Perspective10:56 Reflecting on the First Consecrate Box11:47 Lessons Learned Over Five Years12:16 The Evolution of Packaging and Shipping13:13 Gifts Beyond the Box14:10 How to Get the Anniversary Box14:31 The Consecrate Community16:07 Expanding the Business: Etsy Shop16:32 Future Plans and Business Insights17:55 The Joy of Entrepreneurship20:28 Celebrating Five Years and Looking Ahead

Theater and Church Aren't That Different, Actually with Todd DavisonTodd Davison is the artistic director of Maples Repertory Theater in Macon, Missouri, and this guy gets it. He knows that whether you're putting on a show or leading a church service, you're really just gathering people together knowing something magical happens. Dawn and Ruth sit down with Todd to talk about the beautiful chaos of producing live theater in a small Midwestern town (which, let's be honest, takes vision), and how his church work and theater work are basically two sides of the same coin. Every performance is different, every audience is unique, and you can't control it—you just show up and let it unfold. Sound like Sunday morning? Exactly.Todd also gets real about his puppetry days (yes, puppetry), how he picks shows that'll actually resonate with his community, his casting philosophy, and how he juggles approximately seventeen responsibilities without losing his mind. Here's the thing: Creativity and spirituality are deeply connected, and Todd's living proof that you don't have to choose between them. You just build community wherever you are and trust the process.So grab your coffee and settle in—this one's good.LINKS:01:37 The Role of Community in Theater03:26 Church and Theater: A Symbiotic Relationship09:19 Todd's Journey into Theater11:37 Selecting and Producing Shows12:59 Challenges and Successes in Theater Production15:14 The Church Basement Ladies Series16:50 Personalizing Productions: Pirates of Penance and More18:09 Recruiting Actors: Pre and Post COVID19:41 The Challenges of Remote Auditions20:21 Building a Theater Community23:37 Favorite Creators and Inspirations25:24 Choosing Plays with Purpose29:12 Balancing Multiple Responsibilities33:41 Creativity and Spirituality

Celebrating 100 Episodes (Yes, We Made It!)Holy buckets, friends—we hit 100 episodes, and Dawn and Ruth are celebrating the only way that makes sense: on a gorgeous farm, reflecting on this wild ride. We've had incredible guests, technical disasters that would make you weep, and more small-town charm than you can shake a stick at. We're talking regional theater stories, parade appearances (because of course), and all the behind-the-scenes chaos that comes with building something from scratch.Here's what matters: You showed up. Episode after episode, you listened, you shared, you became part of this thing we're building together. And we're not gonna lie—we're getting a little misty about it. So join us for the farm tour (it's as picturesque as it sounds), some good old-fashioned reminiscing about our early episodes when we barely knew what we were doing, and a whole lot of gratitude for this community. Because honestly? We couldn't have done this without you.Here's to 100 more, and whatever beautiful chaos comes next. We're just getting started.00:00 Celebrating 100 Episodes!00:11 Life on the Farm00:55 The Big Parade02:20 Reflecting on 100 Episodes04:22 Memorable Guests and Moments11:02 The Life of a Professional Actor12:08 Travel and Flowers12:51 Exploring the Farm14:19 Small Town Charm14:42 Theater and Community18:35 Returning to New York23:22 Reflections and Future PlansFind out more about Dawn's coaching: www.bigpicturebigpurpose.comOrder a ConseCrate for your favorite minister! consecrate.cratejoy.com

Opportunities are literally everywhere, and Dawn and Ruth are here to prove it.Dawn's deep in the thick of performing in 'Church Basement Ladies' in Missouri (which, if you know, you know), and Ruth just MacGyvered her microwave back to life with a 3D-printed handle from eBay. You read that right—eBay. Someone out there printed handles, listed them online, and is making money off broken microwaves. This is the kind of scrappy genius we're celebrating today.Here's the deal: You don't need some massive, world-changing idea to build something meaningful. Sometimes the best business opportunities are hiding in the small, annoying problems you solve every single day. Like Duolingo's founder, who looked at expensive language learning and said, "Well, that's ridiculous," and then built an app that millions of people use for free.Oh, and PSA: It's Clergy Appreciation Month, so maybe go ahead and gift your pastor something nice from Consecrate. They've earned it.Now go find your microwave handle moment, okay?LINKS:Explore Discern by Doing with Dawn: https://bigpicturebigpurpose.com/discern-by-doing-2/ConseCrate Subscription Box - consecrate.cratejoy.com00:00 Starting a Business: Identifying Needs00:17 Introduction to Created Creative00:21 Life in Missouri: Theater and Community01:08 The Iconic 'Daily Bread' Photograph02:11 Church Basement Ladies: A Musical Journey04:21 The Importance of Community and Support08:09 Maintaining Relationships Across Distances09:20 A Story of Innovation: Fixing the Microwave Handle12:12 Appliance Overload in a Tiny Apartment13:08 The Convenience of Extra Fridges13:58 Settling into a New Apartment15:12 Understanding Community Needs17:16 Unexpected Connections in Public20:00 The Story Behind Duolingo21:46 Taking the First Step to Solve Problems22:22 Clergy Appreciation Month

This episode is about showing up to build the life you want. Dawn and Ruth sit down with Michelle Wahila, an ordained Presbyterian pastor who said "nope" to traditional ministry and is now marrying English-speaking couples in Paris, leading retreats, and writing liturgies that'll punch you right in the feels. She's raising her kids French-style, navigating the gorgeous chaos of expat life, and just wrote a book called Ruffled by Grace.But here's the thing: Michelle's wrestling with the scary possibility of moving back to the States for family reasons, and wondering if her ministry can exist beyond Paris. Spoiler alert—it can, and we're gonna talk about why. This one's for anyone who's ever wondered if there's a creative, unconventional path forward when life throws you a curveball. Because there is, friend. There absolutely is.LINKS: https://www.discernbydoing.com/consecrate.cratejoy.com - It's Clergy Appreciation Month! Surprise your friend in ministry with a ConseCrate!00:00 A Dreamy Start at the Eiffel Tower00:16 Welcome to Creative: Meet Dawn and Ruth00:36 The Joys and Challenges of Community Theater02:09 A Day on the Farm03:48 Exploring Fergus Falls' History06:23 Introducing Michelle Wala: A Unique Ministry in Paris11:36 Raising Third Culture Kids in France14:23 Michelle's Book: Healing Through Quirky Liturgies16:50 Travel Show Ideas and Creative Practices18:19 Writing Process and Book Journey19:06 Publisher Collaboration and Book Launch21:07 Homecoming and Emotional Events23:18 Creative Collaborations in Paris24:16 Building a Business and Future Plans26:08 Balancing Family and Career28:29 Entrepreneurial Pastor and Future Steps31:37 Conclusion and Book Information

In this catch-up episode, Dawn's been knee-deep in the Missouri theater scene, choreographing and directing a comedy production that's apparently been running longer than some marriages. She gets real about the magic of working with a cast with a deep past and why tight-knit creative communities are worth their weight in hotdish.Meanwhile, Ruth's got her hiking boots laced up for New Zealand because someone's living their best life over here. Plus, we're celebrating Jeff Hiller's Emmy win (because good things happen to good people), diving into Julia Cameron's wisdom about trusting the universe (even when it feels sketchy), and getting honest about why you absolutely NEED your people when you're putting your creative work out there.Fair warning: this episode might make you want to book a flight, audition for a show, or at least call that friend who always believes in your wild ideas.Check out Dawn's coaching: www.bigpicturebigpurpose.comClergy appreciation month is coming - get a ConseCrate for your minsiter: consecrate.cratejoy.com00:00 Introduction and Catching Up00:34 Theater Life in Missouri01:02 Comedy and Community01:47 Rehearsals and Local Life02:31 Jeff Hiller's Emmy Win04:21 Small Town Adventures09:05 Travel Plans and Reflections11:38 Future Vlog Ideas12:29 Travel Plans and Flights12:50 Business Group Insights13:30 Economic Freedom and Side Hustles14:01 Challenges Facing Churches16:18 World Schooling Adventures18:19 Creative Pursuits and Overcoming Doubts22:59 Nurturing Creativity and Support Systems25:49 Conclusion and Encouragement

Today’s guest, Dawn Marie Duncan, is doing ALL the things. We're talking music industry veteran turned children's book author, visual artist, AND creativity coach. Because apparently one creative pursuit just wasn't enough. Dawn Marie gets real about her transformation journey (spoiler alert: Julia Cameron's 'The Artist's Way' was involved), and how she went from industry burnout to leading creativity workshops that actually change people's lives. She's not here for your perfectionist nonsense - this is about getting messy, being vulnerable, and discovering what happens when you stop overthinking and start creating. Fair warning: this conversation might just inspire you to finally pick up that paintbrush you've been staring at for months. You've been warned.00:00 Introduction and Creative Exploration00:23 Meet Dawn Marie Duncan01:24 Journey into Entrepreneurship03:47 Music Industry Adventures07:29 The Artist's Way and Personal Transformation14:21 Embracing Vulnerability in Creativity15:39 The Journey of Writing and Publishing a Book17:29 Marketing and DIY Spirit20:31 Creative Process and Daily Routine22:51 Inspiration from Fellow Creators24:34 Future Plans and Creative Spaces26:07 Connecting Creativity and Spirituality26:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Dawn and Ruth are diving into the age-old struggle every creative person knows by heart: how do you keep your artistic soul alive when real life keeps happening every day. Chapter 11 of "The Artist's Way" gets the full treatment here, including some thoughts on how the Creator influences our creating and why your body might be trying to tell your brain something important about art.Fair warning: This episode might make you realize that creativity isn't something you squeeze into your spare time - it's something that wants to show up in every corner of your life, whether you planned for it or not. And honestly? That's exactly how it should be.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Name Inspiration00:23 Unexpected Door Fix and Today Show Excitement01:41 Royal Wedding and Seasonal Preparations02:35 Travel Logistics and Winter Predictions04:45 Chapter 11: Recovering a Sense of Autonomy08:31 Creativity and Physical Movement09:55 New York City Dance Scene10:12 Lucy's Ballet Journey10:33 Social Dancing and College Memories11:17 Physical Expression and Creativity12:09 Nurturing Yourself: Tasks and Tips13:22 Exercise and Wellness Routines15:36 Homeschooling Adventures18:26 Conclusion and Farewell

Note: This episode is also available on our YouTube channel (https://youtu.be/SC2Pr2i2JhI) - you might enjoy seeing some of the scenes we filmed. Dawn and Ruth dive headfirst into the beautiful chaos of Minnesota's greatest gathering, where you can get hot dish on a stick (because of course you can) and witness the genuine artistry of butter sculptures that'll make you question everything you thought you knew about dairy products.They're not just wandering around eating corn dogs - though there's definitely corn dog eating happening. They're exploring what happens when creativity meets tradition, from seed art that's way more impressive than it sounds to a pie contest that got a little too spicy for its own good. Plus, they're celebrating the magic of actually walking places (revolutionary, we know) and catching up with friends like normal humans do.Fair warning: This episode includes a 4-H performance that might just restore your faith in young people, personal stories that'll hit you right in the feels, and enough Fair food talk to make you plan your next trip before the episode's over. You betcha it's worth your time.00:00 Welcome to Creative: A Day at the Fair Begins00:13 The Charm of Walkable Cities00:40 A Fun-Filled Day at the Fair01:49 Creative Foods and Unique Experiences02:17 The Hot Dish on a Stick Adventure03:11 Exploring the Creative Arts Building03:24 The Great Pie Scandal04:38 Lost and Found at the Fair05:21 Butter Heads and Fair Traditions07:22 Seed Art and Political Statements09:16 Reflecting on Fair Memories11:30 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

Spirituality and creativity aren't just connected—they're practically best friends who finish each other's sentences.On this episode, Dawn and Ruth sit down with the absolutely delightful Brey Noelle (actress, model, musician, and honestly, is there anything this woman can't do?) who decided to go full-time creative and somehow made it work. We're talking Cannes Film Festival, people. CANNES. While the rest of us are over here trying to figure out how to juggle a side hustle with Sunday service.Brey spills the tea on everything—the messy middle of chasing dreams, how faith keeps her grounded when Hollywood gets weird, and what it's really like having a film on Amazon Prime (spoiler alert: it's pretty darn cool). Plus, she breaks down her quirky writing process that actually works, her upcoming HBO 'Peacemaker' gig, and why building the right team is harder than finding good hotdish at a church potluck.We also peek at what's next for this creative powerhouse, including her return to music. Trust us, you'll want to take notes—and maybe grab some coffee. You're gonna need it.00:00 Introduction and Realizations00:12 Casual Conversations and Daily Life00:48 State Fair Plans and Adventures01:12 Museum Visit and Central Park03:02 Creative Blocks and Social Media05:22 Comfort Items and Routines09:01 State Fair Foods and Traditions11:13 Guest Introduction: Brey Noelle13:29 Brey Noelle's Journey to Cannes17:33 Unexpected Opportunities and Cannes Film Festival18:01 Amazon Prime Release: 'See You Again'18:21 Creating Faith-Inspired Films20:43 Upcoming Projects and Industry Insights22:42 Balancing Multiple Creative Pursuits23:27 The Creative Process and Collaboration24:46 Challenges in the Creative Journey28:24 Taking Leaps of Faith30:30 Inspiration from Other Creators33:49 Connecting Creativity and Spirituality35:42 Building a Trustworthy Team38:47 Exciting Future Projects39:46 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow Brey @breynoelle on instagram

You're Not Lazy, You're Just Scared (And That Changes Everything)This week we’re calling out that sneaky little lie we tell ourselves: that we're just being "lazy" when we can't seem to start that project. Spoiler alert: you're not lazy, you're scared. And that's totally normal, so quit beating yourself up about it.Hosts Dawn and Ruth get wonderfully honest about their own creative fumbles – like when Ruth completely blanked on work commitments (been there!) and Dawn's white-knuckle journey launching her business course. They're diving into why enthusiasm beats discipline every single time when it comes to sustaining your art, plus sharing gems from “The Artist’s Way,” their current book obsession, about treating work like play and finding your people.You'll get the real talk on creative U-turns, why visualizing success actually works (even if it feels a little woo-woo), and – here's the kicker – why asking for help isn't admitting defeat, it's being smart. Because sometimes you need your people to lovingly tell you to get your act together, and that's what community is for.Ready to stop hiding and start creating? This one's for you.Find out about Dawn's coaching: bigpicturebigpurpose.comLooking for a gift for your favorite minister? consecrate.cratejoy.com00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:53 Summer Reflections and Theater Experiences03:01 Discussing Chapter Nine: Recovering a Sense of Compassion03:23 Overcoming Fear in Business05:41 The Importance of Belonging and Success07:42 Treating Work as Play11:21 Discussing Creative U-Turns12:06 The Importance of Collaboration12:44 Overcoming Creative Blocks13:18 The Power of Community and Support14:43 Morning Pages and Creative Activities17:11 Visualizing Success and Staying Motivated20:42 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Yes friends, We're Going There: Jesus, Mushrooms, and Mental Health with the Ligare FolksWe’re diving headfirst into the deep end today, friends! After Dawn and Ruth catch up on their weekend shenanigans (including some quality time at WeFest), we're serving up a conversation that'll make your church ladies raise their eyebrows.The Ligare folks, a Christian psychedelic society, are out here doing some pretty remarkable work that might surprise you. These lovely humans are bridging the gap between faith and psychedelic therapy, and before you do a double-take into your hot dish, just stick with us for a minute here.Turns out there's real honest-to-goodness science behind using these plant medicines for folks dealing with depression that just won't budge, PTSD that's been hanging around way too long, and other mental health struggles that regular treatments can't seem to touch. And here's the thing - they're not tossing their faith aside. Nope, they're weaving spiritual practices right into the healing process because apparently God shows up in the most unexpected places (which shouldn't surprise any of us Midwesterners who've seen Him work through a good hotdish and genuine community).So grab your coffee (or Diet Coke, we don't judge), set your preconceptions aside for just a bit, and let's chat about hope, healing, and why sometimes the road to wholeness looks different than what we grew up thinking. Plus, we'll fill you in on how to connect with Ligare because this conversation is just the beginning, and honestly, the world could use more of this thoughtful, compassionate work.Fair warning: This one's gonna stretch you, and that's exactly the point.00:00 Introduction to Psychedelic Healing and Christianity00:21 Weekend Recap: We Fest and Local Events02:28 Daily Life and Personal Updates03:21 Business Ventures and Creative Pursuits06:37 Creative Blocks and Overcoming Challenges08:46 Guest Introduction and Discussion on Psychedelics12:27 Introduction to Alyssa Jo May12:50 Hunt's Journey with Psychedelics14:22 Megan's Involvement and Background15:19 Alyssa's Dual Life and Role17:06 The Need for Psychedelic Healing23:07 Legal and Practical Aspects25:24 Personal Experiences with Psychedelics32:23 Conclusion and ResourcesFind out more at ligare.orgConnect with Dawn's new Discern by Doing for Business - bigpicturebigpurpose.comLooking for a gift for your favorite minister? Check out ConseCrate subscription box: consecrate.cratejoy.com

Ruth and Dawn are discussing something that nobody talks about in seminary: pastors are natural salespeople who cast vision, build programs, and run stewardship campaigns. But when it comes to using those same skills to start a side hustle? Suddenly we're "too commercial" or "not focused on ministry." After 20 years watching talented women pastors struggle financially while apologizing for wanting financial stability, we have some thoughts, and a program called Discern by Doing for Business that's changing everything.LINKS:Talk with Dawn about being part of Discern by Doing for Business: https://bigpicturebigpurpose.lpages.co/explore/What We're Covering:Why "being too forward" is code for "being effective" (00:00)Two decades of trial, error, and refusing to take no for an answer (06:49)

We're diving headfirst into why vulnerability makes us squirm, why effort actually matters, and how abundance shows up when you're not trying so dang hard. Dawn and Ruth are back with another episode of 'Created Creative,' and we're not messing around.Broadcasting live from the parking lot of Hector International Airport in Fargo, ND, we're talking Chapter Six of 'The Artist's Way' focusing on all the messy stuff nobody wants to admit: chasing dreams that might be pipe dreams, making real connections in a world full of fake ones, and figuring out how to want nice things without losing your soul in the process. Oh, and we'll throw in some honest talk about parenting fails, travel mishaps, and whether your job is actually your calling or just paying the bills.Plus, we're spilling details about our upcoming Puerto Rico retreat for women in ministry—because sometimes you need to leave North Dakota winter to remember who you are. Come for the community, stay for the personal growth, and maybe learn something despite yourself.Consult Dawn for Coaching: bigpicturebigpurpose.comFind a gift for your minister: consecrate.cratejoy.comLINKS:00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections00:18 Welcome to Create Creative00:24 Life in Fargo, North Dakota01:58 Parenting and Screen Time03:50 Chapter Six Discussion05:16 Artist Dates and Personal Experiences09:13 Abundance and Capitalism14:36 Navigating Life and Career Choices16:28 The Joy and Challenges of Pursuing Parenthood17:37 The Evolution of Calling and Career19:14 The Reality of Generational Wealth and Success22:24 Crafting a Lifestyle of Abundance26:04 The Importance of Connections and Networking31:09 Embracing Possibility and Effort32:59 Conclusion and Call to Action

Dawn and Ruth tried media deprivation week from 'The Artist's Way' - no social media, no binge-watching, and no podcasts. Turns out cutting the digital noise actually works for unleashing creativity. Skip our podcast this week and do some morning pages instead - your brain will thank you!It's a great week to get coaching! Contact Dawn to set up an exploratory session: bigpicturebigpurpose.comOr maybe you could send a thoughtful gift to your favorite minister! Consecrate.cratejoy.com

Everyone thinks their story has already been told. But it hasn't been told by you yet, and that makes all the difference. On this episode of Created Creative, Dawn and Ruth are getting real about kicking self-doubt to the curb and why your voice matters in this noisy world.We reflect on last week's theme from 'The Artist's Way' - reading deprivation. Sounds terrible, right? Well, buckle up buttercup, because it's actually pretty amazing what happens when you step away from everyone else's words for a hot minute.Then we sit down with Laurie Neill, a pastor and author who's not here to play games. She's tackling the lies we tell ourselves about who we are versus the actual truth about our identity and spirituality in her book. Laurie walks us through her journey from graphic designer to published author - and let me tell you, the road was no walk around the lake.We get into the nitty-gritty of creativity and inspiration, plus Laurie shares her gorgeous devotional blog (seriously, the art pieces will make you stop scrolling) and her one-of-a-kind junk journals. Because here's what we know for sure: your spiritual life and your creative life aren't separate things - they're meant to work together, every single day.So grab your favorite mug, settle in, and let's talk about why your story is exactly what the world needs to hear.Dawn Trautman's coaching: bigpicturebigpurpose.comRuth's subscription boxes for ministers: consecrate.cratejoy.comEnjoy our podcast? Help us grow by joining our patreon page - patreon.com/user?u=1107241700:00 Overcoming Self-Doubt00:17 Introduction and Delays01:08 Artist's Way Week 4: Reading Deprivation01:41 4th of July Fireworks Chaos04:09 Reflecting on Reading Deprivation05:43 Recovering a Sense of Possibility06:15 Synchronicities and Community08:27 Dreams and Aspirations12:28 Virtue Trap and Self-Abandonment14:18 Interview with Lori Neal22:03 The Journey of Self-Publishing22:23 Marketing Challenges and Strategies22:58 The Essence of the Book: Christ-Centered Transformation23:14 Personal Stories and Authenticity24:08 Exploring the Blog and Artistic Background26:27 The Concept of Junk Journals27:49 Favorite Artists and Inspirations28:57 A Creative and Musical Household29:30 The Story of Meeting Her Husband30:53 Balancing Creativity and Discipline35:52 Publishing Dilemmas and Solutions38:52 Encouragement for Aspiring Authors39:24 Conclusion and Contact Information

Look, we need to talk about something that's going to sting a little: you can't pour from an empty cup, but somehow we keep trying anyway. In this episode of Created Creative, Dawn and Ruth are getting real about Chapter 4 of Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way – and it's about to call us all out.Here's the thing nobody wants to admit: we're so busy being everything to everyone that we've completely lost touch with who we actually are. Sound familiar? Yeah, we thought so. We are diving deep into why integrity isn't just about being honest with others – it's about being honest with yourself about what you need to thrive.We’re tackling the hard stuff: a reading deprivation challenge (yes, that's a real thing), why we feel guilty about having hobbies, and how to actually make room for fun without feeling like we're being selfish. Plus, you'll get some beautifully messy stories about juggling responsibilities, creative dreams, and those curveball life transitions that nobody prepares you for.This isn't just another "find your passion" pep talk – it's permission to stop abandoning yourself in the name of being good. Ready to reconnect with that creative spark you've been ignoring? Let's do this thing.Drop us a line on social media – we want to hear your stories too.LINKS:Join our Artist’s Way Accountability Group: https://bpbp.samcart.com/products/artists-way-discussion-groupDawn’s coaching: BigPictureBigPurpose.comConseCrate Subscription Box: consecrate.cratejoy.comJoin our Patreon! https://patreon.com/user?u=11072417&utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLin00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts00:17 Casual Conversation and Personal Anecdotes02:11 Reflections on Integrity and Creativity04:24 Exploring New Hobbies and Interests06:11 Challenges and Personal Growth10:33 Embracing Change and Transformation11:29 Reflecting on High School Memories12:45 Navigating Life Transitions13:24 Creating Your Ideal Environment14:59 Financial Reflections and Future Planning16:38 Living in Alignment and Integrity18:18 Balancing Creativity and Responsibilities20:15 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

This conversation is going to hit you right in the feels. Dawn and Ruth talk with Stephanie Lape about how the Enneagram completely changed her relationships—including helping her reconnect with her father in a deep, healing way. Stephanie's journey from comparative religions professor to pastor is fascinating, but what really gets us is how she breaks down the Enneagram without judgment. We're covering the basics, how different types interact, and why this system makes you more compassionate, not more critical.Find out more about Stephanie Lape at: https://stephanielape.com/Join our Artist’s Way Accountability Group: https://bpbp.samcart.com/products/artists-way-discussion-groupDawn’s coaching: BigPictureBigPurpose.comConseCrate Subscription Box: consecrate.cratejoy.comJoin our Patreon! https://patreon.com/user?u=11072417&utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink00:00 Introduction and Personal Story00:16 Local Television Interview Experience00:40 Rummage Sale Highlights01:23 Artist Way Accountability Group04:00 Manifesting and Synchronicity06:39 Enneagram and Personal Growth07:35 Guest Introduction: Stephanie Lape09:01 Stephanie's Journey and Comparative Religions11:14 Understanding the Enneagram20:04 Exploring the Enneagram Types22:30 Heart-Centered Types: Twos, Threes, and Fours25:52 Head-Centered Types: Fives, Sixes, and Sevens26:58 Gut-Centered Types: Eights, Nines, and Ones29:16 Common Misdiagnoses and Triads30:59 Teaching the Enneagram: Challenges and Insights32:54 Creativity and the Enneagram35:05 Writing and Publishing a Book37:20 Coaching and Entrepreneurship43:42 Resources and Final Thoughts