The Anxious Creative

Okay, confession time. This episode? It’s one of those episodes—the kind you always tell me you love most. The unscripted, emotional, straight-from-the-heart kind. Recorded from my bed, with a lump in my throat and no filter.I’m taking you back to the night I truly believed I was going to die. What started as a weird gut feeling after a pizza night turned into vomiting, convulsions, numb limbs, and a hospital visit that I’ll never forget. But what I didn’t know then was that I was experiencing a full-on panic attack.This episode isn’t just me rehashing a scary story—though, yeah, it gets very real. It’s about:what I learned in the middle of that stormhow to recognize when your nervous system is overwhelmedwhat to do in the moment to stop the spiral, and why this experience helped me understand anxiety in a whole new way.If you’ve ever felt like you're too much, too sensitive, or like your anxiety is running the show, please listen to this. You’re not broken. Your body isn’t betraying you. You’re not alone—and there is a way through.So grab your cozy blanket, settle in, and let’s talk about how to stop a panic attack before it even starts.Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on   Overwhelmed to Profitable, how to build a sustainable Stress-Free Business. Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

Today’s not your typical polished podcast episode. It’s real, raw, and unfiltered—because that’s what I needed, and maybe you do too.I recorded this right from my couch while processing a really tough day. My motivation was gone, my heart was heavy, and I was spiraling in overthinking. Then I cracked open Lessons for Living by Phil Stutz and felt seen. So I’m bringing three of the tools from that book straight to you:Speed: Why taking quick, messy action (even if you fail) is better than overthinking your way into success.Density: How doing more imperfect things can build momentum and confidence faster than doing one “perfect” thing.Nightly Review: A 10-minute reflection that helps you stay grounded and on purpose—even when everything feels like too much.I also open up about where I’ve been emotionally, how I’ve lost and rebuilt motivation, and what it’s really like when the inner critic gets loud. You’ll hear the tears, the laughter, and maybe see yourself in this story too.So cozy up. We’re not fixing everything today—we’re just showing up. And sometimes, that’s more than enough.Links & Resources:Client Convo Mastery: Get over 50 scripts and templates for navigating awkward client conversations for at dawnbradley.com/convo Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

In this episode, you'll discover:My personal burnout story: From pushing myself to the absolute limit to the life-changing realization that something had to change.The myth of overworking: Why we've been conditioned to believe that endless hours equal success, and why it's a complete lie.The power of self-awareness: Recognizing when you're pushing yourself too hard and understanding your emotional triggers.Shifting your focus from time to transformation: Understanding what your clients are really paying for (hint: it's not just your hours).The impact of emotional discounting and underpricing: How these common habits can drastically impact your revenue, and what you can do instead.Building a business that works with your nervous system: Moving away from the hustle and towards sustainability.Links & Resources:Client Convo Mastery: Get over 50 scripts and templates for navigating awkward client conversations for just $10 at dawnbradley.com/convo (Podcast Exclusive Deal!)Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

What you'll hear in this episode:Why raising your prices often brings up guilt (and how to deal with it)The surprising truth about what price guilt really says about your mindsetHow to stop emotionally discounting and undervaluing yourselfWhy you’re not responsible for your clients’ wallets (yep, even if you’re super empathetic)The difference between being kind and people-pleasingHow raising your rates can actually honor your clientsSimple ways to communicate your new prices with empathy and confidenceHow to rewire the stories you’re telling yourself about money, self-worth, and rejectionIf this episode hit home, I’d love to hear from you! Screenshot and share it on your Instagram stories and tag me @dawnbradleyhair — let’s spread the message that guilt-free pricing is the new standard.Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The personal story behind my own struggle with client pushback and how it affected my self-perception.Why creatives often feel guilty about raising their prices, and the crucial business perspective you might be missing.The dangers of avoiding uncomfortable conversations and how it can lead to resentment and burnout.How to differentiate between genuine client confusion and your own insecurities coloring the conversation.Practical strategies for setting boundaries and enforcing policies with kindness and clarity.Why your self-worth is not determined by what your clients are willing to pay.The importance of responding versus reacting in challenging client interactions.Actionable steps to build confidence in your communication and handle tough conversations with integrity and compassion.A sneak peek into my EASE method for navigating difficult client interactions.If this episode resonated with you, take a screenshot and share it on Instagram – tag me @dawnbradley so I can cheer you on!Links & Resources:Grab my Client Convo Mastery Templates for only $10! Get over 50 scripts and templates for handling awkward and anxiety-inducing client conversations.Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The sneaky ways people-pleasing shows up in your business (even if you don’t think you’re doing it!)How to set boundaries without feeling like a terrible personThe #1 mindset shift that will help you stop overcommittingActionable steps to start prioritizing yourself—guilt-free!If this episode hit home, take a screenshot and share it on IG—tag me so I can cheer you on! Links & Resources:Bourbon Doesn’t Give A Shit Podcast EpisodeJoin Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

Hey, friend! It’s Dawn, and if you’ve ever felt totally stuck trying to make a decision, you are not alone. I’ve been there—overanalyzing, questioning myself, and straight-up spiraling. In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really going on when we can’t make a choice and how to move forward with confidence.What We’re Talking About:Why Decision Paralysis HappensThe real reason you get stuck in overthinking mode.A peek into my own struggles with making choices.Fear vs. Intuition—How to Tell the DifferenceFear is loud, anxious, and panicky—it pressures you to act fast.Intuition is steady, calm, and keeps nudging you in the right direction.Some of my favorite tricks to figure out which one is talking.Self-Doubt Isn’t Always BadWhat if self-doubt actually means you’re growing?Why waiting for confidence before taking action is backward.How to Start Trusting YourselfThe truth: There’s no such thing as a “wrong” decision.Every choice leads to learning—even if it doesn’t go as planned.The key to moving forward without getting stuck in indecision.If this episode hit home for you, send me a DM on Instagram (@dawnbradley) and let me know your biggest takeaway! And if you haven’t already, make sure to hit that subscribe button and leave a review—it helps me keep bringing you more of the good stuff.Remember, you don’t need to have it all figured out. Just take the next step. I’m cheering you on! 💛Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The real reason raising prices feels so dang hardHow fear of rejection and people-pleasing keep you underchargingSimple mindset shifts to help you stop feeling guilty about charging moreA step-by-step game plan to raise your rates without losing all your clientsHow to handle pushback and attract clients who happily pay your worthIf you’re ready to stop undercharging and start making what you deserve, take one step from today’s episode and put it into action. And if you need support along the way, send me a DM on Instagram (@dawnbradleyhair) and let’s chat!Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

ADHD in Business: Transforming Overwhelm into Your SuperpowerRunning a business with ADHD can feel chaotic, but your neurodiversity is a strength! In this episode of the Anxious Creative Podcast, I dive deep into how to turn your ADHD into your biggest business advantage.In this episode, you'll discover:Why ADHD brains are built for entrepreneurship.How to stop feeling like you're constantly failing.Strategies for working with your brain, not against it.The power of hyperfocus and how to manage it.How to overcome procrastination and fear of failure.The importance of self-compassion and embracing your authentic self.Practical tips for managing overwhelm and building a business that works for your ADHD brain.Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why we get stuck in overthinking mode and, more importantly, how to break free from it. I’ll share some of my own experiences with decision paralysis, what finally helped me move forward, and the small, practical shifts you can start making today to stop second-guessing yourself and start taking action.Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:✅ The real reason you feel overwhelmed (hint: it’s not about how much is on your plate)✅ Why asking for too many opinions can actually increase overwhelm✅ How to simplify decision-making and move forward with confidence✅ The magic of the "three-minute rule" and why it works✅ My personal experience with a major business decision and how I finally got unstuckIf this episode hit home for you, send me a DM on Instagram and let me know what resonated most. And if you know someone who needs to hear this, share this episode with them!And hey—if you’re feeling extra generous, leaving a review helps more creatives like you find this podcast. I appreciate you! 💛Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Grab my FREE Masterclass on  Getting Out of Your Own Way and Actually Doing The Things That Make Your Business Grow.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.com

In this episode, I’m breaking down the emotional and mental barriers that hold so many creative service providers back from charging their worth. From the fear of disappointing clients to the struggle with self-worth, I’m sharing my own pricing journey—including the pushback I got when I doubled my rates (yikes!)—and the lessons that changed everything for me.💡 Here’s what we’re diving into:✨ The fear of disappointing clients (and how it’s keeping you underpaid)✨ Why your self-worth isn’t the same as your pricing✨ How to calculate your rates based on facts, not feelings✨ The hidden costs in your business that you might be overlooking✨ How people-pleasing could be costing you thousands 💸✨ The confidence shift that makes charging your worth feel easyIf you’re tired of working your butt off but still feeling like you're barely scraping by, this one’s for you. Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.comFree Workshop: www.dawnbradley.com/freeclass

In this episode, you'll learn:The deceptive nature of procrastination and how it keeps you stuck.The role of self-worth and external validation in fueling procrastination.The importance of setting and enforcing boundaries in personal and professional life.Practical steps to embrace messy, immediate, and imperfect action.How to reframe mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than reflections of self-worth.✨ Key Takeaway:Perfectionism and over-planning are just fancy forms of procrastination. The best way to break free is to take messy, imperfect action—because waiting for the "perfect" moment only keeps you stuck.Timestamps:[00:00] Introduction: The Sneaky Nature of Procrastination[01:20] The Allure of Planning and Its Pitfalls[02:10] The Fear of Criticism and Seeking External Validation[02:25] Overextending for Clients and the Need for Self-Validation[03:30] The Victim Mentality in Over-Giving[04:20] Disassociating Self-Worth from Mistakes[05:01] The Oxygen Mask Analogy: Self-Care First[06:07] The Importance of Consistency and Maintenance[07:11] Identifying the Root Causes of Procrastination[08:27] Taking Risks and Learning from Mistakes[09:46] The Value of Making Decisions and Taking Action[11:04] Enforcing Boundaries and Policies in Business[12:14] Sharing Personal Mistakes to Build Connection[13:17] Overcoming Feelings of Unworthiness[14:30] The Impact of Self-Worth on Client Relationships[16:05] The Role of Boundaries in Reducing Frustration[17:01] Taking Immediate Action Despite Fear[18:07] Addressing the Root Fears Behind ProcrastinationLinks & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.comFree Workshop: www.dawnbradley.com/freeclass

In this episode, I share:The Root of People-Pleasing: Explore the fear of disappointing others and the need for external validation that drives people-pleasing tendencies.Cultivating Inner Confidence: Discover practical strategies for building self-worth and confidence, including journaling, meditation, and celebrating small wins.Communication is Key: Learn how to communicate boundaries and policies with compassion and authority, using specific phrases and techniques.Real-Life Examples: Hear personal anecdotes and client stories that illustrate the challenges and rewards of setting boundaries.✨ Key Takeaways:Understand that prioritizing your well-being and enforcing your policies ultimately leads to greater respect and stronger relationships with your clients.👉 Tired of feeling walked all over? Ready to finally set boundaries and gain the respect you deserve? Tune in now and transform your client relationships!Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.comFree Workshop: www.dawnbradley.com/freeclass

In this episode, I share:Why avoiding difficult conversations can actually make things worse.How my personal experience with conflict avoidance led to the loss of a friendship.The 3-step AIR method to help you navigate challenging conversations with confidence and compassion.How to increase your adaptability in unexpected situations.Why improvisation is key to responding creatively when things don't go as planned.The importance of regulating your nervous system to stay calm under pressure.Practical techniques for regulating your nervous system, like box breathing and the pause method.✨ Key Takeaways:Avoiding confrontation can sabotage your relationships and business.Adaptability, improvisation, and a regulated nervous system are crucial for handling challenging conversations.Confidence is born from courage and vulnerability.👉 Ready to communicate with clarity and compassion, even when you're stressed? Tune in now!Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradley  For more info on RYB, Retreats etc: www.dawnbradley.comFree Workshop: www.dawnbradley.com/freeclassTimestamps for Key Topics:[00:00] Introduction[01:19] The importance of clear and compassionate communication, even under pressure.[02:52] The challenges of communication and conflict.[03:56] Introducing the AIR method.[04:12] What the AIR method stands for.[04:22] Adaptability: How to adjust to unexpected situations.[08:59] The importance of being adaptable in difficult conversations.[11:59] How to practice adaptability.[16:21] The importance of inquiring rather than assuming.[17:38] Improvisation: Thinking on your feet.[19:59] The importance of being vulnerable in difficult conversations.[23:54] Regulated Nervous System: How to stay calm under pressure.[29:50] The importance of separating the person from their actions.[33:41] The impact of stress on communication.[34:35] How to practice the AIR method. 

In this episode, I share:My terrifying yet exhilarating experience of skydiving and what it taught me about fear.Why the anticipation of a decision is often scarier than the decision itself.How overthinking keeps us stuck in fear and robs us of opportunities.The truth about decision-making—there’s no right or wrong, just movement forward.Why failure, regret, and mistakes are necessary stepping stones to growth.The power of focusing on your mission, vision, and goals to make aligned decisions.✨ Key Takeaways:Fear is often rooted in anticipation, not reality.Inaction is a decision too—and it’s one that often leads to regret.The faster you take action, the faster you can course-correct and grow.👉 Ready to break free from fear and overthinking? Tune in now to discover how to take bold steps in your life and business today.Links & Resources:Join Rock Your Business to align your decisions with your goals.Follow me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/dawnbradleyYoutube: www.youtube.com/dawnbradleyFor more info on RYB, Retreats etc -: www.dawnbradley.comTimestamps for Key Topics:[00:00] – Introduction: Facing the Fear of the Unknown[00:17] – Story of My First Skydiving Experience: Nervous Anticipation vs. Reality[02:16] – Why Anticipation Makes Fear Feel Bigger[03:14] – How Fear Dissipates Once You’re In Action[04:09] – The Danger of Not Making a Decision[05:45] – Personal Growth Through Tough Decisions: No Regrets[06:02] – The Trap of Overthinking and Procrastination[07:11] – The Power of Positive What-Ifs[09:04] – The Value of Risk: My Own Business Leap[10:09] – Learning from Failures and Making Bold Decisions[12:33] – The Power of Moving from Overthinking to Action[13:07] – Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone: Overcoming Stage Fright[13:24] – Conclusion: Take Action to Overcome Fear