Finishing a novel or any book project entails a lot of
layers--wrapping up the plot, the character arc, the thematic takeaway. No
wonder endings can be tricky both narratively and psychologically. In this
episode, our hosts share their own experiences with endings, plus practical ways to find and celebrate that final scene.

A discussion with assemblage artist Peter Thomashow.

A listener’s question prompts Joni, Drew and Pat to explore the various enemies of creativity. From perfectionism to context-shifting to procrastination AND people who say, “hold that thought”. Plus, why constraints might be your best creative friend, and why crawling before walking or running is a completely legitimate strategy.

We find out what really happened, discuss giving and receiving feedback, and how it fuels the creative process.

The revision process. It's a thing of beauty, but also agony, if we don't know how to approach this multifaceted task in a palatable and productive manner. In this episode our hosts offer insights into how to overcome the overwhelm of revision, draft by draft by draft...

In this episode, Joni, Drew and Pat dive into curiosity as the engine behind creativity. They explore how asking “what if?” and “I wonder why?” can deepen character, spark new ideas, and help us move through creative blocks — while also looking at how fear, perfectionism, and the need for certainty can shut curiosity down. Their discussion includes personal experience and practical ways to stay open, curious, and creatively alive.

Joni chats one-to-one with comic storyteller extraordinaire Cindy Pierce, whose solo shows find the humor and humanity in life's rawest (and sometimes raunchiest) circumstances. Known for her fearless solo performances, Cindy shares her thoughts on how we all can practice and grow our creative courage on paper, on the stage, and in life. https://cindypierce.squarespace.com/

Pat, Joni and Drew shine a light on less visible aspects of creativity and appreciate how central they are to the process!