S2E12. Who Else Wants to Rediscover Their Creativity While Completing a PhD?

I closed Season 2 with an honest, heartfelt, and book-packed final episode. After a season dedicated to role models, creativity, and the Artist's Way, I reflected on what I have been reading in the first quarter of 2026, a staggering 61 books, and shared the six titles that stood out the most.What you'll take away:6 must-read books for leaders, entrepreneurs, and growth seekersThe reminder that applying knowledge matters just as much as acquiring it🎙️ The podcast returns in May or June 2026. 📧 Share your book recommendations: [email protected] music copyright info from Async: N17MO9DJ1ZLXYWR6 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I and Jie — a PhD student and participant of the very first Art of Being cohort in 2026— had a deeply honest conversation about creativity, needs, and what happens when you give themselves permission to play.We explored:✏️ The surprising overlap between academic life and spiritual growth 🌿 What morning pages reveals that structured writing may hide This is also one of the final episodes of Season 2 — and it's a beautiful one to close with.Background music copyright info from Async.ai: MHLKEYTFBNRCGUBW Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Beth Chien, an artist, teacher, and retreat facilitator based in Chicago, for an honest and heartfelt conversation about living the creative life.We talked about The Artist's Way, morning pages, what it means to be a highly sensitive creative, and how Beth balances running a thriving art business with showing up as an artist herself.Beth also shares her favourite quote from The Artist's Way, her studio rituals, and details on her free art workshop — open to everyone.If creativity, self-expression, and intentional living speak to you, this one's for you.Links mentioned in this episode:Beth's website and IG: https://www.bethchien.com/, https://www.instagram.com/bethchienart/Beth's free art workshop: https://www.bethchien.com/insider-listLearn more about The Artist's Way cohorts with Emel: https://www.coachmlc.com/groupsBackground music copyright info provided by Async: TMYSLV881SR4J0ZU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if five days could help reset your body at a cellular level? In this episode, host I explored the fascinating longevity research of Dr. Valter Longo — the Italian scientist behind the Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) — and share my own honest, personal experience completing the five-day ProLon fast.⚠️ Always consult your doctor before starting any fasting programme. This episode contains an affiliate disclosure regarding ProLon products. Content is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Link to Davidji's Metta Prayer meditation on the InsightTimer app: https://insig.ht/dHCSxJEVm1bBackground music copyright info provided by Async: FY9CEWVEWDIRT3SU, C13LYB04EGZM26NS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

⚠️ Listener Note (Safety Disclaimer):Please make sure you are not driving, operating machinery, or doing any activity that requires your full attention while listening to the meditation at the end of this episode. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.In this episode of Transformations Through Coaching and Creativity, we explore the philosophy and mindset of Bruce Lee—martial artist, cultural icon, and lifelong student of self-mastery. Inspired by the metaphor of “being like water,” this episode dives into adaptability, disciplined action, and the courage to move forward even in the face of setbacks.Background music copyright info provided by Async: UPR7GJHRJN0MBSRQ, WU2ZMQOZUOZHMKTX, VJINDMCQ4KEVF1LB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

⚠️ Listener Note (Safety Disclaimer):Please make sure you are not driving, operating machinery, or doing any activity that requires your full attention while listening to the meditation at the end of this episode. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.What if decluttering wasn’t just about cleaning but about becoming?In this episode, I reflect on spring cleaning as a metaphor for transformation. Drawing inspiration from creative growth practices and conscious tidying philosophies, I share how reducing physical clutter can help you reclaim focus, energy, and clarity as a leader and entrepreneur.Background music copyright info provided by Async: DPJLPWK9WR8CDT3L, RMEBRRBJFJITIKLR, J5CYXWZL5HDE00W5 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeling creatively tired? You’re not alone.This episode of Transformations Through Coaching and Creativity contains an honest, nourishing conversation about creativity, burnout, and The Artist’s Way. From morning pages to Artist’s Dates, we explore how simple, playful practices can help people reconnect with their creative voice without forcing productivity.More about The Tired Overachiever = https://www.thetiredoverachiever.com/Meet Madalina on LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/madalinabuzdugan/Background music copyright info from Async.io = JUH1OMPCOVHA499R, ZT5DPSJ4AIXMUGQL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

⚠️ Listener Note (Safety Disclaimer):Please make sure you are not driving, operating machinery, or doing any activity that requires your full attention while listening to the meditation at the end of this episode. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.Let's explore the story behind Saint Valentine and why understanding how you give and receive love matters just as much as the feeling itself. Drawing on Gary Chapman’s Five Love Languages this episode highlights how language, presence, and intention shape your relationships with others and with yourself.Background music copyright codes from Async: 4QJBAJXPSKOJ9ZGA, HFMQZNL7XNJEH0KR, R4NX7L1RVE3JC7CJ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

⚠️ Listener Note (Safety Disclaimer):Please make sure you are not driving, operating machinery, or doing any activity that requires your full attention while listening to the meditation at the end of this episode. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.What if “I’m too old for that” is just another fear in disguise?In this episode, we explore age, time, and curiosity and how your relationship with them shapes the way you live, create, and care for your body. Link to newzapiens article: https://newzapiens.com/magazine/annie-nosh-the-woman-quietly-dominating-longevity-s-leaderboardBackground music copyright info from Podcastle.ai: 6RFT9N4EUAWGK2ZV, HNXQ5HD0ZW0BQXJU, LUTAGQM10YQ2S6Z2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

⚠️ Listener Note (Safety Disclaimer):Please make sure you are not driving, operating machinery, or doing any activity that requires your full attention while listening to the meditation at the end of this episode. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.Have you ever received advice that instantly killed your excitement even when it came from someone who meant well?In this episode, we unpack wet blanket messages and how they shape your mindset, creativity, and confidence. Inspired by The Artist’s Way and the profound work of Viktor Frankl, this conversation explores how to respond to discouragement, both external and internal, without slipping into “what’s the point?” thinking.You’ll hear reflections on meaning, agency, and emotional resilience, along with a simple yet powerful meditation to help you soften, reset, and reconnect with yourself.Perfect for curious, creative leaders who want to protect their spark and choose their response with intention.Background music copyright info from Acast: ZGMCMZKXT16LPNGW, X8I5KJBFPXHDPSFM, XXLIPZ0JEGXF1WGL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.