What if the key to unlocking your creative potential lies not in the typical advice given to artists but in embracing the natural rhythms of rest and reflection?

Join me as we challenge the toxic myth that artists must suffer to create great art. Valerie shares her personal journey chasing an external view of success to finding alignment and a healing approach to art. When we embrace the natural rhythms of our creativity, it will open our heart and mind to a more fulfilling creative practice.

Together, we explore the cyclical nature of creativity, much like the cycles found in the natural world. By shifting our perspective from "discipline" to "devotion," we learn to honor our personal rhythms and find a state of flow that feels both authentic and sustainable.

Discover how recognizing and embracing these natural cycles can lead to more joy and fulfillment in your creative endeavors. Whether you're planting seeds or harvesting the fruits of your labor, this episode will inspire you to nurture your creative spirit and find joy in the journey.

Celebrate with us as we mark the first anniversary of our Magic Makers Membership, a nurturing community where creativity flourishes without the burden of pressure or expectation.

Join Magic Maker's Today for just $20 during the month of October!

Why do we still cling to the myth of the "struggling artist" when creativity can be a joyful and healing process? Join me as we challenge this outdated narrative, advocating for a new approach that prizes personal fulfillment and well-being over relentless toil. Let's question the tired wisdom that equates success with sacrifice, and instead explore how artists can redefine productivity by focusing on who they are, not just what they aim to achieve. This episode is an invitation to scrap the burnout and embrace a creative journey filled with spontaneity, wonder, and joy.

Dive into the transformative power of creating art from a place of ease and flow, where emotional well-being takes center stage. We'll discuss how approaching your craft from a mindset of scarcity only breeds more frustration, whereas prioritizing joy and balance opens up a more nurturing and authentic experience.

In addition, discover Magic Makers—a community of kindred spirits ready to enrich their creative souls through activities like painting, book clubs, and more. Let's shift from angst to peace, redefine success on our own terms, and forge a sustainable, fulfilling path in our creative endeavors.

Learn more about the Magic Makers here: valeriemckeehan.com/magic-makers

In this episode Valerie explores two different types of fear. One type tells you you’re going in the wrong direction, but another type is actually a good sign. It’s a sign of expansion and growth. Your brain is trying to protect you simply because it is unknown. Yet it is precisely in this unknown space where magic happens! Here’s how to say yes to the fear and open up to the whispers calling to you to step up. It’s time to stop playing small.

The Dear Creative Soul Podcast is now The Peaceful Creative!

In this episode, Valerie talks about the reason behind the name change and what it means to be The Peaceful Creative.

She shares her vision for a group of artists and creatives who put beauty into this world from the deepest parts of their authentic souls.

Say goodbye to the cliche of the angsty, struggling, suffering artist and crack open a world of peace, joy, wholeness, and fulfillment.

What is an artist to do when the world feels heavy and dark?

We are often sensitive creatures and it's easy to crumble and succumb to the darkness.

But, sensitivity is also the artist's superpower. In this episode, Valerie discusses how to navigate this balance. We need your light, beauty, and peace, especially in dark times.

There’s nothing wrong with setting goals, but what happens when you’re holding off on feeling good until you reach those goals?

This leads to a creative life of emptiness and in constant search of the next “hit.”

There’s a better, more fulfilling way to live and Valerie talks about how you can start right now.

Flow state - that out-of-body experience where the work seems to just appear and you are the vessel. Time stands still in those moments and it feels incredible!

How do we get more of this?

The good news is we can consciously create the conditions for flow state to happen more easily!

In this episode, Valerie discusses three ways to welcome more flow into you creative practice.

Are you the type of person who hears "enjoy the process" and it seems like a cliche?

You are not alone! We hear these things and know it's what we are "supposed to do," but doing is another story. How do we break the barriers to enjoying the process?

The answer lies in a mindfulness practice and through it, realizing the true medicine available through the act of making art.

Not only does it release feel-good chemicals into your body, but it helps you connect more deeply to yourself!

In this episode, Valerie discusses practical tips for turning your creative practice into a mindful activity and truly begin to experience the joy of the process even if you thought you never could.