About This EpisodeWhat if the collapse of old systems — the patriarchy, relentless productivity, and hollow doing — is really the birth pangs of something necessary and beautiful? In this conversation, I sit down with Leo Marrs, a writer, creative strategist, experience designer, and the author of the upcoming The New Creator: Rise of the Mindful Artist in the New Meaning Economy.Leo’s story begins in the wilds of Alaska and weaves through entrepreneurship, breathwork, altered states of consciousness, and a deep remembering that we are it — the universe expressing itself creatively through us.In this episode, we explore:How the collapse of old systems can feel like existential fight-or-flight — and yet a creative rebirth.Leo’s spontaneous awakening that revealed the creative intelligence suffusing everything.The essential role of art, vision, and imagination in shaping futures worth living.How to engage with technology — including AI — without losing our humanity.Why presence might be our greatest creative “technology” yet.How to drop the striving and become the mindful artist you already are.If you feel called to make things that truly matter, this conversation is for you.Listen NowApple Podcasts: [listen here]Spotify: [Lissten here] Links & ResourcesConnect with Leo Marrs: https://www.leomarrs.comLeo’s upcoming book: The New Creator: Rise of the Mindful Artist in the New Meaning Economy (sign up on Leo’s site for updates)Referenced in this episode:Integral Theory by Ken Wilber — https://integrallife.com/The Image of the Future by Fred Polak — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_PolakMoga Dot (AI & ethics) The Telepathy Tapes podcast — https://thetelepathytapes.com/ Aphantasia resources — https://aphantasia.comTimestamps00:00 — Welcoming Leo and the collective moment we’re in04:00 — Leo’s spontaneous awakening in the shower12:00 — The power of image, vision, and art to shape the future20:00 — Engaging with AI and collective intelligence mindfully30:00 — Aphantasia, inner knowing, and hidden gifts of not seeing42:00 — Why we must learn to trust uncertainty50:00 — The billboard message: You’re it — becoming the mindful artist you already areGo DeeperRead my blog reflections on this episode inside PatreonGet bonus episodes, reflections, and community connection: [Patreon]Subscribe to the Creative Genius Newsletter hereIf You Loved This EpisodeShare it with a friend — it helps so much.Leave a review on Apple Podcasts — your words help Creative Genius reach more people who need it.Join our warm, growing community on Patreon for more bonus episodes, guided reflections, and ways to connect with others on this path.Stay ConnectedFollow me on Instagram: @kateshepherdcreative & @thecreativegeniuspodcastFollow Leo: @theleomarrsReach out to me directly hereThank you for listening — keep making things that matter.
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Ep 94 - Ben Rennie: Curiosity, Creativity, and Confidence
In this episode of The Creative Genius Podcast, I talk with designer, writer, and thinker Ben Rennie, author of a new book that explores the transformative power of curiosity and creativity. Together, we unpack the dynamic relationship between curiosity, creativity, and confidence, and how this path can guide us to overcome fear and step more fully into our potential. Ben shares his personal story—sparked by a promise to his late mother—that led him to examine how people find themselves in powerful, unexpected places.We explore the idea that creativity isn’t limited to the arts but is instead the ability to see things differently, solve problems, and bring ideas to life. Through vivid stories and practical wisdom, Ben and I explore how curiosity is the antidote to fear, how creativity naturally flows from curiosity, and how confidence is built by simply beginning—and continuing—to create.From imposter syndrome at a Dolce & Gabbana event to finding inspiration in nature, this conversation is a powerful invitation to get curious, stay creative, and be kind to yourself in the process.Topics Covered:How curiosity dissolves fearWhy creativity is about seeing possibilities, not just making artReframing repetition: why doing what’s been done before is still meaningfulHow creative confidence is earned through actionThe role of environment and nature in creative flow Navigating imposter syndromeand Honouring your pathResources & Mentions: Ben Rennie's new book Ben’s “Wednesdays” blog on Medium Brene Brown Steve Jobs: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward…” Meredith Hite-Estevez: “Join a song already singing” Rick Rubin: on creativity and remixing existing ideasTakeaways / Call to Action:Follow your curiosity—it’s the best antidote to fear Just start, even if it’s been done before—your voice mattersPractice regularly and create space for your creativityCapture your ideas on the goBe gentle with yourselfSpend time in nature to reset and reconnect
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93 - From Manufactured Chaos to Soft Living: Navigating the Rise of the Matriarchy with Gina Luker (Shabby Creek Cottage)
A FEW THINGS WE TALKED ABOUTWhy joy is not frivolous—it’s essential.How to observe chaos without absorbing itAlchemizing anger into actionGrounding techniques to pull you back to yourself (barefoot walks, simple rituals)Why online friendships and community can be just as real—and healing—as in-person onesHow feminine energy can help rebalance a world spinning off its axisWhat it actually looks like to embrace your authentic self in a world that often shames itWhy creativity is your most reliable compass during uncertain timesLetting go of the pressure to save the world while still lending a handThe truth about money and how it amplifies who you already areSOUND BITES"The matriarchy is the highest good for all.""We have to focus on joy every day.""Community is not a one-way street.""Walking outside barefoot is grounding.""Ten minutes a day is all it takes.""Life is to savour it and enjoy it.""Your soul will never lead you astray.""That was medicine for my soul."CALLS TO ACTION If this episode stirred something in you, I’d love for you to support this work. Join my Patreon to help keep these conversations going and get access to bonus content, meditations, and other goodies I create just for our community.And if you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with a friend. That’s how we grow this beautiful circle—and how we get these conversations into the hearts of those who need them most.RESOURCES + LINKSThe Shabby Creek CottageThe Soft Life SocietyJoin Kate's PatreonMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEPatriarchy and the extinction burstThe importance of grounding practicesCreativity as guidance and resilienceBuilding and rebuilding community with intentionThis one’s tender, fierce, and exactly what we need right now. I hope it lands in your heart the way it did in mine.
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92 - Embracing AI? A Creative Revolution with Troy Plota
In the ever-evolving landscape of art and technology, the fusion of creativity and artificial intelligence is opening new horizons for artists worldwide. In a recent episode of Creative Genius, host Kate Shepherd engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Troy Plota, the visionary behind Plotaverse, exploring how AI can serve as a powerful ally in the creative process.The Intersection of Art and Technology:Troy Plota's journey from a seasoned photographer to the founder of a groundbreaking digital platform exemplifies the transformative potential of embracing technological advancements. Plotaverse, his innovative app, brought motion to still images, captivating audiences and achieving remarkable success with over 10 million downloads. Democratizing Creativity:A central theme in the discussion is the democratization of art through AI. Troy emphasizes that AI tools can empower individuals with creative visions but limited resources, enabling them to bring their ideas to life without the need for substantial budgets or technical expertise.Spiritual Insights and Creative Inspiration:Beyond technology, the conversation delves into the spiritual dimensions of creativity. Troy shares a profound personal experience where he was inspired by a dream, awakening with a complete screenplay in mind. This narrative underscores the mysterious and often transcendent nature of artistic inspiration.Building Creative Communities:The episode also highlights the importance of community and service in the artistic journey. Troy discusses how platforms like Plotaverse can foster connections among artists, creating supportive environments that nurture creativity and innovation.The dialogue between Kate Shepherd and Troy Plota offers valuable insights into how embracing AI can enhance, rather than hinder, human creativity. By viewing technology as a collaborative partner, artists can unlock new realms of expression and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive creative landscape.To explore more about Troy Plota's work, visit PlotaverseKey Topics:The inception and impact of PlotaverseAI as a tool for creative empowermentBalancing technology with human artistrySpiritual insights and their influence on creativityBuilding communities through shared artistic endeavorsNotable Quotes:"Creativity is a universal calling.""AI can enhance creativity rather than replace it.""Community and service to others can help combat fear and anxiety."Resources:Plotaverse Official WebsiteTroy Plota's Personal SiteDor Brothers Video MentionedGuest Bio:Troy Plota is a seasoned photographer and digital artist with over 30 years of experience. He is the founder of Plotaverse, a platform that revolutionized digital art by animating still images, garnering over 10 million downloads and reaching #1 in the App Store. Troy's work has been featured in prominent publications like Vanity Fair, GQ, and Rolling Stone. Episode Highlights:Discussion on the role of AI in democratizing creativityInsights into the development and success of PlotaverseExploration of spiritual experiences influencing artistic endeavorsEmphasis on building supportive creative communitiesSubscribe to Creative Genius, leave a review, and support us on Patreon at patreon.com/creativegeniuspodcast.
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91 - Weaving a New Reality: Finding Your Way Through Chaos, Fear, and Frozen Mode with Sharazad Jamal
What do we do when we feel frozen in the face of manufactured crisis and overwhelm? I sit down with wise and wonderful Sharazad Jamal to talk about finding your way back to your inner truth, using creativity, intuition, and ancient wisdom tools to navigate fear and chaos.In this deeply resonant conversation, artist and soul-guide Sharazad Jamal joins me to explore how we navigate ongoing chaos, collective trauma, and personal overwhelm. We dive into tools and practices that help move through fear, reconnect to intuition, and activate creativity during crisis. With wisdom rooted in somatic therapy, spiritual insight, and creative resilience, this episode is a balm for anyone feeling frozen, scattered, or exhausted. Sharazad shares frameworks for understanding our different bodies (mental, physical, emotional, and soul) and how to support each when fear takes over. If you’ve been struggling to stay grounded in the noise, this episode is a must-listen.Topics We CoverWhy artists are uniquely prepared for uncertainty and changeIrene Lyon’s somatic trauma work and the freeze responseUnderstanding the four "bodies": mental, physical, emotional, soulHow to get unstuck when you feel frozen or overwhelmedThe power of imagination and emotion in shaping our futureWhy beauty and creativity are revolutionary, not indulgentUsing Byron Katie’s "The Work" to unhook from unhelpful beliefsBuilding journaling and creative rituals as grounding practicesTrusting intuition even when it feels disorientingDiscerning your feelings from the collective or others’ energyResources & MentionsIrene Lyon (Somatic Therapist, Vancouver)Byron Katie’s "The Work"Morning Moon Jewelry (lovemorningmoon.com)
Humanity is glitching. And it can all be traced back to a series of limiting beliefs we hold around creativity; what it is, what it has to look like, and who has it in them (or doesn't).
I speak to artists, actors, award winning musicians, TV producers, comedians, creative psychologists, writers (including a New York Times bestselling author) and even an Oscar nominated film director about creativity, the creative process, limiting beliefs that keep us stuck AND the magic that can happen when we relearn how to listen to our hearts.
Creative Genius is a love letter to the creativity that lives inside ALL of us - through these conversations, I am on a mission to help as many people as I can to remember that it is in all of us, so we can stop glitching.
Ireland