Your Creative Mind

Collaboration Lessons from Theatre Directors That Apply to Any Creative Project with Stacy Zuberi, Sara Ruiz, Basil Rodericks, and Andy Reiff. What can a directing class teach us about creativity, leadership, and the art of telling stories that connect? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda Trakhtenberg sits down with fellow directors Basil Rodericks, Andy Reiff, Sara Ruiz, and Stacy Zuberi to share lessons from their time training with master teacher Karen Kohlhaas. You’ll hear how working on plays like Sweet Bird of Youth, A Streetcar Named Desire, Mala Hierba, and The Revolutionists shaped their vision, sharpened their communication, and strengthened their confidence as creative leaders. If you want practical strategies for directing theatre, leading collaborative projects, or building a more mindful creative practice, this conversation is full of insights you can put to work in your own life. Andy Reiff Andy Reiff is a director and costume designer. Most recently, Andy directed and designed the costumes for Sugar and Salt as part of the Circle Theater Festival, produced by RJ Theatre and The Actor Launchpad. Directing credits include: Anton Goes to Heaven (?) at Theater for the New City. Costume design: The Fundamentalist (Theaterlab), My Name is Susan (Scandinavian American Theater Company), Miracle of the Danube (Philipstown Depot Theatre), Expression of Regret (Philipstown Depot Theatre). Film: "Down the Shore", "Gender Studies", "Goodboy", "Egg", "Lifted" for Gucci and Garage magazine. Styling credits include music videos, editorial projects, red carpet styling for Tony nominee Max Vernon for the opening of KPOP on Broadway and Ben Levi Ross for the premiere of Tick, Tick…Boom!. Andy is passionate about creating opportunities for trans actors onstage. For three years, Andy has been working towards directing and playing Sally Bowles in Cabaret, which you can follow at @prairieoysterclub. @andyreiff andyreiff.com Basil Rodericks Basil Rodericks trained with John Basil at the American Globe Conservatory Theatre, where he performed for more than ten seasons. He later continued classical work with unShout the Noise (Tricia Mancuso Parks) under Ron Canada and as a member of Hedgepig Ensemble Theatre Company. Favorite roles: Othello, Iago, Claudius, the Ghost, Lord Capulet, Oberon, and the King of France. Recent: Langston Hughes in Harlem to Moscow: A Soviet Film on Negro Life as Told by Langston Hughes and Bill in PINK, both by Alle Mims under David Henry Hwang/Columbia U.. Directing: Kindergarten Confidential (Debbie Goodstein), The Wanderer (David Glover), and Pecking Order (59E59). Basil served as an evaluator for Hedgepig’s “Expand the Canon” initiative and a nominator for The Drama League. An accomplished theatrical photographer, he teaches photography at a South Bronx high school. basilrodericks.com Currently: 2nd Murder, Soho Shakes at the Flea Oct 9-Nov 1. Tix: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2nd-murderer Sara Ruiz Sara Ruiz is a director, producer, writer, actor and activist from the San Fernando Valley. In 2020, she graduated with degrees in Political Science and Theatre from CSU Channel Islands. Since she was in high school her passions have been making politics and policy more accessible through the use of theatre and film. She believes that the arts can be used as a tool to break down barriers in the political world. Previously, she served as President of Ventura based theatre company, Unity Theatre Collective and is a founding member of Sana Sana Productions, a guerilla theatre and film production company based in LA. Currently she is Co-Directing "Everybody" by Brandon Jacobs Jenkins at CSU Channels Islands alongside her former Professor Laura Covault. Her past directing credits include: Asteroid Belt by LM Feldman, Collective Rage: a Play in 5 Betties by Jen Silverman, (un)American Activities, Sana Sana’s first original short film, Mi Cielo, an original radio play, and a handful of...

Doing Nothing as a Creative Reset: Simple Techniques to Reclaim Your Mind and Mood What if doing nothing was the most creative thing you could do? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda Trakhtenberg explores how intentional stillness restores your creativity, focus, and joy even when you only have five minutes. You’ll learn why pausing your productivity actually strengthens your imagination and how to practice three simple “do nothing” techniques that help you reset your nervous system and open the door to new ideas. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, creatively blocked, or just plain tired, this episode will show you how to reclaim your energy one breath, one pause, one moment at a time. What if doing nothing was the most creative thing you could do? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda Trakhtenberg explores how intentional stillness restores your creativity, focus, and joy — even when you only have five minutes. You’ll learn why pausing your productivity actually strengthens your imagination and how to practice three simple “do nothing” techniques that help you reset your nervous system and open the door to new ideas. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, creatively blocked, or just plain tired, this episode will show you how to reclaim your energy — one breath, one pause, one moment at a time. Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series https://crossroads.consulting/ This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

How tiny bursts of creativity during your day can help you feel calmer, more focused, and more yourself. Do you wish you had more time to be creative but feel like every minute is already spoken for? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda Trakhtenberg shares three simple, proven strategies to help you carve out a few minutes each day for creativity or your favorite hobby without overhauling your schedule. You’ll learn how to use micro moments for self-expression, pair habits to make creativity automatic, and set small, achievable goals that actually stick. By the end, you’ll see how just a few mindful minutes can recharge your energy, sharpen focus, and boost your sense of accomplishment. Join the growing community of creatives building sustainable daily practices that fit real life. AND Izolda be giving you a sneak peek into some other cool changes coming to the show. Plus, she discusses Yo-Yo Ma, Grand Central Terminal, the new book, "Dear New York," and piano. Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series https://crossroads.consulting/ This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Three actors, one enigmatic play, and surprising insights into collaboration, craft, and curiosity What can three actors teach you about memory, silence, and creativity? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, I sit down with Jaqui Shiel, Mark Cosby, and Lori Kee, three accomplished performers who brought Harold Pinter’s Old Times to life in a Zoom performance in Karen Kohlhaas’ directing class that I took. You’ll hear how they build layered characters, balance artistic work with everyday demands, and use pauses and presence to create powerful moments on stage and in life. Their stories offer practical strategies you can apply to your own communication, whether you’re leading a team, teaching a class, or crafting your next project. If you want fresh insight into acting craft, collaboration, and the artistry of silence, this conversation will spark new ideas and confidence in your own creative journey. The actors in this project were: Jaqui Shiel as Kate, Mark Cosby as Deeley, and Lori Kee as Anna. See below for their information. If you're a producer or a casting director, book them for shows. They are tremendous at their art and craft. See the production on YouTube. Jaqui Shiel Jaqui Shiel is an actor, singer and writer. Born and raised in South Africa to Irish parents- she trained as an actor in S.Africa at the TUT School of Drama and in the UK at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts. After a varied theatre career in London playing roles in, amongst other things, The Libertine, Rainshark, Mary Zimmerman's The Arabian Nights, Playboy of the Western World, and A Month in the Country, Jaqui moved to NYC where she has been seen in Elektra at the Baryshnikov Arts Centre and in industry readings for new plays including Craig Lucas's play Change Agent as Jackie Kennedy. As a writer, Jaqui was the 2023 winner of the Red Bull Theatre short play festival- where her play “Taboo is the Thing” had a one night off-Broadway reading produced by Red Bull. She continues to enjoy the challenge and thrill of playwriting and is currently mentored by Lucy Thurber. https://www.jaquishiel.com/ https://www.instagram.com/jaquishiel/ Lori Kee Award winning Actress. Upcoming: shooting 2 films-- Everything's Fine Now and Salting. Favorite roles: Tracey in Sweat by Lynn Nottage, Wife in Wife to the Headless Horsemanby Don Nigro, Woman in Neil Labute’s Falling in Like, Emma in Pterodactyls by Nicky Silver, Lola in Lola Lies to Corky. & Linda in According to the Chorus both by Arlene Hutton, Sandwich in Hungry by Matt Crowley, Seagull in Sisters Grimm: Pointy the Starfish by Bricken Sparacino, Saint Birgitta in the TV series Parable, also the beloved authoress Jane Austen in the web series The Jane Games and Susie in Days of Our Lives.. Member: Nylon Fusion, SAG/AFTRA, AEA, SDC. www.lorikee.com https://www.instagram.com/thelorikee/ Mark Cosby Mark Cosby has performed in over 40 plays in New York City, Los Angeles, and his hometown of Atlanta, which he returned to just last year to be closer to his family and where this Halloween you can catch him in “Wolfman” with the experimental movement theatre company Havoc. Mark’s first exposure to Pinter was in a shoestring production of The Lover, put up over summer break with fellow actors of the Atlantic Theater Company Acting School in 2002, where he also first met teacher, Karen Kohlhaas, who shepherded our “Old Times” project. https://www.instagram.com/markccosby/ Connect with Izolda Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series https://crossroads.consulting/ This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help...

Itzhak Perlman at 80 reminds us: presence and connection matter most What happens when you’re on stage and suddenly feel your audience slip away? In this Creatives at Work episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda Trakhtenberg shares why losing an audience isn’t a failure. It’s a normal part of creative life. And, more importantly, how you can bring people back with confidence and grace. Take the fear out of losing your audience with these practical tools. Drawing on lessons from seeing the legendary Itzhak Perlman live at the Beacon Theatre, Izolda breaks down three practical techniques any artist, performer, or speaker can use to re-engage a drifting audience. You’ll walk away with tools to strengthen your stage presence, connect more deeply in the moment, and transform tension into trust. If you’ve ever wanted to communicate with clarity, courage, and impact, on stage or off, this episode will help you do just that. Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series https://crossroads.consulting/ This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Why Self Trust and Telling the Truth in Your Art is the Most Radical Move You Can Make What happens when you stop asking for permission and start using your voice fully and unapologetically? In this powerful episode of Your Creative Mind, Grammy-nominated artist, poet, and activist Mary Lambert shares how creative self-trust, emotional truth, and artist activism fuel her work. You’ll hear how she turned personal pain into bold purpose and how you can do the same whether you’re writing, leading, or building your business. Hosted by Izolda Trakhtenberg, creativity coach and communication expert, this show helps entrepreneurs, artists, and leaders grow their creative courage and connect with their voice so they can create meaningful impact. If you're looking for a roadmap to resilience, expression, and lasting creative confidence, this conversation will light the way. Connect with Mary https://marylambertsings.com/ https://www.instagram.com/marylambertsing/ https://www.facebook.com/marylambertsings https://www.youtube.com/marylambertsings https://bsky.app/profile/marylambertsings.bsky.social https://www.patreon.com/marylambert Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Connect with me Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series https://crossroads.consulting/ This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

A brand new segment/episode style of this podcast. When I see, do, or experience creatives at work in a way that highlights curiosity and using our brains and minds to create or change worlds, I'll do an episode like this one. On this one, I explore Playhouse Creatures' production of Tennessee Williams' Two Character Play starring Irene Glezos and Joseph Rodriguez directed by Anthony Biggs. I saw it at Maison10 ( a super cool art gallery and performance space in Nomad, NYC). It's going to the Provincetown Theatre Festival the weekend of September 25th. For more information: https://playhousecreatures.org/tennessee-williams-two-character-play/ Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Connect with me. Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series https://crossroads.consulting/ This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Josh Rogosin breaks down the magic behind music that moves people around the world. What does it take to truly hear creativity across cultures, genres, and geography? In this episode, Izolda sits down with Josh Rogosin, the sound mind behind over 800 NPR Tiny Desk Concerts and founder of Global Sound Concerts. You’ll hear how music becomes a bridge between people, how deep listening changes everything, and why imperfections often carry more truth than polish. If you’re a creator, storyteller, or someone who wants to connect more deeply, with your audience or your own voice, this episode offers insight and inspiration in equal measure. Josh shares what makes a performance memorable, how sound captures emotion, and how to create work that resonates. Tune in for tools that can reshape how you listen, create, and communicate in your own life and work. Connect with Josh https://globalsoundconcerts.com/ https://www.instagram.com/joshrogosin/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshrogosin https://www.patreon.com/joshrogosin https://www.youtube.com/@GlobalSoundConcerts BONUS: Little Kruta appears courtesy of Josh Rogosin and the Global Sound Concerts. They perform an excerpt of their original piece, "Sandra Bullock." https://www.patreon.com/littlekruta Watch Little Kruta's entire performance at the main branch of the New York Public Library. Musicians at the special performance from the main branch of the New York Public Library were: Performers: Credits: Creative Director – Josh Rogosin Videographer – Richard "Ricky" Hood Intro Animation – Kaz Fantone. Special Thanks: The incredible staff and volunteers at The New York Public Library, Jenna Li, Walter Ferguson, Kari Davis and TJ Woods. Filmed live at The New York Public Library's Astor Hall – a breathtaking intersection of sound, story, and space. Connect with Izolda Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series https://crossroads.consulting/ This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

How I spent my summer vacation ... Here are my lessons learned from taking time to work on myself, my art, my time management and many other facets of being me for these last four weeks. I hope these lessons learned will help you set boundaries, do your creative work, and discover how you work best. Cheers! Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Connect with me Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series https://crossroads.consulting/ This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Finish What You Start: Techniques to Keep Judgment Out of Your Creative Process Ever start a project only to abandon it halfway through because you judged it too soon? You’re not alone. Millions of half-finished books, paintings, and songs aren’t abandoned because the ideas were bad. They’re abandoned because judgment crept in before the work was ready. In this episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda Trakhtenberg explores why judging your work while you’re creating fuels anxiety, stalls momentum, and keeps projects unfinished. You’ll discover concrete strategies to quiet the inner critic, separate creation from editing, and protect your flow so you can actually finish the work you start. If you’ve ever told yourself “this is terrible” or worried “I’ll never top this,” this episode will help you release judgment, reduce anxiety, and get back into creative flow. Tune in and learn: Why judgment and creation don’t belong in the same room How early praise can be just as paralyzing as early criticism Practical tools to keep working even when anxiety shows up Simple rituals to create distance so you can evaluate more objectively later Don’t let judgment bury your work in a drawer. Protect your creative process and finally see your ideas through. Want personal coaching to help you quiet anxiety and finish your projects? Book a free discovery call with me here. Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Connect with me Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Want to Speak with More Confidence? Here’s the Daily Writing Habit That Helps Ever feel stuck staring at a blank page, unsure how to even start writing? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, I share how writing from simple prompts, just one word, can fire up your imagination and sharpen your ability to express yourself clearly, boldly, and confidently. You’ll learn how this technique builds real-world communication skills, helps you think on your feet, and turns even the most ordinary word into a story worth telling. Whether you're a student, creator, or just someone who wants to speak up more effectively, this episode gives you a proven way to strengthen your voice. And you won’t be doing it alone. There’s a growing creative community doing the same. Join us and take the first step toward the stories only you can tell. Solve the Mysteries in History. Get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. You'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover. Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Connect with me Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**

What’s in your anxiety suitcase, and how can you finally put it down? What if your anxiety wasn’t a life sentence but instead a signal pointing you toward a more creative, confident way of living? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, I open up about my own struggles with anxiety how it shows up in my daily life, where it stems from, and how I’m learning to put down what I call my “anxiety suitcase.” I’ll share real stories, mindfulness practices that actually help, and a few hard-earned lessons that keep me moving forward. My goal is simple: to give you tools to quiet that inner critic, ease the pressure, and create from a place of joy instead of stress. If you’ve ever felt worry holding you back, this episode is for you. Get exclusive content and bonus podcast episodes when you join my Patreon. Connect with me Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Feelin’ Cute and Creatively Connected with Hootenanny Games What if a single card game could spark laughter, connection, and creativity in your life? In this episode, Izolda sits down with the warm-hearted team from Hootenanny Games, the Nashville-based publisher behind Feelin’ Cute, their brand-new game of animal adorableness. You'll hear how this lighthearted game brings out big laughs, encourages storytelling, and helps people of all ages connect (and compete!) with kindness. Whether you're eight or eighty, Feelin’ Cute is designed to melt hearts and break the ice in minutes. This interview was conducted at Toy Fair 2025 in New York City, in partnership with Southard Communications, where Hootenanny Games showcased their latest creations. Tune in to hear how Hootenanny’s down-home charm and sharp game design create joyful experiences and how you can bring that same energy to your creative life and relationships. Playful, heartfelt, and packed with ideas you’ll want to try, this episode is pure fun. https://playhootenanny.com/ https://www.instagram.com/playhootenanny/ https://www.youtube.com/@HootenannyGames https://www.facebook.com/people/Hootenanny-Games/61550682523515/ Solve the Mysteries in History. Get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. You'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Game designer, entrepreneur, visionary: Dominic’s guide to purpose-fueled growth Dominic Crapuchettes founded North Star Games in 2003 after several near death experiences as the captain of an Alaskan boat. His designs, which include Evolution, Oceans, Say Anything, and Wits & Wagers, have sold nearly 5 million copies and won countless awards. For the past five years, Dominic has been working on an enormous project: a modular game system called Nature that makes Evolution more accessible and easily expandable. We sat down to talk about his unique definition of courage and how it has helped him rebuild a beloved company. Creative leadership hits home in this conversation. The Nature Game Box Cover Connect with North Star Games NorthStarGames.com https://www.instagram.com/northstargames/ Facebook.com/northstargames Solve the Mysteries in History. Get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. You'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day. This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Are you enjoying the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee. Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |

You don’t need a trendy hook. You need a timeless one that still feels fresh. Here’s how. Are you pitching yourself to podcasts but not hearing back? You might be missing the sweet spot between timely and evergreen, and that’s what gets you booked. In this episode, Izolda shares 10 powerful themes that are always relevant and shows you how to make each one personal, memorable, and pitch-perfect. You'll learn how to position your ideas so they feel urgent and lasting. You already have a pitch-worthy story. This episode helps you frame it right. That's something podcast hosts love. If you want to stand out, get yeses, and show up as the guest producers recommend again and again, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you do it. Plus, if you’re ready for tailored support, Izolda shares how you can work with her directly to shape your pitch and show up like a pro. Solve the Mysteries in History. Get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. You'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Nicole Rank shares how poetry can reconnect you to purpose, peace, and power. What if your creativity was the key to living with more presence, purpose, and peace? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda sits down with Nicole Rank, author, intuitive guide, and creative mindfulness teacher, whose mission is to help people reconnect with Love through poetry and presence. You’ll hear how shifting from mind-centered to heart-centered creativity can transform how you think, create, and live. Nicole shares simple, powerful ways to bring more mindfulness and meaning into your daily life through art, nature, and the written word. If you're looking for a way to reconnect with your inner voice and live more intentionally, this episode is for you. Tune in and take one step closer to a more creative, curious, and confident life. Connect with Nicole https://love-eyes.com https://www.onlylovecanhealtheworld.com/ https://www.instagram.com/onlylovecanhealtheworld/ https://www.instagram.com/sadhbh.adamea/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092877690842 https://www.youtube.com/@Love-EyesSD Solve the Mysteries in History. Get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. You'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

The Bar Is Open and the Plot Just Thickened with Author Cathi Stoler What if your next big creative breakthrough came wrapped in a mystery and served with a side of bourbon? In this episode, award-winning author Cathi Stoler shares how she writes gripping suspense, unforgettable characters, and twisty plots that keep readers up all night. Plus, Cathi reveals what running a bar (on the page) can teach you about building community and conflict. If you’re writing fiction, or thinking about starting, this episode offers real tools to build stories that matter. Connect with Cathi Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CathiStolerAuthor/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathistolerauthor Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4807990.Cathi_Stoler Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathi-stoler-2806803/ Website: www.cathistoler.com Solve the Mysteries in History. Get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. You'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Your Voice, Your Power: Why Storytelling Changes Everything What if the one thing holding you back from deeper connection, greater impact, or even your next opportunity is the story you’re not telling? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda shares why your personal story is one of your most powerful tools for building trust, aligning with your values, and inspiring action. You’ll hear how to share it across platforms (yes, even on LinkedIn!) and three techniques that will make your storytelling more vivid, engaging, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a creative, a leader, or someone just trying to communicate more effectively, this episode will help you make your story resonate wherever and however you tell it. Solve the Mysteries in History. Get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. You'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**

Gary Morgenstein on Writing Stories That Challenge, Inspire, and Start Conversations What makes a story truly unforgettable? Is it the plot, the characters, or the way it challenges what we think we know? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, I sit down with Gary Morgenstein, a writer who doesn’t just tell stories. He shakes up perspectives. From dystopian worlds that feel eerily close to home to plays that tackle love, identity, and the power of human connection, Gary’s work cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of what makes us care. We’ll talk about breaking through creative roadblocks, writing stories that make an impact, and what it takes to get people to really listen—whether you’re a writer, artist, or anyone trying to share your ideas with the world. Tune in for a conversation that just might change the way you tell your own story. https://www.instagram.com/garymorgenstein/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-morgenstein-39b1276/ https://www.bhcpress.com/Author_Gary_Morgenstein.html Solve the Mysteries in History. Get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. You'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link

Learn How to Use Stories to Educate and Inspire Change with Danielle Wirsansky How can storytelling become a powerful tool for social change and education? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, I sit down with Danielle Wirsansky. She is a playwright, director, and Finance Director of White Mouse Productions. We explore how she uses theatre to amplify marginalized voices and bring history to life. Danielle shares how she crafts emotionally charged narratives that inspire action and spark meaningful conversations. You’ll learn how creative expression can shape perspectives, foster empathy, and address today’s most pressing issues. Whether you’re an artist, educator, or changemaker, this episode will leave you with practical insights to fuel your creativity and confidence. Tune in to hear Danielle’s incredible journey and actionable ways to use your own creative mind for greater impact. Connect with Danielle https://daniellewirsansky.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/danirsky/ https://www.instagram.com/thesecretswekeepshow/ Solve the Mysteries in History. Get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. You'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover. Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic | **Affiliate Link