Creative Minds, Brilliant Life

Nicole Gariepy

This podcast is your creative partner in crime! Inspiring conversations with creative minds about the experience of being an artist and creator.  It's not easy to be an artist, especially if you make a living from your art. Creativity is a superpower, that spark that lives deep inside each one of us and drives us to create. I believe that it is our mission as artists to bring more beauty into the world, and the world needs us now more than ever!



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Episodes

Small Actions, Big Impact: The Key to Creative Success
4d ago
Small Actions, Big Impact: The Key to Creative Success
Send us a Text Message.I think we all underestimate the power of simple steps and small actions. In this episode, I am sharing insights into the incredible power of small steps and actions in the journey of creativity, business and life. Drawing inspiration from the wisdom of Lao Tzu and other impactful quotes, we are exploring the importance of consistent, small efforts over time, whether in building a business, fostering self-care, or pursuing creative endeavors. Key Topics Discussed:The Significance of Small Steps:Lao Tzu’s wisdom on the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.The importance of taking small, consistent actions without needing to see the entire path ahead.Overcoming Instant Gratification:The challenge of living in a culture that values instant results.The necessity of patience and persistence in achieving long-term success.Personal Experiences in Business:Nicole's journey in building two jewelry businesses.The unseen hard work and small steps contribute to perceived overnight success.Self-Care and Small Actions:Redefining self-care beyond luxurious activities.The role of small, everyday actions in maintaining well-being and preventing burnout.Building and Creating with Patience:Analogies of building a house and nurturing a creative project.The balance between taking action and allowing time for ideas to develop naturally.Inspiration from Others:Stories of friends and their persistent efforts in creative careers.The importance of showing up and putting in the work, even without immediate results.Mindfulness and Reflection:The value of mindfulness practices, such as meditation, in fostering creativity.How small moments of peace and reflection can contribute to larger creative breakthroughs. Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
Love, Vulnerability, and Authenticity: A Creative Exploration
May 2 2024
Love, Vulnerability, and Authenticity: A Creative Exploration
Send us a Text Message.VULNERABLE SHARE! This episode gets a bit more personal than usual, with my thoughts on the idea of navigating love and romance after heartbreak.  It's an intricate dance through creativity, romantic partnerships, and personal growth. We are exploring how fully embracing vulnerability and abundance can enrich every aspect of our lives. I'll also tell you why I think love is like skydiving... Key Takeaways:The Synchronicities of Life: Discover the unexpected ways in which the universe guides us towards love and fulfillment, even amidst skepticism and uncertainty.Embracing Vulnerability: Explore the transformative power of vulnerability in the creative process and personal development, as we navigate the complexities of relationships and self-discovery.Cultivating Abundance: Learn how embracing abundance in all areas of life, including love, can lead to a deeper sense of fulfillment and authenticity.Navigating Relationships: Reflect on past experiences and challenges, and discover how resilience and openness can pave the way for deeper connections and personal growth.Journey of Self-Discovery: Join me in a journey of introspection and self-awareness, as we explore the profound impact of love and creativity on our quest for meaning and fulfillment.If you missed the interview with Sierra Sophia Mercier, you can check it out here: Episode 14: Love, Creativity, and Cosmic Connection: A Conversation with Sierra Sophia MercierFollow Sierra on Instagram: @sierrasophiamercier(and send her a DM to purchase a copy of her book - SIGNED!)Sierra has a free training on the first steps to finding your cosmic love partner: https://www.sierramercier.com/cosmiclove/freeminitraining Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
The Importance of Rest and Reflection in Creativity, and Dropping the Toxic Hustle
Apr 18 2024
The Importance of Rest and Reflection in Creativity, and Dropping the Toxic Hustle
Send us a Text Message.There's a better way to navigate the world of creativity, business, and finding balance as artists and creatives. It's not the toxic culture of hustle and the glorification of busyness that many still subscribe to. I am learning there's a better, more sustainable way. Like most lessons, I am learning this one the hard way, and trust me, it's a journey. I've had to unlearn the notion that success means grinding yourself into the ground and that productivity is the only measure of worth. Because in reality, true creativity thrives in moments of stillness, in the quiet spaces between the chaos.The hustle culture is steeped in masculine energy, pushing us to work harder, faster, and longer without regard for our well-being. As women, our energy cycles differently, which can make navigating the relentless grind even more challenging. As a New England girl at heart living in the laid-back vibes of the islands, I know firsthand the challenges and joys of being self-employed. As creatives, we often find ourselves torn between our love for the creative process and the necessity of handling the business side of things.So if you're feeling overwhelmed by the constant pressure to hustle, know that you're not alone. It's okay to step back, to give yourself permission to rest, to recharge, to reconnect with your creative essence. Let this episode be your permission slip: let go of the hustle, embrace the flow, and remember that your brilliance shines brightest when you honor the creative soul within.  Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
Love, Creativity, and Cosmic Connection: A Conversation with Sierra Sophia Mercier
Mar 28 2024
Love, Creativity, and Cosmic Connection: A Conversation with Sierra Sophia Mercier
Send us a Text Message.Today's guest is Sierra Sophia Mercier, author of the enlightening book "How to Attract Your Cosmic Love Partner". Sierra, a love coach and beacon of positivity in the realm of love and relationships, shares profound insights on finding love, beauty, and fulfillment in ourselves, our partnerships, and the world around us.In this episode, we talk about:Sierra's inspiration behind writing "How to Attract Your Cosmic Love Partner"The importance of self-love and its connection to creativity and authenticityAligning with our deepest desires in relationships and breaking free from societal conditioningStrategies for attracting relationships that truly nourish our soulsSierra Sophia Mercier is a former competitive figure skater, actor, floral designer, mom, and the author of, "How To Attract Your Cosmic Love Partner," a five-step guided workbook helping people tap into and reveal their most loving selves to attract the most loving partners. Her mission is to help bring more love into the world by empowering women to deeply value themselves and inspire them to believe that true love does exist.Follow Sierra on Instagram: @sierrasophiamercier(and send her a DM to purchase a copy of her book - SIGNED!)Sign up for Monday Mounting Musings: https://sierrasophiamercier.mailchimpsites.com/Sierra has a free training on the first steps to finding your cosmic love partner: https://www.sierramercier.com/cosmiclove/freeminitrainingLearn more about Sierra's love coaching: https://www.sierramercier.com/coachingCheck out her travel series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LoveSetRun Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
We Are All Artists: Defining Your Creative Path with Adriana Douglas
Feb 29 2024
We Are All Artists: Defining Your Creative Path with Adriana Douglas
Send us a Text Message.In this interview with Adriana Douglas we are discussing how to live a creative life! This is exactly why I started this podcast, and Adriana and I go into many facets of the creative experience and the idea that we both fully believe in that as humans, we are all artists. Adriana Douglas is the creator of "We Are All Artists," a movement focused on the transformative journey of unlocking your soulful artistry, co-creating intentionally, and infusing your multidimensional self into your life's work. Through her podcast and community, she supports individuals in navigating, defining, and normalizing a creative way forward that works for them, redefining tradition along the way. We touch upon topics such as making space for creativity, how many of us have a dream that we have pushed aside, the experience of building a life we thought would fulfill us, only to find that we needed to start over and re-create ourselves, and the dance of the masculine and feminine energies in the creative process.Check out Adriana’s Podcast: We Are All ArtistsConnect with Adriana on Instagram: @wearealllartistsBeing in community is necessary for creatives, even if we often want to lock ourselves away with our creative process, which is also necessary at times! It took realizing my own need for deep connection and collaboration throughout my solo creative journey that changed everything. This podcast aims to foster this community by featuring conversations with artists and creatives from diverse backgrounds and mediums.Creativity is about more than making tangible art, there’s a great significance to the creativity in navigating life's challenges and finding deeper meaning and connection. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on the Creative Minds Brilliant Life podcast! Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
Show up and Shine: Navigating Social Media for Creative Entrepreneurs
Feb 22 2024
Show up and Shine: Navigating Social Media for Creative Entrepreneurs
Send us a Text Message.Let’s talk about the power of showing up for your creative business. In the era of technology, social media has become an incredible gift for us creatives, offering the potential to connect with audiences beyond geographical limitations.I've been in awe of the possibilities ever since my Facebook days back in the late 2000s. Despite the negative connotations surrounding social media, I truly believe it's a powerful tool that, when used authentically, can transform your creative journey.The concept of showing up for our businesses often leads us to confront the discomfort of stepping out of our comfort zones. As a performer, I understand this journey firsthand. Initially, live videos and unscripted presentations were daunting, but embracing discomfort is a crucial step in our evolution.The essence of showing up goes beyond live videos; it's about visibility in the digital landscape. Online sales lack the face-to-face connection, requiring more interactions to build trust. This is where consistent, authentic representation becomes paramount.I'm passionate about this topic because, as a performer turned business owner, I've witnessed the profound impact of video and social media on my creative endeavors. Some of my best customers and repeat clients have never met me in person – a testament to the power of online visibility.So, how can you show up for your business? It doesn't have to be solely through video; find what works for you. The consumer mentality, observed in the addictiveness of platforms like TikTok, provides insight into what captivates us. Now, flip that perspective into your creator mentality – what about your process would captivate your audience? Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
Big Energy Unleashed: A Creative Approach to Overcoming Burnout
Feb 15 2024
Big Energy Unleashed: A Creative Approach to Overcoming Burnout
Send us a Text Message.Today's episode is all about a journey close to my heart – overcoming creative burnout and tapping into the transformative power of big energy. In this solo episode, I’m talking about my journey in burning out and what I’ve worked so hard to build in my current creative business. We explore the idea that business problems are often personal problems in disguise, making the entrepreneurial journey a profound experience in personal development.This episode is full of insights into the concept of big energy and its impact on creativity. Collaborating with other brilliant minds multiplies creative inspiration. Whether it's art, music, or any creative pursuit, the goal is to keep that excitement alive. External validation can fuel big dynamic energy, but true, lasting inspiration comes from within.Societal norms often suppress the boundless creative energy we have as children. It's time to rediscover that energy, challenge imposed limitations, and find inspiration in various aspects of life.As we navigate the real world, let's stay connected to our creative energy, align with our true calling, and foster a sense of inspiration beyond external validations. Remember, it's not just about creating things; it's about cultivating that magical feeling of being truly alive and connected to the creative flow. Join me in the pursuit of big DYNAMIC energy and unlock the zone of genius in our creative journeys. Until next time, keep those creative minds inspired, and live your most brilliant life! Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
Navigating Challenges in Creative Entrepreneurship
Feb 1 2024
Navigating Challenges in Creative Entrepreneurship
Send us a Text Message.In this insightful episode, I’m sharing personal experiences, invaluable tips, and resilience-building strategies for emerging artists and creatives who might find themselves feeling frustrated and stagnant in the early stages.In this episode, recorded from my “podcast studio” overlooking the Caribbean Sea, I am reminded of the importance of stillness and creating space for creativity. I discuss challenges faced by those starting creative businesses, drawing from recent conversations and experiences talking to artists who are just starting out. Sharing my history of starting and rebuilding jewelry businesses, I stress the importance of persistence and consistency even in the absence of immediate validation.I address the common issue of unsupportive friends and networks, advocating for focusing on personal vision and filtering advice. Reflecting on personal experiences of ignoring naysayers and staying focused on my vision, I highlight the impact of childhood experiences in developing resilience.Encouraging a positive attitude and affirming success even when faced with challenges, I relate personal experiences of receiving negative responses despite business success. I share my recent success in growing my Instagram following using a new video strategy and discuss handling online trolls and haters.Key takeaways from this episode:Be selective in taking advice, considering only those who have achieved what you aspire to. Recognize the importance of not giving weight to every opinion.Connect with like-minded individuals through online courses, groups, or communities. Surround yourself with accountability partners and fellow creatives who understand your journey.Define Clear Goals: Dream big and set clear goals for short-term and long-term success. Keep your vision top of mind to stay motivated during challenging times.Those early years ARE HARD. Remember to look at challenges as lessons, and information, learn from experiences, and stay committed to building the creative and abundant life you envision.Looking for a community of creative people navigating the ups and downs of business? Join my FREE Facebook group here: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life on FacebookSupport the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
Breath of Creativity & Defining Inspiration
Jan 25 2024
Breath of Creativity & Defining Inspiration
Send us a Text Message.In this episode I am sharing bits of the conversation from my official podcast launch party held virtually on 1/11/2024, the first new moon of the year! I share my journey into the podcasting world, inspired by a need for knowledge and connection. The vision to create a virtual gathering, conceived five years ago, has finally materialized into the "Creative Minds Brilliant Life" podcast.Recognizing music as a potent form of creativity, we discussed its ability to alter mindsets and states of being. A soul-soothing sound bath and meditation session unfolded, emphasizing the universal quest for inspiration. Creatives and non-creatives alike search for that feeling of being in their fullest expression, a theme we'll explore throughout the podcast.A deep dive into the dictionary definition of inspiration uncovered intriguing facets. Merriam Webster's definition illuminated inspiration as a mentally stimulating, and divine process, in addition to being a term used for taking in breath, a theme that will also  echo through our podcast conversations.I was recently interviewed on Debbie Westwell’s Podcast, Following the Joy and it was an incredible conversation! You can check out that episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/embracing-authenticity-a-creative-journey-with/id1707752589?i=1000641248996 Other Podcasts mentioned in this episode:The Pure Possibilities Podcast with Shannon DanielleMemes, Metaphors, and Magic with Taran CardoneIf you are interested in the Creative Vision Journal I mention in this episode, shoot me a DM on Instagram with the word JOURNAL.Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
Jewel of the Stage: A Broadway Star's Encore in Jewelry and Life
Jan 18 2024
Jewel of the Stage: A Broadway Star's Encore in Jewelry and Life
Send us a Text Message.Performing on Broadway, surviving breast cancer, running a successful jewelry brand, and succeeding in everything she does, my guest today, Ana Maria Andricain is a true STAR!As a fellow performer, we discuss the unique energy exchange that happens on stage. Anna vividly describes how an engaged audience can transform a show, drawing parallels between the theatrical and jewelry-making experiences. The audience, whether on Broadway or in a jewelry studio, is an integral part of the creative process. We explore the power of manifestation and how, as a child, she unknowingly set the stage for her Broadway journey by visualizing her dreams.Our conversation shifts to the significance of artists and creatives, especially during challenging times. Anna reflects on her experience living in New York and working on Broadway post-9/11, realizing the essential role of art in providing moments of escape and unity.When Ana was diagnosed with breast cancer, she navigated this unbelievably challenging period with a unique warrior mindset, emphasizing gratitude and a positive outlook. She shares her proactive approach to challenges, drawing on her training as a performer to prepare meticulously, turning perceived weaknesses into superpowers. Ana's jewelry business, Jewel of Havana, focuses on jewelry that connects you to moments in life, each piece telling a unique story. View Ana’s jewelry website at: www.jewelofhavana.comHave a look at the collection inspired by her experience being “Draped in Love” during her battle with breast cancer: The Draped in Love Jewelry CollectionYou can also follow Jewel of Havana on Instagram  and Facebook For more information about Flourish & Thrive Academy, click here >>  https://flourishthriveacademy.com?afmc=24Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
From Dance to Design: A Creative Journey
Jan 11 2024
From Dance to Design: A Creative Journey
Send us a Text Message.From dancer to designer... There is an intricate dance between pursuing one's creative passions and navigating the practicalities of life and career choices. Join me on a personal journey through the various phases of my creative life, from childhood passions for reading and writing to experiences as a ballet dancer and eventually a jewelry designer. One of the best choices I made in my jewelry career was to get support from people who had the success I wanted. Flourish and Thrive Academy is offering a free bootcamp starting on 1/22/2024 called the Jewelry Brand Makeover Bootcamp. If your jewelry or creative business needs a jump start, I highly recommend you check out this incredible resource. Sign up for the FREE Jewelry Brand Makeover Bootcamp here >> https://bit.ly/4aSxB7yThe world of ballet is very much about the discipline, dedication, and the quest for perfection it demands, often at the cost of stifling creativity. Despite the challenges, there are moments of validation and triumph on stage, that feeling where everything is right in the world, and you are in the creative flow. Through both highs and lows in my jewelry businesses, there were critical lessons learned, the value of community and feedback, and the constant evolution required to sustain a fulfilling creative life. It’s so important to keep learning, growing, and trying new things in this ever-changing landscape of life and business. Find out more about Flourish & Thrive Academy here >>  https://flourishthriveacademy.com?afmc=24Support the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community
Metaphors, Magic and Creativity with Taran Cardone
Jan 4 2024
Metaphors, Magic and Creativity with Taran Cardone
Send us a Text Message.In this episode, I am talking to Dr. Taran Cardone, who has an extensive background in higher education and a passion for forming and facilitating learning communities that combine personal and group coaching. Taran's mission is to help individuals rediscover their magic and embrace their authentic selves. She is also the host of the Memes, Metaphors, and Magic podcast.We are discussing the fascinating world of metaphors and their connection to creativity, and how metaphors allow individuals to express complex emotions and thoughts by drawing parallels with other topics or mediums.Reflecting on her dissertation, Taran discusses the profound insights derived from studying metaphors as embodied experiences. She believes that life is an artistic process and that education, too, is an artful endeavor. Taran’s brand new podcast, "Memes, Metaphors, and Magic" is now available on all podcast platforms: Memes, Metaphors and Magic on Apple PodcastsMemes, Metaphors and Magic on SpotifyConnect with Taran: Linktr.ee/tarancardone Click here to get Taran’s free resource on how to calculate and use your personal numerology.Other podcast mentions:Invisibilia: A Man Finds An Explosive Emotion Locked In A WordBloom with a Boom! Wisdom From My Prickly Path with host Rebecca SchlosserBooks mentioned:Knowing with New Media: A Multimodal Approach for Learning by Lena RedmanCreativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention by Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiSupport the Show.Subscribe to/ follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!Connect with me on Instagram: @nicolegariepyJoin my FREE Facebook community: Creative Minds, Brilliant Life Podcast Community