232: Summer Enneagram Throwback: 3s

This summer, while I continue to heal from surgery and dream up Season 6, I am re-airing our most popular series: Creative Archetypes!

If you are unfamiliar with the Enneagram, you can listen to the intro episode from the original 2023 series here.

And if you are familiar and know your number, might I suggest you listen to each episode (even those that aren't about your number) to develop empathy and understanding of those who see the world differently. The Enneagram is a powerful tool for personal and relationship transformation, for artists and everyone!

If you have episode ideas, dream guest suggestions, or other feedback for me, drop me an email hello@artistsforjoy.org 

Original show notes:

This week in the Creative Archetypes Series, we hear from Enneagram 3s. Merideth chats with Ashley Hall-Tighe, trumpet player and certified life coach, Nii Codjoe, product researcher and career coach, and Tombo Hite, attorney, whose biggest claim to fame is that he’s Merideth’s older brother. :)

They explore the 3’s secret weapon for getting things done, how to calm the chaos when you’re going 100 mph, plus how to find your true worthiness outside of your achievements.

Invitation:

3's Super Power—The To-do List

Before you start your day or a creative session, make a list of things that you’d like to accomplish. Imagine what you’d like to say you’ve done by the end of the day. Hold the list loosely. Check in with yourself as you work. Let the list push you forward when you are feeling uninspired or unsure of what to do next. And if you get to the end of the day and your list is unfinished, take a deep breath and try again tomorrow. Remember: you are not defined by all you get done or don’t.

Ashley Hall-Tighe, Trumpeter/Life Coach

Coachingthewholemusician IG

Nii Codjoe, Product Researcher/Career Coach

Tombo Hite, Attorney at Law

David Gate Enneagram Cards

Buy Merideth a Coffee

Enneagram Workshop with Artists for Joy

Email Merideth with a question or comment: hello@artistsforjoy.org

231: Summer Enneagram Throwback: 2s

Our Creative Archetypes Series continues this week with Enneagram 2’s “The Helper.” Merideth chats with author Holly Oxhandler. Holly is the Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Development and an Associate Professor at Baylor University’s Diana R. Garland School of Social Work. Holly studies religion/spirituality, health, and mental health, and as a studio art minor in college, she embeds creativity into every aspect of her life and work. Merideth and Holly explore how to be a helper without burning out and seeing creativity as an act of self-care and connection.

Other 2 voices in the episode: piano teacher and podcaster Christina Whitlock and author/spiritual growth coach Stephanie Miller.

Invitation:

  1. Put your oxygen mask on first. Write 3 pages of longhand stream of consciousness first thing upon waking. After you finish writing, step outside of yourself, re-read your pages and look for clues about what it is you need. What is one thing you could give to yourself today that you need? Be your own helper, mother, giver, or friend.

  2. Having taken care of yourself, look at those around you and ask the same question. What needs do I see? How can I serve them personally— with a phone call or a bouquet of fresh flowers— or creatively—with a handmade card or homecooked meal? Use your creativity to find connection and collaboration, to comfort yourself and others.

Holly’s website

Holly’s newsletter

Holly’s book

Jerome Lubbe’s teaching

Connect with Christina Whitlock: Piano Instructor, Beyond Measure Podcast

Connect with Stephanie Miller: Author, Writing Coach, Spiritual Growth Coach

David Gate Enneagram Poem Postcards

Buy Merideth a Coffee

Register for the Artists for Joy enneagram workshop

230: Summer Enneagram Throwback: 1s

This summer, while I continue to heal from surgery and dream up Season 6, I am re-airing our most popular series: Creative Archetypes!

If you are unfamiliar with the Enneagram, you can listen to the intro episode from the original 2023 series here.

And if you are familiar and know your number, might I suggest you listen to each episode (even those that aren't about your number) to develop empathy and understanding of those who see the world differently. The Enneagram is a powerful tool for personal and relationship transformation, for artists and everyone!

If you have episode ideas, dream guest suggestions, or other feedback for me, drop me an email hello@artistsforjoy.org 

Original show notes:

Perfectionism can keep us from starting altogether, stop us mid-art, and suck the joy out of the finished creative project. Can you relate? 

This week on the podcast, Merideth chats with Enneagram One, Kendra Adachi (aka The Lazy Genius) about holding creative goals loosely, embracing imperfection, and becoming the architecture of your creative life. 

Invitation: 

1. Kendra's advice: "Ask someone you trust what they believe you bring to the creative process."

2. Explore The Lazy Genius' Magic Question: "What can I do now to make something easier later?"

3. Kendra says she lives by Suzanne Stabile's question, "What is mine to do?" Take this question to your journal and see what comes up. 

Kendra Adachi’s Lazy Genius Collective

Elizabeth Joy Hooker’s IG

David Gate, poet, Enneagram Postcards

Enneagram Workshop with Artists for Joy

Enjoy the episode? Buy Merideth a coffee

229: Throwback: Rest

This week, I’m recovering from an unexpected surgery! I will have more to say about this soon, but for now, enjoy these words I wrote about rest back in 2020, the first year of this podcast.

What are your favorite ways to creatively rest? Tell me in the comments for this post on IG

Burnout Talk @ International Double Reed Society Convention in Indy

June Joyster Meet-Up

Original Show notes:

Do you know how to rest? This week Merideth explores the full spectrum of rest from an artist's perspective-- from mind-numbing TV to the REM cycles of the coveted 8 hours of sleep. She explores one writer's idea on how to do nothing, how we might translate our knack for creativity into a practice of restorative rest, and how this idea is built right into the creative process itself. 

Read more about Jenny Odell's book here.
Listen to Jessica X. Osborne here. 
Download Jason Blythe's music here. 

228: What's bringing me joy this spring

This week: a rare unscripted episode! Merideth chats candidly about what's bringing her joy this spring. From shoes to hair accessories to writing playlists and everything in between, give it a listen and let us know what brings you joy in the comments for this episode on IG: @artistsforjoy.

Some links (non-affiliate)

Become a Joyster on Patreon and support the podcast

Subscribe to Merideth's email list 

Read some early material from my new book, Art is How God Loves Us

227: Joy Session: Rene

In today’s Joy Session, Merideth coaches Rene, a musical theater writer and composer. Rene opens up about navigating a creative block that feels a bit like living in the show Severance. Despite a lifelong connection to the piano, she finds herself staring at 88 keys like they’re strangers. So what happens when something you love becomes inaccessible?

Rene shares candidly about the emotional weight of turning her passion into her profession, and how that shift introduced pressure, shame, and sky-high expectations that made creativity feel more like a performance than a joy. 

Merideth and Rene explore the connection between being a beginner at speaking a new language and rediscovering the wonder of music. Leveling up a skill can feel uncomfortable, but it can also be an opportunity to grow and restore a sense of awe.

Rene’s exploration is a gift to anyone who’s ever felt stuck, scared, or unsure if they can still do the thing they used to love. If you’re trying to find your way back to creativity — or moving forward to a new find a version of it — this one’s for you.

Apply to record a joy session with Merideth

Support the show on Patreon

Learn about the Creative Leap Mini-Mastermind

Tell us what resonated about the episode on IG

226: Joy Session: Why not me? (Lexy)

In today’s Joy Session, Merideth sits down with Lexy, a writer and illustrator on the verge of releasing her first poetry collection. Though she had hoped to include her own artwork, Lexy found herself creatively blocked. As the conversation unfolds, she realizes she’s been overlooking just how far she’s come. Shifting from the lens of an “abused child” to one of “why not me?” opens a new sense of possibility, allowing her to embrace her strength and resilience rather than fear of vulnerability. Lexy recalls the courage it took to ask for help with the illustrations and feels pride in the accomplishment of collaboratively moving forward with a lifelong dream of getting her work published. 

Lexy reminds us that while both encouragement and criticism can shape how we see ourselves, we ultimately hold the power to decide our own self-view. By choosing kindness and gentleness over guilt and shame, we create a more joyful and sustainable path forward.

Apply to record a joy session with Merideth

Support the show on Patreon

Learn about the Creative Leap Mini-Mastermind

Subscribe to the Email List

Tell us what resonated about the episode on IG


225: Joy in Long Form with Maria Bowler

Today’s guest is Maria Bowler, author of Making Time: A New Vision for Crafting a Life Beyond Productivity, returning for a second conversation on the podcast. This episode dives deep into the realities of cultivating creativity and sustaining joy throughout a long-term project.

Maria and host Merideth share candid reflections on the emotional terrain of large-scale creative work. From the daunting moment of beginning to the pitfalls of tying your identity too closely to your art, they unpack the internal hurdles that can accompany the creative process. You’ll hear the surprisingly sneaky tactics both used to move past intimidation and complete their first books.

They explore the “messy middle” of a project—when the work starts to take on a life of its own, self-doubt creeps in, and direction can feel elusive. Along the way, they discuss how to find helpful reinforcements, strike a balance between creative integrity and marketability, and stay grounded when the finish line finally comes into view.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation full of practical tools—including a mantra for the long haul—and ideas for how to celebrate when your work is finally out in the world.

Get Making Time

Maria’s Website

Support the show on Patreon

Learn about the Creative Leap Mini-Mastermind

224: Art's Open Door: Let go let go let go

This week on the podcast, I have another installment of our Art's Open Door series, especially for Good Friday. Through the lens of Arvo Pärt's "Spiegel im Spiegel," we explore the profound act of letting go: in parenting, in art, and in our relationship with the divine. 

Tell me what you think about this episode on IG

Read the transcript on Substack here

Content warning: birth and medical trauma

223: Throwback: Creative Archetypes

Today, a throwback episode to remind you to join us live on Patreon for our Enneagram & Motivation workshop on April 11th at 3 PM EST! Register or check out the replay when it becomes available here. 

Check out the Spotify playlist with all the episodes of the Enneagram series here.

Original shownotes:

Without further ado, our summer Enneagram series begins now! Merideth chats with enneagram coach Lee Fields (the impetus for this entire series) about how each Enneagram number's energy is needed in bringing a creative project from ideation to completion.

Invitation: read through the list and circle a few that resonate with you. If you don’t know your type yet, check out these other enneagram resources.

8’s strive to feel powerful, resist other peoples’ boundaries

9’s strive to feel peaceful, resist their own priorities

1’s strive to feel perfect, resist relaxing

2’s strive to feel connected, resist tending to their own needs

3’s strive to feel outstanding, resist slowing down

4’s strive to feel unique, resist ordinary tasks

5’s strive to feel detached, resist engaging with others

6’s strive to feel secure, resist trusting others, the process, or themselves

7’s strive to feel excited, resist stillness, savoring, or appreciating what they have

Connect with Lee

Submit a "Sounds of Joy" video: hello@artistsforjoy.org

Love the show? Buy Merideth a coffee.

222: Joy Session: Courage + Chronic Illness (Amber)

In today’s Joy Session, Merideth coaches Amber, a seminary graduate who desires to have the courage to try launching a business in spiritual direction in the midst of chronic illness. She has already done the brave work of dreaming what’s possible, but the next step is to figure out how to make it happen while honoring her capacity and maintaining her energy. Together, they unpack the challenges of fear, self-doubt, grief, and financial uncertainty. 

Amber reminds us that bravery is a practice, there isn’t only one way to be a successful and fulfilled entrepreneur, and that no action is too small. 

Apply to record a joy session with Merideth

Become a Joyster and join the Enneagram and Motivation Meet-Up

Read Merideth’s latest Substack

221: Joy Session: Abundance + Impact (Margie)

In today’s Joy Session, Merideth chats with Margie, an author and speaker, who struggles with financial abundance despite having plenty of work. She reveals a complex relationship with money stemming from her upbringing and shares her desire to make a global impact through speaking and client work. Margie also explores the challenges of balancing her energy at this specific time in her life, as she longs to pursue her true potential. Don’t miss this deeply relatable and inspiring conversation about overcoming blocks and becoming the person you long to be.

Apply to record a joy session with Merideth

Become a Joyster and join the Enneagram and Motivation Meet-Up

Read Merideth’s latest Substack

220: Throwback: Creating in the Cracks

Today’s episode is a throwback from Season 3 and was originally titled “Creative Lies: All or Nothing.”

Original show notes:

Merideth debunks a common creative conundrum this week: “It’s all or nothing.” She shares what she is learning, creating in the cracks during her own life stage, plus thoughts from listeners from all creative disciplines and experience levels. Listen for some truths to replace the all-or-nothing thinking and get inspired!

Sergio Sandí’s new Beethoven Piano Sonatas Album

How to leave an Apple Podcast Review

Leave us a review here (We need just five more to reach our goal!)

Tell us how you create in the cracks

Leave us a voicemail: 302-415-3407

Support the work of Artists for Joy

219: Shadow Careers and Simple Gifts

Another installment of Merideth's "Art's Open Door," this week on the podcast, Merideth reads a personal essay about finding her true path as an artist, moving away from "shadow careers" and discovering the joy of "Simple Gifts" in her musical journey. 

Read the text version of the essay on Substack

Leave a comment on IG

Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts

Become a Patreon Supporter

Subscribe to Artists for Joy on Substack

218: What's bringing me joy this winter

In today’s episode, Merideth shares six things that are bringing her joy this winter. From bathrobes to new mindsets to female medieval theologians, you’re gonna love this one. Tell her what is bringing you joy in the comments on IG or Substack.

Check out all the links mentioned in the show on Substack

Join our next Joyster Monthly Meet-Up on March 10th (or catch the replay!)

217: The Artist's Oath with Christina, Jennifer, and Janet

In today's podcast episode, you'll hear inspiring artist oaths from Christina Mathis, Jennifer Gatz, and Janet Parker, members of the inaugural Artist's Joy Creative Cluster last year. These inspiring artists crafted a powerful manifesto as part of our work in the cohort and have transformed their lives by embracing imperfection, quieting the inner critic, and prioritizing their creative lives and well-being. 

Get your copy of “The Artist's Joy”

Support the Show on Patreon

Join the next Artist’s Joy Creative Cluster

216: Creating through grief with author Rebe Huntman

Today, Merideth’s guest is Rebe Huntman, author of "My Mother in Havana: A Memoir of Magic and Miracle." Rebe shares her journey as a multi-passionate artist, from her early days as a professional Latin dancer and choreographer to becoming a writer. She discusses her deep connection to Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way" and the importance of pushing past the "tortured artist" stereotype to find joy in creativity. Rebe opens up about the long and winding path to publishing her memoir, including the challenges of finding an agent and the importance of believing in her unique story. She also delves into the themes of grief, loss, and healing and how her experiences in Cuba helped her reconnect with her mother and explore a variety of rich cultural and spiritual traditions.

Get My Mother in Havana

Read More about Rebe

Rebe’s Artist’s Oath 

Support the Show on Patreon

Join the next Artist’s Way Creative Cluster

215: Joy Session: Being Present (Katie)

In today’s Joy Session, Merideth coaches Katie, an interdisciplinary artist who desires to be more present with her daughter plus pursue her art and movement in a sustainable and nurturing way. Merideth and Katie explore weaving together identities as Mother, Mover, and Maker. They talk about Katie's struggle with negative self-talk and judgment, plus a fear of monetizing her art. 

Katie identifies ways to be present in the moment, even when it's murky or uncomfortable. She feels a weight lifted, realizing she can take the pressure off herself and make progress toward her desires even in the midst of uncertainty. 

Tell us what resonated about this episode on IG

Get the podcasts sent to your inbox every Friday

Do the lens exercise with other Joysters on Patreon in March

214: Art's Open Door: A Portfolio Life

In today’s episode, Merideth shares an essay from her Substack series, "Art's Open Door," which explores the intersection of creativity and spirituality. Through the lens of Billy Collins’ poem “Introduction to Poetry,” the essay reflects on the challenges of a "portfolio career" and offers a new more hopeful perspective when life feels overwhelmingly full. 

Show notes:

Read the essay on Substack

Support the podcast on Patreon

Join the next creative cluster

213: It's never too late with Angie Kim

In this episode, Merideth chats with Angie Kim, award-winning author of Miracle Creek and Happiness Falls. Angie shares her journey of publishing her first novel at 50, her evolving creative process, and how her experiences as a Korean immigrant have shaped her storytelling.

We talk about: 

  • How Angie’s creative process has changed from periods of intense, long hours to a more balanced approach using a timer to write for two hours a day.

  • The importance of integrating a myriad of life experiences into creative work and never believing it’s too late to write the book or create the work you dream of making.

  • A new perspective on finding lasting happiness and joy in creative pursuits and life in general.

Angiekimbooks.com

Angie Kim’s first novel: Miracle Creek won the Edgar Award and ITW Thriller Award and was named one of Time's "100 Best Mysteries and Thrillers of All Time."

Angie Kim’s second novel: Happiness Falls  an instant New York Times bestseller and has been featured by Good Morning America, Barnes & Noble, Belletrist, and the Book of the Month Club.

Support the podcast on Patreon

Join the next FREE Creative Cluster with Merideth