Created Creative Podcast

In this episode of 'Created Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth reflect on their podcast's first anniversary and discuss the critical differences between being tired and burned out. They review their successful year of producing 52 episodes without a break, explore why they aren't burned out, and share insights on maintaining enthusiasm for creative projects. The hosts discuss their work dynamics, the...

Devotional Crafting with Tina Crog from Stitchology Crafts In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth introduce guest Tina Krog, a Lutheran pastor from Massillon, Ohio, who shares her journey of turning to cross-stitching as a healing practice after a personal tragedy. Tina elaborates on how crafting evolved into her devotional practice and led to the creation of Stitchology Crafts,...

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth engage in a dynamic conversation with David Motzenbecher (aka Motz), a professional landscape architect who pivoted his career to become a Forest Therapy Guide. They discuss a range of topics from the history and practice of forest bathing to the personal and ecological benefits of connecting with nature. Motz shares insights into his journe...

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth chat with Pastor Diane Sponheim about the calming power of creativity and her various creative ventures including knitting, gardening, and involvement in a semi-professional choir. They discuss the details of their upcoming book club for 'Parables of a Resilient Nomad', and Diane introduces her idea for a new YouTube channel that will combin...

Join us for an insightful conversation about pursuing dreams despite circumstances, including single motherhood by choice. Campus Pastor Cassandra Lamb’s story of becoming a mother through IUI and navigating societal and congregational reactions offers encouragement to others in similar situations. The episode underscores the support from communities, the joy of parenting, and the emotional challe...

In this engaging episode we tackle the widespread issue of burnout and the critical journey of rediscovering one's true calling. Dawn and Ruth discuss the importance of self-evaluation, such as understanding innate traits, acquired skills, and community needs. Ruth shares her personal experiences with side hustles and interim ministry roles that renewed her passion, while practical tips are offere...

Jillene Fritch-Gallatin, senior pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, shares her profound journey through grief and the development of her business, 'Grounded Love for Grief and Loss.' She discusses the integration of movement, breath, and sound to aid the emotional and physical release of grief. The conversation covers Jillene’s personal experiences, from the tragedy of losing her mother to suici...

Meet Meredith Crigler, the Episcopal priest rocking both the pulpit and batik designs! Discover how she swapped out Vacation Bible School for Family Arts Camp and why Meredith's mornings are dedicated to journaling and tea over spreadsheets. See how preaching, Holy Saturday, and a renovation project at Trinity Episcopal Church whirl together. Learn about developing thriving online preaching commun...

Ballerina turned baker turned entrepreneur, Kendall Vanderslice introduces herself as a 'food and theology scholar' who draws upon her background in the restaurant industry to teach the spiritual practice of bread baking. Kendall shares her experiences in creating baking workshops through her 'Bake and Pray' method, which integrates prayer into bread baking, turning it into a form of liturgy. She...

This week Dawn and Ruth have a lively and empowering collaboration with Tara Lamont Eastman of the 'Holy Shenanigans' podcast. They're here to champion women's creativity that's often dismissed as 'bubblegum.' Together, they discuss the importance of being bold and outspoken about creative passions. From Taylor Swift to Morning Pages to Car Poems, these three creative powerhouses invite listeners...

In this engaging conversation, Sally Franson discusses her experience on the Swedish reality show 'Alt for Sverige,' the inspiration for her novel 'Big in Sweden.' She delves into the character of Polly from her book, her creative process, the challenges of reality TV, and her ongoing journey of combining solitary work with collaborative projects. Sally also shares heartwarming experiences about v...

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth interview Pastor Chris Dynas, who shares his journey of becoming a beekeeper. Initially fearful of stinging insects, Chris' interest sparked in Missouri when a parishioner introduced him to beekeeping. He now manages around ten hives in Kansas, producing honey, lip balm, soap, and propolis tinctures. Chris describes the therapeutic aspect of...

In this special episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth dive into a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about Dawn's new book, 'Parables of a Resilient Nomad'. Set to release next Tuesday, September 17, the book chronicles Dawn's nomadic life, filled with personal and professional transformations. Dawn recounts her life as a pastor's daughter, the shocking revelation from her father, and...

Join Dawn and Ruth as they weave through Labor Day traditions and the communal charm of the Minnesota State Fair to uncover unexpected nuggets of mental wellness. From butter beauty queens to the therapeutic wonders of seed art, they set the stage for a dive into how creativity heals the mind. Featuring Caroline Garnet McGraw, who transforms anxiety into art; Richard Bruxvold, who turns Psalms int...

How much of creativity is inspiration and how much is discipline? It's a question that we didn't always ask in our interviews and yet over time we began to see how important discipline is to creativity. Here in our 40th episode, listen to a review of some of our guests talking about their practices that lead to the works they create! #creativityanddisciple #practiceofcreativity #gocreatesomething...

Creators in Unlikely Places: Crafting Art from Outer Space to Laundry Rooms to Nap time Hosts Dawn and Ruth dive into the behind-the-scenes stories of creative endeavors—from crafting viral memes and dealing with plagiarism to creating sewn projects in a space station. Featuring anecdotes from Karen's space quilting, Kayla's baking adventures, Diane's alchemical kitchen, Tyra's musical composition...

We continue our series this month in which we review common themes in our first 36 episodes. This episode challenges the portrayal of the church in mass media and highlights a female minister of color advocating for inclusion. It discusses the often-overlooked presence of LGBTQ+ individuals in religious spaces and the crucial role churches play in social justice. The importance of diverse represen...

We’ve got a new format for August, using clips from past guests to explore various themes, and this week we’re looking at creating in isolation versus collaboration. With special clips from pastor Jenny Sung and Rob Bell, we discuss diverse viewpoints on collaboration and contrast this with the isolation of working alone. Join us for our creative journey to Amsterdam May 1-9, 2025! https://created...

In this vibrant episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth introduce Stephanie and Stephanie, the dynamic duo behind Coast to Coast Sustainables. Tune in to hear the fascinating origin story of their eco-friendly business, starting from their initial venture with reusable towels that left market-goers in awe. Discover how their drive to create sustainable, easy-to-use products turned a small...

In this captivating episode of 'Created Creative', hosts Dawn and Ruth delve into the remarkable business journey of Melissa Fain, an ordained minister turned wilderness dweller with a passion for crafting. Join them as they explore Melissa's experience of developing an innovative Advent box, a project she has been nurturing since 2012. Throughout the conversation, Melissa shares her insights on v...

In this engaging and insightful conversation, David Gate, a poet and writer, shares his journey from London to his homestead in North Carolina. He discusses the integration of creativity and spirituality in his life, highlighting the importance of creative practices as spiritual disciplines. David delves into his experience of homesteading with his partner, their division of responsibilities, and...

Dawn and Ruth cordially invite you to join them as they host a captivating and enlightening conversation with the esteemed Bishop Brenda Bos. Prepare to be inspired as Bishop Brenda Bos shares her remarkable journey, tracing her path from a television production manager to ascending the ranks to become a distinguished bishop. This engaging discussion will delve into a myriad of thought-provoking t...

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth chat with the multi-talented artist Joe Davis. Joe shares insights about his poetry, teaching, and the inspiration behind his work, including his experiences with an artist residency and reconnecting with his Jamaican roots. He discusses the intertwining of creativity and spirituality and tells the heartfelt story of his journey from writing...

In this episode, Reverend Leah Robberts-Mosser joins the conversation to discuss her journey as a pastor, her involvement with the 'Sex Positive God Pod,' and her new memoir, which delves into personal struggles and ministry. Leah opens up about her creative process, tackling writer's block, and the importance of community support in writing. She talks about leveraging past experiences and emphasi...

This heartwarming episode features Heidi Larson, a multi-talented artist and devoted mother of three, who discusses her journey from being a deacon to running her Etsy shop, 'Like a Herd of Turtles.' Heidi shares the profound impact of her daughter's rare genetic disease on her creative work, her advocacy for the rare disease community, and her unique artisanal stickers and products. The episode d...