Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous

In this final episode of Season 1 of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous , I pause to look back at the ideas we have explored over the past twelve weeks, creativity, fear, perfectionism, showing up, and the messy magic of making things. I share what creating this podcast taught me, from the discipline of weekly episodes to the joy and vulnerability of building something from nothing, and why “done...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous , I explore the tension between perfection and creativity and why “done” is often better than “good.” I talk about how perfectionism can disguise itself as care but often becomes fear that keeps us from finishing, sharing, and growing. I share a simple framework for working with perfectionism rather than against it, focusing on small steps, re...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous , I explore the relationship between photography and truth and where authenticity comes into play. I talk about how framing, perspective, editing, and intent all shape what we see as “real,” and why a photograph is never truly objective. I also reflect on the difference between truth and authenticity, and how an image can feel emotionally genu...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous , I share 5 + 1 fun facts about creativity, small, interesting insights that highlight how it shows up in everyday life. I talk about how both sides of the brain play a role, how daydreaming and boredom can actually help creative thinking, and why routine and repetition are not necessarily the enemies of new ideas. It is a gentle reminder that...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous , I share a personal story about how a few key voices, some I have never met, helped reshape my creative path. We explore the idea of mentorship beyond the traditional one-on-one model, and look at how books, podcasts, peers, and even your past self can serve as powerful guides. If you have ever felt stuck, isolated, or like you are waiting fo...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous , I talk about the role fear plays in the creative process and how we can learn to move forward with it, instead of waiting for it to disappear. Drawing from the words of Elizabeth Gilbert and Rainer Maria Rilke, I explore how fear can become a companion rather than a barrier. If fear has ever stopped you from creating, this one is for you. Th...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous , I explore the deep, often unspoken reasons behind our need to create and our desire to experience art. From healing and storytelling to connection and resistance, I reflect on how creativity shapes our lives and why a world without art wouldn’t just be dull, but deeply incomplete. Join me as I share personal reflections and a heartfelt remin...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous , I explore the stereotypes that surround artists and creatives. Why are we so often expected to look, act, or think in certain ways? How do these societal expectations impact our mental health, our creativity, and the way we navigate our work? From emerging photographers to seasoned creators, I discuss how these stereotypes can freeze us in p...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous , I dive into a personal and thought-provoking topic of what it really means to call yourself an artist and why it is so difficult for some of us to embrace this title. I share my own struggles with self-doubt and explores how this hesitation has impacted her creative journey. If you've ever questioned whether you’re "allowed" t...

Welcome to the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous ! In this first episode, I am introducing you to the podcast, talk about where the idea came from, and share the story behind the name and more precisely I am answering three crucial questions: Who am I? What is this podcast about? And why is it called the Fifth Floor? Thank you for being here! See you on the next one! In the meantime you can find me...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous, I dive into the complex relationship between AI and creativity and I unpack three key concerns: Will we lose our creative voices? Is AI stealing artists’ unique styles? And can it distort truth in photography and art? Maybe, it’s not all doom and gloom, but it’s worth thinking about. Thank you for being here! See you on the next one! In the m...

In this episode of the Fifth Floor by Athina Neocleous, I take us on a quick trip to Paris, not for the fashion or the food, but for its quiet connection to photography. While Paris is known as a hub for art and history, its influence on photography is just as rich. I share five fascinating facts about Paris’s photographic legacy, from the birth of photography to iconic landmarks and legendary pho...