Your Creative Chord Podcast

Discover how small, focused practice sessions can unlock your piano potential. In this episode, I share the incremental practice strategy —a proven method for turning specific trouble spots into musical triumphs, solidifying consistency, and making greater piano progress, even with limited time. Learn how to target trouble spots, maximize your practice routine, and build momentum toward your music...

In this episode of Your Creative Chord Podcast , I explore the powerful role that setting boundaries plays in creating a more balanced, fulfilling life. Sharing authentically about my own journey with boundaries, I emphasize the importance of self-care, mindfulness, and clarity. I offer practical tips on how to make time for what matters most, communicate your limits effectively, and say no withou...

In Episode 63 part 2 , I continue rebuilding and reflection as I explore the path of recovering from burnout. Recovery doesn’t happen overnight, but through creativity, self-compassion, and reconnecting with what truly matters, I’m finding my way back to myself. I briefly discuss the emotional impact of recent election results, particularly for those feeling frustrated or defeated by the outcome....

Recognizing Burnout's Signals & Regaining Balance  In part 1 of this 2-part episode series, I discuss the hidden ways burnout manifests in our lives—the often unaddressed accumulation of stress, the fog of chronic fatigue, and the toll it takes when left unchecked. Sharing my personal and very real struggle with recovery, I offer a candid perspective on navigating burnout while seeking th...

In this episode of Your Creative Chord Podcast , I’m thrilled to introduce our new Facebook group, Creative Flow & Personal Growth with Your Creative Chord* , a community designed to support your creative exploration. Whether you're a seasoned artist, musician, or someone looking to reignite your creative spark, this group is your space to connect with like-minded individuals, gain inspir...

5 Tips to Build Consistent Piano Practice for Busy Adults (Ep. 60)  In this special episode of Your Creative Chord , I'll share practical insights for both new and returning piano learners . If you're ready to establish a solid foundation for your piano journey, this episode is designed for you. I'll walk you through effective strategies that I've been using myself to get back...

Episode 59: Unlock Your Creativity – Special Workshop & Book Signing In this special episode, I’m so happy to share all the exciting details about my  Nurturing Creativity Workshop & Book Signing held on Saturday, October 5. 2024 in Lexington, Kentucky . The event offered opportunities to spark creative energy, connect with fellow creatives, and explore hands-on activities designed to insp...

Episode 58: 6 Powerful Ways to Overcome Burnout and Transform Negativity into Creative Flow I share six practical and effective strategies that I’m personally using to break free from burnout and turn negativity into a wellspring of creative energy. Through a blend of personal insights, actionable tips, and the restorative power of nature, we’ll explore how to shift your mindset and reignite your...

In this reflective episode (57) of Your Creative Chord , I share my ongoing journey of practicing the very tips I offer on finding light in dark times. Like you, I’m a work in progress, and together, we’ll explore how to turn life’s challenges into sources of strength and creativity, drawing from my personal experiences and Buddhist practice. I’ll also be sharing two special lyrics from my poetry...

Welcome to Your Creative Chord Podcast ! In episode 56, I share my personal story of overcoming obstacles while juggling multiple roles and caring for my 84-year-old Mom. I explore the power of embracing and sharing our struggles as a way to practice authenticity and self-compassion. What you’ll hear in this episode: How sharing mistakes and failures can deepen our connections with others and insp...

Note: There’s a minor wording error in the show intro. It should state 'author, poet, and hobbyist nature photographer.' In episode 55, I explore how to transform painful experiences of betrayal into opportunities for growth and self-empowerment. Drawing from personal stories, I discuss the lessons learned about setting boundaries and reclaiming personal power. I offer practical steps fo...

In Episode 54, Launching ‘Start Piano!’ Unveiling Benefits & Essential Insights, I share my personal story of overcoming performance anxiety and how it transformed my piano playing, along with practical tips and strategies for new and returning piano learners, highlighting key points from my book, ' S tart Piano: What You Need for Successful Learning ,' launching today.  Whether you&...

In this episode, we explore how the concepts from my book, Start Piano: What You Need for Successful Learning , help us turn our musical challenges into strengths. I'll share how my personal struggles with music theory, repertoire, piano technique, and performance skills deepened my empathy for others and my understanding of piano learners' motivation to succeed. We discuss what truly ma...

In Episode 52, we continue our conversation with Jim Johnson, founder of Grass Roots Piano . Jim's approach to adult beginner piano education, infused with humor and a focus on enjoyment, has made learning piano accessible and fun for many. In Part 2, we chat about his online teaching methods, his philosophy of integrating enjoyment and a laid-back attitude into the learning process, and how...

In Part 1 of this interview, Jim Johnson shares his inspiring backstory, experience in music education, and the creation of Grass Roots Piano . He shares the profound impact of his mentors. Jim candidly opens up about his struggles with mental illness, the importance of empathy, and how he uses music as a therapeutic tool. Jim shares his creative process, emphasizing stream of consciousness and th...

In this continuation of our in-depth conversation, drawing from her extensive performance experience at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center, guest Ashlee Young emphasizes that the highest level of piano performance is not about perfection or technique. Instead, it's about tapping into the music's beauty and connecting with the humanity of both the audience and th...

In Episode 49, I'm pleased to introduce Ashlee Young, a pianist, educator, content creator, and business coach who champions the philosophy of practicing smarter, not harder. With a master's degree in classical piano performance from USC's Thornton School of Music and performances at Carnegie Hall and Kennedy Center, Ashlee has shifted her focus from competition to connection and ex...

CelebratIng the launch of my new book, Kaleidoscope of the Heart: A Collection of Poetry and Lyrics ! I share the personal story behind this collection, spotlighting themes of friendship, self-belief, and the transformative power of authentic expression. Despite a whirlwind of responsibilities as a solo entrepreneur, Board President, and caregiver, I dedicated four intense months to creating this...

Welcome to a Special Bonus Poetry Episode (2) of Your Creative Chord Podcast, where we benefit from the transformative power of poetry. Join me as I share inspiring verses from my latest book, Kaleidoscope of the Heart: A Collection of Poetry and Lyrics , exploring themes of connection, inner strength, and resilience.  Through  personal expressions, poignant words, and reflections, I invite you on...

In Episode 47: A Poetic Path To Finding Hope, I take you on a personal exploration through the transformative power of poetry. Inspired by personal experiences and my book, ' Kaleidoscope of the Heart: A Poetry & Lyrics Collection ,' I share readings of three poems centered around the theme of finding hope.  From the vivid imagery of ' All About Hope ' to the resilient mess...

In this bonus episode (1) of Your Creative Chord Podcast , I offer a special preview of my book, Kaleidoscope of the Heart: A Collection of Poetry and Lyrics . Enjoy an intimate reading of three poignant poems— Symbolism of Fruit and Tea , Building A Life , and Lifelines . Through themes of love, loss, and personal growth, these poems provide a glimpse into the rich tapestry of relationships.  ✨...

In Episode 46, I welcome back Jill Hodge, the creative force behind Let the Verse Flow Podcast , for part 2 of our enlightening conversation. We explore the transformative power of poetry, personal growth, and creativity. Drawing from our shared experiences as caregivers, poets, podcasters, and 50+ women, we discuss creative self-care, nurturing creative flow, navigating life's challenges thr...

Join my guest Jill Hodge, the creative force behind Let the Verse Flow Podcast, as we explore the transformative power of poetry, personal growth, and creativity. Jill shares insights into how caregiving has shaped her approach to creativity and personal development.  Together, we delve into the role of creative expression in fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We highlight the importance...

In Episode 44 , I conclude the two-part exploration of how to RESET your creative energy. Based on my Inspirational Bookmark Trio (now expanded as my Creative Empowerment Sampler ) , I explain the "S-E-T" aspect of RESET and provide practical strategies to elevate your creative energy. This episode marks the culmination of a 4-episode series on creative flow , focusing on empowering you...

Welcome to part 3 of my 4-part Creative Flow series! In today's episode, we're exploring the first of the core principles within my RESET Your Creative Energy framework: Regular Rest and Essentials Only . I understand the struggles of managing multiple responsibilities. By prioritizing rest and focusing on essentials , we can prevent or overcome burnout and rediscover our creative flow. ...