Best Mak Mckeehan Podcasts (2025)

1
5 Ways to Beat Overthinking Today 36:34

4d ago36:34

36:34

Overthinking kills creativity, and it happens faster than you realize. In this episode, we unpack how fear often disguises itself as "preparation" and why it smothers your best ideas before they have a chance to grow. You will learn five simple ways to catch overthinking early, trust your creative spark, and take action before fear takes over. If y…

1
What Everyone Else Is Doing (And Why You Shouldn’t) 39:55

10d ago39:55

39:55

We’re getting honest in this one. So many creatives feel stuck, not because they aren’t talented or motivated, but because they’re silently following the rules everyone else is following. The ones that say: “Be practical. Play it safe. Stick to the plan.” In this episode, we unpack why that mindset is stifling your creativity. We explore left-brain…

1
Creative Catastrophe: The Christmas Train That Broke Me 1:20:35

23d ago1:20:35

1:20:35

A true story of public failure, creative heartbreak, and the unexpected path to redemption. This is the most vulnerable, raw, and unforgettable story we’ve told on the podcast so far. In this extended episode, Mak shares the real-life tale of a Christmas train festival gone spectacularly wrong; complete with crushed dreams, media headlines, lawsuit…

1
Fear of Failure: Why It’s Stopping You (and What to Do Instead) 53:41

26d ago53:41

53:41

In this emotionally rich and deeply honest episode of The UnBound Creative, Valerie and Mak explore one of the most universal experiences in creative life: failure. They dive into why fear of failure keeps so many creatives stuck, and offer mindset shifts, emotional tools, and gentle practices for moving through it. They discuss: How our brains are…

1
How Your Creative Skills Are Your Greatest Business Asset 51:00

1M ago51:00

51:00

If you’ve ever said “I’m not a business person” because you’re creative, this episode is your wake-up call. The idea that creatives aren’t cut out for business is a story, and it’s a false one. In this conversation, we challenge the myth that creativity and business don’t belong together and show you how your artistic instincts are actually your bi…

1
The Most Dangerous Lie Creatives Tell Themselves (and How to Stop) 52:59

1M ago52:59

52:59

In this fired-up, heart-on-sleeve episode, Mak and Valerie tackle one of the biggest invisible barriers creative people face: waiting for permission. Whether it's from society, our families, our Instagram followers, or—most sneakily—ourselves, this need for outside validation keeps so many creatives stuck on the sidelines. If you've ever found your…

1
Why Creativity Feels Hard - And How to Make It Easier 46:39

2M ago46:39

46:39

If you’ve ever wondered why something you love — creating — can feel like pulling teeth to start, this is your episode. We’re unpacking the real reasons creativity feels so hard (hint: it's not because you're lazy or lack discipline) — and sharing practical mindset shifts and "biohacks" that will help you make creating feel easier, lighter, and eve…

1
Why You Feel Stuck — And How to Finally Move Forward (For Real) 52:13

2M ago52:13

52:13

What if the key to unleashing your creativity isn't found in hustling harder but in following the whispers of curiosity that most of us have been conditioned to ignore? Valerie and Mak McKeehan dive deep into how our education system and cultural messaging train us to become prisoners of outcome-based thinking, postponing joy until we achieve some …

1
Unleashing Your Creative Soul: Breaking Free from Society's Boxes 29:54

2M ago29:54

29:54

Valerie and Mak McKeehan launch their new podcast, The Unbound Creative, dedicated to helping creatives break free from societal constraints and self-imposed limitations to discover a more expansive, authentic creative life. • Creativity is an essence of being, not just an act—bringing forth something that didn't exist before • Our brains are wired…

1
Sell Your Artwork, Without the Stress | Part 5: The Secret Ingredient to Success 26:52

6M ago26:52

26:52

What truly sets successful creative entrepreneurs apart? It's not just about mastering pricing or nailing your branding—it's about how you show up every day. It comes down to having courage. This is the number one thing that sets apart someone who is finding success selling their art. We all have fears and imposter syndrome to overcome, but when yo…

1
Sell Your Artwork, Without the Stress | Part 4: Building Your Personal Brand 39:46

6M ago39:46

39:46

Ever wondered how to craft a brand that truly embodies your authentic self? Valerie and Mak explore this vital question by examining the unique vibes of artists' personal brands, both online and offline. They provide insights on how having a personal brand will help you as an artpreneur, how to maintain authenticity while choosing which facets of y…

1
Sell Your Artwork without the Stress | Part 3: Selling without an audience 46:31

6M ago46:31

46:31

“I’d love to sell my artwork, but I just don’t have a big audience or following.” This is one of the first things a lot of artists interested in selling their artwork say. But having a big audience isn’t the answer. You can begin selling your art, today, whether you have 100 followers or 10,000. In today’s episode, Valerie and Mak McKeehan discuss …

1
Sell Your Artwork without the Stress | Part 2: How to Price Your Art 51:51

6M ago51:51

51:51

One of the most daunting aspects of being an Artpreneur is figuring out how to price your work. In this next episode of “Sell Your Work, Without the Stress” Series, long-time entrepreneurs Valerie and Mak McKeehan share their secrets and philosophies for not only pricing, but pricing in a way that is fulfilling and exciting! Whether you're struggli…

1
Sell Your Artwork without the Stress | Part 1: Where to Begin 48:48

6M ago48:48

48:48

Imagine viewing your art not just as a creative endeavor, but as a powerful way to enrich lives and engage in a meaningful exchange of value. In this episode, Valerie and Mak McKeehan explore the often daunting intersection of business and creativity, offering a fresh perspective that can transform the fear of selling into an invitation to connect …

1
Saying No to Toxic Culture for Artists 23:53

7M ago23:53

23:53

What if the key to unlocking your creative potential lies not in the typical advice given to artists but in embracing the natural rhythms of rest and reflection? Join me as we challenge the toxic myth that artists must suffer to create great art. Valerie shares her personal journey chasing an external view of success to finding alignment and a heal…

1
The Worst Advice Given to Artists 20:43

7M ago20:43

20:43

Why do we still cling to the myth of the "struggling artist" when creativity can be a joyful and healing process? Join me as we challenge this outdated narrative, advocating for a new approach that prizes personal fulfillment and well-being over relentless toil. Let's question the tired wisdom that equates success with sacrifice, and instead explor…

1
Saying Yes to Fear 27:21

7M ago27:21

27:21

In this episode Valerie explores two different types of fear. One type tells you you’re going in the wrong direction, but another type is actually a good sign. It’s a sign of expansion and growth. Your brain is trying to protect you simply because it is unknown. Yet it is precisely in this unknown space where magic happens! Here’s how to say yes to…

1
Welcome to The Peaceful Creative! 19:23

8M ago19:23

19:23

The Dear Creative Soul Podcast is now The Peaceful Creative! In this episode, Valerie talks about the reason behind the name change and what it means to be The Peaceful Creative. She shares her vision for a group of artists and creatives who put beauty into this world from the deepest parts of their authentic souls. Say goodbye to the cliche of the…

1
Being An Artist in a Heavy Dark World 14:11

9M ago14:11

14:11

What is an artist to do when the world feels heavy and dark? We are often sensitive creatures and it's easy to crumble and succumb to the darkness. But, sensitivity is also the artist's superpower. In this episode, Valerie discusses how to navigate this balance. We need your light, beauty, and peace, especially in dark times. Thanks for listening t…

1
What Are You Waiting For? 17:15

10M ago17:15

17:15

There’s nothing wrong with setting goals, but what happens when you’re holding off on feeling good until you reach those goals? This leads to a creative life of emptiness and in constant search of the next “hit.” There’s a better, more fulfilling way to live and Valerie talks about how you can start right now. Thanks for listening to The UnBound Cr…

1
3 Tips for Accessing Flow State 12:51

10M ago12:51

12:51

Flow state - that out-of-body experience where the work seems to just appear and you are the vessel. Time stands still in those moments and it feels incredible! How do we get more of this? The good news is we can consciously create the conditions for flow state to happen more easily! In this episode, Valerie discusses three ways to welcome more flo…

1
How to Have a Mindfulness Practice Through Creativity 32:48

10M ago32:48

32:48

Are you the type of person who hears "enjoy the process" and it seems like a cliche? You are not alone! We hear these things and know it's what we are "supposed to do," but doing is another story. How do we break the barriers to enjoying the process? The answer lies in a mindfulness practice and through it, realizing the true medicine available thr…

1
We Want Your Humanity and Imperfection 21:04

10M ago21:04

21:04

Often as creatives and artists, we think we need to put out the polished, perfect version of ourselves. If it's not perfect then we hold back and think we're not ready or we're not good enough. But the truth is, it's the humanity and the imperfection that makes us connect with others and their artistry! Valerie discusses her recent experience at a …

1
How to Separate Your Worth from Your Art 32:09

10M ago32:09

32:09

The life of a creative is full of juxtapositions! One of the biggest juxtapositions is the idea of creating from a place of who you are, yet not getting your identity so wrapped up in it that it debilitates you. When you can release the pressure of your worth being tied to what you create, a whole new world of healing and beauty opens up. In this e…

1
What to do When You are Procrastinating 24:33

11M ago24:33

24:33

Does this sound familiar? You feel inspired and have all intentions of making art. Then suddenly, you remember you have “so much to do.” You block creating and chalk it up to not having enough time. I don’t believe that’s the real reason. It’s actually fear. In this episode, we explore how to tackle this issue of procrastination and discomfort head…

1
Art is Energy 1:05:07

11M ago1:05:07

1:05:07

In today's episode I'm taking you inside our exclusive Facebook group in the Magic Makers Membership! We've been working through the book, The Creative Act by Rick Rubin. Every Friday, I've been going live to discuss portions of the book and it has been SO GOOD. I had to share this discussion with you! I talk about.. how art is energy why creating …

1
Talking Perfectionism and Jealousy 59:08

1y ago59:08

59:08

We've been going through The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron in my membership, The Magic Makers. I've been going live on our Facebook community each week to discuss each chapter of the 12-week journey. It has been incredible! This episode includes the audio from one of the Facebook lives. It covers Week 7 in the Artist's Way and we talk a lot about o…

1
For The Stressed-Out Creative 30:27

1y ago30:27

30:27

Many people talk about creativity or having a creative outlet as a stress-reliever. This can certainly be true, however, what happens when your creativity does just the opposite? When you're stressed out about creating art and your body is sent into flight or fight mode? It's something I think we need to talk about more. In this case, creativity be…

1
Turn the Lights Back On 56:12

1y ago56:12

56:12

For the first time in decades, Billy Joel released new music. After listening to the single, I had so many thoughts. Thoughts about creativity, courage, pressure, and succumbing to the praise of others. I asked Mak to join me again on the podcast to have this spontaneous conversation! We talk about the universal fear of creatives, how to decipher y…

1
What Do You Really Want? 25:48

1+ y ago25:48

25:48

Happy New Year! With a new year comes all the talk about setting goals and resolutions. There's a better way of tapping into what you desire and making it happen. It all boils down to the question: how do you want to FEEL? In this episode, we talk about letting yourself dream, how to discover what it is you really want, a new way to create a vision…

1
When You Don't Have Time For Your Art 16:06

1+ y ago16:06

16:06

When life gets busy, art is often the first thing to go. I wish this wasn't the case, but what I do know is that heaping on guilt is not the answer! In this episode, I'm sharing a pep talk I recorded for those in my membership community. You'll find encouragement for when you're feeling frustrated and disconnected from your art, especially now as w…

1
Chloe Minyon on Finding Creative Authenticity 1:09:53

1+ y ago1:09:53

1:09:53

I am thrilled to be joined on the podcast today by my friend, artist, creative entrepreneur, and coach, Chloe Minyon. This candid and vulnerable conversation was part of a live virtual retreat held for members of my Magic Makers Membership! We discuss creative authenticity, how there's always more going on behind the scenes of creative businesses, …

1
That Time I Triggered People on Tik Tok 32:45

1+ y ago32:45

32:45

Here is the TikTok video! https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT85hemvM/ We all want to be liked and validated. That is part of being human! Especially when it comes to something vulnerable like our art. But, the fact is, not everyone is going to like you. This is not only okay, it is normal. Not everyone is going to like you, but you don't like everyone! Som…

1
Change the story, change your life 20:15

1+ y ago20:15

20:15

Have you ever heard the story about fleas in a jar? If you place fleas in a jar, they will jump out. If you add a lid to the jar, the fleas will try to escape at first, but eventually, they will stop trying. Even when the lid is removed, the fleas will still stay in the jar. They were trained to stay there. How often are we like the fleas? Perhaps …

1
It's Time to Practice Failing 23:36

1+ y ago23:36

23:36

We all know the phrase "practice makes perfect," but I actually do not believe in this phrase! I think a truer statement is "practice makes familiarity." When you practice something, it becomes familiar. When something becomes familiar, then your brain registers it as safe. Your brain has a funny way of taking the path of least resistance. The same…

1
5 Tips for When You're Feeling Discouraged 29:17

1+ y ago29:17

29:17

You set out to try something new, mustering the courage that it takes to try. You silenced your inner critic enough to do it and do it badly! A huge first step! But then, the weeks march on, the progress seems slower than expected. You feel the frustration and familiar feelings of self doubt and fear coming back to haunt you. Discouragement sets in…

1
Why Your Creativity is Vital 21:22

1+ y ago21:22

21:22

I’ve been fired up lately. It’s about this notion that creativity is frivolous or childlike. It is NOT. Your creativity and artistic expression are vital. The world needs who you are when you are your lit-up, authentic self. In this episode: The Way of Integrity by Martha Beck Join me for my next round of The Magic of Soft Pastel, a 6-Week LIVE onl…

1
How to Make Your Life Instantly Better 15:05

2y ago15:05

15:05

Today I’m sharing the one thing I believe is an instant game-changer in your life as well as your creative practice! You’ll learn the simple trick that will make a difference in how you feel and elevate the mundane, day-to-day. Because here's the thing: MOST of your life will be lived in the mundane moments. We have highs and lows sprinkled in betw…

1
What To Do When Things Don’t Work Out 24:56

2y ago24:56

24:56

Do you have those instances in your life where you look back on things you wanted so badly, but they didn’t work out? Maybe you’re breathing a sigh of relief (like me)! There are many times I’m grateful circumstances didn’t go the way I thought I wanted them to. But hindsight is 20/20. How do we let go of expectations and the desire to force the ou…

1
Work Doesn't Have To Be Hard 15:02

2y ago15:02

15:02

I had a realization about burnout and overwhelm. So much of my creative journey has been spent in these states. I would read books about productivity and time hacks. Tell myself I need better routines and to get up earlier in the morning. But the truth was, it wasn't that I wasn't productive, I was misaligned. It wasn't an issue with time, it was a…

1
Go From Angsty to Peaceful 31:20

2y ago31:20

31:20

The angsty artist. It’s such a cliche, but for a good reason. Materializing something from your soul is gut-wrenching and fraught with reasons for angst. But, it doesn’t have to be that way! I want you to be able to create from a higher place of joy and peace! I believe there are two main blockers that if left unchecked, will keep you in a place of…

1
You Were Made to Bloom 14:31

2y ago14:31

14:31

I used to hear the phrase “don't play small” and think that meant chasing some grandiose dream or version of what society considers successful. But I've come to realize that playing small is actually what happens when you hold yourself back or tamp down who you really are. This can happen for many reasons: perfectionism, fear of being seen, needing…

1
The Only Social Media Strategy You Need 35:10

2y ago35:10

35:10

The topic of authenticity has been chasing me it seems! It's a buzzword, I know, especially when it comes to showing up on social media. People have different versions of authentic, debating Instagram vs. Tiktok, filters vs. not, but authenticity can’t be tangibly defined. It can’t be quantified and bottled up. It is felt. There’s an energy that wi…

1
Why You Should Make Bad Art 32:00

2y ago32:00

32:00

I’ll be honest, there was a point in my career when I would hear about embracing the process, making a mess, loving the journey and I would think, “Yeah right. Who has time for that?” I had deadlines piling up; I was stressed and burnout. Do you struggle with embracing the process? This episode is for you. We are addicted to the idea of a successfu…

1
Why Beauty is Necessary | Part 2 41:14

2y ago41:14

41:14

Have you ever been made to feel like the beauty you create is frivolous? I would argue it's just the opposite - that beauty is utterly necessary. Your beauty is necessary. My husband, Mak, joins me again this week as it turns out we had so much more we wanted to say about this topic! We talk about the importance of finding what lights you up, regar…

1
Why Beauty is Necessary | Part 1 35:43

2y ago35:43

35:43

Have you ever been made to feel like the beauty you create is frivolous? I would argue it's just the opposite - that beauty is utterly necessary. Your beauty is necessary. Beauty makes life worth living. It makes us feel alive! Sustenance for the soul. The world can never ever have too much beauty. It won't run out of space. We would never feel lik…

1
What To Do When You Feel Lost 29:19

2y ago29:19

29:19

Did you ever hear something and you don’t know exactly why, but you knew in that moment you were meant to hear it? That happened to me recently at an unexpected moment. The tears instantly came. It was an invitation back to myself after going through a period of feeling lost. When you feel like you’ve lost yourself, I believe it’s often because you…

1
You're Allowed to Change Your Mind 22:44

2y ago22:44

22:44

Dear Creative Soul, You’re allowed to change your mind You’re allowed to quit something You’re allowed to experiment You’re allowed to start something new. There are no rules! Giving the world the gift of your honest, authentic self is worth pushing past the made up rules and limitations we put on ourselves. In case you felt like you needed permiss…

1
Why Your Next Mistake Could Be Your Biggest Success 24:00

2y ago24:00

24:00

One of the biggest blockers to creativity is the fear of making a mistake. You probably have multiple ideas swirling through your head at any given moment, but maybe you're feeling afraid to choose the “wrong” one and move forward. Or maybe you feel intimidated to create, worrying that the end result won’t be what you had envisioned. For 12+ years …

1
How I'm Getting Unstuck 12:29

2y ago12:29

12:29

Sometimes there are so many creatives directions we can take and this can leave us stuck! I’ve been feeling this way lately. In today’s episode we’ll talk about the simple mindset shifts to get unstuck and things we can tell ourselves to bring more fun into the process! Follow along on Instagram @valeriemckeehan and at valeriemckeehan.com Thanks fo…

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Mak Mckeehan Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen