The Unbound Creative

Latest Episodes:

Why Your Creativity is Vital Aug 14, 2023

Show notes

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 online course experience. Sign up for the waitlist.

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

How to Make Your Life Instantly Better Jul 10, 2023

Show notes

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 between a collection of many mundane, simple moments.

Transforming these moments into something of beauty and romance will transform your life.

Not to mention, it’s here where inspiration is found!

Join me for my first online soft pastel course!

The Magic of Soft Pastel, a 6-Week LIVE online course experience.

You will learn how to paint the world around you by discovering the art of landscape painting in a fun, tactile medium.

But in addition to putting pigment to paper, the course will guide you through finding your unique voice and mindfully connecting to your creativity. All in the energy of a supportive, live environment.

Live calls begin on July 17, 2023 and I’d love to see you there!
Learn more information.

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

What To Do When Things Don’t Work Out Jul 06, 2023

Show notes

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 outcome in our present day when the story is yet to be written?
We’ll answer this question in today’s episode.

My LIVE online soft pastel course is here!

Introducing the Magic of Soft Pastel, a 6-Week LIVE online course experience.

You will learn how to paint the world around you by discovering the art of landscape painting in a fun, tactile medium.

Live calls begin on July 17, 2023 and I’d love to see you there!
Learn more information.

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

Work Doesn't Have To Be Hard Jun 24, 2023

Show notes

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 an issue of authenticity.

When we're working from a place of authenticity and flow, suddenly things feel easier. Our batteries don't drain the same way. If you're feeling a constant state of burnout and overwhelm, this episode is for you!

Mentioned in this episode:

The Way of Integrity by Martha Beck

https://amzn.to/44ikbO2

My first course is here! Check out the Magic of Soft Pastel Online Course.

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

Go From Angsty to Peaceful May 31, 2023

Show notes

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 angst: people-pleasing (being worried about what others will think) and jealousy.
I have some powerful mindset shifts for each of these roadblocks to help you go from angsty to peaceful on your creative journey.
If this resonates with you, please visit valeriemckeehan.com/course and enter your email address. I have something coming to help.

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

You Were Made to Bloom May 16, 2023

Show notes

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 approval, someone in your life making you afraid.
Perhaps you are waiting to be called up or picked (this isn't going to happen). Maybe you are secretly hoping for an external circumstance that will validate you and make you feel what you have to offer is worthwhile. Even if the external circumstances would happen, I guarantee you it won't have the effect you desire.
That's because the answer is within. It lies in choosing yourself.
Flowers bloom because they were made to. You were too.

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

The Only Social Media Strategy You Need May 09, 2023

Show notes

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 will connect or disconnect.
There is strategy after strategy about how to best show up on social media, but without this intangible part - none of that matters. Without the heart and the YOU behind it.
When someone is standing in their authenticity, it makes you feel at ease. You feel safe. It frees you to be yourself.
But then this brings me to another thought: What if you’re not sure what that is? What if you’ve over-edited yourself so much into what you think other people want from you in those squares that you’re not even sure who the person is showing up? What if you’re asking: how can I be myself in a world that says I must be “on brand”? This episode is for you.
In this episode we cover:

The person who I believe to be the most authentic
How to release the pressure of social media
What to do when you feel you've lost yourself
How to overcome over-editing your every move on social media
Simple and practical tips for bringing more joy into your day

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

Why You Should Make Bad Art May 02, 2023

Show notes

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 successful outcome because our primitive brains want certainty and certainty feels safe. Our brains try to protect us from things like pain and shame, even in something that seems as innocent as creativity.
Although you may think you want a certain outcome, your creative soul does not. Pushing through the obstacles brings a great, deep sense of satisfaction. There's MAGIC to be found in the process.
In this episode we cover:

Practical tips for overcoming a focus on the outcome
Building resilience in the creative process
The #1 antidote to shame while creating
How to create mindfully
Why we should embrace work that ends up in the trash

Creating takes a great deal of courage and I hope this episode serves up a hefty dose for the taking.
From the Episode:

I would really appreciate it if you took a moment to write a review of the podcast. It helps other creatives, like you, find and share!
Sign up for an early-bird discount on my new live online course coming this summer!
Follow me on Instagram @valeriemckeehan
Visit: valeriemckeehan.com for more information and to view and purchase my artwork.

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

Why Beauty is Necessary | Part 2 Apr 25, 2023

Show notes

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, regardless of trends, and how to incorporate small bits of beauty in your everyday life. If you find something to be beautiful, no matter how small or simple, it matters. It’s a clue to who you are and the world needs it. The global pandemic is proof of this and we discuss why!
I hope you find some encouragement for your creative soul today.
From the Episode:

Connect with Valerie on Instagram: @valeriemckeehan
Vist Valerie's Website: valeriemckeehan.com
Please take a moment to share and review this episode. Be sure to tag Valerie on instagram if you do.

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

Why Beauty is Necessary | Part 1 Apr 18, 2023

Show notes

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 like there are already too many flowers or sunsets or ocean waves. And just like in nature, it is impossible to put too much of your art and creativity out into the world. Beauty begets beauty.
In this episode, my husband Mak joins me to have this very important discussion about the necessity of beauty and why we need what's in your heart to create.
Sign up to get more information about Valerie's brand new online course!
References from the Show:

Follow Valerie on Instagram: @valeriemckeehan
Visit: valeriemckeehan.com
Please take a moment to share this episode on social media (don't forget to tag @valeriemckeehan) and be sure to leave a review!

Thanks for listening to The UnBound Creative!

If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or leave us a review, it helps more creatives discover the show.

💌 Connect with us on Instagram:
@valeriemckeehan & @thatmakguy (that’s Mak with a K!)

Keep creating bravely. We’re so glad you’re here.

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