Your Creative Chord Podcast Empowering Your Creative Flow & Inspired Living Welcome to Your Creative Chord, the podcast for people who want to reconnect with their creativity, restore their energy, and live with greater intention. I’m Jenny Leigh Hodgins—creative empowerment coach, author, poet, pianist, composer, and longtime teacher and mentor. Each episode offers practical tools and thoughtful guidance to help you rebuild trust in your creative process. Together we explore ways to navigate…
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In this episode, I reflect on how grief, burnout, and long-term responsibility can create creative blocks by compressing identity and keeping us stuck in survival mode. I share insights from my own recovery journey, exploring how rest, boundaries, autonomy, and gentle self-compassion can help rebuild creativity, restore aliveness, and reconnect us with our authentic selves. Got thoughts or…
In episode 90, I continue sharing my personal grief journey through original music, poetry, and reflection, showing how creativity can help you to process loss, stay connected to your loved ones, and find meaning in your experiences. I invite you into a meditative space to explore your own emotions, using creative expression as a gentle way to honor your feelings, reduce isolation, and cultivate…
In episode 89, part 1 of my Grief, Loss & Creativity series, I share my personal journey through grief and loss, and how you can use creativity—through poetry, music, and reflection—as a way to process emotions, reduce isolation, and find deeper meaning. I invite you to sit with your own feelings and explore creative expression as a gentle, healing path toward connection, resilience, and inner…
In this episode, I share how to actively practice nurturing hope, joy, and creativity from within by facing your emotions honestly, embracing self-compassion, and using life’s challenges as fuel for growth. We explore simple, consistent ways to encourage yourself—through creativity, gratitude, and spiritual practices—so you can cultivate a deeper, more resilient sense of happiness regardless of…
In Episode 87: Burnout Recovery & Spiritual Practices for Brain Health I share how spiritual practices support burnout recovery, brain health, and sustainable creative energy. Learn simple, practical ways to strengthen resilience, restore clarity, and engage creatively without depleting yourself. RELATED EPISODES/RESOURCES: 6 Ways to Overcome Burnout and Transform Negativity into Creative Flow…
Episode 86: How To Attune to Your Creative Voice In this episode, I share how to attune to your creative voice using simple, self-compassionate practices that help you move past blocks and creative uncertainty. I walk you through my Creative Exploration Formula so you can reconnect with your intuition, strengthen your creative flow, and begin creating with clarity and confidence right away.…
Episode 85: From Overwhelm to Creative Flow - Lessons in Resilience, Boundaries, and Sustainable Action In this episode, I share how burnout, caregiving, community leadership, and life’s ongoing challenges taught me powerful lessons about resilience, boundaries, and sustainable creative action. Drawing from real-world experience and Buddhist practice, I offer practical insights to help you protect…
In episode 84, How Sightreading Sparks Creative Flow, I’m talking with piano educator David Holter about sightreading, creative flow, and playing with more ease and confidence. We explore his “blue mode” and “red mode” approach—along with the approach of focusing on one skill at a time. David's teaching method is based on the Lister Sink Method, which relieves pressure, builds tactile awareness,…
In this short episode (83), I invite you to pause, rest, and embrace the gift of seasonal stillness. Using the RESET framework from my Creative Empowerment Coaching program , I share a gentle musical meditation with my piano piece You’ve Got My Heart to help you restore energy, calm your mind, and nurture your creative spirit. Take this moment for yourself—whether it’s listening to the podcast or…
In this episode, I speak with singer-songwriter, Creativity Coach, and host of the Creative Engagement podcast, Dan Mandel, about how curiosity and creativity can guide meaningful life transitions. We explore: How Dan’s travels and songwriting shape his storytelling and coaching Why curiosity is essential for sustaining creativity The role of discipline and practice in making creativity empowering…
Ep 81 — The Unseen Garden Within: Creative Power & Feminine Truth with Sam Horton In this thoughtful conversation, I talk with artist, poet, and women’s empowerment specialist Sam Horton about the feminine nature of creativity — and how creative expression can support emotional wellbeing, healing, and a deeper connection to yourself. We explore the importance of honoring your inner seasons,…
EPISODE 80: Creative Power, Burnout Recovery & Becoming the Main Character in Your Life In this reflective episode, I share my personal story—why burnout recovery, boundary-setting, and creative empowerment have become a vital part of my work. You'll hear how navigating caregiving, family dysfunction, and community leadership led me to reclaim my voice and shift from overextension to alignment.…
Episode 79 – Creative Tools for Navigating Boundaries Setting boundaries is hard enough—what helps you process the emotional resistance that follows? In this episode of Your Creative Chord , I walk you through how creative and spiritual practices can help you stay grounded, clear, and compassionate through any boundary maintenance challenges. You'll hear the full version of my original song For…
Setting boundaries is hard—but what comes after can be even harder. In episode 78, I share personal strategies and creative tools for navigating the emotional resistance that often follows healthy limits. Whether you're facing backlash from others or internal guilt, you’ll hear reflections grounded in Buddhist practice, caregiving, and creative expression—including a clip from my original song For…
Episode 77: Boundaries For Protecting Your Creative Energy In this solo episode, I share practical insights on why setting boundaries is essential for preserving your energy, staying creatively aligned, and avoiding burnout. You’ll hear real-life examples of red flags—both personal and professional—that signal the need for boundaries. I offer clear, doable ways to set, communicate, and maintain…
Tune in for key insights from a Piano Panel Event I hosted, for an in-depth discussion on overcoming challenges at the piano. Get actionable strategies from 7 expert piano teachers on building consistent practice habits, improving technique, staying motivated, and exploring musical creativity—especially for adult learners. What You’ll Learn: How to practice consistently without relying on…
Episode 75: A replay of the Creativity Panel Event, hosted inside our Creative Flow & Inspired Living Facebook group. Join me and six panelists as we share expert insights on creativity, wellness, and overcoming blocks, exploring the powerful connection between creativity and wellness! Connect with our panelists: Kathy Tarochione Courtney Bell Website Beverley Glazer Free checklist: From Stuck to…
Episode 74: Stay Organized with My Task-Tracking Google Sheet In today’s episode, I’m sharing a simple but powerful tool I use to stay organized and on track with my podcasting workflow: my task-tracking Google Sheet. This system helps me manage everything from podcast creation to social media posts, emails, and YouTube versions of my episodes—and it can easily be adapted to your own projects or…
Note: Episode 72, Turning Struggles into Stepping Stones , was originally scheduled for April 1. It has now been rescheduled to air on April 15, 2025. In Ep. 72, I share how struggles can actually become stepping stones for happiness. It’s all about shifting your mindset and seeing challenges as opportunities for personal growth. I discuss how embracing obstacles with the right attitude can lead…
**Episode 72, Turning Struggles into Stepping Stones , and Episode 73, Three Simple Shifts for Piano Practice Consistency , have swapped air dates. Episode 73 aired on April 1, 2025.** Episode 73: 3 Simple Shifts for Piano Practice Consistency Struggling to stay consistent with your piano practice? In this episode, I share three simple mindset shifts that can transform how you approach…
UPDATE: New Date for the Creativity Panel Event! Our Creativity Panel Event: The Creativity & Wellness Connection was rescheduled to April 21, 2025. Listen to the podcast version of this insightful discussion in Episode 75: The Creativity & Wellness Connection . In Episode 71: Boosting Your Creative Flow for Wellness & Fulfillment, I share strategies to enhance your creative flow, overcome blocks,…
In Episode 70 of Your Creative Chord , '5 Simple Strategies to Get Organized & Achieve Your Goals ,' I’m sharing simple yet powerful organizational strategies to help you boost your creativity and productivity. If you struggle with focus, procrastination, or perfectionism, this episode is for you. I’ll walk you through how organizing your tasks and aligning them with your values can clear mental…
Reignite Your Creativity: My Proven Formula In this episode, I reveal my Proven Formula to help you reignite your creativity and tap into your full creative potential. If you’re feeling stuck or lacking inspiration, I’ll guide you through simple yet powerful steps to get back into your creative flow. You’ll learn: How to break free from creative blocks using a proven system designed to nurture…
Ep 68: Turning Life's Challenges Into Creative Power In this episode, I dive into the concept of anti-fragility —how embracing life’s challenges can actually make us stronger and more creative. Instead of just surviving obstacles, we’ll explore how to thrive and transform them into powerful opportunities for growth. 🎧 What you’ll discover in this episode: How challenges can be reframed as…
In Episode 67, 2 Powerful Strategies To Speed Up Your Piano Progress , I share two piano practice strategies that can transform your piano momentum and enjoyment. One focuses on goal-driven practice, and the other takes a more meditative, slow-down approach—borrowed from piano educator Bob Ross (not the artist!). Which one will help you most, or will you combine both? Tune in to discover how these…
In this episode, I share the #1 key to your piano progress—it's more essential than other factors you might think are more important! If you've been eager to start or feel stuck in your piano momentum, this episode will help you get back on track. Tune in to find out how to make real progress! 🎧 Piano Strategies Bundle: Download this free collection of tools to help new and returning learners set…
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…
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…
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 that elusive…
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 inspiration,…
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 into a groove after a…
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 inspire. I…
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…
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 for…
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're a beginner…
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 matters in…
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 he…
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…
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 the…
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 expression in…
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 a…
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 message of ' Hold On ' and…
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 through…
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 to…
