Do you think of yourself as "not creative?" Do you miss the ways you tried artistic pursuits during the pandemic, and have since had to let that go? Do you struggle with perfectionism, impostor syndrome, or overly focusing on the finished product of your endeavors rather than the process itself?

Today we're talking with mixed media artist and retired psychologist Rachel Davis, whose years of experience helping artists and everyday people embrace their creative side and move through their struggles have culminated in a personal milestone for her: retiring from decades as a therapist and becoming a full-time artist.

In this free-roaming and fascinating conversation, we cover everything from the nature of struggle, to what anxiety and creativity have in common, to surefire ways out of writers' block, how passion is more important than talent, creativity's connection to mental health, and more. Join us!

You can learn more about Rachael Davis's work here, and follow her on Instagram!

Follow Baggage Check on Instagram @baggagecheckpodcast and get sneak peeks of upcoming episodes, give your take on guests and show topics, gawk at the very good boy Buster the Dog, and send us your questions!

Here's more on Dr. Andrea Bonior and her book Detox Your Thoughts.

Here's more on this podcast, which somehow you already found (thank you!)

Credits: Beautiful cover art by Danielle Merity, exquisitely lounge-y original music by Jordan Cooper