Your Creative Mind

Behind every book, play, and song is a person juggling self-doubt, deadlines, and the drive to create. On Your Creative Mind, Izolda Trakhtenberg talks with writers, artists, musicians, and creative professionals about how they create and how they manage the stress and anxiety that often come with creating. Izolda and her guests explore the unexplained mechanisms and personal experiences that shape creative artists, writers, and others.

Through candid interviews and practical insights, you’ll learn storytelling techniques, productivity practices for creative professionals, and strategies for overcoming perfectionism in writing, music, and art. Whether you’re searching for inspiration, tools to strengthen your resilience, or fresh ideas for balancing creativity and everything else in your life, this podcast is your guide to creating with courage, confidence, and joy.

A new feature of this show is a more introspective, yet universal, look at our inner workings. 

Episodes

May 26, 2025

1 hr 20 min

Crafting a Brand That Shines: Insights from Brigitte Bojkowszky
Ever wondered how to transform your brand into a standout success? In this episode of the Your Creative Mind Podcast, we chat with Brigitte Bojkowszky, a leading expert in brand identity and the author of the bestselling book, Significant Women: Leaders Reveal What Matters Most. Brigitte shares her proven strategies for crafting compelling brand identities, fostering a culture of shared values, and delivering exceptional client experiences. Whether you’re building your personal brand, leading a team, or managing a corporate image, Brigitte’s insights will help you attract the recognition and clients you deserve. Tune in to gain actionable tips and elevate your brand to new heights!
Website BridgetBrands: https://www.bridgetbrands.com
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bojkowszkyb/
* Book Significant Women: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0927YG1FH
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BridgetBrands
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brigitte.bojkowszky
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgetbrands
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/BridgetBrands
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bridgetbrands
  Book your 30-minute complimentary brand clarity call:
https://calendly.com/bridgetbrands/30-min-brand-clarity-coffee-chat
Download Your Entrepreneurial Branding Starter Checklist: https://courses.bridgetbrands.com/f/entrepreneurial-branding-starter-checklist
Connect with Izolda
Ready to "wow" the people you speak with? Work with me.
Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day.
This episode is brought to you by my upcoming book, Get Booked: A Performer’s Guide to Working with Booking Agents in the Gig Economy, launching January 2025! If you’re ready to succeed as a gig worker, start with my Nailing Holiday Gigs Checklist—your go-to guide for negotiating, prepping, performing, and securing future bookings. Nail your holiday gigs with this checklist.. Don’t miss this chance to step up your gig game and own the holiday season!
This episode is also brought to you by my favorite productivity and well-being app, Brain.fm*, my book on how to become a stellar communicator, Speak From Within, and this podcast's host, Podbean (Get a one-month free trial of Podbean with this affiliate link. https://www.podbean.com/CreativeSolutions). 
Leave me a voice message.
Do you like the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.
 
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May 26, 2025

1 hr 20 min

May 19, 2025

1 hr 10 min

What happens when you leave behind a safe career for the unknown? Jaclyn Goldis did it—and built a world of gripping stories along the way.
What happens when you trade a law career for a one-way ticket around the world—and a life of writing gripping thrillers? Jaclyn Goldis did just that, and in this episode of Your Creative Mind, she’s sharing the bold choices, creative risks, and storytelling secrets that turned her passion into a thriving career.
We’ll talk about crafting suspense that keeps readers hooked, how travel fuels creativity, and why big leaps—when done right—can lead to incredible opportunities. If you’ve ever felt the pull to write, create, or take a daring step toward something new, this conversation will give you the inspiration and insights to make it happen. Tune in and see what’s possible when you follow your curiosity and commit to your craft.
Connect with Jaclyn
https://www.jaclyngoldis.com/
https://www.instagram.com/jaclyngoldis/
 
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call
New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg
Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series
 
This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link)URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset
It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**
Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |
 
 

May 19, 2025

1 hr 10 min

May 12, 2025

22 min

Want Podcast Hosts to Say Yes? Say This First
Want to be a guest on the podcasts your audience actually listens to but keep hearing crickets after you pitch?
In this episode, Izolda shares exactly what makes a pitch stand out (and what sends it straight to the trash). You’ll get the inside scoop on what thoughtful podcast hosts are really looking for, how to lead with value, and how to build real relationships that lead to actual bookings. Whether you're pitching yourself or a client, this episode gives you a clear, actionable roadmap that respects the host and builds your authority.
If you’re serious about sharing your message on the right stages, this episode is your next move.
Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link)URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset
It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**
 
Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |
 

May 12, 2025

22 min

May 9, 2025

33 min

Welcome to Here and Now, Now and Then.
This is an experiment in giving you ideas on creative mental well-being. I also talk about two shows I saw this week that took me back to my roots and also to high school - both of which are fraught and full to the brim with lessons I've learned as a creative who also has a strong practical streak. 
Solve the Mysteries in History. Buy me a coffee and get the introduction to my brand new series, The Gemma Blackthorne Mysteries in History True Crime Podcaster series. You can read it before anyone else has the chance. If you buy me a coffee between now and the end of May 2025, you'll get the short story that introduces Gemma and Earth-shattering mystery at the center of her world and ours. Here's the cover.
 
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call
New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg
Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series
 
This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link)URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset
It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**
 
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |
 

May 9, 2025

33 min

May 5, 2025

26 min

I saw Adam Gwon's All the World's a Stage, and it sparked some deep realizations about my own life and the importance the arts played in my development and very survival. This is a special episode as a storyteller and as an artist. I hope you enjoy it.
All the World's a Stage at Theatre Row
 
Written by Adam Gwon (book, music, lyrics)
Eliza Pagelle as Sam
Jon Michael Reese as Michael
Matt Rodin as Ricky
Elizabeth Stanley as Didi
Directed by Jonathan Silverstein
Michael Starobin (orchestrations)
Movement by Patrick McCollum
Andrew Grody Musical Direction
Commissioned by the Keen Company
 
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call
New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg
Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series
One Minute Movies
A Close Shave
Career Suicide
 
This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link)URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset
It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**
Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |
 

May 5, 2025

26 min

Apr 28, 2025

1 hr 17 min

From fiction to true crime, Dawn M. Barclay knows how to keep an audience hooked.
What makes a story impossible to put down? Whether you’re a writer or just love a gripping read, today’s episode has something for you. Award-winning author Dawn M. Barclay knows how to craft suspense that keeps readers hooked—and she’s sharing her secrets. Writing fiction and nonfiction, she’s mastered the art of storytelling, marketing, and staying true to her creative vision.
In this episode, we talk about what makes a book unforgettable, the biggest mistakes writers make when promoting their work, and how to build a successful writing career without selling out. If you want to write with confidence, market without feeling pushy, and create stories that stick, this conversation is for you. Tune in and learn how to bring your creative vision to life in a way that truly resonates.
dmbarr.comhttps://Facebook.com/authordmbarr
https://Tiktok.com/authordmbarr
https://Instagram.com/authordmbarr
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call
New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg
Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series
One Minute Movies
A Close Shave
Career Suicide
Diz Wit
 
Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day.
 
This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link)URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset
It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**
Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |
 
 

Apr 28, 2025

1 hr 17 min

Apr 21, 2025

1 hr 10 min

Are We Building the Future We Can’t Control? A Conversation with J. Craig Wheeler
What if the technology we create today ends up shaping our lives in ways we can’t control? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, astrophysicist J. Craig Wheeler, author of The Path to Singularity, shares his eye-opening insights into the rapid advancements in AI, genetic engineering, and space exploration. These technologies promise to transform our future, but are we prepared for their consequences? Craig walks us through the ethical dilemmas, the unexpected twists, and what we can do now to stay in control of our technological destiny. If you’re looking to understand how to navigate a rapidly changing world and make informed choices, this conversation is a must-listen.
jcraigwheeler.ag-sites.net/index.htm
https://x.com/ast309
https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-craig-wheeler-94024a97/
 
Prometheus: https://www.prometheusbooks.com/9781493085439/the-path-to-singularity/
 
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=wheeler+path+to+singularity&crid=VL1DNCFEBHJE&sprefix=Wheeler+Path+%2Caps%2C137&ref=nb_sb_ss_mvt-t2-ranker_1_13
 
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call
New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg
Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series
One Minute Movies
A Close Shave
Career Suicide
Diz Wit
 
Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day.
 
This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link)URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset
It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**
Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |
 

Apr 21, 2025

1 hr 10 min

Apr 14, 2025

21 min

From Science Kits to Strategy Games: The Story Behind Thames & Kosmos with Andy Quartin and Ted McGuire
Ted McGuire (President) and Andy Quartin (CEO) of Thames and Kosmos
What if playing games could make you smarter, more creative, and a better collaborator? In this special Toy Fair 2025 episode, I sit down with Andy Quartin and Ted McGuire from Thames & Kosmos to explore how board games do more than entertain—they teach critical thinking, teamwork, and resilience. We discuss what makes a game truly great, how the industry is evolving, and why games like John Cooper and Kory Heath's The Gang are changing the way we think about strategy and cooperation. Whether you're a game designer, a lifelong player, or just curious about the creative magic behind the scenes, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Tune in for a fascinating look at the power of play!
https://www.thamesandkosmos.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-quartin-65a79975/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thames-&-kosmos/posts/?feedView=all
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-mcguire-5026954/
 
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call
New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg
Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series
One Minute Movies
A Close Shave
Career Suicide
Diz Wit
 
Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day.
 
This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link)URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset
It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**
Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |
 
 
 

Apr 14, 2025

21 min

Apr 7, 2025

1 hr 30 min

The Secret to Better Communication? Play More Games
Can a card game make you a better communicator? John Cooper thinks so. A retired NASA engineer turned game designer, John created The Gang, a cooperative twist on poker that reveals how we think, trust, and strategize under pressure. In this episode, we break down the psychology behind the game—how reading subtle cues can sharpen decision-making, why teamwork trumps individual genius, and what games teach us about real-life collaboration.
If you want to think faster, connect better, and spot patterns others miss, this conversation is for you. Join me, Izolda Trakhtenberg, as we explore creativity, curiosity, and the power of play in shaping how we work and interact. Tune in and get inspired to approach life with a sharper mind and a more open perspective.
Connect with John
https://linktr.ee/Cooperjohn
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/411567/the-gang
https://store.thamesandkosmos.com/products/the-gang
http://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/10996/zarcana
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgamedesigner/123/john-cooper
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/14634/homeworlds
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/225/icehouse
 
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call
New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg
Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series
One Minute Movies
A Close Shave
Career Suicide
Diz Wit
 
Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day.
 
This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link)URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset
It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**
Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |
 
 
 

Apr 7, 2025

1 hr 30 min

Mar 31, 2025

17 min

The missing ingredient in your creative process.
What’s more important—saying it how you want or making sure your message is understood? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda Trakhtenberg challenges us to rethink communication and clarity. Through engaging storytelling, she explores the way we express ourselves, the importance of adapting to our audience, and how to find the balance between personal expression and being truly heard. Plus, she shares a fun insight from a brain-training app and a fascinating takeaway from a neuroscience of singing workshop! As Izolda prepares for a summer break from the podcast, she reminds listeners of the hundreds of past episodes filled with wisdom on creativity, mindfulness, and innovation. Tune in for practical, thought-provoking insights you can use right now to communicate with more impact.
Is your message landing or getting lost? Learn the trick to being heard.
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call
New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg
Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series
One Minute Movies
A Close Shave
Career Suicide
Diz Wit
 
Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day.
 
This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link)URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset
It’s also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you’ve been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!**
Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |

Mar 31, 2025

17 min

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