Your Creative Mind

Your Creative Mind Table Read: What Changes When We Rethink the Story?

Playwright Julie Brandon's Hansel and Gretel like you’ve never heard before—tables turned, roles shifted, and a story reborn.
What if Hansel and Gretel didn’t go the way we all remember? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, we bring you the second installment of our play table read series with Hansel and Gretel: The Tables Turned by Julie Brandon. You’ll experience the thrill of a fresh script performed for the first time, where unexpected twists and bold storytelling take center stage. After the read, I sit down with Julie and the actors to talk about the creative process—what shifted in performance, what surprised them, and what this experience revealed about the play. Whether you're a writer, performer, or someone who loves great storytelling, this episode gives you a front-row seat to the magic of live storytelling. 
Julie Brandon, Playwright
Julie Brandon is s playwright, poet, short story writer and lyricist. Her work has appeared in Bewildering Stories, Altered Reality, Detangled Brain, Corner Bar Magazine, Poetica Magazine, Fresh Words, Mini Plays Review and many others. Julie's poetry collection, My Tears Like Rain, was published June 2024. Her short plays have been produced nationally. Julie's plays are available on  Broken Art Entertainment 2024 series Summer Vibes and The Future and on several Theatrical Shenanigans podcast shows. A short play will be produced by RubySky productions in 2025. Julie lives near Chicago, IL.
Julie's New Play Exchange 
https://newplayexchange.org/users/12443/julie-brandon
For Theatrical Shenanigans - "Pulled From a Hat" https://theatricalshenanigans.podbean.com/e/two-year-anniversary-special/
https://theatricalshenanigans.podbean.com/e/mini-shenanigans-episode-3-can-you-get-there-from-here-by-julie-brandon/
Broken Art Entertainment -   Summer Vibes Anthology - The Astronomy Lesson and The Future Anthology - Someone's Lucky Day
 
Lela Olson as Emma
 
Lela Olson caught the acting bug in kindergarten when she played the peddler in a class dramatization of Caps for Sale. She's been acting ever since on various stages in the Minneapolis area as a pastime. Favorite roles have included Hero (Much Ado About Nothing), Betsy Linder/Lindsey (Clybourne Park), and Marilla Cuthbert (Anne of Green Gables). Away from the stage, Dr. Olson has worked as a teacher, school principal, and nonprofit leader. She also enjoys traveling internationally and serving her community as a volunteer civil mediator.
https://www.facebook.com/lelaolson9
 
 
Alan Fessenden as Christopher
 
Alan Fessenden is a writer, performer, creator living in Brooklyn, New York. He has performed on stages all over the country as an improviser, actor and clown and now hosts the original award wanting podcast They Just Keep Talking an eclectic mixtape of conversation. Alan has written and performed three solo shows and most recently completed work on his first full length clown show The HelpFulls; Now and Forever. He’s also finished two novellas for a trilogy he’s working on and is developing his first full length play.  (alanfessenden.com)
https://www.instagram.com/alanfessenden/
https://www.tiktok.com/@alan_fessenden
https://bsky.app/profile/tjkt.bsky.social
https://www.tiktok.com/@theyjust.keeptalk
 
 
Izolda Trakhtenberg as The Witch
Izolda Trakhtenberg is a playwright, scriptwriter, author, and voice actor who brings stories to life across stage, screen, and sound. Her plays Expiration Date (Off Broad Street Play Festival semifinalist) and A Slice of Democracy (produced by Nomad Theatre) challenge and engage audiences. She narrates corporate projects, animations, and commercials, with audiobook credits including The Ghost Next Door and Ocean City Lowdown. As host of The Your Creative Mind Podcast, she explores creativity’s power to transform lives. A published author of fiction and non-fiction, her works include Die By The Sword, book one in the Cassie Belmont Tarot Card Thrillers. Izolda blends storytelling and communication expertise to create work that resonates long after the final word.
 
Connect with Izolda
Website: https://IzoldaT.com
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social.
New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg
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!**
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Balancing Creativity and Productivity with Author Aaron Ryan

The Power of Diverse Experiences in Creativity
Ever wonder how a prolific author maintains a relentless drive while balancing multiple creative pursuits? Join us on Creative Solutions Podcast as we chat with Aaron Ryan, the brilliant mind behind the “Dissonance” series and the sci-fi thriller “Forecast.” Aaron shares his secrets to staying productive, setting goals, and finding inspiration across different creative fields. Listen in to gain practical tips for your own creative journey, learn how to turn your diverse experiences into compelling stories, and find out what it takes to adapt a book into a screenplay. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a seasoned professional, Aaron’s insights will fuel your creativity and motivate you to achieve your goals. Don’t miss this inspiring episode!
Connect with Aaron
www.authoraaronryan.com
www.dissonancetheseries.com
getthesebooks.com
dot.cards/authoraaronryan
 
Connect with Izolda
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.
 
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The First Your Creative Mind Table Read: What Changes When a Play is Heard?

Brian Cern’s Beautifully So: The creative shift—when a script moves from page to performance.
What happens when a script jumps off the page and into the voices of live actors? In this special episode of Your Creative Mind, we’re launching a brand-new series featuring table reads of original plays! You’ll hear a fresh script performed for the first time, experiencing the raw energy of actors bringing characters to life in real time. After the read, I sit down with the playwright and actors to talk about the creative process—how the words transformed, what surprised them, and what this experience meant for them. Whether you're a writer, performer, or just love great storytelling, this episode gives you a front-row seat to creativity in action. Plus, stay tuned for Monday’s interview with author Aaron Ryan and another play table read next Friday. Hit play and join the magic!
 
Brian Cern, Playwright
Brian Cern is a Twin Cities-based actor and playwright whose work has won numerous awards and contests throughout North America. A member of the Dramatists Guild, he received his training at Cardinal Stritch University, where his theatre and writing studies led him to a deep appreciation for the stories that unite us in the human condition. As parables, his work has been called “imaginative,” “beautifully soulful,” and “thought-provoking.” Of all the credits to his name, however, it is “Teaching Artist” for local children’s theaters that he treasures the most. He lives with his wife and son in suburban St. Paul, Minnesota.
 
Lela Olson as Emma
Lela Olson caught the acting bug in kindergarten when she played the peddler in a class dramatization of Caps for Sale. She's been acting ever since on various stages in the Minneapolis area as a pastime. Favorite roles have included Hero (Much Ado About Nothing), Betsy Linder/Lindsey (Clybourne Park), and Marilla Cuthbert (Anne of Green Gables). Away from the stage, Dr. Olson has worked as a teacher, school principal, and nonprofit leader. She also enjoys traveling internationally and serving her community as a volunteer civil mediator.
 
Alan Fessenden as Christopher
Alan Fessenden is a writer, performer, creator living in Brooklyn, New York. He has performed on stages all over the country as an improviser, actor and clown and now hosts the original award wanting podcast They Just Keep Talking an eclectic mixtape of conversation. Alan has written and performed three solo shows and most recently completed work on his first full length clown show The HelpFulls; Now and Forever. He’s also finished two novellas for a trilogy he’s working on and is developing his first full length play.  (alanfessenden.com)
https://www.instagram.com/alanfessenden/
https://www.tiktok.com/@alan_fessenden
https://bsky.app/profile/tjkt.bsky.social
https://www.tiktok.com/@theyjust.keeptalk
 
 
Barry Wallace, Stage Directions
Barry Wallace has worked in Knoxville, TN community and professional theatre for over 30 years as a director, music director, actor and playwright. His original full-length play, THE SNALLYGASTER, is part of Tennessee Stage Company’s 2025 New Play Festival, and his short play, BLACK BALLOONS, won Best Screenplay at the 2022 "The Ten Show" Film Festival.
 
Social Media, etc:
Facebook: @Barry.Wallace1
Instagram: @barrywallace
NPX: https://newplayexchange.org/users/69726/barry-wallace
 
Ready to "wow" the people you speak with? Work with me.
This episode is 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.
 
==
Connect with Izolda
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.
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Entrepreneurs and Creatives: This Mindset Shift Will Change the Game

Stop Negative Thoughts from Running Your (Creative) Life
Do negative thoughts hold you back from living fully and creatively? In this episode of Your Creative Mind, we’re tackling how the messages you tell yourself shape your actions, your confidence, and your ability to bring your ideas to life. You’ll learn how to spot limiting thoughts, shift them into something empowering, and set the stage for more creativity, peace, and purpose in your daily life. This episode is packed with practical tools to help you change the way you think so you can show up more fully in your work, relationships, and creative pursuits. Tune in and start building a mindset that supports the life you want to live!
Flip Your Inner Script with These 50 Ways to Reframe Your Negative Thoughts
Connect with Izolda
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.
 
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Simple Steps to Tackle Inner Turmoil and Anxiety

Your Interior World: Why It Matters More Than You Think
Why Ignoring Your Thoughts Could Be Holding You Back
What’s really happening inside your mind when you’re constantly on the go—or glued to your phone? In this solo episode of Your Creative Mind, Izolda Trakhtenberg dives into the often-overlooked interior world we all carry with us. Learn how to break free from distractions, face your thoughts with curiosity rather than fear, and nurture your creative ideas. Through personal anecdotes and practical steps, Izolda shares how cultivating self-awareness can lead to more clarity, creativity, and peace. Whether you're looking to spark inspiration or reclaim focus in your day-to-day life, this episode offers tools to help you take the first steps toward a healthier relationship with your thoughts—and yourself.
Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day.
This episode is 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 Izolda a voice message.
Project Play Table Read Podcast episodes
Dramatists Guild script formatting guide.
Play Submission Form 
Connect with Izolda
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.
 
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Achieve Excellence in Project Management with Aman Thakral

How to Lead and Inspire Your Team
Are you looking for proven strategies to drive business success and inspire your team? Join us on this episode of the Creative Solutions Podcast as we welcome Aman Thakral, Business Manager at Target Integration. With a wealth of experience in IT, business development, and strategic planning, Aman shares his expert insights on leadership, project management, and innovative approaches. Learn how to build strong client relationships, stay competitive in today’s market, and apply practical advice to elevate your own ventures. This episode is packed with actionable tips and valuable knowledge from a seasoned industry leader that you won’t want to miss!
Connect with Aman
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thakralaman/
targetintegration.com/ 
https://www.facebook.com/targetint
Connect with Izolda
Ready to "wow" the people you speak with? Work with me.
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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Facing a Career Crossroad? Here's How to Turn Setbacks into Success

How to Rebuild and Rise After Life’s Hardest Hits with Chris Morga
What do you do when life throws you a curveball—whether it’s losing your job, navigating a new career, or even facing homelessness? In this episode, Chris Morga shares how he turned some of life’s toughest challenges into fuel for growth. From his time in the Navy to thriving in sales, Wall Street project management, and career coaching, Chris brings a wealth of experience to help you navigate your own transitions. You’ll hear stories of resilience, gain practical advice on finding new paths, and learn how to turn setbacks into stepping stones for success. If you’re looking for inspiration and real-world strategies to thrive through change, this conversation is for you!
Connect with Chris
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismorgacpcc/
Connect with Izolda
Ready to "wow" the people you speak with? Work with me.
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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Anthony Poponi on Creating Cultures People Love to Work In

How Happiness and Trust Transform Workplace Culture with Anthony Popini
What’s the secret to creating a workplace where people are happy, fulfilled, and thriving? On this episode of the Creative Solutions Podcast, Anthony Poponi, expert in positive psychology and founder of Focus on the 40, reveals actionable strategies to transform workplace culture. You’ll learn how happiness, trust, and humor spark creativity, why exceptional teams don’t happen by accident, and what steps you can take to align your team’s strengths and purpose. If you want a thriving workplace where everyone feels valued and connected, this episode is for you. Anthony’s fresh insights and Izolda’s thoughtful questions will leave you inspired to shape a culture where people and ideas flourish. Tune in and take your team from good to exceptional!
Connect with Anthony
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonypoponi/
https://www.instagram.com/humoreusguy/
https://www.facebook.com/AnthonyPoponi
 
Connect with Izolda
Ready to "wow" the people you speak with? Work with me.
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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From Gym to Boardroom: How Fitness Fuels Leadership and Creativity.

Building Resilience Through Fitness and Nutrition: A Creative Approach to Wellness with Kate Galli
What’s the connection between being fit, confident, and compassionate? On this episode of The Creative Solutions Podcast, I’m thrilled to talk with Kate, a vegan health coach, master personal trainer, and author, whose mission is to create a fit, strong, compassionate world. Kate’s personal journey of transforming her own body and confidence led her to empower thousands of clients over 18 years. We explore how she helps people sculpt not just a healthier body but also a more fulfilling, aligned life through plant-based nutrition. Tune in to learn practical strategies to embrace fitness and veganism, overcome challenges, and create lasting habits—all while advocating for animal welfare. If you’re ready to inspire change in your own life and beyond, this episode is for you!
Connect with Kate
https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-healthification-podcast/id856696884 
Journal: https://strongbodygreenplanet.lpages.co/plant-positive-journal/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StrongBodyGreenPlanet/ 
Facebook personal: https://www.facebook.com/KateGalli 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongbodygreenplanet/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/strongbodygreen 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-galli-0873332a/

How to Speak, Sing, and Socialize Without Losing Your Voice This Holiday Season

The Busy Professional’s Guide to Vocal Care During the Holidays
Do you feel that telltale scratchiness or urge to clear your throat after a busy day of talking or singing? In this episode of The Creative Solutions Podcast, we'll tackle how to keep your voice strong and strain-free during the holiday season. Packed with actionable tips, you'll learn how to navigate noisy parties, protect your vocal cords during gigs, and stay hydrated and rested–all while enjoying the festivities. As someone who relies on my voice daily, I'm sharing my tried-and-true methods to help you keep your voice healthy and vibrant. Whether you're a performer, speaker, or social butterfly, these practical strategies will have you sounding your best all season long. Take care of your voice–it's how the world hears you!
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.
 
Listen on These Channels
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |