The Modern Creative Woman

Dr. Amy Backos
  • 4.9 (32)
  • Self-Improvement
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The art and science of creativity, made simple. Through the lens of art therapy, neurocreativity, and cutting-edge research, you’ll learn not just why you create, but how to create with more freedom, intention, and joy. Dr. Amy Backos — author, art therapist, psychologist, professor and researcher, with 30+ years of experience — unpacks the evidence-based psychology behind creative living. Come for the science. Stay for the transformation.

  1. 5d ago

    167. The More You Look, the More you See: Art to Help you Find Solutions to your Most Vexing Problems

    Ask me a question or let me know what you think! Can looking at art actually make you more creative? Absolutely—but only if you know how to look. Many people feel intimidated walking into an art museum, worrying they won't "get it" or that they need an art history degree to appreciate what's on the walls. In this episode, Dr. Amy Bakos shares five simple ways to experience art that have nothing to do with memorizing artists or reading every wall label. Inspired by a detective novel featuring the work of abstract painter Joan Mitchell, Amy explores how slowing down, noticing color and emotion, and responding creatively to artwork can strengthen observation skills, spark imagination, and improve creative problem-solving in everyday life. Whether you're a museum lover or someone who hasn't stepped into one in years, these practical strategies will help you look differently—and discover more than you expected. In this episode you'll learn: Why you don't need art history to appreciate great artHow a novel inspired a completely new museum experienceFive simple strategies for looking at artwork more deeplyWhy skipping the information label can help you see moreHow observation fuels creativity and problem-solvingA simple art therapy exercise you can try after visiting a museumThe Five Tips Discover art through stories, books, and everyday encounters.Choose souvenirs that capture the feeling—not just the image.Spend time looking before reading the label.Focus on color, shape, space, and emotion instead of objects.Create response art to deepen your experience.Key Takeaway The more you look, the more you see. Learning to observe artwork with curiosity—not judgment—helps train your brain to notice patterns, expand imagination, and approach life's challenges with greater creativity. Memorable Quotes"You don't need an art history degree to have a meaningful experience with art.""The more you look, the more you see.""Looking is a creative practice.""Stop reading the label and start seeing the artwork.""Art isn't a test—it's an experience.""When you shift how you look, you shift how you think."Call to ActionIf this episode inspired you, share it with a friend who loves creativity, museums, or lifelong learning. Subscribe so you never miss an episode, and connect with Dr. Amy Backos on Instagram @DrAmyBackos to share how these five strategies change the way you experience art. Support the show Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/

  2. Jul 22

    166. The Opposite of Procrastination is NOT Productivity—It is Persistence

    Ask me a question or let me know what you think! Why do we procrastinate on the work that matters most? In this episode, Dr. Amy Bakos explores the psychology behind creative avoidance and why procrastination doesn't mean you're lazy—it often means you're deeply invested in what you're creating. Drawing from behavioral psychology, existential psychology, personal stories, and lessons from artists, she shares practical ways to stop judging yourself, build creative stamina, and learn the two skills every successful artist develops: continuing and not quitting. If you've ever found yourself cleaning the kitchen instead of writing, scrolling social media instead of creating, or abandoning projects just before they're finished, this episode will help you understand why—and how to move forward with more self-compassion and persistence. Key Takeaways Why avoidance often feels worse than doing the work.The difference between pausing and quitting.How procrastination can become part of a healthy creative process.What existential guilt tells us about our values.Why persistence is a learnable skill—not a personality trait.The importance of maintaining momentum after reaching a major goal.How process-focused goals create more lasting motivation than destination goals.Why creative thoughts ("I'm not good enough") are just thoughts—not facts.Practical ways to reduce procrastination without relying on willpower.How imagination, community, and the right materials support creative work.Memorable Quotes "Artists don't get down to work until the pain of working is exceeded by the pain of not working.""The people who keep making art aren't necessarily more talented—they've learned how to continue.""Persistence and not quitting are two different skills.""I trust I had a good idea when I started.""The goal isn't to have a show. The goal is to be an artist.""Procrastination is part of my process. Judgment doesn't have to be.""The things we admire were often perilously close to never existing."Discussion Topics Why procrastination is so common among creative people.Behavioral psychology and avoiding pain.Existential guilt and living according to your values.Creative identity versus achievement.Maintaining stamina after reaching a milestone.The "run past the finish line" mindset.Why artists abandon work near completion.Building a process-oriented creative life.Using imagination to stay engaged.Learning to tolerate uncertainty in creative work.Practical Strategies Mentioned Allow yourself a limited "circling" period before beginning work.Set a 20-minute timer for procrastination or warm-up activities.Reduce judgment around your creative process.Keep reminders of why you started your project.Celebrate milestones without treating them as the finish.Stay connected to people who are a few steps ahead of you.Invest in tools and materials that support your work.Focus on becoming the kind of person who creates—not simply reaching one achievement.Practice tolerating uncertainty rather than waiting to feel confident.Books & References Art & Fear: Observations on the Perils (and Rewards) of Artmaking by David Bayles & Ted OrlandThomas Edison's persistence in developing the light bulbLeo Tolstoy's revisions of War and PeaceConcepts from behavioral psychologyExistential psychology and existential guiltCall to Action What are you avoiding right now? Is it really about procrastination—or is it something you deeply care about? Reflect on a project you've completed successfully and ask yourself: What helped you keep going?How did you resist quitting?What practices helped you persist?Share your thoughts with Dr. Amy Bakos on Instagram and continue the conversation about creativity, persistence, and the art of finishing what matters. Support the show Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/

  3. Jul 15

    165. Self Conscious? Try Self CONSCIOUSNESS Instead

    Ask me a question or let me know what you think! Why does being self-conscious often leave us feeling anxious, while self-consciousness can become one of our greatest strengths? In this episode, Dr. Amy Bakos explores the profound difference between these two experiences. Self-consciousness often begins in adolescence, when we become acutely aware of how others see us. While this developmental stage helps us learn social norms and belonging, many women become stuck in coping strategies shaped by criticism, bullying, trauma, sexism, racism, homophobia, ageism, and other forms of marginalization. What if there were another way? Drawing from psychology, philosophy, developmental science, and art therapy, Dr. Amy introduces self-consciousness as a deeper form of self-awareness—one that helps us reconnect with our values, respond rather than react, and create lives rooted in authenticity rather than fear. You'll also learn a simple art-viewing practice that strengthens self-reflection, emotional awareness, and peace of mind. Whether you visit a museum, journal about a favorite artwork, or simply pause to notice your own thoughts, this episode offers practical ways to cultivate a richer relationship with yourself. In this episode, you'll learn: The difference between being self-conscious and developing self-consciousnessWhy adolescence is such a vulnerable period for identity developmentHow trauma and social pressures can leave us emotionally "stuck"What philosophy and psychology teach us about the nature of the selfHow self-awareness increases emotional flexibility and resilienceWhy imagination and empathy deepen self-consciousnessAn art-based exercise for strengthening reflection and self-understandingHow greater self-consciousness can lead to more creativity, patience, and peace of mindReflection Practice The next time you encounter a work of art, pause and ask yourself: What do I notice objectively?What thoughts or feelings arise in me?What is it like to be the person observing this artwork right now?What does my response reveal about my values, experiences, or current state of mind?Journal your reflections, then read them aloud. Hearing your own words creates another layer of self-awareness and can deepen your insight. If this episode resonated with you, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Connect with me on Instagram and let me know what you discover as you practice becoming more consciously aware of yourself. Thank you for listening to the Modern Creative Woman Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and consider supporting the show to help keep it ad-free. Support the show Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/

  4. Jul 8

    164. The 3 Biggest Barriers to Creativity (and How to Move Past Them)

    Ask me a question or let me know what you think! Why do so many intelligent, capable women long to be creative but never quite begin? In this episode, Dr. Amy Backos explores three surprisingly common mental barriers that keep women from painting, writing, making art, and expressing themselves creatively. These obstacles aren't a lack of talent or time. They're patterns of thinking that quietly pull us away from the creative life we want. Drawing from psychology, art therapy, and over thirty years of clinical experience, Amy explains why creativity actually increases with age, how life experience becomes a powerful creative resource, and what practical steps you can take this week to reconnect with your creative self. You'll also learn why thoughts are not facts, why over-scheduling quietly steals creativity, and how making space for "nothing" can become one of the most productive things you do. In this episode, you'll discover: Why women often become more creative as they get olderHow creativity grows by combining past experiences into something newThe first barrier: spending too much energy worrying about what other people thinkThe second barrier: conflicting values without a clear planThe third barrier: believing every thought your mind producesWhy thoughts are biological events, not objective truthsHow over-scheduling leaves little room for creativity or reflectionThe importance of protecting unstructured timeWhy art naturally strengthens present-moment awarenessJournaling practices that deepen self-understanding without requiring a daily habitA simple affirmation to help you move toward your values instead of away from themThis Week's Creative Invitation This week, choose one small action: Block off 20 minutes of unscheduled time and resist filling it with chores.Schedule one uninterrupted hour to make art, write, knit, paint, collage, or simply play.Spend time journaling without worrying about doing it "the right way." Write freely, doodle, or write a letter to your future self.Small, consistent moments of creativity help retrain your brain to notice possibility instead of obstacles. Memorable Quote "The only barriers to your creative expression are inside your mind, and thoughts are not facts."Affirmation I am a modern creative woman, and I can figure this out.Resources Mentioned Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Present-moment awareness and psychological flexibilityThe concept of flowJournaling as a tool for reflection and creativityIf this episode resonated with you, I'd love to hear from you. Send me a message on Instagram or leave a comment. Your support, whether it's sharing the podcast with a friend or becoming a small monthly supporter, helps keep The Modern Creative Woman ad-free and allows us to continue exploring the art and science of creativity together. Support the show Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/

  5. Jul 1

    163. Stop Bypassing Your Emotions: Why Uncertainty Might Be the Best Thing for Your Creativity

    Ask me a question or let me know what you think! We spend so much of our lives trying to eliminate uncertainty. We want the right answer, the perfect decision, and reassurance that we're on the right path. But what if uncertainty isn't something to avoid? What if it's actually one of the most important ingredients for creativity, growth, and living a meaningful life? In this episode, Dr. Amy Backos explores why self-doubt is not a flaw to overcome but information to work with. Drawing from psychology, art therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), she explains why the discomfort of not knowing is often the doorway to discovering what truly matters. The episode also takes a thoughtful look at artificial intelligence and the growing tendency to use AI for emotional reassurance. While AI can be an incredibly useful tool, relying on it to bypass difficult emotions may prevent us from developing the emotional resilience and self-awareness that meaningful change requires. If you've ever found yourself frozen by uncertainty, second-guessing your decisions, or asking, "What's the right choice?" this conversation will help you relate to self-doubt in a completely different way. In this episode you'll learn: Why uncertainty is a normal and necessary part of growthThe difference between healthy self-doubt and becoming stuckHow creativity develops through curiosity rather than certaintyWhy looking for validation can keep you from discovering your own valuesThe hidden risks of using AI as a source of emotional reassuranceWhat "cognitive surrender" means and why independent thinking mattersThree practical strategies for working with uncertainty instead of avoiding itHow identifying your values leads to clearer, more confident decisionsWhy committed action matters more than having perfect confidenceThree Steps for Working with Self-Doubt Name what you're feeling instead of judging it.Clarify the values that matter most to you.Choose one committed action that moves you toward those values, even if uncertainty remains.Memorable Quote "If the path before you is clear, you're probably on someone else's path."— Joseph Campbell Mentioned in this episode Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Carl Jung and the midlife transitionJoseph Campbell's A Hero with a Thousand FacesArt therapy as a tool for discovering values and meaningCreativity, psychological flexibility, and living intentionallyCall to Action If this episode resonated with you, I'd love to hear what uncertainty you're learning to embrace. Connect with me on Instagram @DrAmyBackos or visit ModernCreativeWoman.com to learn more about my programs for women who want to build a creative, meaningful life grounded in their values. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who's navigating a season of uncertainty. Support the show Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/

  6. Jun 24

    162. Knitting in Public: The Surprising Science of Fiber Arts and Brain Health

    Ask me a question or let me know what you think! Have you ever thought about knitting as preventive healthcare? In this episode, Dr. Amy Backos explores the fascinating intersection of creativity, neuroscience, psychology, and fiber arts. What has often been dismissed as "women's work" is now backed by a growing body of research demonstrating significant benefits for brain health, emotional well-being, pain management, and even cognitive longevity. Drawing from her experience as both a psychologist and a lifelong knitter, Amy examines how knitting, crochet, and textile arts support memory, attention, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and social connection. She also shares surprising research from the Mayo Clinic, emerging discoveries from physics and engineering, and practical reasons why learning to knit may be one of the most accessible investments you can make in your future health. In This Episode Why knitting and crochet are powerful tools for brain healthResearch linking fiber arts to reduced risk of cognitive declineHow knitting supports memory, attention, and cognitive flexibilityThe role of knitting in stress reduction and emotional regulationWhy repetitive handwork functions as active meditationHow fiber arts can support anxiety, depression, and chronic pain managementThe importance of flow states and their connection to creativity and well-beingSocial connection and community building through knitting groupsThe surprising relationship between knitting, physics, architecture, and engineeringWhy learning new creative skills benefits the aging brainHow perfectionism can interfere with creative practice—and what to do insteadKey Takeaways Knitting Supports Cognitive Health Creativity Is Preventive Healthcare Knitting Creates an Active Meditative State Process Matters More Than Perfection Fiber Arts Build Community Knitting Is More Complex Than It Looks Resources Mentioned Mayo Clinic research on knitting and cognitive healthResearch published in Frontiers in PsychologyUniversity of Gothenburg studies on knitting and well-beingRavelry knitting community and pattern databaseElisabeth Zimmermann's Knitting Without TearsResearch from the Georgia Tech School of Physics"Programming Mechanics in Knitted Materials" published in Nature CommunicationsQuotes from the Episode "Being able to use the creative part of your brain and the logical part of your brain gives you tremendous benefits.""The health benefits are cumulative over time.""Perfection is not the goal. The goal is process.""Creativity is one of the most accessible forms of preventive healthcare available to us."Mentioned in the Episode International Knit in Public DayEpisode 161: The Male GazeTextile exhibitions at the Yerba Buena Center for the ArtsTextile and fiber arts exhibitions at the Asian Art MuseumConnect with Dr. Amy Backos If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a five-star review and share it with a friend. Your support helps more women discover the art and science of creativity. The Modern Creative Woman podcast is proudly ad-free and supported by listener contributions. Support the show Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/

  7. Jun 17

    161. Disrupting the Male Gaze in Art: Who Gets to Be Seen?

    Ask me a question or let me know what you think! The Male Gaze in Art: Who Gets to Be Seen?In this episode of The Modern Creative Woman, Dr. Amy Backos explores the concept of the male gaze, its origins in art and film, and how it continues to shape what we see in museums, movies, and visual culture today. From feminist film theory to museum curation, this conversation invites listeners to look more critically at the images surrounding them and consider whose stories are being told—and whose are being left out. In This Episode What Is the Male Gaze? The male gaze is a concept that emerged from feminist film theory and describes the tendency to depict women from a heterosexual male perspective. In this framework, women are often portrayed as objects to be looked at rather than fully realized subjects with agency and complexity. Amy discusses how this lens extends beyond film and appears throughout visual art, literature, advertising, and popular culture. The Origins of the Concept The episode traces the development of the male gaze through several influential thinkers: John Berger and his groundbreaking book and BBC series Ways of SeeingLaura Mulvey and her seminal essay Visual Pleasure and Narrative CinemaThe psychoanalytic influences of Jacques Lacan and Sigmund FreudHow ideas about looking, being looked at, and power shape our experience of artMuseums, Curation, and Visibility The conversation expands beyond artists themselves to examine who decides what art is displayed. Questions explored include: Who curates museum collections?Whose work gets purchased and exhibited?How do institutional decisions reinforce existing power structures?What voices and perspectives are still underrepresented?Amy reflects on her own art education and the overwhelming dominance of male artists in textbooks, galleries, and museum collections. Women Artists Who Offered a Different Perspective The episode highlights women artists whose work challenged dominant ways of seeing and centered women's lived experiences. Featured artists include: Mary CassattBerthe MorisotMarie BracquemondElaine de KooningLee KrasnerJoan MitchellAmy discusses how these artists created work outside the traditional framework of the male gaze and contributed important perspectives to art history. The Guerrilla Girls and Art World Activism The episode also explores the work of the feminist activist collective Guerrilla Girls. Topics include: Their anonymous advocacy against sexism and racism in the art worldTheir iconic gorilla masks and public campaignsOngoing disparities in museum representationWhy statistics around gender and racial representation in major museum collections remain troubling decades laterWhy Representation Matters Art does more than decorate walls. It shapes identity, belonging, and how we understand ourselves and others. Amy discusses: The health benefits of engaging with arts and cultureThe importance of seeing diverse experiences representedHow representation influences our sense of connection and communityWhy expanding the stories we encounter through art matters for everyoneSupporting Artists in Your Community The episode concludes with practical ways listeners can support the arts: Visit local open studiosAttend community art eventsPurchase artwork directly from artistsGive art as giftsBecome a museum memberBuy books by artists and art historiansLearn about women artists, artists of color, and underrepresented voicesSupport local creative economiesKey Takeaways The male gaze is a powerful framework for understanding how women have historically been represented in visual culture.Museums and cultural institutions play a significant role in shaping what art we see.Women artists have long offered alternative ways of seeing the world.Representation in the arts remains uneven despite decades of advocacy.Supporting local artists creates meaningful benefits for individuals, communities, and culture as a whole.Art can be both personally enriching and socially transformative.Mentioned in This Episode Ways of SeeingJohn BergerLaura MulveyJacques LacanSigmund FreudWorld Health OrganizationEpisode 160: Art and DesireQuestions for Reflection How has the male gaze shaped the art and media you consume?Which women artists have influenced the way you see the world?What museums, galleries, or community arts organizations in your area are amplifying diverse voices?How might you support artists and creative communities locally this month?Connect with Dr. Amy Backos Follow Amy on Instagram and join The Modern Creative Woman community for more conversations at the intersection of creativity, psychology, art, and women's lives. Support the show Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/

  8. Jun 10

    160. The Neuroscience of Pleasure, Desire, and Creativity

    Ask me a question or let me know what you think! Show Notes: The Neuroscience of Pleasure, Desire, and CreativityIn this episode of The Modern Creative Woman, Dr. Amy Backos explores the fascinating connection between creativity, pleasure, and the brain's reward system. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, art therapy, and her own recent experience completing a new book manuscript, Amy discusses how creativity activates the same neural pathways associated with fundamental human pleasures such as food and sex. She explains how dopamine, anticipation, awe, and artistic engagement contribute to motivation, joy, and overall well-being. Amy also shares practical behavioral strategies she used to complete a major writing project, including reward systems, structured scheduling, environmental design, and values-based action. Along the way, she offers encouragement for anyone working toward a meaningful creative goal. The conversation highlights the work of researchers such as Daisy Fancourt and explores why making art is not a luxury but an essential part of a healthy, engaged human life. In This Episode Why the arts activate the brain's reward circuitryThe role of the nucleus accumbens and dopamine in pleasure and motivationHow anticipation increases enjoyment and creative engagementWhy looking at art slowly can deepen pleasure and insightThe neuroscience of awe, wonder, and peak experiencesStendhal Syndrome and being overwhelmed by beautyHow creativity promotes new perspectives and unexpected insightsThe concept of "cross-training" your brain through artistic activitiesWhy making art is beneficial even when the result is imperfectPractical psychology strategies for completing large creative projectsUsing rewards, schedules, and environmental cues to support motivationThe importance of continuing to live fully while pursuing meaningful goalsKey Takeaways Pleasure is a powerful driver of behavior and creativity.Anticipation often creates as much enjoyment as the experience itself.Art engages neural pathways associated with reward, motivation, and learning.Looking at art and making art can increase experiences of awe, wonder, and insight.Creative activities serve as cognitive cross-training that may improve performance in other areas of life.You do not need artistic skill to benefit from art making.Small, consistent creative practices can support emotional well-being, brain health, and psychological flexibility.Resources Mentioned Daisy Fancourt's research on arts and healthThe World Health Organization report on arts and healthEpisode 125 featuring sex therapist and art therapist Skylar CollieThe Premack PrincipleFlow states and peak experiencesArt journaling as a daily creativity practiceReflection Questions What creative activity consistently brings you pleasure?How might you build more anticipation into your creative life?When was the last time you spent several minutes truly looking at a piece of art?What would happen if you gave yourself permission to make imperfect art?What creative practice could become a daily ritual of joy and connection?Connect with Amy Modern Creative WomanAmy Backos Psychology PracticeIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a creative friend and subscribe to The Modern Creative Woman wherever you listen to podcasts. Support the show Explore the Modern Creative Woman Community https://moderncreativewoman.com Free Goodies and Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter https://moderncreativewoman.com/subscribe-to-the-creative-woman/ Connect with Dr. Amy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dramybackos/

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About

The art and science of creativity, made simple. Through the lens of art therapy, neurocreativity, and cutting-edge research, you’ll learn not just why you create, but how to create with more freedom, intention, and joy. Dr. Amy Backos — author, art therapist, psychologist, professor and researcher, with 30+ years of experience — unpacks the evidence-based psychology behind creative living. Come for the science. Stay for the transformation.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Amy Backos
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    168
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Modern Creative Woman
  • Show Website
    The Modern Creative Woman

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