Creativity With Purpose

AnnMracek
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Creativity with Purpose is a podcast that celebrates the stories behind the art. Hosted by Ann M. Mracek, the show invites musicians, authors, craft artisans, and creative thinkers from all walks of life to share how their passions were born, what inspires their work, and how creativity shapes their journey. Each conversation goes beyond the finished piece to uncover the personal stories, challenges, and moments of discovery that give art its meaning. Listeners will hear about the sparks of inspiration, the perseverance required to bring ideas to life, and the ways creativity can heal, connect, and transform. From soulful music and powerful writing to handmade crafts and innovative projects, Creativity with Purpose explores the many forms creativity takes—and the impact it leaves on our lives and communities. Whether you’re an artist yourself or someone who simply loves to be inspired, this podcast will encourage you to embrace your own creative purpose.

  1. MAR 5

    Experience The Change - Creativity with Purpose becomes Symphony of Self

    Your life is not random noise. It is a symphony waiting to be conducted. Welcome to the Symphony of Self Podcast, hosted by author, composer, and transformational guide Ann M. Mracek. In these podcasts, Ann explores how creativity, healing, and personal growth come together to form the unique composition of a human life. Every experience becomes a note. Every challenge becomes a key change. And every act of courage becomes a new movement in the music of who we are. Formerly known as Creativity with Purpose, the podcast is evolving into Symphony of Self to reflect a deeper message: #that each of us has the power to compose a life filled with meaning, resilience, and harmony. Through conversations, stories, and insights, this podcast invites you to: • Discover the creative force within your life • Transform adversity into growth • Reconnect with your authentic voice • Conduct your life with intention and purpose If you believe creativity can heal, transform, and illuminate the human journey, you are in the right place.

    6 min

  2. MAR 5

    VACU Leadership - STOP Burnout

    How do leaders build resilience in a volatile and uncertain world? In this episode of Creativity with Purpose, we talk with Dr. Lisa Patierne, leadership expert and coach with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals and organizations overcome limiting beliefs, build resilience, and lead with confidence. Dr. Patierne works with leaders, first responders, healthcare professionals, educators, and teams to strengthen leadership, prevent burnout, and thrive in today’s VUCA world (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous). Through her RESPONSIVE Leadership framework, she shares practical tools that help people lead authentically and create lasting personal and organizational success. Dr. Patierne is also a contributor to the book Women Who Shine, a collection of inspiring stories that encourage readers to discover their core essence—their inner light—and live their life’s purpose. The book shares the journeys of women who overcame challenges, embraced authenticity, and found the courage to rise and make a positive impact in the world. Topics in this episode • Leadership in a VUCA world • Preventing burnout and vicarious trauma • Building resilience in high-stress professions • Discovering your inner light and life purpose • Authentic leadership and personal growth Connect with Lisa Website: https://lisapatierne.com/ Connect with me: Email: ann@annmracek.com Website: https://annmracek.com Subscribe for more conversations with extraordinary guests. Ann's book "Unpacking the Attic" is available on Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/0976648873 Ann's book Symphony of Self: Compose Your Life is coming soon Disclaimer: This audio is intended solely for entertainment and educational purposes, opinions shared by the guest are their personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the audio. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices.

    52 min

  3. MAR 5

    From Virus Research to Medical Thriller: The Scientist Behind the Goldilocks Genome

    What happens when a biomedical anthropologist leaves academia and becomes a global pharmaceutical strategist… then writes a medical thriller? In this episode of Creativity with Purpose, Dr. Elizabeth “Betsy” Aden shares her remarkable journey from hepatitis B research in the South Pacific to Senior Vice President of Global Strategy for a major Swiss pharmaceutical company. Her work spans epidemiology, immunology, virology, and personalized medicine, and her experiences inspired her debut medical thriller The Goldilocks Genome, where science and suspense collide. We also explore her upcoming nonfiction book Mud, Microbes, and Medicine (2026), which recounts her field research in Vanuatu, where hepatitis B was endemic and where Nobel Prize–winning research shaped modern understanding of the virus. If you love conversations about science, global health, creativity, and the stories behind groundbreaking careers, this episode is for you. 📚 Pre-order Betsy’s upcoming book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0FD46QV76 Connect with Elizabeth Website: https://elizabethreedaden.com/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth-reed-aden-author-100105132420558 Instagram: https://instagram.com/elizabeth_r_aden/ X: https://x.com/eliz_reed_aden LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-redd-aden Connect with me: Email: ann@annmracek.com Website: https://annmracek.com Subscribe for more conversations with extraordinary guests. Ann's book "Unpacking the Attic" is available on Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/0976648873 Ann's book Symphony of Self: Compose Your Life is coming soon Disclaimer: This audio is intended solely for entertainment and educational purposes, opinions shared by the guest are their personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the audio. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices.

    37 min

  4. MAR 5

    Perimenopause: What's Happening to Me?

    Perimenopause symptoms explained. Author Karen A. Herrera joins Creativity with Purpose to discuss hormonal changes, emotional shifts, and how women can navigate this stage of life with clarity. Our guest today is Karen A. Herrera the author of Perimenopause Clarity and a writer who believes that laughter is medicine, honesty is power, and that sharing our stories, especially the messy middle parts, can help others feel less alone. A 1997 graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Karen has been writing off and on for years, but her lifelong “someday” dream of being an author didn’t fully move from intention to action until March of 2025. She hasn’t looked back. Perimenopause Clarity is her first full book, born from her own search for answers during a confusing and often isolating phase of life. What started as a witty essay she was writing in her spare time, a career pivot in midlife caused her to reassess her own goals. What started as personal research quickly became a mission to help women navigate hormonal shifts with humor, hope, and a healthy dose of science. Her goal is simple: help women feel seen, supported, and empowered to take charge of their health and happiness. But Perimenopause Clarity is just the beginning. Through her publishing imprint, Studio Infinity Publishing, Karen plans to release more books that uplift, entertain, and spark real-life change. A serial entrepreneur, she loves freedom to explore her own path. Her writing blends warmth, wit, spirituality, and relatable life insights, inviting readers to laugh out loud one moment and feel deeply understood the next. Her future work isn’t limited to women’s issues; it’s rooted in the universal human experiences that shape us, the humor that keeps us grounded, and the resilience that helps us rise again and again. Karen writes to connect, to comfort, and to challenge readers to see themselves with a little more compassion, depth, and a lot more clarity. If she’s learned anything so far, it’s that a good laugh and a spark of truth can take you a long way. Get the Book: 📖 Perimenopause Clarity — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FW5Q767F Connect with Creativity with Purpose: ✨ Subscribe to find your creative spark. 🎙️ Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Podbean 💬 Leave a comment: How do you listen to your body and heal yourself? Connect with Karen Website: https://karenaherrera.com FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenAHerreraAuthor/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/karenaherrera.author X: https://x.com/KarenAAuthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenaherrera/ Connect with me: Email: ann@annmracek.com Website: https://annmracek.com Subscribe for more conversations with extraordinary guests. Ann's book "Unpacking the Attic" is available on Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/0976648873 Ann's book Symphony of Self: Compose Your Life is coming soon Disclaimer: This audio is intended solely for entertainment and educational purposes, opinions shared by the guest are their personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the audio. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices.

    58 min

  5. FEB 22

    89 Countries later: Living Fully

    What happens when a Microbiologist/Historian and a high-level CEO decide to see the world together? You get a masterclass in living an exhilarating life. In this episode of Creativity With Purpose, we are joined by the incredible mother-daughter duo, Evelyn Kelly, PhD, and Natalie Kelly, MS. Together, they have trekked across all seven continents, visited 88 countries, and explored every single US state. They aren’t just tourists; they are storytellers and explorers who believe that travel is the ultimate "ticket" to a more creative and purposeful existence. From the halls of the Florida Senate and Washington D.C. to the most remote corners of the globe, Evelyn and Natalie share how their adventures have shaped their careers, their bond, and their new book, Have a Love Affair with Travel: Your Ticket to an Exhilarating Life. In this episode, we explore: The Academic & The Executive: How their diverse backgrounds in science, politics, and communications influence the way they see the world. The Mother-Daughter Bond: Lessons learned from navigating 88 countries as a duo. "Armchair Adventures": How to cultivate a spirit of exploration even when you aren't on a plane. Travel as Transformation: Why a "love affair with travel" is the secret to staying inspired in your professional and personal life. About Our Guests: Evelyn Kelly, PhD, is an author of 22 books, ranging from genetics encyclopedias to travel memoirs. With a background in microbiology and history, she brings a deep, investigative lens to every journey. Natalie Kelly, MS, is a veteran CEO, public speaker, and lobbyist who has spent 35 years at the intersection of communications and leadership. She was the youngest female staff director in the Florida Senate and continues to lead and inspire in Tallahassee. Get the Book: 📖 Have a Love Affair with Travel: Your Ticket to an Exhilarating Life — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DLTPBS4P Connect with Creativity with Purpose: ✨ Subscribe to find your creative spark. 🎙️ Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Podbean 💬 Leave a comment: What stories shaped your worldview as a child? Connect with Evewlyn and Natalie: Website: https://travelersatheart.com Facebook:  @adventuresofmo Instagram: @realadventuresofmo Connect with me: Email:  ann@annmracek.com Website: https://annmracek.com #Travel #CreativityWithPurpose #MotherDaughterTravel #EvelynKelly #NatalieKelly #Leadership #GlobalExploration #AuthorInterview Subscribe for more conversations with extraordinary guests. Ann's book "Unpacking the Attic" is available on Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/0976648873 Disclaimer: This audio is intended solely for entertainment and educational purposes, opinions shared by the guest are their personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the audio. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices.

    51 min

  6. FEB 19

    Fix the Root Cause - The Mistake Most octors Make

    Hi, Or guest to day is Dr. Amelia Scott Barrett, MD — a Stanford-trained neurologist, founder of Migraine Relief Code, and a lifelong advocate for true, root-cause healing. During her years in private practice treating headaches and migraines, patients kept asking a question that mainstream medicine couldn’t fully answer: “Why am I having these headaches in the first place?” Dr Barrett was taught to talk about genetics and environment, then prescribe medication. But that explanation never felt complete. Over time, that discomfort became impossible to ignore. Today, advances in neuroscience and functional medicine give us a much clearer picture. She now understands that migraines often occur because brain cells are under-powered—starved of key nutrients, overwhelmed by inflammation, or blocked by toxins that disrupt healthy function. When you identify and address those root causes, migraines can dramatically improve—and so can mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall well-being. That’s why she created Migraine Relief Code. Through my online programs, she teaches women how to support their brains at the cellular level—how to nourish it, calm it, and help it thrive. Dr Barrett studied neuroscience at Smith College, earned my medical degree from the University of Colorado, and completed my neurology residency at Stanford University. For 20 years, and ran a successful private practice in Denver, caring for thousands of patients. Connect with Amelia: Website: https://ameliascottbarrettmd.com If you wish to be a guest the podcast "Creativity With Purpose" contact me at ann@annmracek.com Connect with me: Email:  ann@annmracek.com Website: https://unpackingtheattic.com Facebook: annmracek Instagram: @annmracekofficial Subscribe for more conversations with extraordinary guests. Ann's book "Unpacking the Attic" is available on Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/0976648873

    56 min

  7. FEB 8

    From Beloved Dog to Global Citizen

    In this heartfelt episode of Creativity with Purpose, we welcome journalist, award-winning writer, and passionate storyteller Carol Patton. Carol’s labor of love, The Adventures of Mo, is more than a children’s book series—it’s a bridge between storytelling, global awareness, and compassion. Inspired by her beloved family dog, Mozart, an American Eskimo with a big personality (and an even bigger love of ice cream 🍦), the series invites readers to explore geography, history, and cultures around the world through the curious paws of Mo. Written as a tribute after Mozart’s passing, The Adventures of Mo reflects Carol’s deep belief that stories can shape kinder, more conscious global citizens—especially when they begin in childhood. In this conversation, we explore: How The Adventures of Mo was born from love and loss Why geography, history, and animals are powerful teaching tools How storytelling helps children (and adults) become engaged global citizens Turning a passion project into a meaningful creative legacy Whether you’re a writer, educator, parent, or someone who believes creativity can change the world, this episode will leave you inspired—and smiling. ✨ Listen, reflect, and rediscover how purpose finds its way into our most personal stories. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations where creativity meets meaning 💬 Leave a comment: What stories shaped your worldview as a child? Connect with Carol: Website: https://adventuresofmo.com Facebook:  @adventuresofmo Instagram: @realadventuresofmo Connect with me: Email:  ann@annmracek.com Website: https://unpackingtheattic.com Subscribe for more conversations with extraordinary guests. Ann's book "Unpacking the Attic" is available on Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/0976648873

    51 min

  8. FEB 2

    The Power of Memory

    Our guest author Virginia Taft believes that memories connect us to the past, bring us to who we are and help define what we want to become. Those unique individuals with all their quirks and events that shaped us were opportunities to learn life lessons. Virginia is available to guest on your podcast, video or article discussing how helping people capture their life stories, or those of loved ones, provides greater depth and meaning to our lives in the here and now. Virginia has been an occupational therapist in private practice and business owner for over forty years specializing in hand and physical rehabilitation. She has also taught nationally and internationally. Her fascination with the mind-body connection also led her to become a myofascial release practitioner. Today Virginia conducts Memory Box Workshops to help participants create their own memory legacy and is currently writing other books in the Journey series. Her books are available on Amazon. Virginia’s mission is to help others Inspire - Relate - Explore - Create. Connect with Virginia at: Website: Virginiataft.com Email: virginiataftauthor@gmail.com Connect with Ann: Email:  ann@annmracek.com Website: https://unpackingtheattic.com Subscribe for more conversations with extraordinary guests. Ann's book "Unpacking the Attic" is available on Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/0976648873

    58 min
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About

Creativity with Purpose is a podcast that celebrates the stories behind the art. Hosted by Ann M. Mracek, the show invites musicians, authors, craft artisans, and creative thinkers from all walks of life to share how their passions were born, what inspires their work, and how creativity shapes their journey. Each conversation goes beyond the finished piece to uncover the personal stories, challenges, and moments of discovery that give art its meaning. Listeners will hear about the sparks of inspiration, the perseverance required to bring ideas to life, and the ways creativity can heal, connect, and transform. From soulful music and powerful writing to handmade crafts and innovative projects, Creativity with Purpose explores the many forms creativity takes—and the impact it leaves on our lives and communities. Whether you’re an artist yourself or someone who simply loves to be inspired, this podcast will encourage you to embrace your own creative purpose.

Information

  • Creator
    AnnMracek
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Creativity With Purpose