What does it mean to choose yourself and your creative life, especially when the people around you might not understand that choice. In this first audio newsletter of Nourishing Creativity, I’m reflecting on the willingness it takes to say yes your ideas, projects, and creative dreams.

Inspired by My Brilliant Career, a new series on Netflix, which is also a book. Without giving you spoilers, through line of this series is choosing yourself. When you choose yourself, it can feel radical and it can also come with trade-offs which I am reading about in Emma Grede’s book, Start With Yourself: A New Vision for Work & Life.

Over the past year, I’ve supported clients who are creating while navigating grief, illness, caregiving, and major life transitions. And yet, they’re still creating Substack publications, recording podcasts, writing books, sharing their ideas, and thinking about the legacy they want to leave behind.

I’m experiencing this in my own creative practice too. While cleaning out a closet, I found a letter I wrote to myself at the end of 2023 that included a reminder to create my creative planner. Three years later, that project is tapping me on the shoulder like my podcast guest, Luna Battalia said.

If there’s a book, podcast, Substack, or idea that’s asking you to co-create with this season, this is your invitation to say yes. And if you think this is just for others or that you don’t have the insert: Time, energy, or money. Sit with the question of willingness in the last newsletter.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform while you cook, clean, or create.

Leave a comment on Substack or connect with me on Instagram @chefcarlacontreras

xo Carla

PS: Upgrade to Founding Member on Substack to book your Mini-Content Audit: Get unstuck, and take aligned action. I can’t wait to hear about what you are creating! Need more support work with me here.

Disclaimer: Always seek the counsel of a qualified medical practitioner or other healthcare provider for an individual consultation before making any significant changes to your health, lifestyle, or to answer questions about specific medical conditions. If you are driving or doing an activity that needs your attention, save the energy practices for later. This podcast is for entertainment and information purposes only. Note: Some of these are affiliate links. I receive a small percentage of the sales. I appreciate your support of my small Latina & women owned business.

"Innovation is what makes me excited to show up to work." — Emma Grace Moon

This episode is your invitation to rethink what success looks like and how creativity can become your greatest competitive advantage. I’m joined by founder of Praize, Emma Grace Moon, for a conversation about AI, entrepreneurship, creativity, burnout, and why moving from New York City to Paris transformed the way she leads her business and her life.

Emma shares how building a data-driven strategy consultancy has taught her that creativity isn’t limited to artists. Whether she’s helping brands understand AI search, measuring the impact of PR, or building innovative strategies for clients, creativity shows up through curiosity, experimentation, and staying ahead of what’s next.

We also explore the relationship between creativity and place. After years of building her business in New York City, Emma realized she was burnt out and disconnected from herself. A series of travels led her to Paris. She shares how shorter workdays, stronger boundaries, and creating space outside of work have actually made her a better leader while helping her business grow.

Toward the end of our conversation, Emma shares her approach to public speaking, creative confidence, and moving through self-doubt. Rather than over-preparing, she trusts the knowledge she’s built through years of experience. In addition to the support of affirmations, breathwork, and nervous system regulation.

Whether you’re navigating burnout, building a business, exploring AI, dreaming of living abroad, or looking for new ways to nourish your creativity, this conversation is a reminder that your environment, curiosity, and willingness to evolve (and shut the laptop) all shape the work you’re here to create.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform while you cook, clean, or create. Get the full show notes & transcript here.

Leave a comment on Substack or connect with us on Instagram @chefcarlacontreras and @emmagracemoon to share your takeaways from the episode.

xo Carla

PS: Need space for your creative projects and dreams? Upgrade to paid for access to Nourished Creator Studio, weekly Creative Study Hall Sessions, and Creative Chat.

Disclaimer: Always seek the counsel of a qualified medical practitioner or other healthcare provider for an individual consultation before making any significant changes to your health, lifestyle, or to answer questions about specific medical conditions. If you are driving or doing an activity that needs your attention, save the meditation practice for later. This podcast is for entertainment and information purposes only. Note: Some of these are affiliate links. I receive a small percentage of the sales. I appreciate your support of my small Latina & women owned business.