This is where we get real about the messy middle of creative work — the bits that rarely make it into glossy portfolio write-ups. We talk about creative drought and burnout, those long stretches when ideas feel like they’ve packed up and left, when you worry your team thinks you’re slacking, or when you feel flatlined creatively and can’t figure out how to spark again.

We dig into professional confidence too: how to sound sure of yourself without tipping into cocky, the mind games of imposter syndrome, and the nagging self-doubt that somehow follows even seasoned creatives.

The old talent versus persistence debate gets a proper workout here. Industry leader Renee Hyde swears by her “99% not giving up, 1% talent” mantra, backed up with stories of career pivots, on-the-job learning, and making it through sheer determination rather than any mythical creative genius.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in workplace monotony — especially in-house — you’ll find strategies for reigniting your spark. Think side projects that feed your curiosity, candid chats with your manager, and finding creative joy beyond the day job.

Threaded through it all is an honest focus on mental health and wellbeing. Psychologists unpack how your nervous system affects creativity, why it’s worth addressing what’s going on under the surface before pushing for output, and how to shift yourself from survival mode back into creative flow.

This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a space that acknowledges creative blocks, celebrates persistence, and reminds you that some days will be about grit more than glory. And that’s okay — sometimes the best thing you can do is accept the grind, then find a little spark elsewhere until your brain’s ready to play again.