'Invisible Hands' was a term American writer and professor Joseph Campbell used to describe the sense of flow in the right direction when creating purely, when following our bliss.I've become fascinated by it, and explore the idea in this episode. Logic is often king in our frightened brains, but when we commit to what instinct and the wellspring of our being suggest is right for us, and create accordingly, it's amazing how doors open, and people who can help us emerge in our lives.Sponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.com who have a superb new quarterly illustration trends report here: https://www.illustrationx.com/uk/news/5992/trendx_-_april_2024and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uahttps://mkgeeknight.co.uk/Hosted by Ben Tallon https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/https://baycroftpublishing.wixsite.com/baycrofthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s28rwnz18j4

Seemingly overnight, Meta, Adobe, and Squarespace, among others, have issued robust terms to users that would see creative industry professionals surrender their work to train Artificial Intelligence models.This is a ramble from a confused illustrator who would rather not hit the big red button on Instagram, and would rather not have to quit Photoshop for the last time. But what does it mean to accept such an invasion of privacy, and how do we all feel?It's a worrying precedent and a corporate play that suggests the tightening of the net in late-stage capitalism.Here are some thoughts that might move the discussion forward between designers, artists, illustrators, photographers and many more visual communicators.Sponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.com who have a superb new quarterly illustration trends report here: https://www.illustrationx.com/uk/news/5992/trendx_-_april_2024and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uahttps://hbr.org/2023/04/generative-ai-has-an-intellectual-property-problemhttps://www.creativeboom.com/resources/everyones-talking-about-cara-but-is-it-any-good/The AI Artist Audit: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ep-194-the-artist-ai-audit-art-automation-is-here/id1038442077?i=1000618735470Hosted by Ben Tallon https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

This week's episode HIGHLIGHTS for those who can't spare the time for the long-form FULL episode. Enjoy!Radio remains a timeless and unique medium in the age of abundant TV and film streaming services. There's an intimacy and a human quality that has seen it endure despite countless technological advances, and it invites the imagination of the listeners in a way no TV broadcast ever could.Football commentary represents arguably the most passionate form of commentary, but what of the creativity of the people whose trained voices take us as close to the action as possible without stepping foot in stadiums? How does it work, how do we get into such a career, and what makes for a great sports broadcaster?BBC Radio 5's Alistair Bruce-Ball is best known for his football commentary and work as the host of the Fantasy 606 podcast. He joins me to discuss why radio is enduringly popular among football fans. What is its place in the 21st century? We also talk golf commentary, Alistair's career path, opportunities in the modern broadcasting industry, personality's role in success, and unlikely highlights covering more obscure sports.Sponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.com who have a superb new quarterly illustration trends report here: https://www.illustrationx.com/uk/news/5992/trendx_-_april_2024and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uaAlistair will be covering Euro 2024 on the BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/live:bbc_radio_five_liveHosted by Ben Tallon https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

The first in a new series of takeaway episodes in which I distill 5 key takeaway tips about creativity from this week's guest conversation.The full conversation is available now on episode 229, and you can see the video version of this podcast on The Creative Condition Youtube channel.Sponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.com who have a superb new quarterly illustration trends report here: https://www.illustrationx.com/uk/news/5992/trendx_-_april_2024and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uaAlistair will be covering Euro 2024 on the BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/liveHosted by Ben Tallon https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

Radio remains a timeless and unique medium in the age of abundant TV and film streaming services. There's an intimacy and a human quality that has seen it endure despite countless technological advances, and it invites the imagination of the listeners in a way no TV broadcast ever could. Football commentary represents arguably the most passionate form of commentary, but what of the creativity of the people whose trained voices take us as close to the action as possible without stepping foot in stadiums? How does it work, how do we get into such a career, and what makes for a great sports broadcaster?BBC Radio 5's Alistair Bruce-Ball is best known for his football commentary and work as the host of the Fantasy 606 podcast. He joins me to discuss why radio is enduringly popular among football fans. What is its place in the 21st century? We also talk golf commentary, Alistair's career path, opportunities in the modern broadcasting industry, personality's role in success, and unlikely highlights covering more obscure sports.Sponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.com who have a superb new quarterly illustration trends report here: https://www.illustrationx.com/uk/news/5992/trendx_-_april_2024and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uaAlistair will be covering Euro 2024 on the BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/live:bbc_radio_five_liveHosted by Ben Tallon https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

Perfectionism can be extremely damaging to creativity. We live in the age of data, in which the bottom line creates a culture of fear. Here uncertainty is the enemy, and algorithmic creativity is causing a dramatic level rise in the sea of same. In the creative industry, this could be a death sentence, so I spoke to Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, and author of 'Flawed' Greg Chasson at length about the neuroscience and effects of perfectionism.As a man with a career built on imperfection, it was a joy to hear it so expertly articulated by Greg.Sponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.com who have a superb new quarterly illustration trends report here: https://www.illustrationx.com/uk/news/5992/trendx_-_april_2024and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uaFlawed book: https://www.flawedbook.com/https://psychiatry.uchicago.edu/faculty/gregory-chasson-phdhttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

Abby Lucas teaches drama and English at secondary/high school level in the midst of a growing mental health crisis. She sees the the positive impact it has on young people, their wellbeing, their communication skills, their learning, and their ability to take control of their lives.But she is only able to teach it within the curriculum for one hour each week.We discuss the tragic educational and wellbeing omission that is drama, the benefits of expanding its presence in the curriculum, and our frustrations in depth.Sponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.com who have a superb new quarterly illustration trends report here: https://www.illustrationx.com/uk/news/5992/trendx_-_april_2024and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uahttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

It took me a long time to acknowledge the shame of being caught shoplifting. At age 13, I stole an Ian Wright football figurine and got caught, earning me a UK-wide ban from Woolworth's department store.It took years to own this one, but when I did, I saw so many lessons in the importance of the shadow self, what such missteps can teach us about our personality, and its value in our creativity.Sponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.com who have a superb new quarterly illustration trends report here: https://www.illustrationx.com/uk/news/5992/trendx_-_april_2024and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uahttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

Multidisciplinary artist and designers Abi Everett (Evergooood) and Steph Martin (Stuff) are close friends and regular collaborators. They join me in conversation about the dangers of (conscious or unconscious) gatekeeping, which underpins 'More Than One Seat', their new project created to encourage collaboration, and not the kind of gatekeeping Steph became aware of while working in the advertising industry.This a great example of the joys of being a champion for another, in encouraging growth, and collaborative play, which leads to great ideas and optimal creativity.You can find out more about 'More Than One Seat' here: https://www.morethanoneseat.com/and follow Abi: https://www.studioeverett.com/aboutand Steph: https://stuffstudio.net/On socials: https://www.instagram.com/evergooood/https://www.instagram.com/stuffcreativestudioSponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.com who have a superb new quarterly illustration trends report here: https://www.illustrationx.com/uk/news/5992/trendx_-_april_2024and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uahttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

I had to explain to my kids why manageable jeopardy is good for them on this morning's nursery run. This tested my understanding and articulation of it. Then I get home and YouTube's algorithm tosses me Jimmy Carr telling Steven Bartlett why risk and living life without too much fear is crucial for young people and their mental health.It all set in motion a train of thought about jeopardy's role in optimal creativity... join me and climb aboard.Sponsored as ever by https://illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uahttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com/shop for The Creative Condition bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

Stefan Sagmeister - legendary designer and pioneering creator - returns to continue our conversation from episode 199, only this time live on the main stage at OFFF Festival Barcelona.We continue to explore the notion of understanding our minds in order to find an optimistic baseline, from which we can work to resolve our collective problems.The chat took place in front of a live 2000+ audience in Disseny Hub and now is your chance to hear it too.The show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute: https://ui.org.uaYou can grab Stefan's 'Now is Better' from: https://www.phaidon.com/store/design/now-is-better-9781838666965/The Creative Condition book is out now. Signed copies at: https://bentallonwriter.com/shop

Radim Malinic returns 103 episodes after we talked on episode 119 of the podcast. Now he is back with not one, but two new books: Mindful Creative and Creativity for Sale. The two books are designed to work as a set of two and delve into the way we work, all the way from our evolutionary tendencies, to our perceptions of creativity, the way it functions, and how we can be happy while making money, producing the work we always wanted to.We cover it all. This is a deep, candid chat, the only way Radim knows how.The show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comYou can grab both of Radim's books everywhere, signed copies at https://brandnubooks.co.ukThe Creative Condition book is out now. Signed copies at: https://www.bentallonwriter.com/shop

Too many people are downbeat. The heaviness of 24-hour news cycles are locking people's creativity and spirit away in dank, lightless basements.Here are five tips to turn the tide, and find a baseline of excitement and optimism from which to contribute to solutions for the problems that make us feel like the world has gone to sh1t.As ever the show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute. You can help a wonderful organisation by supporting the Ukrainian creative community as they struggle to keep making during the horrific war: ui.org.ua/The Creative Condition book is available to pre-order now at: https://www.bentallonwriter.com/shop/p/the-creative-condition-understanding-and-embracing-human-creativity-signed-paperback-pre-order-april-11th-releaseFor the ebook version: https://shorturl.at/bkBDEhttps://bentallon.com

Today is the release day for 'The Creative Condition' - my 2nd non-fiction book.This time out I chose to publish independently. Here's how, why, what to consider if you want to do this too.Supported by founding sponsor: https://illustrationx.com and the Ukrainian Institute https://ui.org.uaThe Creative Condition is out now at: https://www.bentallonwriter.com/shop/p/the-creative-condition-understanding-and-embracing-human-creativity-signed-paperback-pre-order-april-11th-release

Arizona State University professor in psychology Athena Atkipis joins me as her new book 'A Field Guide to the Apocalypse' hits the bookshelves.Athena's smart and fun zombie apocalypse approach to encouraging and supporting us in facing our fears during wild times carves out her beautiful niche in the field of psychology.We discuss why we've always felt like we're on the brink as a species, and, whether the worst happens, or a pipe simply bursts and floods your house, preparing for greater resilience in wild times can be fun, exciting, and a great route to happiness and optimal creativity.It's also publication day for 'The Creative Condition' book tomorrow, April 11th!As ever the show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute. You can help a wonderful organisation by supporting the Ukrainian creative community as they struggle to keep making during the horrific war: ui.org.ua/https://www.athenaaktipis.org/Athena's book: https://shorturl.at/tIOQXThe Creative Condition book is available to pre-order now at: https://www.bentallonwriter.com/shop/p/the-creative-condition-understanding-and-embracing-human-creativity-signed-paperback-pre-order-april-11th-releasehttps://bentallon.com

The ability to embrace the unknown is the root cause of the historic fear of creativity and maximising expressions of self.Here is a story, a standout example of why the unknown is the only way to reach personal success.The thread.As ever the show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute. You can help a wonderful organisation by supporting the Ukrainian creative community as they struggle to keep making during the horrific war: ui.org.ua/https://www.offf.barcelona/https://www.phaidon.com/store/design/now-is-better-9781838666965/https://www.instagram.com/olha_protasova_illustration/The Creative Condition book is available to pre-order now at: https://www.bentallonwriter.com/shop/p/the-creative-condition-understanding-and-embracing-human-creativity-signed-paperback-pre-order-april-11th-releasehttps://bentallon.com

At a formative age, Tye Glover was told he'd better look at careers that required physical activity because his brain wasn't up to much. This couldn't have been more wrong. Through his 'neural creative programming' model, Tye helps others join their dots. He explains why patterns are everything, and how we can take control and eliminate the negative loops in our lives to find our optimal way.As ever the show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute. You can help a wonderful organisation by supporting the Ukrainian creative community as they struggle to keep making during the horrific war: ui.org.ua/https://thinkdifferentnation.comThe Creative Condition book is available to pre-order now at: https://www.bentallonwriter.com/shop/p/the-creative-condition-understanding-and-embracing-human-creativity-signed-paperback-pre-order-april-11th-releasehttps://bentallon.com

Manchester creative agency LOVE Creative Senior Creative Eve Warren joins me in conversation to discuss the damaging trend of excessive job demands for entry-level and junior roles in the arts.We discuss the responsibilities of both industry and education to ensure creativity is not damaged when trying to remain viable in times of economic struggle, and our own experiences and ideas.As ever the show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute. You can help a wonderful organisation by supporting the Ukrainian creative community as they struggle to keep making during the horrific war: ui.org.ua/https://www.lovecreative.com/The original thread by Eve:https://twitter.com/EveWarren1/status/1755510907671618026https://www.linkedin.com/posts/eve-warren-96474985_is-the-gap-between-university-and-junior-activity-7161308148144726016-W4lH?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktopbentallon.comThe Creative Condition book pre-order: www.bentallonwriter.com/shop/p/the-cr…-11th-release

Community. We saw it rise again during COVID, despite the fact we were all indoors. Yet on the other side of the pandemic, many of us have struggled to return to our former social glories. Positive social relationships are critical to our wellbeing, so I caught up with Daniel Alcorn and Luke Tonge, founders of the fantastic Birmingham Design Festival to talk about why in-person community events and the relationships they tend to spark are so critical in the creative process.As ever the show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute. You can help a wonderful organisation by supporting the Ukrainian creative community as they struggle to keep making during the horrific war: https://ui.org.ua/https://birminghamdesignfestival.org.uk/https://birminghamdesign.shop/https://bentallon.comThe Creative Condition book pre-order: https://www.bentallonwriter.com/shop/p/the-creative-condition-understanding-and-embracing-human-creativity-signed-paperback-pre-order-april-11th-release

The science increasingly points to a very positive link between (responsibly and professionally administered) psilocybin - or 'magic mushrooms' - and mental health. After reading American-Iranian comedian, writer, and actor Negin Farsad's experience on a Jamaican psychedelic retreat, written for AFAR, I talked to both Negin, and CEO/Head-facilitator of Mycomeditations, Justin Townsend about psychedelics, mental health, and creativity.This is a warm, deep, intriguing insight into the world of fungi and the human experience, which touches upon Jungian depth psychology, the default mode network, and the things that hold us back from our optimal creativity.As ever the show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute. You can help a wonderful organisation by supporting the Ukrainian creative community as they struggle to keep making during the horrific war: https://ui.org.ua/http://neginfarsad.com/https://www.instagram.com/neginfarsad/https://www.mycomeditations.com/

Gush Mundae moved to a racially divided UK from Delhi, India and experienced more than his fair share of discrimination and abuse. Through hip hop and street art culture, he found belonging, and would later use £2k of his savings to start Bulletproof, a creative agency that is 25 years old, and now spans 8 countries.We get into Gush's response to the challenges he and his family faced in those early years, the power of art, the values he continues to run Bulletproof on today, and his desire to contribute to positive changes in education.The show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comHosted by Ben Tallon: https://bentallon.comhttps://www.wearebulletproof.com/about/Support the Ukrainian creative community: https://ui.org.ua/en/mission-2/

'The Hockney Soldier' is a short story pondering how art and design books are symbolic in bringing us closer to the horrors of war, that can feel removed from our reality. But also, the way creativity bonds us.Supported by Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comand the Ukrainian Institute. Connect with and champion Ukrainian art and culture now at: https://ui.org.ua/Written, presented, and produced by Ben Tallon https://bentallon.com and https://bentallonwriter.comMusic by Dirty Freud: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2c5NcXidirDDqL3sc3vW8S

Almost two years after Russia invaded Ukraine, I'm joined by Ukrainian illustrator, designer, and design community activist Olha Protasova to talk about creativity in times of war.This episode contains sensitive topics, but I hope you'll stay with us to be inspired by the bravery, resilience, and hope Olha shows.The show is supported by https://illustrationx.com and below are a series of links from Olha, via which you can help the Ukrainian cause:Olha's insta: https://www.instagram.com/olha_protasova_illustration Projector school: https://prjctr.com/ (Ukrainian)Yurko Gutsulyak: https://gutsulyak.studioMykola Kovalenko:https://mykolakovalenko.euA book about Trident, downloadable:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SD7nyGHyxo0JCnAw7gcS8BZ8eCEhq2Tr/view?usp=drivesdk(Language is Ukrainian, but the content is amazing)Meaning of trident: https://www.weareukraine.info/special/what-does-the-ukrainian-coat-of-arms-mean/Few articles about Ukrainian illustrators: https://ukraine.ua/stories/ukrainian-illustrators/https://theaoi.com/2022/05/13/drawing-strength-in-conversation-with-ukrainian-illustrators/Big article about type design and designers: https://eugenesadko.medium.com/21st-century-ukrainian-society-and-fonts-c61f6152ff19#:~:text=Among%20these%20type%20designers%20who,Lukian%20Turetsky%2C%20and%20Bohdan%20Hdal.https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com

Simon is missing. The posters are up, and it sets in motion a bout of gross overthinking. A hypothetical thought experiment for the fellow sensitive people.Supported by founding sponsor https://illustrationx.comMusic by Dirty Freud https://open.spotify.com/artist/2c5NcXidirDDqL3sc3vW8SPresented and written by Ben Tallon https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com

Washington DC-based artist and all-round creative human Chris Pyrate reflects on the role of early travels to New Mexico and LA, challenges for young people growing up in Washington DC, and why being an artist is a way of life, and not merely a profession.His big brand collaborations with the Washinton Wizards and Nike are secondary to a bigger philosophy.We get deep into all of it with a man vastly wiser than his years.The show is supported by Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comhttps://ahumanfly.squarespace.com/bentallon.combentallonwriter.com

Part 2 of the creativity checklist.Part 1 can be heard on episode 208. Distilled from the forthcoming 'The Creative Condition' book. Out March 28th 2024.The show is supported by Illustration X: https://illustrationx.combentallon.combentallonwriter.com

Sarah Boris is a multi-disciplinary artist and designer at the top of her game. We discuss the challenges of change in early years, along with the upsides, her early career roles designing for The Barbican and Phaidon, and her current art and design studio practice. The challenges of staying disciplined, but not overworking are covered, as well as activism, and what Sarah refers to as 'the care bear phase' in which she needs to create bright, happy work to decompress from heavy subject matter.A fascinating glimpse of the mind and ways of one of the most dynamic creators in the game.https://www.instagram.com/sarahboris_ldn/?hl=enThe show is supported by Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comhttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com

Part 1 of a list of considerations for maximising your creativity, distilled from the forthcoming 'The Creative Condition' book. Out March 28th 2024.The show is supported by Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comhttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com

The human mind is not equipped to cope with the information overload we all experience in out western lifestyles. We burn out and stagger through our lives paying bills, consuming, neglecting, and misunderstanding our creativity to the detriment of our happiness and fulfillment.In 1993 Tom Hodkinson founded 'Idler' magazine - a publication dedicated to calling for a slower, more wholesome way of life, questioning the earn and spend ethic. Tom joins me to discuss most of modern life, with special attention paid to creativity and idling.The show is supported by Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comhttps://idler.co.ukhttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com

The first in a series of audience question-focused episodes of the podcast. This one is from designer Steve Cardwell, wondering about the validity of a portfolio comprised of personal work when starting afresh, or changing direction in an arts career.Any further responses to the question, questions for future episodes, or opinions on the question-based format are most welcome!Supported by Illustration X, who represent the best of global illustrators and animators at https://illustrationx.comHosted by Ben Tallon, https://bentallon.comThe Creative Condition book will be out in March 2024https://defaultica.com/

In 2018 I met Murugiah for episode 102 of The Creative Condition Podcast. He had results, and he was freelancing successfully as an illustrator and artist, but there was a fragility about him. The earliest seeds of his current, flourishing art style were starting to flower, but they were mere dots in the soil.In 2020, on 'Cabin Cast 5', bright green buds had emerged, and spots of colour were trying to push out.Now as we stare down both barrels of 2024, he returns and things are in full bloom. And yet, he says he's been talking utter h0rseshit this entire time. I disagree, and we get deep into how it all feels, why we can never truly feel satisfied, and how we go about juggling all the parts of a freelance career in the creative industry.Please consider subscribing and reviewing The Creative Condition podcast on your preferred platform. The show is supported by founding sponsor Illustration X. Indulge yourself in their global range of artists, illustrators, and animators now at https://illustrationx.comHosted and produced by Ben Tallon. Https://bentallon.comToday's guest can be found at: https://murugiah.com/https://bentallonwriter.comhttps://instagram.com/bentallon

Designit is home to 700+ designers, analysts, brainstormers, creators, doers, dreamers, explorers, geeks, leaders, learners, lovers, mamas, papas, renegades, strategists, marketers, tree-huggers, visionaries, question-askers with diverse expertise and perspectives working together to solve complex problems.I'm joined by their head of design and creative in the Americas, Christine Pizzo as we get into large-scale design for positive change, design leadership, motorcycles, and the role of tech in our lives in the 21st century.As ever, the show is supported by the founding sponsor, illustration and animation agency, and b-corp Illustration X. illustrationx.comhttps://www.designit.com/aboutbentallon.combentallonwriter.comMusic by Dirty Freud:open.spotify.com/artist/2c5NcXidirDDqL3sc3vW8S

An excerpt from 'The Creative Condition' book about creativity in education, including the story of stealing a child's drawing.You can back the book on Kickstarter here with just 4 days left to get your advance, contributor copy: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/creativecondition/the-creative-condition-bookAs ever, the show is supported by the founding sponsor, illustration and animation agency, and b-corp Illustration X. https://illustrationx.comhttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.comMusic by Dirty Freud https://open.spotify.com/artist/2c5NcXidirDDqL3sc3vW8S

We hear it all the time, 'You are what you eat!' - but how seriously do we take our diet when it comes to our mental health? For the longest time, for me, the answer was 'not very.'We identify a raft of other aggressors when it comes to our moods, but we are living organisms and we require constant good nutrition to operate at our best.As part of the November mental health special episodes, following on from Kimberley Wilson on ep 202, I'm joined by microbiologist Zuzanna Karwowska. Zuzanna works with machine learning to study the gut microbiome. She lays out just how critical gut health is to our mood, our brain health, and therefore, our creativity, and gives us a snapshot of the life of a microbiologist!As ever, the show is supported by the founding sponsor, illustration and animation agency, and b-corp Illustration X. https://illustrationx.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/zuzanna-karwowska-768967a5/To back 'The Creative Condition' book Kickstarter, head here. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/creativecondition/the-creative-condition-bookhttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com

During a recent appearance on Adobe's 'Creative Connections' show by Kladi Vergine and Elise Swopes, an audience member asked me how I discovered I could write, given that I'm an illustrator.I wanted to elaborate on my concise answer with a longer form consideration of my author timeline.Back 'The Creative Condition' book on Kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/creativecondition/the-creative-condition-bookThe Creative Condition is sponsored by Illustration X. You can see their global roster of artists, illustrators, and animators at illustrationx.combentallon.combentallonwriter.com

Column 7 in the ongoing series of articles written by The Creative Condition host and illustrator Ben Tallon.Exploring the nature and behaviour of creativity, the latest looks at vulnerability and it's potential value in sending the right message to potential clients.You can read any of the previous columns at designweek.co.ukThe Creative Condition is sponsored by Illustration X. You can see their global roster of artists, illustrators, and animators at illustrationx.combentallon.combentallonwriter.com

We all know - on some level at least - the importance of good nutrition for good health. But how many of us equate it to effective creativity? It took me the longest time to start eating, every day, to fuel a firing brain, and positive mood, to give myself the best chance of hitting my optimal performance zone.It's been a revelation, and that was in part to do with Kimberley Wilson. Kimberley is a psychologist specialising in nutrition, who educates about 'whole body mental health.'Kimberley's life-altering book, 'Unprocessed: How the Food We Eat is Fuelling the Mental Health Crisis' paints an equal part frightening, and revelatory picture of how severe the lack of nutritional education is, and what it means for all of us.We discuss many of the topics, and what we can do to improve our health for better creativity.https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/unprocessed-how-the-food-we-eat-is-fuelling-our-mental-health-crisis-kimberley-wilson/7073333?ean=9780753559741https://www.kimberleywilson.co/aboutThe show is supported by founding sponsor and B-Corp, Illustration X: https://illustrationx.comhttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-tallon-a822a725/

Phaidon was founded 100 years ago, in 1923, with the intention of producing beautiful affordable books, predominantly on art.To celebrate the milestone, I'm joined by Creative Director Julia Hasting who has worked on many titles over several decades. We discuss her story, the role of print books in the digital age, what it takes to produce a book of this magnitude, the people involved, and the collaboration required to make it work.Supported by founding sponsor https://illustrationx.comhttps://www.phaidon.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliahasting/https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/creativecondition/https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com

As The Creative Condition Book Kickstarter launches, here is an exclusive 1st chapter of the book, 'What is Creativity.'You can support the campaign by getting your copy ahead of the March 2024 release and bringing the idea to life. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/creativecondition/the-creative-condition-bookSupported by the brilliant Illustration X, founding sponsor of The Creative Condition podcast. View their global roster of illustrators and animators at https://illustrationx.comHosted by Ben Tallon:bentallon.combentallonwriter.com

After 2 years of writing, 10 years of study and research, a lifetime of observation and lived experience, and 200 podcast episodes, 'The Creative Condition' book is ready, and I need your help!Creativity has been an infinite joy in my life. It has become my calling. It brings together communities, energises societies, empowers individuals, and has enabled the continued survival of our species. And yet it continues to be lumped in the same basket as artistry and marginalised at every level of education.Here is what creativity means to me, what I'd like to change, why I've chosen to write another book on the subject, and why I'm asking for your support as the book Kickstarter launches.https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/creativecondition/Supported by the brilliant Illustration X, founding sponsor of The Creative Condition podcast. View their global roster of illustrators and animators at https://illustrationx.comHosted by Ben Tallon:bentallon.combentallonwriter.com

Have you ever been told, or thought you need to toughen up? Or that you're a weakling for feeling more hurt than others at the hands of events in your surroundings? Or wondered if you're strange for feeling more joy than other people seem to when times are good? It's likely you're a highly sensitive person.For the 200th episode of The Creative Condition Podcast, I'm joined by sensitivity and introvert expert Jenn Granneman, co-author (with Andre Sólo) of 'Sensitive: the Power of a Thoughtful Mind in an Overwhelming World to discuss sensitivity in depth.We live at a time when conversations around the mind and well-being are at an all-time high, and people like Jenn are playing a huge role in providing us with more tools to map out our own creativity. Hopefully, this one will add great value!Supported by the brilliant Illustration X, founding sponsor of The Creative Condition podcast. View their global roster of illustrators and animators at illustrationx.comwww.introvertdear.com/https://www.instagram.com/jenngranneman/bentallon.combentallonwriter.com

Somewhere in those big hardback books of collected design that we had around the studios in which I studied, or perhaps it was in the 'Handwritten' book of collected hand lettering, I found the work of Stefan Sagmeister - the infamous talk poster for which he'd carved the information into his own torso.His reputation as a great designer is more than earned. Since 1993, working out of New York, he has created work for The Rolling Stones, HBO, Lou Reed, and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum through Sagmeister Inc.His new book, 'Now is Better', out on October 4th with Phaidon is a tonic to the doom and gloom spirit of 24-hour news cycles and social media. It's a thing of visual beauty, but also promotes long-term thinking and perspective, so we can be better, happier, and more creative people to address the problems we face.We discuss these themes and more.The book will remain on my coffee table for the days when I get the blues!Photograph by James Braund.Supported by the brilliant Illustration X, founding sponsor of The Creative Condition podcast. View their global roster of illustrators and animators at https://illustrationx.comhttps://sagmeister.com/https://www.phaidon.com/https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com

The two types of creativity: Are you balancing your intellectual and emotional creativity? It's the key to staying motivated, passionate, and energised. Here's why.Column 7 in the ongoing series of articles written by The Creative Condition host and illustrator Ben Tallon.Exploring the nature and behaviour of creativity, the latest looks at vulnerability and it's potential value in sending the right message to potential clients.You can read any of the previous columns at designweek.co.ukThe Creative Condition is sponsored by Illustration X. You can see their global roster of artists, illustrators, and animators at illustrationx.combentallon.combentallonwriter.com

Creative Stories #1: Cheeky BatmanA ramble about what a silly graffiti doodle can teach us about creativity, mental health, and reframing the world around us.Supported by the brilliant Illustration X, founding sponsor of The Creative Condition podcast. View their global roster of illustrators and animators at illustrationx.combentallon.combentallonwriter.com

Dance school was a cheap hobby for Stephanie Powell-Baxter and her siblings to attend. Now she performs choreography and dances on Strictly Come Dancing, in London West end musicals, and in major movies.We discuss different types of intelligence, the community spirit of dance schools, creativity in schools, and Steph's parental perspective on making sure her children get the right balance. There's also a fantastically grungy road story from the world of dancers after dark.Supported by the brilliant Illustration X, founding sponsor of The Creative Condition podcast. View their global roster of illustrators and animators at https://illustrationx.comPhoto by Amy Cook: https://www.amycookphotography.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/p/ChkuzrjI4xA/https://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com

Mac Ferrari and Jake 100 share the inspiring Bikestormz story. Together they built something from the ground up to help people come together through community and creativity, through something simple and positive against a backdrop of troubled young people hurting each other.We discuss what the bike represents, the misconceptions, demonisation, and the evolution of the ride-outs and bikelife community since it began.What's next for Bikestormz as Mac shares his feelings on handing the reins to Jake for the next phase of a beautiful project.The show is supported by Illustration X. See their illusration and animation portfolios now at https://illustrationx.comPhotography by Adam Corbett Studio. http://www.adamcorbett.com/The next ride-out is August 19th 2023: https://www.tiktok.com/discover/19th-august-bike-stormzhttps://instagram.com/jake100https://www.instagram.com/bikestormz_/?hl=en

I'm joined by the Executive Creative Director of Wasserman, Rich Jones. Wasserman is a sports & entertainment marketing company based in LA and Rich shares his experience of fighting for creativity, and keeping things fresh in a time-based industry.We dig into the importance of healthy relationships and a dynamic, fun environment for staff not just to do their job, but to be themselves and a part of something in which they matter.Rich reminisces about the days of big drawing desks and the smell of marker pens, but also offers some interesting thoughts on adapting creativity to new roles and new technologies as times change.As ever, the show is supported by founding sponsor, Illustration X. You can view their global range of illustrators and animators at https://illusrationx.com. The agency recently gained B-Corp accreditation!https://www.teamwass.com/https://bentallon.comRich on Linkedin: https://shorturl.at/gN249

Kelly Korzun made the decision not to make money from her art. The purity of it meant too much to her, and we get into that, along with the twinned journey with Marc Chagall she grew aware of.How did her artist interview and feature project, 'METAL & DVST' originate, and why is it essential to embrace your 'shadow' self for mental wellbeing.We get onto the unlikely, but interesting topic of pornography.As ever supported by founding sponsor and b-corp Illustration X - https://illustrationx.comhttps://www.metalndvst.com/https://www.instagram.com/metalndvst/?hl=en-gbhttps://bentallon.comhttps://bentallonwriter.com