What does it take to stay connected to your art throughout your life? In this episode of Sōl Talk, Simone sits down with Vanessa Aldrich, an opera singer, writer, creative director and content creator, to explore this profound question.

Having been engaging with her own art for two decades, Vanessa knows firsthand the responsibilities and challenges that come with being an adult artist. Throughout this conversation, Vanessa shares the differences between an adult and child artist, as well as how we can identify our unique talents, the role of loneliness in fostering creativity, and the common misconceptions we have about chemistry in our work and relationships.

Topics Discussed:

• The journey of an adult artist and the responsibilities it entails
• Identifying and nurturing your unique talents
• How loneliness can support and enhance artistic expression
• Misunderstandings about chemistry and how to navigate them
• Strategies to honor your creative calling despite internal and external pressures

Connect with Vanessa:

· TikTok: @vanessadomslife

· Instagram: @vanessadomslife

· Website: VanessaAldrich.com and anotefromself.com

In a more off-the-cuff episode of Sōl Talk, Simone dives into a topic that weighs heavily on many creatives: resistance. Whether it's hitting the gym, managing finances, or pursuing your artistic dreams, resistance is a universal challenge that can derail progress and stifle potential.

Simone shares her personal reflections on how resistance has impeded her creative process, along with tactics to confront and work alongside resistance to reach your full potential.

MORE FROM SIMONE:

• Join the community on Substack (www.simonekeelah.substack.com), where you'll receive weekly musings that hit on the intersection of mindfulness and creativity.
• Stay connected with Simone Keelah on Instagram: @thesoltalk and @simonekeelah

Ever wondered how to balance pursuing your dreams with your day-to-day responsibilities? In this episode of Sōl Talk, Simone sits down with Jai Franklin Sarki, who embarked on her journey to become a TV writer at 40. Jai shares her inspiring story of overcoming challenges and realizing her dreams through strategic planning and unwavering determination.

In this heartfelt conversation, Jai reflects on her path to breaking into the TV industry, the highs and lows she encountered along the way, and the true meaning of achieving your aspirations.

Topics Discussed:

• Jai's journey to becoming a TV writer
• Balancing personal dreams with professional responsibilities
• How Jai funded her dreams
• Strategies employed to network and strengthen her portfolio
• Overcoming challenges on the path to success
• Lessons learned and advice for aspiring writers

Connect with Jai:

• Instagram: @giveshrimpachance
• Show: Jai writes for "Tracker" on CBS