In this episode of The Creative Genius Podcast, I talk with designer, writer, and thinker Ben Rennie, author of a new book that explores the transformative power of curiosity and creativity. Together, we unpack the dynamic relationship between curiosity, creativity, and confidence, and how this path can guide us to overcome fear and step more fully into our potential. Ben shares his personal story—sparked by a promise to his late mother—that led him to examine how people find themselves in powerful, unexpected places.

We explore the idea that creativity isn’t limited to the arts but is instead the ability to see things differently, solve problems, and bring ideas to life. Through vivid stories and practical wisdom, Ben and I explore how curiosity is the antidote to fear, how creativity naturally flows from curiosity, and how confidence is built by simply beginning—and continuing—to create.

From imposter syndrome at a Dolce & Gabbana event to finding inspiration in nature, this conversation is a powerful invitation to get curious, stay creative, and be kind to yourself in the process.

Topics Covered:

How curiosity dissolves fear

Why creativity is about seeing possibilities, not just making art

Reframing repetition: why doing what’s been done before is still meaningful

How creative confidence is earned through action

The role of environment and nature in creative flow Navigating imposter syndrome

and Honouring your path

Resources & Mentions: Ben Rennie's new book Ben’s “Wednesdays” blog on Medium Brene Brown Steve Jobs: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward…” Meredith Hite-Estevez: “Join a song already singing” Rick Rubin: on creativity and remixing existing ideas

Takeaways / Call to Action:

Follow your curiosity—it’s the best antidote to fear Just start, even if it’s been done before—your voice matters

Practice regularly and create space for your creativity

Capture your ideas on the go

Be gentle with yourself

Spend time in nature to reset and reconnect

A FEW THINGS WE TALKED ABOUT

Why joy is not frivolous—it’s essential.

How to observe chaos without absorbing it

Alchemizing anger into action

Grounding techniques to pull you back to yourself (barefoot walks, simple rituals)

Why online friendships and community can be just as real—and healing—as in-person ones

How feminine energy can help rebalance a world spinning off its axis

What it actually looks like to embrace your authentic self in a world that often shames it

Why creativity is your most reliable compass during uncertain times

Letting go of the pressure to save the world while still lending a hand

The truth about money and how it amplifies who you already are

SOUND BITES

"The matriarchy is the highest good for all."

"We have to focus on joy every day."

"Community is not a one-way street."

"Walking outside barefoot is grounding."

"Ten minutes a day is all it takes."

"Life is to savour it and enjoy it."

"Your soul will never lead you astray."

"That was medicine for my soul."

CALLS TO ACTION If this episode stirred something in you, I’d love for you to support this work. Join my Patreon to help keep these conversations going and get access to bonus content, meditations, and other goodies I create just for our community.

And if you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with a friend. That’s how we grow this beautiful circle—and how we get these conversations into the hearts of those who need them most.

RESOURCES + LINKS

The Shabby Creek Cottage

The Soft Life Society

Join Kate's Patreon

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Patriarchy and the extinction burst

The importance of grounding practices

Creativity as guidance and resilience

Building and rebuilding community with intention

This one’s tender, fierce, and exactly what we need right now. I hope it lands in your heart the way it did in mine.

In the ever-evolving landscape of art and technology, the fusion of creativity and artificial intelligence is opening new horizons for artists worldwide. In a recent episode of Creative Genius, host Kate Shepherd engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Troy Plota, the visionary behind Plotaverse, exploring how AI can serve as a powerful ally in the creative process.

The Intersection of Art and Technology:
Troy Plota's journey from a seasoned photographer to the founder of a groundbreaking digital platform exemplifies the transformative potential of embracing technological advancements. Plotaverse, his innovative app, brought motion to still images, captivating audiences and achieving remarkable success with over 10 million downloads.

Democratizing Creativity:
A central theme in the discussion is the democratization of art through AI. Troy emphasizes that AI tools can empower individuals with creative visions but limited resources, enabling them to bring their ideas to life without the need for substantial budgets or technical expertise.

Spiritual Insights and Creative Inspiration:
Beyond technology, the conversation delves into the spiritual dimensions of creativity. Troy shares a profound personal experience where he was inspired by a dream, awakening with a complete screenplay in mind. This narrative underscores the mysterious and often transcendent nature of artistic inspiration.

Building Creative Communities:
The episode also highlights the importance of community and service in the artistic journey. Troy discusses how platforms like Plotaverse can foster connections among artists, creating supportive environments that nurture creativity and innovation.

The dialogue between Kate Shepherd and Troy Plota offers valuable insights into how embracing AI can enhance, rather than hinder, human creativity. By viewing technology as a collaborative partner, artists can unlock new realms of expression and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive creative landscape.

To explore more about Troy Plota's work, visit Plotaverse

Key Topics:

The inception and impact of Plotaverse

AI as a tool for creative empowerment

Balancing technology with human artistry

Spiritual insights and their influence on creativity

Building communities through shared artistic endeavors

Notable Quotes:

"Creativity is a universal calling."

"AI can enhance creativity rather than replace it."

"Community and service to others can help combat fear and anxiety."

Resources:

Plotaverse Official Website

Troy Plota's Personal Site

Dor Brothers Video Mentioned

Guest Bio:
Troy Plota is a seasoned photographer and digital artist with over 30 years of experience. He is the founder of Plotaverse, a platform that revolutionized digital art by animating still images, garnering over 10 million downloads and reaching #1 in the App Store. Troy's work has been featured in prominent publications like Vanity Fair, GQ, and Rolling Stone.

Episode Highlights:

Discussion on the role of AI in democratizing creativity

Insights into the development and success of Plotaverse

Exploration of spiritual experiences influencing artistic endeavors

Emphasis on building supportive creative communities

Subscribe to Creative Genius, leave a review, and support us on Patreon at patreon.com/creativegeniuspodcast.