Tricia Rose Burt had done everything right, according to the way she was raised. She went to a “good school,” had a “good job” and all seemed to be going great on the surface. But inside, she was miserable and decided to make a change. She left her career in public relations, took classes at art school, and began to explore her own creativity in a way that, as she describes it, “filled her cup.” She’s never been happier, and in this Blue Sky conversation, she’ll explain how listeners might want choose to tap into their “inner artist” as well.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Tricia Rose Burt
This chapter introduces Tricia Rose Burt, highlighting her journey from a conventional upbringing to a fulfilling creative career. It sets the stage for her story of transformation and how she helps others find their own path.
02:22 Overcoming Prescribed Paths
Tricia discusses her upbringing in Tampa, Florida, where there was a ‘right way’ to do things, leading her to feel miserable despite doing everything ‘correctly.’
05:04 The Art School Transformation
Tricia shares how she transitioned from a career in public relations, which she disliked, to art school. A career counselor’s advice and an initial art class led to a complete career and life change, reigniting a childhood spark for creativity.
08:05 Focusing on Process, Not Outcomes
Tricia explains her current philosophy of focusing on the creative process rather than the outcome, a challenge for someone raised in an ‘overachieving household.’
12:36 No Time to Be Timid: Podcast
Tricia discusses her podcast, ‘No Time to Be Timid,’ and its message about embracing courage at any age. She emphasizes the pain of an uncreative life and encourages listeners to overcome obstacles to pursue their passions.
16:47 Integrating Creativity and Life
Tricia advises listeners to integrate creativity into their daily lives rather than making drastic changes, sharing her own ‘dramatic’ pivot to Ireland. She highlights the importance of a low overhead and finding joy in the creative process, contrasting it with exhausting unfulfilling work.
23:01 The Riskiest Thing: Playing It Safe
Tricia introduces her ‘No Time to Be Timid’ manifesto, starting with ‘The riskiest thing you can do is play it safe.’
25:54 Non-Linear Paths and Creativity’s Value
Tricia discusses the non-linear nature of life paths and how it allows for following curiosity, a contrast to her father’s single career. She stresses that creativity is not frivolous, but essential for problem-solving and leading a fulfilling life, challenging the societal undervaluation of creative pursuits.
28:45 Constraints as Opportunities
Tricia elaborates on ‘constraints are opportunities,’ sharing how financial limitations in Ireland led her to create art from unconventional materials like tea bags. She provides examples of how constraints, whether financial or time-based, can spark creativity and innovation.
35:03 Embracing Failure for Growth
Tricia discusses ‘failure is your friend,’ explaining that setbacks offer valuable learning experiences and redirect paths. She shares a friend’s perspective that ‘no’ can be as good as ‘yes’ and emphasizes asking ‘what happens if I do this?’ in the creative process.
38:45 Courage in Community
Tricia highlights the importance of ‘courage in community,’ noting that fellow pilgrims provide support and understanding for creative individuals.
41:50 Make Art Now: The Power of Story
Tricia passionately advocates for ‘make art now,’ asserting that art and stories are vital for human connection, empathy, and overcoming demonization. She emphasizes that creativity isn’t limited to ‘big A’ art but encompasses everyday acts of making and connecting.