Growing Inspiration

Tradition in Tune: Exploring Celtic Music with Seán Heely

I am so excited to introduce you to today’s guest. Sean Heely is a world-class Scottish and Irish fiddler as well as a champion Gàidhlig singer, harpist, and composer. In our conversation, Seán shares his journey through music, exploring the deep connections between nature, culture, and the evolution of traditional music. He discusses his early influences, the importance of seasonal inspiration, and the role of community in preserving Celtic traditions. Seán also reflects on his experiences traveling and performing around the world, and his sources of inspiration.
Champion fiddler and singer Seán Heely is one of the most creatively versatile and captivating young artists of his generation. He is a U.S National Scottish Fiddle and U.S Gàidhlig singing Champion as well as an award-winning Irish Fiddler and harpist. Seán holds a degree from University of South Carolina in Violin Performance and was a 2019 Artist in Residence at Strathmore Music Center in Maryland. An educator in demand, Seán is has served as an Adjunct Instructor at American University, he has also been on the faculty at several summer camps such as Acadia Traditional School of Music and Arts, Boxwood Music Festival, Upper Potomac Fiddle Retreat, and Fiddle Hell Festival. He has performed in Scotland, Ireland, South America, Italy, Germany and at prestigious venues in the U.S such as the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C and Strathmore Music Center.
Irish fiddle legend Liz Carroll calls Seán: “One powerhouse of a fiddler”.
Seán has shared the stage with traditional music icons such as Bonnie Rideout, Liz
Carroll, Maeve Gilchrist, and along with his accolades in Traditional Music, Seán made his Classical solo debut with the Virginia Symphony in 2012 performing Mozart's 5th Violin Concerto.
In 2023, Seán was honored to win the prestigious Dan R. MacDonald Memorial
Prize from the Clan Donald Trust from the Gaelic Performing Arts as well as Male Musician of the year from Ireland Tonight Radio.
Seán has recorded four full length internationally acclaimed albums some of which have been featured on BBC Radio nan Gàidheal, RTÉ Raidio na Gaeltachta in Ireland, and NPR’s Thistle and Shamrock. Currently based in the Washington DC area, Seán performs nationally with the Seán Heely Celtic Band, Seán Heely's Celtic Christmas, The Glencoe Lads and Jennifer Cutting’s Ocean Orchestra.
Links:
Sean Heely, https://www.seanheely.com/
Liz Carroll, https://www.lizcarroll.com/
Julie Fowlis, https://www.juliefowlis.com/
Bonnie Rideout, http://www.bonnierideout.com/
Sessions at MacMillan Spirit House, https://www.themacmillanspirithouse.com/
Alexander Carmichael, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Carmichael
Festival Interceltique de Lorient (Bretagne), https://www.festival-interceltique.bzh/
Fiddle Hell, https://www.fiddlehell.org/
Chapters
00:00 The Musical Journey Begins
07:28 Discovering Traditional Music and Community
11:16 The Gaelic Language and Its Influence
14:13 Exploring Instruments: Harp and Bouzouki
19:13 Tuning and Its Challenges in Performance
23:43 The Essence of Music Sessions
28:07 Global Experiences and Cultural Exchange
30:26 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge
40:32 Nature as Inspiration
47:49 Celtic Traditions and Seasonal Celebrations
53:26 Exploring Celtic Nations and Their Music

What's an Asian Parsnip? A Review of James May's James Gin

I have something a little different for you today, and I will be interested to know how you like it. My husband and I filmed a short review of James May’s James Gin, and I decided to edit the audio for the podcast in addition to posting the video on YouTube. I hope you can get a sense of the flavor profiles of these three new gins and decide whether you might like to try them, too. Please subscribe and leave a review. Let me know which is your favorite gin or which spirit you prefer.
In this episode, Shana and Ed McLean explore the unique flavors of James May's gin collection, tasting three distinct varieties: Asian Parsnip, California Dreamgin’, and London Drizzle. They share their personal preferences and insights on each gin's flavor profile, comparing them to the well-known Hendrick’s gin. The conversation highlights the creativity behind the gins and concludes with their overall impressions and recommendations.
 
Links
https://us.jamesgin.com
https://www.topgear.com/
https://www.amazon.com/The-Grand-Tour-Season-1/dp/B086VXCTGW
https://hendricksgin.com/

Concepting Your Life: Overcoming Fear through Creativity with Eliz Phillips

In this conversation, Eliz Phillips shares her journey as a Creative Services Director, discussing how creativity has shaped her career and personal life. She reflects on her experiences in advertising, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the evolving role of creativity in the workplace, especially in the context of AI. Eliz emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear in creative expression and applying creativity beyond professional boundaries. She advocates for the value of creativity in an increasingly automated world, encouraging others to embrace their unique perspectives and ideas.
Eliz Phillips is a Senior Director, Creative Services in Washington, D.C. She has worked in the creative field for nearly 30 years—as a copywriter, content strategist, consultant, and creative director. She’s launched her own agency, freelanced at top agencies in the area and worked at Arnold Worldwide. She is a graduate of VCU Brandcenter.When she’s not working, she meditates, lifts weights, jogs, walks, hikes, takes classes and volunteers as an escort for Chicago Honor Flights. She is a part time Uber driver and full time cheerleader for her three teenagers. She also has a rescue dog and a barn cat.
Links: https://brandcenter.vcu.edu/
Chapters
00:00 Creative Services and Career Journey
10:52 The Year of Yes: Embracing Opportunities
14:46 Building a Brand: Challenges and Triumphs
19:24 Identifying Good Ideas and Creative Processes
20:09 The Power of Idea Generation
21:16 Harnessing AI for Creativity
23:14 Overcoming Creative Blocks
25:03 Applying Creativity Beyond Work
30:02 Navigating a Creative Career

Adjusting the Variables for Great Wine with Dustin Miner of Nokesville Winery

In this engaging conversation, Dustin Miner shares his unique journey from being a professional firefighter to becoming a passionate winemaker. He discusses the art and science behind winemaking, particularly focusing on the Norton grape, a varietal native to Virginia. Dustin emphasizes the importance of family involvement in his winery and the creative process that goes into crafting each bottle of wine. He also touches on the challenges of winemaking, the significance of understanding wine chemistry, and his aspirations for the future of his winery.
 
Links:
https://nokesvillewinery.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorQgtACtkLiUAjOSS5gxthFtZSYcPV5-5ly6202kz_M8TWzRZQO
https://www.burnsidefarms.com/
https://virginiaartfactory.org/
https://carmellos.com/
 
Chapters
00:00 The Journey to Winemaking
03:53 Understanding the Norton Grape
06:44 Crafting Unique Wines
09:39 The Importance of Community and Events
12:25 Family Involvement in Winemaking
15:33 Future Aspirations and Growth
24:47 Family Involvement in Winemaking
27:36 The Art of Winemaking
34:40 Virginia's Wine Identity
41:28 Innovative Winemaking Techniques
46:53 Upcoming Events and Future Plans

Pushing back the darkness: Sharing the Beauty of Nature with Photographer Katrina Steele

In this conversation, Katrina Steele shares her journey into photography, her passion for capturing the beauty in nature, and her experiences with macro photography and double exposures. Katrina discusses her learning process, the importance of community in photography, and her thoughts on AI and authenticity. She emphasizes the significance of spending time outdoors and the joy of documenting her surroundings. Katrina also shares her favorite locations for photography, her aspirations for travel, and her interest in artist residency programs.
Katrina Steele is an award-winning visual artist with over ten years of photography experience, dedicated to capturing compelling imagery that causes people to pause and notice the beauty, mystery, and complexity of nature and life.  Her work has been exhibited in diverse settings, from juried exhibitions and gallery installations to national publications and online features, including first-place photography honors at the Ohio State Fair and national recognition in industry-specific contests.  Katrina is generous with her time, volunteering countless hours photographing events for local nonprofits, and her work has been recognized for technical mastery, emotional resonance, and artistic excellence.
To see some of Katrina’s images, watch the video of this show on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@gardenofmydelights
 
Links:
52Frames 
https://52frames.com/
Click Community
https://www.theclickcommunity.com/amember/aff/go/KatrinaSteele
Creative Live
https://www.creativelive.com
Find Katrina on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/k_steele_images/
NPS artist in Artist-in-Residency Program
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/arts/air.htm
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:07 Journey into Photography
04:59 Learning and Growth in Photography
08:11 Camera Choices and Preferences
08:28 Exploring Macro Photography
09:50 Creative Techniques: Double Exposures
12:49 Experimentation and Photo Projects
18:27 Recognition and Community Support
23:01 The Impact of AI on Authenticity
27:43 The Importance of Nature and Outdoor Photography
30:47 Exploring Local and National Parks
34:35 Artist Residency Programs and Opportunities
38:06 Current Projects and Future Aspirations

Baroque Mashup: Bach’s St. Matthew Passion

In this episode, Shana McLean explores the artistic traditions associated with Lent through the lens of Johann Sebastian Bach's St. Matthew Passion. She discusses the personal versus collective nature of Lenten hymns and the creative process of combining existing works to create something new. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own creativity during this reflective season.
 
Credits: Tom Huizenga. A Visitor's Guide To Bach's 'St. Matthew Passion'. Deceptive Cadence, NPR Classical. April 17, 2014. https://www.npr.org/sections/deceptivecadence/2014/04/17/298773771/a-visitors-guide-to-bachs-st-matthew-passion
Michiel Carpentier. Which Bach Cantata? Easter, 9 April 2023. https://whichbachcantata.be/cantata-days/easter.html
Jeremy Nicholas. Bach’s ‘St Matthew Passion’: A Guide To The Sacred Masterpiece. April 7, 2023. https://www.udiscovermusic.com/classical-features/bach-st-matthew-passion/ [4] PASSION CHORALE (Hassler). Hymnary.org. April 18, 2023. https://hymnary.org/tune/passion_chorale_hassler
The Hymnal 1982: According to the use of the Episcopal Church. #168. https://hymnary.org/hymn/EH1982/168. There were many verses in the original German text translated from Latin, and their inclusion and numbering varies according to the hymnal in use.
 

Fairy Tales for All Ages: Sarah Arthur on her new book Once a Castle

In this delightful conversation, Sarah Arthur discusses her journey as a writer, the themes explored in her Carrick Hall series, and the influence of classic authors like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien on her work. She delves into the creative process behind her books, the importance of world-building, and the transition from nonfiction to fiction writing. Sarah also shares insights on writing in community, the role of reader feedback, and her connection to Madeleine L'Engle's legacy. As she prepares for the release of her third book, she reflects on the interconnectedness of stories and the importance of acknowledging our shared humanity.
Sarah Arthur is a fun-loving speaker and the bestselling author of a dozen books for teens and adults, including Once a Castle, Book 2 of the Carrick Hall Novels (WaterBrook; on sale 2/11/25) the bestselling and the Christy Award-nominated Once a Queen, Book 1 of the Carrick Hall Novels. Among other nerdy adventures, she has served as preliminary fiction judge for the Christianity Today Book Awards, was a founding board member of the annual C. S. Lewis Festival in Northern Michigan, and codirects the Madeleine L’Engle Writing Retreats. Sarah worked with young people in various settings for more than 20 years. She lives in Michigan with her husband Tom and their preteen/teen sons, whose feedback on her fiction both harrows and delights her soul. Connect with Sarah at SarahArthur.com and @HolyDreaming on social media.
Links:
Saraharthur.com
https://www.lenglewritingretreats.com/
https://www.cslewisfestival.org/
https://bookshop.org/shop/sarah-arthur
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sarah Arthur and Her New Book
04:42 The Creative Process Behind the Carrick Hall Series
07:36 Exploring Themes of Loss and Faith in Once a Queen
10:43 Character Development and Multi-Generational Relationships
13:38 Influences of Lewis and Tolkien on Sarah's Writing
16:41 World Building in the Carrick Hall Series
19:45 Navigating Backstory and Reader Engagement
28:01 Character Insights and Truth-Telling
29:38 The Writing Process: Fiction vs Nonfiction
31:49 The Importance of Reader Feedback
33:38 Writing in Community: The Role of Writers' Groups
36:30 The Impact of Madeleine L'Engle on Writing
38:17 The Evolution of Writing Retreats
41:42 C.S. Lewis Festival: Community and Literature
42:38 Upcoming Works and Themes in Writing

The Science and Art of Winemaking with Seth Chambers

In this conversation, Seth Chambers shares his journey into the world of winemaking at Winery at La Grange, discussing his unique background in organic chemistry and how it informs his approach to winemaking. He talks about his love of Petit Manseng and Petit Verdot, the art in blending, and his innovative approach to sparkling wines. Seth also highlights his personal aspirations of starting his own vineyard, the significance of terroir, and the creative process behind crafting wines that resonate with consumers.
Seth Chambers has been making wine in Virginia for twenty years.   He got his Bachelor of Science degree from Penn State University (PSU), with a concentration in Organic Chemistry, and a minor in Plant Biology.   He also obtained an enology certificate from Washington State University (WSU) in 2011.   He has managed production at Winery at La Grange since 2016.   He spends his free time with his family or on his family farm cultivating a vineyard of Petit Verdot and Petit Manseng, much like the vineyard at La Grange.  
Links: https://wineryatlagrange.com/
https://wine.wsu.edu/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to La Grange and Winemaking Journey
02:38 The Science Behind Winemaking
04:28 Grape Sourcing and Virginia Viticulture
08:27 Exploring Sparkling Wines in Virginia
11:03 The Art of Petit Manseng Winemaking
15:23 Understanding Petit Verdot and Blending
18:33 Starting a Vineyard: Personal Aspirations
22:03 Education and Experience in Winemaking
25:43 Inspiration and Creativity in Winemaking
30:56 The Future of Winemaking in Shenandoah
 
Don't forget to like and subscribe to make sure you don't miss an episode! Find me at www.gardenofmydelights.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Follow me on Instagram at gardenofmydelights.

The Discipline of Inspiration: Incarnation and Surrender with Carey Wallace

In this conversation, Carey Wallace discusses her book 'The Discipline of Inspiration,' exploring the nature of inspiration in art, the role of the artist, and the spiritual disciplines that can enhance creativity. She emphasizes the importance of surrendering to inspiration and the interconnectedness of artists and audiences in the creative process. The discussion delves into how inspiration is perceived, the significance of attention, and how anyone can engage in artistic expression through the act of creation. In this conversation, Carey Wallace and Shana McLean explore the intricate relationship between discernment, inspiration, and the creative process. They discuss the importance of recognizing true art, the role of community in nurturing creativity, and the significance of establishing a creative discipline that can persist through various life stages. The dialogue emphasizes the need for artists to remain connected to their daily lives while also highlighting the voices of those who contribute to the artistic landscape, particularly those who uplift others' creativity.
Carey Wallace is the author of The Discipline of Inspiration: The Mysterious Encounter With God At The Heart of Creativity (Eerdmans), The Blind Contessa’s New Machine (Penguin), and The Ghost In The Glass House (Clarion). She works to help people from all walks of life find inspiration and build strong creative habits to sustain a lifetime of creation. She performs as a songwriter, exhibits her own fine art, and has spoken on art, faith, and justice with students at Princeton, Julliard, Emory, Pratt, and Yale. Her articles and poems have appeared in Time, Detroit’s Metro Times, and America. She is the founder of a retreat for artists in Michigan, and the Creative Discipline Class to form strong creative habits, which has been in operation for over a decade across the US and internationally. She grew up in small towns in Michigan, and lives and works in Brooklyn.
Links:
https://www.disciplineofinspiration.org/
https://www.careywallace.com/books
https://www.lenglewritingretreats.com/
https://www.freerrecords.com/team/bl-shirelle-nph47
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to The Discipline of Inspiration
01:10 The Genesis of the Book
03:28 Understanding Inspiration in Art
07:43 The Role of Incarnation in Creativity
09:41 The Cascade of Inspiration
14:15 Spiritual Disciplines for Artists
15:55 The Discipline of Attention
20:21 Surrendering to Inspiration
23:13 The Role of Discernment in Art
26:31 Understanding True Inspiration
30:21 Creative Discipline and Habit Formation
33:44 Art in the Context of Daily Life
35:33 Highlighting Creative Voices
38:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Projects
 
Don't forget to like and subscribe to make sure you don't miss an episode! Find me at www.gardenofmydelights.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Follow me on Instagram at gardenofmydelights.

Vulnerability and Community in Art: A Conversation with Brady Buchanan

In this conversation, Brady Buchanan shares insights into his artistic journey as a guitarist, poet, and songwriter. He discusses his evolution in creativity, the impact of community engagement through the Bridge Literary Arts Center, and the differences in his creative processes for poetry and songwriting. Brady reflects on his sources of inspiration, including nature and personal relationships, and expresses his admiration for those who embrace their creativity later in life.
Brady Buchanan is a poet and musician from Western Pennsylvania. He is active in several writing groups and is a member of the steering committee for The Bridge Literary Arts Center, which holds various events–open mics, workshops, lit fests–in and around Venango County, PA. His poems have appeared in The Watershed Journal and the North/South Appalachia Anthology. He uses his experiences in the woods and small towns of his region to inspire his work.
Links: http://www.bridgeliteraryartscenter.org/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Creativity and Art
03:00 The Journey into Poetry and Music
05:54 Community Engagement through the Bridge Literary Arts Center
12:01 Creative Process: Poetry vs. Songwriting
17:56 Inspiration and Future Aspirations
 
Don't forget to like and subscribe to make sure you don't miss an episode! Find me at www.gardenofmydelights.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Follow me on Instagram at gardenofmydelights.