Journey of blending creativity and mindfulness to inspire others
Nicole Burtchell discusses her diverse academic background, the creation of Soul Stash Journals, and her commitment to fostering creativity and mindfulness through Soul Stash Studio’s innovative programs and community engagement.
Nicole Burtchell is a visionary force in the world of creative literacy, seamlessly blending her diverse academic background with her passion for artistic expression. As the author of the acclaimed Soul Stash Journals and the driving force behind Soul Stash Studio, Inc., Nicole has carved out a unique space where creativity and mindfulness intersect. Her leadership as Executive Director has transformed Soul Stash Studio into a vibrant community hub, fostering artistic exploration and personal growth. With degrees in Humanities, Criminal Justice, and Liberal Arts, Nicole brings a rich tapestry of knowledge to her work, crafting experiences that invite introspection and innovation. Her commitment to lifelong learning and her active involvement with organizations like the National Society of Leadership and Success and the National Association of Scholars further enrich her contributions to the arts and education.
We conducted this interview with Nicole Burtchell to delve deeper into the inspirations and philosophies that drive her work. Her dedication to promoting creative literacy and her innovative approach to leadership make her an influential figure in the arts community. Through this conversation, we aim to uncover the insights and experiences that have shaped her journey, offering our readers a glimpse into the mind of a true creative pioneer. Nicole’s work not only inspires others to embark on their own creative adventures but also highlights the transformative power of creativity in today’s world.
Nicole Burtchell is a visionary leader whose work inspires creativity, mindfulness, and personal growth in the arts community.
Your educational background is diverse, with degrees in Humanities, Criminal Justice, and Liberal Arts. How have these different fields of study influenced your approach to creative writing and the development of Soul Stash Journals?
My background in Humanities, Criminal Justice, and Liberal Arts has profoundly shaped my approach to creative writing and the development of Soul Stash Journals. Humanities provided a deep understanding of cultural contexts, historical perspectives, and philosophical questions, enabling me to design prompts that invite introspection and connect my audience with creative experiences. This foundation helps me incorporate the nuances of human nature and expression into both narrative and reflective exercises.
Criminal Justice offered insights into human behaviour, ethics, and the complexities of justice, which are valuable for exploring themes of conflict, redemption, and personal growth in my writing. Additionally, the Liberal Arts emphasized critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary approaches, fostering a blend of diverse ideas and innovative writing techniques. Combining these perspectives allows me to create a more holistic and engaging experience, blending intellectual depth with creative exploration in our studio.
Soul Stash Journals emphasizes a mindful approach to creative writing. Can you elaborate on the connection between mindfulness and creativity in your own life and how it inspired you to create these journals?
Mindfulness and creativity are deeply interconnected in my own life, and this synergy significantly inspired the creation of Soul Stash Journals. Practising mindfulness has taught me to cultivate a present-focused awareness, which enhances my ability to observe and reflect without judgment. This heightened awareness allows me to tap into a more authentic and uninhibited creative flow, where ideas can emerge organically and without self-censorship.
Incorporating mindfulness into creative writing encourages a deeper exploration of one’s thoughts and emotions, fostering a richer and more nuanced expression. By embracing this approach, I found that my writing became more reflective and resonant. This personal experience drove me to develop Soul Stash Journals as tools for others to explore their creativity through mindful practices. The journals are designed to guide users in accessing their inner worlds and expressing themselves freely, ultimately leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling creative journey.
As an active member of NSLS and the National Association of Scholars, how do these affiliations contribute to your work as an author and educator?
Being an active member of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) and the National Association of Scholars (NAS) significantly enriches my work as an author and educator. The NSLS provides a platform for leadership development and networking, offering insights into effective leadership strategies and fostering a community of driven individuals. This affiliation supports my work by keeping me engaged with contemporary leadership practices and motivational techniques, which I integrate into my writing and educational approaches to inspire and guide others.
The National Association of Scholars, on the other hand, emphasizes academic rigour and intellectual diversity. It advocates for scholarly integrity and the exploration of a broad range of ideas, which aligns with my commitment to promoting thoughtful discussions in my work. This affiliation helps me stay informed about academic trends and encourages a critical, evidence-based approach to both writing and teaching. Together, these organizations contribute to a well-rounded perspective that enhances my ability to educate and inspire through my creative projects and educational endeavours.
Your role as a remote educator with the Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) involves integrating technology into education. How do you balance the digital aspects of modern education with the tactile, hands-on nature of journaling and creative writing?
In my former role with TCEA I learned the skills I needed to balance the digital aspects of modern education with the tactile, hands-on nature of journaling and creative writing involves blending both approaches to enhance student engagement and learning. I encourage students to use digital tools for brainstorming, collaboration, and drafting, leveraging features like instant feedback and multimedia integration. Simultaneously, I allocate dedicated time for traditional pen-and-paper journaling and creative writing exercises. By alternating between digital and physical mediums, students can appreciate the strengths of each method, developing a more defined skill set. This integrated approach ensures that technology enhances, rather than replaces, the personal and reflective nature of writing.
Soul Stash Journals includes various art prompts and writing challenges. Can you share a specific prompt or challenge from the journal that you find particularly impactful, and why?
One of the prompts at the beginning of the journal in Volume One states “Write a story about a place that comes into existence only once every hundred years, or on some other rare basis, presenting itself as mythical and meaningful whenever it appears.” I think this is one of my favorite creative prompts because of the magic that can come from the story. This prompt leads to so many exciting adventures, and that is our mission to inspire creative adventures.
In addition to writing and teaching, you founded Soul Stash Studio Inc. What motivated you to start your own company, and what are your long-term goals for Soul Stash Studio Inc.?
The motivation to start Soul Stash Studio Inc. originated from my deep-seated belief in the transformative power of creative expression through writing, art, and music. As an educator, I’ve witnessed firsthand how these practices can significantly impact personal growth. I wanted to create a space where individuals of all ages could access creative adventures. Our series of journals contains art prompts and writing challenges that inspire self-discovery and mindfulness. By founding Soul Stash Studio Inc., I aimed to bridge the gap between creativity and personal development, offering a tangible tool that empowers people to explore their inner worlds and cultivate their aspirations.
Looking ahead, my long-term goals for Soul Stash Studio Inc. include expanding our reach to over a dozen locations in the next decade. This expansion is driven by a desire to build communities centred around artistic expression. By establishing multiple locations, we can offer workshops, events, and collaborative spaces that enhance the creative experience and foster a sense of connection among creatives. Additionally, we plan to continually innovate our artistic challenges and interactive elements that cater to a diverse range of individuals. Ultimately, my vision for Soul Stash Studio Inc. is to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives, helping them unlock their full potential through the promotion of creative literacy.
