The Creative Hustle With Anika Goyal
The Creative Hustle with Anika Goyal features conversations with women about how they built their careers and creative lives. Guests share the rejections, risks, advice they ignored, and questions they were rarely asked. Between interviews, Anika talks candidly about self-doubt, people-pleasing, and finding your people. The show aims to help listeners take their own first steps. New episodes are released weekly.
Episodes
the lore, the lore, the lore: why being a person feels like PR
Everyone wants the lore. Nobody talks about what it costs to live it.From treating your life like a PR campaign to fandoms acting like they own the narrative, what happens when being yourself starts feeling like a performance? We’re unpacking parasocial relationships, the trauma child actors often face when growing up in the spotlight, the power of your inner monologue, and why obsessing over your
I Was the Youngest Person in the Room: Here’s What I Learned
In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my Create & Cultivate experience: the incredible women I met, the conversations I had, the moments that genuinely surprised me, and the advice I haven’t been able to stop thinking about since.We’re talking about why a “risk” isn’t really a risk if you have nothing to lose, why you should never compromise your values for a paycheck, when it’s
Multi-Disciplinary Artist K7 on Staying Curious in a World That Wants You to Have It Figured Out
What happens when you stop waiting for permission and just… take the leap?In this episode, I sit down with K7: a college student, actor, dancer, kung fu practitioner, and unapologetically curious human who refuses to put themselves in just one box.We talk about what it really means to take risks before you feel ready, choosing curiosity over fear, trying things simply because you can, and breaking
6 YEARS IN THE MAKING… YOU ASKED, I ANSWERED
Six years ago, I started this podcast at 12 years old with a microphone, a big imagination, and absolutely no idea where it would lead. Fast forward to today: hundreds of episodes, incredible guests, countless conversations, and thousands of listeners later, we’re celebrating six years of The Creative Hustle the only way that felt right: with your questions.In this special anniversary episode, I a
Beyond the Mainstream: Unlocking Stories That Actually Matter
Are you stuck in a scroll loop watching the same trending movies and viral shows everyone else is talking about? In this episode, we break down why relying solely on mainstream media limits your worldview, and why that’s a bigger deal than you think.We look at how Hollywood and big studios often fail at authentic representation, why stories by and about people of color frequently get pushed to the
I'm Moving to University and Finally Upgrading This Whole Podcast
In this episode, Anika records her last at-home episode before she begins to record them at her university campus recording studio!She talks lessons learned, favorite podcast moments, and the things to look forward to for the six year podcast anniversary episode on September 16!Stay tuned for new episodes every month!
Reverse-Engineering Hollywood PR: Crisis Control & Standing Out with EBM Founder Emily Blair Marcus
What actually happens behind closed doors when a mega-creator gets cancelled?Former Us Weekly journalist turned PR mogul Emily Blair Marcus joins the show to pull back the curtain on Hollywood publicity, high-stakes crisis control, and the "no ego" rule that built her global agency. We talk about the #1 mistake people make during a viral scandal, why being the "smartest person in th
Chasing the perfect riff w/ guitarist Aniketh Sadanala (Band Whimzee)
This week, we sit down with Aniketh Sadanala, the mastermind guitarist behind the vibrant sound of Whimzee. Aniketh takes us behind the scenes of his creative process, sharing how he balances technical skill with raw emotion, and how a non-musical hobby secretly shapes his riffs. We also dive into the delicate art of band chemistry, exploring how he navigates the space between rhythm and melody to
Favorite Future Oscar Winner Ari Gasgonia on Media, Tropes, Storytelling, and more
This week, I’m sitting down for a pure, unscripted conversation with my close friend, collaborator, and favorite future Oscar award winner. We tackle everything from the chaotic world of fandoms and our unfiltered thoughts on romance tropes, to overcoming fear as creatives and putting your work out into the world. Plus, we’re sharing some practical advice for fellow storytellers trying to find the
Teacher & Writer Sarah Militante on Querying, Career Pivots & Rewriting the Plan
In this episode, I’m joined by teacher and future NYT-bestselling author (manifesting respectfully), Sarah Militante, for a conversation about building a creative life while embracing uncertainty.We talk about the realities of querying a debut book, navigating career pivots, staying open to unexpected paths, and learning that change doesn’t always mean starting over.Mrs M also shares what it look
This Is What Real Creative Support Actually Looks Like (6 special shoutouts included)
This episode started as a question about loneliness and became something closer to a love letter. We're talking about creative friendships: the depth of them, the complexity of them, and the specific kind of magic that happens when someone who truly gets it walks beside you. We cover comparison, collaboration, and how to be the kind of friend you actually want to have. And somewhere in the mid
Behind the Lens w/ Videographer Alyssa Del Mundo
What does it actually take to be a teenage creative in 2026? In this episode of The Creative Hustle with Anika Goyal, I sit down with a high school senior and videographer, Alyssa Del Mundo to talk about the reality behind the camera roll, from cinematic composition and visual storytelling to balancing school, deadlines, editing, collaboration, and creative burnout.We get into the pressure of crea
Chapman University Screenwriting Professor William Stribling on breaking rules and expanding your horizons
In this episode, Anika has a wonderful conversation with Chapman University screenwriting professor William Stribling.They discuss:- power of storytelling- learning and breaking rules- being more open to change- advice for creativesand more...Stay tuned for new episodes every week and for more updates follow Anika on Instagram @thecreativehustlewithanikag
Videographer Jeisa Ng on Storyboarding and Creative Mentorship
In this episode, Anika has a wonderful conversation videographer Jeisa Ng. She is an amazing high school sophomore who works in her school's video production team, with a beautiful knack for storytelling.In this episode, we discuss:- storytelling- just going for it- creative mentorship- advice for creatives- and more...This episode is for all the creative and ambitious people out there, lookin
"You can't complain about having a full plate if your goal was to eat"
In this episode, Anika discusses the concept of wanting something versus actually living it.She also discusses the struggles of comparison, feeling like she is asking for a lot, managing pressures, and more!This episode is for all the people who dream big, but get burnt out really quickly!
Finding her Edge w/ YA Romance Author Jennifer Iacopelli
In this episode, Anika sits down with YA sports romance author Jennifer Iacopelli!They discuss storytelling, romance development, building strong independent woman characters, Netflix adaptations, creating opportunities for debut actors, and more!This episode is for all the creatives out there who dream of making it big someday or want an extra dose of inspiration!
Mother's Day Special: My Mom Came on the Podcast and Said Things I Wasn't Ready For
She was here in year two. Now it's year six. And a lot has changed.The last time my mom sat across from me on this podcast, I was still figuring out who I was as a host, as a storyteller, and honestly, as a person. She showed up for me then, the way she always has. And now, four years later, she's back.This Mother's Day, I'm bringing my mom back to the mic for a conversation that f
You had them at hello: The science of charisma in the media industry
In this episode, we get into the neuroscience and psychology of first impressions and what it actually means for your career in creative and media: an industry where the meeting is the audition and the pitch is the preview.We break down the warmth-competence axis, why leading with credentials backfires, the uncomfortable truth about Mehrabian's 55/38/7 rule, and what researcher John Antonakis
World's Leading Human Design expert Erin Claire Jones on the secrets to playing big and scaling your life
In this episode, I'm joined with the world's leading human design expert Erin Claire Jones.In this episode, we discuss:- Thriving vs just surviving - Identifying career paths that align with your human design- Choice paralysis- and more!This episode is for all the dreamers and innovators out there, hoping to achieve their dreams and goals, while maintaining their peace and composure!If you
19-year old Dating App Founder Saul Brauns on rewriting the rules of modern romance
In this episode, I sit down with Saul Brauns, a 19-year-old founder and Rice University student building Bridge, a dating app designed to rethink how we actually connect. And we’re not keeping this surface-level.We get into:the real psychology of men (not what TikTok tells you)why modern dating feels so broken, and what might fix itthe business side of love: attraction, retention, and emotional br
Creepshow writer Melanie Dale on pivoting into fiction
She wrote laugh-out-loud funny books about the hardest parts of life : infertility, friendships, the seasons that don't go according to plan. Then she wrote horror screenplays for Creepshow, including episodes starring Joey King and Molly Ringwald. Then she shambled around as a zombie on The Walking Dead. Then she wrote a young adult horror novel about a girl whose greatest fear turns out to b
Gen Z Is Winning at Branding (Here’s What Big Companies Are Learning)
In this episode of The Creative Hustle, Anika Goyal breaks down why Gen Z creators are building more engaging, relatable brands than even the biggest companies, and what’s driving this shift.From authenticity and speed to community-driven content, Gen Z has redefined what it means to connect with an audience in today’s digital world.If you’re interested in marketing, content creation, or building
This Is the Season 3 Pilot. I'm 18 Today. Here's everything I learned!
Today is my 18th birthday and the PILOT EPISODE of SEASON 3!!!In this episode I get into what actually changed between 12 and 18 (hint: not what I expected), the stretch where I almost quit and what pulled me back, what growing up publicly does to your brain, and why I spent years chasing a version of success that didn't even feel good when I got it.I'm also moving to Chapman University in August,
Anika Bhasin, Founder of Bridge to Equity on The Truth Behind “Making a Difference”
300+ students impacted. 8 classrooms. 3 schools. 13 events… all started by a sophomore in high school.Anika Bhasin is the founder of Bridge to Equity, an organization bringing social justice education directly into classrooms and creating space for conversations that actually matter.but this episode goes way deeper than the numbers.we talk about:✨ what it really feels like to lead at a young age✨
The Peter Principle: Why Success Will Make You Look Dumb (Part 5 of 5)
Ever felt completely out of your depth just when things started going well? That’s the Peter Principle in action. This episode dives into why promotions, new projects, or leveling up can suddenly make you feel inexperienced, overwhelmed, or even worse like you’re failing. I share personal stories of stumbling through ambitious projects, starting over, and learning to embrace being a beginner again
Saying Yes When You Want to Say No: The Abilene Paradox (Part 4 of 5)
Ever agree to plans you didn’t actually want to do? That’s the Abilene Paradox, and it secretly shapes more of our choices than we realize. In this episode, I break down why we go along with the group, how it shows up in friendships, school, and early careers, and how to reclaim your voice without feeling guilty. Learn why pausing before saying yes could change everything about how you live your l
The Things That Actually Last: The Lindy Effect (Part 3 of 5)
Not everything that grabs attention is worth your energy. The Lindy Effect explains why some ideas, habits, and projects stick around, while others fade fast. In this episode, I dive into why chasing trends can feel exciting but fleeting, and how focusing on lasting value changes the way we create, connect, and grow. Plus, I share personal insights on how this mindset transformed my approach to co
Feeling Ahead or Behind: The Benjamin Button Effect (Part 2 of 5)
Why does life feel out of order sometimes? Enter the Benjamin Button Effect: those moments when you feel older than your age, then suddenly younger, then completely behind. In this episode, I share personal experiences of feeling ahead and behind in school, social life, and creative projects, and why it’s totally normal to experience this emotional rollercoaster. Learn how to embrace your own unpr
Tall Poppy Syndrome: Why Growth Makes People Uncomfortable (Part 1 of 5)
I was originally going to talk about five different concepts in this episode, but I feel like this one needed its own moment.Because Tall Poppy Syndrome is one of those things that you don’t notice at first… and then once you see it, you see it everywhere.In your friendships, online, even in how you hold yourself back before anyone else gets the chance to.And I think the biggest takeaway for me h
What This Movie Taught Me About Love, Creativity, and Being Human
In this episode, I explore the cultural and emotional impact of the most iconic Bollywood movie of all time, Kabhi Khushi Khabie Gham, unpacking its themes of love, identity, family, and self-expression through the lens of creativity.From iconic dialogue to larger-than-life storytelling, we’ll break down how this film goes beyond entertainment, and becomes a blueprint for feeling, creating, and li
Stop the Soul-Sucking Jobs: How Creative People Survive (With the Right Friends)
Ever feel like normal jobs are just… slowly draining your soul? You’re not alone. In this episode, I break down why creative people struggle in "traditional" jobs, why your brain rebels against routine, and how the right circle of friends can totally flip the script.I share a personal story about a conversation with a close friend that gave me incredible advice and encouragement, and how
What It Actually Takes to Become an Animator (ft. Kevin Maier)
In this episode, I sit down with animator Kevin Maier, to talk about what it really takes to turn imagination into a career.We dive into the creative philosophy behind animation, how animators bring stories to life frame by frame, and much more!Kevin also shares insights on creative risk, storytelling, and what young creatives should know if they want to break into the animation industry.If you
The Friendship Breakup That Rewired My Brain Chemistry
Friendship breakups can be just as painful as romantic ones, but they’re talked about far less. In this episode of The Creative Hustle, I’m sharing a personal story about a friendship that ended and how that experience shaped my mindset as a creative.I talk about the emotional side of losing a friend, how it affected my creative process, and the lessons I learned about boundaries, growth, and trus
YA Romance Author Amanda Sellet on Writing Mystery, Performing Identity, and Emotional Truth
In this episode, I talk with author Amanda Sellet about her new book Flirting with Murder, her writing process, and the emotional psychology behind mystery and identity. We also discuss adolescence, romance, performance, and why stories about solving something can also be stories about finding yourself.This is a conversation about growing up, uncertainty, and the emotional truths fiction helps us
Risk It All: How Curiosity Makes You a Better Creator + I SPILL SOME TEA!!
In this episode, I’m spilling about how curiosity keeps your creativity alive and why experimenting is the ultimate glow-up for your art.I also share the story of finishing my very first full screenplay, a project inspired by the emotional intensity of Dear Evan Hansen, and what it taught me about showing up, trusting the process, and embracing the messy chaos of creating something completely new.
Podcaster Tori Peyton on Letting Go, Growth & the Dreams That Choose Us
This week on The Creative Hustle, I’m joined by Tori Peyton for a conversation about the quiet power of letting go.We talk about what it really means to outgrow environments that once defined you, recognizing toxic workplace dynamics, and having the courage to walk away before you have the next step figured out. Tori opens up about redefining growth, not as constant achievement, but as alignment,
Nobody picked me till I picked me (Storytime Edition)
In this episode, I get raw about the loneliness, the self-doubt, and the heartache of constantly trying your hardest and still feeling overlooked. I share how I started to reclaim my worth, how I learned to show up for myself first, and why choosing yourself can be the most radical, powerful thing you ever do. This one’s for anyone who’s ever felt unseen, and who’s ready to finally be their own f
When Romance Crosses the Line with Debut YA Romance Author Emily Charlotte
TW: This episode contains in-depth discussion of emotional and physical abuse and toxic relationships. These topics may be distressing for some listeners. Please prioritize your well-being and listen with care.In this episode, I’m joined by YA romance author Emily Charlotte to discuss her debut novel Heartcheck and the ongoing conversation around how love is portrayed in young adult romance. We cr
The Art of Falling for Fictional People (with @Landry_Reads)
From late-night reading marathons to the chokehold of enemies to lovers, this episode is a love letter to stories that feel too much. I’m joined by BookTok creator @Landry_Reads to talk about reading habits, iconic book tropes, romance dynamics, and why storytelling makes us believe in love, even when it’s fictional. We get into why tension matters, how tropes shape emotional payoff, and what make
Staring Too Long and Accidentally Making Art
In this solo episode of The Creative Hustle, Anika explores the power of fully platonic connection: intense eye contact, deep conversations, and the kind of presence that makes ideas surface out of nowhere.Through a personal storytime and honest reflection, this episode breaks down why some conversations feel more electric than collaborations, how being truly listened to can unlock creative clarit
Senior Vedant Tiwari on Creative Power, Business, and Building What Lasts
In this episode, I sit down with the high school senior, impeccable videographer, and founder of a video marketing agency, Vedant Tiwari whose campaigns have reached 3.7+ million views and helped 17+ nonprofits, youth-led organizations, and businesses grow through intentional storytelling.We talk about the moment creativity turns into leverage, why virality means nothing without strategy, and what
In Conversation w/ Senior Riyan Parekh: Living Philosophy before life gets too loud
In this episode, I sit down with Riyan Parekh, a high school senior juggling life as a philosophy club president, Boy Scout, tennis player, and full-time thinker, to talk about what it actually means to live philosophically at 18.Riyan shares the philosophical motion he lives by, how leading discussions has reshaped the way he listens in his personal life, and what it’s like balancing ambition, re
Feeling Too Much in Fabric: Colin Wilkes on Costuming People We Meet on Vacation
In this episode, I sit down with Colin Wilkes, the costume designer behind the film adaptation of Emily Henry’s People We Meet on Vacation, starring Emily Bader and Tom Blyth. We talk about what it means to feel too much, and how that emotional intensity shows up through clothing, color, and character dynamics. Colin breaks down how wardrobe helps tell a love story, shapes who characters are befor
Tony Award-winning writer Greg Kotis on Urinetown: The Musical, Satire, Storytelling & Finding Your Creative Soulmate
In this episode, I sit down with Greg Kotis, the Tony Award–winning writer behind Urinetown the Musical, to unpack the power of satire, musical theatre as social commentary, and why the strangest ideas are often the most truthful. We talk about the creation and legacy of Urinetown, how Mr Kotis approaches storytelling that challenges audiences without alienating them, and what he’s been working on
More Than a Genre: Singer-Songwriter Georgia Parker Talks Art, Duality & Her New Album
In this episode, I sit down with singer-songwriter Georgia Parker to talk about her upcoming album, the duality that exists within her sound, and what it means to create without forcing yourself into a box. We get into the gray areas of music, the push and pull between vulnerability and confidence, softness and strength, who you were and who you’re becoming.This conversation is part creative diary
Enemies to Lovers to “I Made It”: YA Author Andy Darcy Theo on Romantasy Tropes & Writing Dreams
In this episode, YA author, Andy Darcy Theo joins me to unpack why the genre hits so deeply. We talk about the tropes readers can’t get enough of (and why they work every time), what goes into crafting emotionally addictive fantasy worlds, and how writers know when a story is actually working.Andy also opens up about the journey from loving romantasy as a reader to creating it as an author, inclu
"Hot Rodent Men, First Loves, YA Romance w/author Sujin Witherspoon
In this episode, I’m joined by YA romance author, Sujin Witherspoon to talk about writing emotionally honest love stories, creating chemistry that actually works, and why teenage feelings are never “too much.” We also discuss flawed characters, quiet vulnerability, hot rodent men, and the scenes authors fight editors over. Equal parts thoughtful and unhinged, this conversation is for readers who a
Dissecting the Fear of Wanting too Much
In this episode, I’m talking about the fear of wanting too much:why emotional investment gets labeled as neediness, how creatives learn to downplay their passion, and what it costs us to shrink our desires just to feel safe.We unpack the difference between healing and self-protection, softness and self-abandonment, and what it really means to want deeply in a world that rewards detachment.If you’v
The Biggest Lessons I Learned as a Creator in 2025
In this episode, I’m sharing the five most important lessons I learned as a creator in 2025. From realizing follower count doesn’t equal quality content, to embracing change, avoiding creative boxes, redefining success, and making space for rest, this episode is a thoughtful recap of a year that changed how I create and why I do it.
I Used to Chase Fame. Here’s Why I Stopped.
There was a time when fame and money felt like the end goal: likes, numbers, proximity to power, and the illusion of “making it.” In this episode, I’m getting painfully honest about my past obsession with visibility and validation, and how I learned to unlearn it. We talk about redefining success, why quality work matters more than clout, and how chasing recognition can quietly ruin your relations
What Does “Sanskarí” Really Mean? Love, Media & Representation with Author Ananya Devarajan
In this episode, I sit down with author Ananya Devarajan to unpack her novel Sanskarí Sweetheart and the much bigger conversations it opens up around culture, romance, and representation. We talk about what “sanskarí” actually means today, how tradition and desire can coexist, and why South Asian love stories deserve more nuance than they’re often given.Our conversation dives into Desi representat
I’m Calling BS on the Creative Industry (Hot Takes You’re Not Ready For)
I said what I said. In this episode, I go off on four creative hot takes I’ve been sitting on for way too long: why “last meeting theory” feels fake and often excuses a lack of effort in creative relationships, how the diamond paradox is wildly skewed when it comes to creative labor, and what it actually means to be betrayed in an industry that preaches collaboration while moving shady behind the
Inside Nicole Han’s Creative Universe: Emotion, Identity & Lyricism
This episode dives into the inner world of Nicole Han. Together, we unravel how she turns lived experience into art, how she navigates vulnerability, and what she’s discovering about herself through each new project.A thoughtful, atmospheric conversation for listeners who love understanding the heart of an artist!
Nepo Baby vs. Self-Made: What Really Shapes a Creative Career
In this solo deep-dive, Anika breaks down one of the internet’s favorite debates: what actually separates a “nepo baby” from someone who’s self-made and why the conversation is way more complicated than it looks.From unpacking privilege and access to reflecting on her own journey as a creator who built everything from scratch, she explores how background, opportunity, and luck shape who gets seen
The Great Podcast Takeover: Netflix is Coming for Us All!!!
The internet is losing it over the Netflix–Spotify merger… and honestly, same. In this episode, I break down what this move actually means for listeners, creators, and the entire future of podcasting. From algorithm panic to global reach potential, I’m diving into the excitement, the chaos, and the very real questions this merger raises.Whether you’re a media nerd, a creator, or just someone who w
You can't 6-7- your way through life! Do the work too!!
Look, we’ve all been there: coasting at a comfortable “6 or 7 out of 10” effort on everything. Not failing, not thriving… just vibing in that suspiciously safe middle zone. It feels nice, it feels manageable, it feels… meh but acceptable.But let’s be honest:You can’t 6–7 your way through life and expect 10/10 results.Life doesn’t hand out bonus points for vibes alone. At some point, you’ve gotta d
The Art of Becoming: A Conversation with EPIC’s Penelope; Anna Lea
In this episode, I sit down with the actress Anna Lea who embodies Penelope in EPIC: The Musical, a character known for her quiet strength, complex emotional landscape, and the kind of inner conflict that unfolds through breath, silence, and song. Together, we trace the artistry behind her performance: how she builds Penelope’s emotional duality, the choices she makes to portray someone torn betwe
Netflix XO Kitty Actress Audrey Huynh on Storytelling and more!
In this episode, Anika Goyal sits down with actress and singer-songwriter Audrey Huynh, best known for her breakout role as Stella in XO, Kitty. From growing up in a multicultural household to stepping into the global spotlight, Audrey opens up about how she’s learned to embrace her voice, navigate imposter syndrome, and turn creative doubt into confidence.We dive into the behind-the-scenes world
Everyone Wants to Blow Up… Until They Do
Fame looks fun until you realize how heavy it feels to be watched all the time. In this episode, Anika unpacks the not-so-glam side of “making it”. From the pressure to stay relevant to the burnout that comes with being everyone’s favorite person online. It’s a real talk about validation, peace, and learning to create for yourself again. Because sometimes, the fame game isn’t the best game and tha
The Era of Main Character Syndrome (and Why It’s Kinda Toxic)
In this episode, Anika unpacks the psychology behind our obsession with being perceived, how social media made self-love performative, and ways to shift from being the main character to being the author of your story. Expect chaotic honesty, hot takes, and a gentle reminder that you’re allowed to be the main character : just not the only one.
Through the Lens of Summer: A Conversation with Tarin Anderson, Cinematographer of The Summer I Turned Pretty
In this episode of The Creative Hustle, I sit down with Tarin Anderson, the visionary cinematographer behind The Summer I Turned Pretty. We dive into the art of visual storytelling, the creative process behind capturing the warm nostalgia of summer, and what it means to bring emotion to life through a camera lens. Tarin opens up about navigating internet hate, staying authentic to her creative voi
Vulnerability, Truth, and the Power of Conversations (special anecdote reveal ♡ )
In this episode of The Creative Hustle, I dive into a personal story about a conversation that left me completely changed, and explore why moments like this matter. We talk about how vulnerability is the ultimate currency, how truth is shaped by perception, and the rare magic of finding someone whose creative energy perfectly aligns with yours. If you’ve ever wondered why some conversations stick
The Networking Secret Every Creative Gets Wrong
Here’s the truth: most creatives are networking the wrong way. In this episode, I reveal the #1 mistake that keeps people stuck, and the simple mindset shift that will change how you connect forever. We’ll cover micro-networking, authentic follow-ups, and why your peers (not your idols) are your real ticket in.
Editing, Hustling, and Storytelling w/ YA author Katie Zhao
What really goes into turning a story idea into a published book? 📚 In this episode, I sit down with author Katie Zhao to talk about the real side of the publishing industry, editing, deadlines, and all the plot twists along the way. We dive into mystery writing, Wattpad, My Life with the Walter Boys, and how authors navigate both the creative and business sides of storytelling. If you’ve ever dre
Cheers to 5 Years! Answering 60+ Fun & Real Questions about my Podcast Journey and Beyond 🎉✨
In this episode, I’m answering a customized set of Vogue style 60+ questions from listeners, friends, and family. I’m opening up about the moments that pushed me to keep going, the wild creative risks I took, and the lessons I learned about authenticity, passion, and resilience. It’s part celebration, part reflection, and a chance to share the behind-the-scenes vibe of what this podcast really me
Lauren Zinser: Creator of Blondiepop on the Art of being Real and more
🎙️ Blondiepop isn’t just an aesthetic, it’s a philosophy. In this episode, I sit down with Lauren Zinser, the creator behind @blondiep0p, to talk internet satire, Gen Z identity, the blur between authenticity and performance, and why even the smallest piece of content can make someone feel seen. If you’ve ever wondered whether creators are philosophers, performers, or mirrors of our culture, this
Playing to Play not to Win (And why that's Genius...)!!
Sometimes the easiest route isn’t the best route, and the real gold comes from the struggle. In this episode, I get real about not being anyone’s first choice growing up (and even now sometimes) and how that fire sparked change in me. We talk tenacity, seizing opportunities, never giving up, and the creative mindset that Rick Rubin talks about in The Creative Act: “We’re not playing to win, we’re
The Courage to Grow: Ten Permissions for a Greater You w/ Author Jillian Reilly
In this episode, I sit down with author Jillian Reilly, whose book Ten Permissions is a powerful guide to self-liberation, out on September 16, 2025!We explore what it really means to give yourself permission, to grow, to change, to embrace uncertainty, and to redefine success on your own terms. Jillian shares how to quiet the inner critic that holds you back, make peace with the unknown, and step
Repeat the Fit, Not the Fake: Nonchalant Fashion Talk with Achi Uppari
In this episode, I sit down with a rising freshman at Purdue University, Achi Uppari, who’s already making waves with his very own clothing brand. We dive deep into the world of style, talking outfit-repeating without shame, building a signature vibe and aura, and embracing nonchalance while staying unapologetically yourself. From the business side of running a brand to the personal side of curati
Not Just Luck: The Strategy, Soul, and Struggle Behind My Show
Ever wondered what really goes on behind the mic of The Creative Hustle? In this solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and spilling all the behind-the-scenes tea and how I come up with episode ideas, what actually goes into choosing guests (yes, there's a method to the madness), and how I deal with rejection. I’ll share how I write interview questions that dig deeper, why I never count my
Crochet and Company: Co-founders of Crocharm Anvita Manchiraju and Elina Bui on Success, Purpose, and more!
In this episode of The Creative Hustle, I sit down with two inspiring student entrepreneurs and co-founders, Anvita Manchiraju and Elina Bui. We dive into how their business journey began, what success really means to them, who and what inspires their work, and their best advice for anyone thinking about launching a business while still in school. Whether you're a budding creator, a future fo
Purdue Bound: Rising Freshman Daniel Lee on Self-Confidence, Community, and more!
In this episode, I sit down with Daniel Lee, a rising freshman at Purdue University who's about to embark on the next big chapter of life. We dive into a rich conversation about what success really means, the power of community, and how to stay grounded (yes, literally by touching grass 🌱).He shares honest insights on building self-confidence, why smiling more isn't just about being polite
UC Davis Bound: Rimli Mitra, Rising Freshman’s Guide to Visualization, Success, College Apps and more!
In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Rimli Mitra, a rising freshman at UC Davis to talk all things growth, mindset, and navigating life transitions. We dive into her personal definition of success, how she uses visualization to stay motivated, and her biggest advice for high school seniors gearing up for college. Plus, we chat about the evolution of friendships after graduation, building con
In Conversation w/ BIZZY (singer-songwriter) on her latest single 'I Really Like This Part' and more...
In this episode, I sit down with singer-songwriter BIZZY to dive into her latest single, "I Really Like This Part."She opens up about her creative songwriting process, the intricacies of music production, and how she channels personal experiences, into her music. We also explore her approach to collaborations and much more. Tune in for an intimate conversation filled with insights into her artistr
Behind Penny Pal w/ Co-Founder Sravya Namburu: Building Confidence & Community in High School and beyond!
🎙️ In this episode of The Creative Hustle, I sit down with an inspiring rising high school senior who’s already making waves! We chat all about navigating the comparison trap in high school, building confidence in your own lane, and how she created her brand-new app, Penny Pal, to help students take control of their finances early on. Plus, we talk about leveraging LinkedIn as a teen, personal gro
Cal Poly SLO Bound: Nishita Mukherjee, Rising Freshman’s Guide to Crushing College Apps and more!
🎙️ In this episode of The Creative Hustle, I’m joined by a special guest, Nishita Mukherjee, a rising freshman at Cal Poly SLO majoring in journalism! We dive into her entire college application journey, from building a strong application and navigating essays to making that final college decision. She shares honest advice for rising seniors, tips for staying motivated, and what ultimately led her
Galloping Toward Greatness: Rising Senior Ailey Weng's Talks Horse Riding and more...
In this episode, I sit down with Ailey Weng, a talented high school senior who’s making waves in the equestrian world, and a friend of mine. Join us as we dive into their passion for horse riding, exploring the techniques that set them apart in the saddle. We discuss the challenges of balancing rigorous training with schoolwork, sharing insights on time management and dedication. Plus, we tackle c
Keys to Creativity: Pianist Carter Bryan on Music, Inspiration, and Composition
In this captivating episode, we sit down with acclaimed pianist Carter Bryan to dive deep into the essence of creativity and the profound relationship between music and the human spirit. We explore the age-old question: does music live within us, or do we live within the music? He shares his unique insights on the creative process, revealing the inspirations, challenges, and techniques behind thei
Melodies & Muse: Inside Felicity's Creative Journey
Join us for an intimate conversation with Felicity, the soulful singer-songwriter whose music has captivated audiences worldwide. In this episode, we dive deep into her creative journey, exploring the inspiration behind her latest single, her unique songwriting process, and the magic that happens in the studio. Whether you're a fan or an aspiring artist, this episode is packed with inspiration
Get Down with Anna of Cleves: Krystal Hernandez on Storytelling, Strong Women, Pre-Show Rituals and more in Broadway's Six The Musical
In this vibrant episode, we sit down with Krystal Hernandez, a dazzling Broadway star who brought Anna of Cleves to life in Six The Musical. We dive into the art of storytelling, exploring how the show reimagines history through the lens of fierce, unapologetic women. From pre-show rituals that set the stage for electrifying performances to the challenges of embodying a historical figure with mode
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