Episode 95

full
Published on:

9th Jul 2026

What can improv teach us about our creative potential?

What if the key to innovation, resilience and personal growth isn't working harder, but learning to play again?

In this episode, we explore how the principles of improvisation can help individuals and organisations overcome fear, unlock creativity, and create environments where people feel energised, alive and empowered to adapt in an ever-changing world.

The full episode with Michelle James is out next week! Don't miss out - subscribe to The Wilderness of creativity podcast today!

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About the Host:

Lucy Colgan is a seasoned creative leader, educator and podcast host with nearly two decades of experience in the arts and education. She holds a PGCE in Drama & Performing Arts and a Professional Diploma in Dance from Trinity Laban, and has worked as a freelance artist, project manager, and director across the creative sector.

She launched The Wilderness of Creativity in 2024 and invites listeners to explore what it really means to 'take the road less travelled', combining vulnerability, practical insight and inspirational storytelling.

Want to learn more about today’s guest? Check out their full bio and links below!

Michelle James, founder of The Center for Creative Emergence, is a seasoned applied creativity facilitator, coach, and pioneering catalyst who has been using creative principles and practices, and the process of emergence, as the basis for her work with thousands of people—corporations, nonprofits, government agencies, universities, and communities of practice—for over two decades. Michelle also works with passion-centered entrepreneurs in her Creative Emergence Coaching and Creative Facilitation Coaching practices Michelle performed full-length improvised plays with Precipice Improv for ten years, and currently performs with Virginia Playback Theater. She is an abstract painting artist, CoreSomatics™ Movement and Bodywork Master Practitioner, and TEDx speaker. Her book, Patten Breaks: A Facilitator’s Guide to Cultivating Creativity, is available now. Connect with Michelle at www.creativeemergence.com and creativeemergencecoaching.com Get her book at patternbreaks.com

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Michelle on YouTube

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About the Podcast

The Wilderness of Creativity
A platform for creatives to share their stories of survival.
If you are looking for fast hacks or viral growth tips, this is not the place! However, if you’re looking for depth, vulnerability and a sense of belonging while feeling lost or 'in between', then you have finally found your tribe! The Wilderness of Creativity is the platform for creatives, thinkers and dreamers to share their stories of survival. Through meaningful conversations with inspiring guests and gentle solo reflections, we will brave the wilderness of creativity together as a means to gain creative clarity, confidence and connection. Welcome to your next adventure!
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About your host

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Lucy Colgan

Lucy's career spanning two decades has seen her excel as a versatile freelance artist, project manager, and director within the dynamic world of the creative industry. Armed with a PGCE in Drama and Performing Arts and a Professional Diploma in Dance from Trinity Laban, she effortlessly imparts her boundless energy and expertise to budding talents. Lucy crafts bespoke training sessions for educators and non-specialists working across various educational sectors and community platforms. Currently holding the position of Head of Dance and Drama at a leading independent school in Derbyshire, Lucy continues to inspire and empower the next generation of artistic trailblazers.