Awakening Creativity: A Midland Center Podcast

Awakening Creativity: A Midland Center Podcast

Awakening Creativity is a podcast from Midland Center for the Arts, hosted by CEO Matt Travis. Released monthly, each episode features an artist in conversation about the moments that spark creativity and how we carry it into our work, our relationships, and our everyday lives. Each episode will feature stories from the stage, reflections on belonging, courage, and the power of the arts to help us see new possibilities in ourselves and in each other. Whether you’re a lifelong creator or someone who “doesn’t feel creative,” this podcast is an invitation to get curious and remember: you already are. Visit midlandcenter.org/podcast to learn more.

Episodes

September 23, 2026 • 24 mins

Episode 5 of Awakening Creativity features Shannon Huber, Lead Site Manufacturing Director at Dow’s Michigan Operations, in conversation with CEO Matt Travis about leadership, problem-solving, and creativity in unexpected places. Shannon reflects on the experiences that shaped her leadership style, from sports and influential mentors to her career in engineering and manufacturing, and shares how creativity can help teams solv...

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Episode 4 of Awakening Creativity features pianist Amiri Harewood, a 2025 Classic FM Rising Star and postgraduate student at the Royal College of Music, in conversation with CEO Matt Travis about practice, purpose, and creative expression. Amiri reflects on the moments that shaped his path, how his relationship with practice evolved over time, and why he believes the purpose of creativity isn’t success, it’s expression....

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Episode 3 features world-renowned illusionist, mentalist, and performance artist Scott Silven, who recently returned to Midland Center for the Arts for a special residency. In this conversation with Matt, Scott shares the story behind At the Illusionist’s Table, how his love of mystery and storytelling shaped his work, and why creating real connection with an audience matters more than simply “doing a trick.” He a...

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Episode 2 features Carol Lynn Maillard, founding member of Sweet Honey in the Rock, in a conversation with Midland Center CEO Matt Travis about creativity, purpose, and what it means to be “in service.” Carol reflects on the group’s origins, the role of art in social justice, and how creativity shows up in everyday life... from the stage to parenthood and beyond!

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Episode 1 features Broadway star Arielle Jacobs, who recently joined the Midland Symphony Orchestra for the Center's annual Holiday Pops concert. In this conversation, Arielle shares the creative experiences that shaped her, the artists who inspired her, and how she hopes to awaken creativity in the next generation.

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