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Big Dreams & Little Things
How to Stay Creative, Clear & Connected When You Work Alone
How to Stay Creative, Clear & Connected When You Work Alone – A Live Conversation with Charlotte Wihk
Short bio:
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to run a creative business solo – this episode is for you. In a grounded, honest, and energizing conversation between three entrepreneurs, we explore what the solopreneur life actually looks like: the routines, the mindset, the messy middle, and the tools that keep it all moving.
Karina and Maria sit down with Charlotte Wihk – a musician, educator, and seasoned solopreneur – to talk about staying clear, focused, and joyful in a life without a traditional boss. From creative chaos and planning rituals to launching courses and riding bikes for inspiration, Charlotte shares how she’s built a business rooted in freedom, connection, and structure.
The conversation weaves personal stories with solid research, practical tips, and a few laughs (yes, hula hoops and spider songs included). Whether you're freelancing, homeschooling, or launching your next big thing – this one’s for you.
This episode spotlights the solopreneur lifestyle through lived experience – with hands-on tools, real-life systems, and a whole lot of heart.
In this episode, we talk about:
✔️ The power of "Gold time" – distraction-free space for creative work
✔️ Focus blocks and rituals that boost your productivity
✔️ How to structure your days without killing your creativity
✔️ Why rest is not optional – it’s part of the process
✔️ Practical tools for launching an online course as a solopreneur
✔️ Real-life accountability (hotel breakfast co-working, anyone?)
✔️ Music, motherhood, hula hoops & hatching sourdough starters
✔️ The research behind why structure frees creativity
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→ Full show notes: https://ectahub.net/episode-9-how-to-stay-creative-clear-connected-when-you-work-alone
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1. Starting Scrappy
30:32||Season 1, Ep. 1Episode OverviewWelcome to the very first episode of Big Dreams & Little Things! Hosts Karina Kampe (certified transformational coach, artist, creative entrepreneur, and songwriter) and Maria Wronski-Ellis (artist, songwriter, educator, and author of the upcoming The Mindful Songwriter dive into why allowing yourself to "start scrappy" might be the most powerful approach to achieving your dreams. They explore the trap of waiting for perfect conditions instead of taking action, share personal stories and inspirational examples from both literature and real life, and provide practical challenges to help you get moving on your goals—even when everything isn't perfectly aligned.Topics CoveredThe trap of perfectionism and how it prevents actionThe concept of "starting scrappy" as a mindset for achievementShonda Rhimes' transformative "Year of Yes" and how it changed her lifeHow ideas exist "in the air" and need to be acted upon (Elizabeth Gilbert's concept)The liberation that comes with age and caring less about others' opinionsThe power of stepping outside comfort zones (Karina's audition story)Research showing that limited resources often fuel innovation and successHow major companies like Amazon, Apple, and Airbnb started with humble beginningsThe "make do" approach that leads to entrepreneurial successFree Download: The Starting Scrappy ChallengeReady to put what you've learned into action? We've created a special Starting Scrappy Challenge to help you begin your journey!https://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/d6d125b127MORE SHOWNOTES: https://ectahub.net/episode-1-starting-scrappy-overcoming-perfectionism-2/Connect With UsSign up for our News letter: https://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/6bed1cba46Website: www.ectahub.netInstagram: @Bigdreams.ectaFacebook: @Bigdreams.ectaExciting News! Online Course Coming September 2025We're launching the ECtA Accountability Hub—Empowerment Change Through Accountability! The journey begins with our 3 month Accountability Course (launching in May) where you'll:Connect with like-minded individuals in a structured settingParticipate in guided conversation sessionsLearn proven accountability protocols and progress toolsReceive personalized support for your unique journey
2. Imposter Syndrome
26:26||Season 1, Ep. 2Episode OverviewIn the second episode of Big Dreams & Little Things, hosts Maria and Karina explore that nagging feeling that you don't belong, that your success is just luck, or that any moment now, someone will find out you're a fraud. From J.K. Rowling to Paul McCartney, we discover how even the world's most successful creators battle with feeling like imposters - and what you can do when that voice in your head says you're not good enough.Topics CoveredThe universal experience of imposter syndrome and how it affects everyoneJ.K. Rowling's journey from self-doubt to transforming her vulnerability into strengthFamous creatives who battled imposter syndrome (Paul McCartney, David Bowie, Maya Angelou, John Steinbeck)Maria's personal experience returning to university in her 40sOriginal research by Clance and Imes in the 1970sHow childhood experiences with perfectionism and criticism can plant the seeds of imposter syndromeA practical 5-minute method to combat imposter syndromeFree Download: 5-Minute Conquering Imposter SyndromeReady to tackle that pesky inner critic? We've created a special 5-Minute Conquering Imposter Syndrome Guidehttps://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/08dc709a75Connect With UsSign up for our News letter: big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/newsletterWebsite: www.ectahub.netInstagram: @Bigdreams.ectaFacebook: @Bigdreams.ectaMORE SHOWNOTES: https://ectahub.net/episode-2-imposter-syndrome-feeling-like-a-fraud-when-youre-actually-not/Exciting News! Online Course Coming September 2025We're launching the ECtA Accountability Hub—Empowerment Change Through Accountability! The journey begins with our 3 month Accountability Course (launching in May) where you'll:Connect with like-minded individuals in a structured settingParticipate in guided conversation sessionsLearn proven accountability protocols and progress toolsReceive personalized support for your unique journey
3. The Power of Two
25:58||Season 1, Ep. 3Episode OverviewIn this third episode of Big Dreams & Little Things, Karina and Maria explore the transformative power of partnerships and accountability. From the literary friendship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien that changed literature forever to personal stories of overcoming fears and achieving goals together, this episode reveals how having the right partner can make mountains appear less steep—both literally and figuratively. Discover how partnership can help overcome imposter syndrome, accelerate progress toward your goals, and create meaningful connections along the way.Topics CoveredThe contrast between naturally asking for help versus the "independent woman routine"How accountability partnerships accelerate progress and make goals more achievableThe historical creative partnership between J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. LewisPersonal stories of overcoming fears through partnership (the mushroom story)How Karina and Maria's own accountability partnership led to multiple achievementsScientific research backing the power of partnershipsHow partnerships transform our perception of challengesThe importance of psychological safety in productive partnershipsThe trend toward collaborative achievements in research and innovationFree Download: The Power of Two ChallengeReady to experience the transformative effect of accountability partnerships?We've created a special Power of Two Challenge to help you begin your journey!https://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/e93245e635Connect With UsSign up for our News letter: https://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/6bed1cba46Website: www.ectahub.netInstagram: @Bigdreams.ectaFacebook: @Bigdreams.ectaExciting News! Online Course Coming September 2025We're launching the ECtA Accountability Hub—Empowerment Change Through Accountability! The journey begins with our 3 month Accountability Course (launching in May) where you'll:Connect with like-minded individuals in a structured settingParticipate in guided conversation sessionsLearn proven accountability protocols and progress toolsReceive personalized support for your unique journey
4. Morning Routines and Rituals
28:20||Season 1, Ep. 4Episode OverviewIn this fourth episode of Big Dreams & Little Things, Karina Kampe and Maria Wronski-Ellis explore the transformative potential of morning rituals. From ancient traditions to neuroscience, and from iconic creatives to personal practices—they’ll inspire you to reclaim your mornings with intention and simplicity.You don’t need an ice bath or a 5am alarm. Even 5 minutes of mindful ritual can unlock clarity, focus, and creativity. Whether you're a busy parent, a creative entrepreneur, or simply trying to feel more grounded, this episode will help you build rituals that work for your life.Topics CoveredWhy the way you start your morning truly mattersThe power of small, intentional actsAncient and spiritual traditions (tea ceremonies, fire rituals, cleansing with water)Julia Cameron’s Morning Pages & her story of creative rebirthMorning routines from Toni Morrison, Tony Robbins, Richard Branson, Beethoven & Frida Kahlo4 simple routines to try (no perfectionism required)Science-backed benefits of rituals: focus, structure & lowered anxietyAction challenge: Create your own morning ritualIntroduction to the ECTA Hub: Empowered Change Through AccountabilityFree Download: 5-Minute Guide to Create Your own Morning RoutineReady to experience the transformative effect of Morning Routines?We've created a special 5-Minute Guide to help you begin your journey!https://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/51200c6b69Connect With UsSign up for our News letter: https://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/6bed1cba46Website: www.ectahub.netInstagram: @Bigdreams.ectaFacebook: @Bigdreams.ectaExciting News! Online Course Coming September 2025We're launching the ECtA Accountability Hub—Empowerment Change Through Accountability! The journey begins with our 3 month Accountability Course (launching in May) where you'll:Connect with like-minded individuals in a structured settingParticipate in guided conversation sessionsLearn proven accountability protocols and progress toolsReceive personalized support for your unique journey
5. Gratitude – A Transformative Force
33:20||Season 1, Ep. 5Episode OverviewIn this episode, Maria Wronski Ellis and Karina Kampe explore gratitude not just as a fleeting feeling, but as a powerful practice that can rewire your brain, build emotional resilience, and transform lives. They highlight the story of one of the world’s most influential figures whose life was deeply shaped by gratitude. The episode also dives into the neuroscience behind gratitude, offers book recommendations, and shares personal rituals and practical tools.Free DownloadThe 555 Gratitude Journal is a simple yet powerful tool designed to help you build a life-changing habit in just minutes a day. Rooted in neuroscience and soul-nurturing practices, this journal invites you to pause, reflect, and connect with what truly matters. Whether you're just beginning your gratitude journey or looking to deepen an existing practice, the 555 method offers clarity, calm, and a renewed sense of joy—starting nowGET YOUR FREE GIFT HERE: big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/gratitudeConnect With UsSign up for our News letter: https://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/6bed1cba46Website: www.ectahub.netInstagram: @Bigdreams.ectaFacebook: @Bigdreams.ectaMORE SHOWNOTES: https://ectahub.net/episode-5-gratitude-a-transformative-force/Exciting News! Online Course Coming September 2025We're launching the ECtA Accountability Hub—Empowerment Change Through Accountability! The journey begins with our 3 month Accountability Course (launching in May) where you'll:Connect with like-minded individuals in a structured settingParticipate in guided conversation sessionsLearn proven accountability protocols and progress toolsReceive personalized support for your unique journey
6. Embracing Change - The Art of Letting Go
29:12||Season 1, Ep. 6Episode OverviewWelcome to another episode of Big Dreams & Little Things! In this episode, Karina and Maria dive into the art of letting go. We explore how embracing change, though often difficult, can lead to growth, transformation, and freedom. From personal stories to science-backed insights, this episode will inspire you to release what no longer serves you and make room for something better.Whether it’s letting go of perfectionism, expectations, or even old dreams, we discuss how you can embrace change without fear. Plus, stay tuned for a free downloadable practice, The Letting Go Guide, to help you take action today.DOWNLOAD OUR FREE GUIDE TO LETTING GO: big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/changeMORE SHOWNOTES: https://ectahub.net/episode-6-embracing-change-the-art-of-letting-go/Connect With UsWebsite: www.ectahub.netInstagram: @Bigdreams.ectaFacebook: @Bigdreams.ectaSIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER: big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/newsletter
7. What Fuels You? A conversation about passion, curiosity and play
51:06||Season 1, Ep. 7🌟 Episode overview Do you need a blazing passion to succeed—or could curiosity and play be just as powerful? In this episode of Big Dreams & Little Things, Karina and Maria explore what truly fuels creativity, motivation, and sustainable success. Through science, storytelling, and a powerful spotlight on forgotten women in history, they unravel the myths of passion and the magic of flow. You’ll meet Victorine Meurent, a 19th-century artist and model, in Karina’s upcoming musical—plus get a sneak peek of a new original song based on Victorine’s own letter. Packed with inspiration, research, and honest conversation, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to do it all alone—and that sometimes, the answer isn’t more pressure, but more play. 🎭🎶DOWNLOAD THE ACCOUNTABILITY QUCK GUIDE: https://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/quick-guideWebsite: www.ectahub.netInstagram: @Bigdreams.ectaFacebook: @Bigdreams.ectaMORE SHOWNOTES ON: https://ectahub.net/episode-7-what-fuels-you-a-conversation-about-passion-curiosity-and-play/Exciting News! Online Course Coming September 2025We're launching the ECtA Accountability Hub—Empowerment Change Through Accountability! The journey begins with our 3 month Accountability Course (launching in May) where you'll:Connect with like-minded individuals in a structured settingParticipate in guided conversation sessionsLearn proven accountability protocols and progress toolsReceive personalized support for your unique journeySIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER: big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/newsletter
8. The Mother and the Muse
38:28||Season 1, Ep. 8Episode OverviewHosted by transformational coach and creative soul Karina Kampe, and songwriter, educator, and author Maria Wronski-Ellis, this episode dives into the very real and often messy intersection of motherhood and creativity.What happens to your creative identity when your life revolves around someone else’s nap schedule? How do you hold on to your spark when you can barely hold your eyelids open?We’re unpacking it all: the struggle, the shape-shifting, and the unexpected beauty that comes when your muse shows up in a new outfit—baby food stains and all.We’re joined in spirit by creative icons like Tori Amos, Reese Witherspoon, and Björk, whose stories remind us that the artist and the mother aren’t separate beings—they just take turns leading the dance.Oh, and we’ve got a free accountability guide you’re going to love (because let’s be real—you’re probably multitasking right now).DOWNLOAD THE ACCOUNTABILITY QUCK GUIDE: https://big-dreams-little-things.kit.com/quick-guideWebsite: www.ectahub.netInstagram: @Bigdreams.ectaFacebook: @Bigdreams.ectaExciting News! Online Course Coming September 2025We're launching the ECtA Accountability Hub—Empowerment Change Through Accountability! The journey begins with our 3 month Accountability Course (launching in May) where you'll:Connect with like-minded individuals in a structured settingParticipate in guided conversation sessionsLearn proven accountability protocols and progress toolsReceive personalized support for your unique journey