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What role does creativity play in your life?

by Erica Mattison MPA JD
Oct 29, 2026
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For some people, creativity becomes a career. For others, it is something we make room for because it brings joy, connection, curiosity, and a different kind of energy into our lives.

Make More Music: Creativity, Connection, and Career

In the newest episode of Conversations with Erica, I talk with Boston-based musician and educator John Glennon about creativity, improvisation and play, persistence, music education, and what it takes to build a career as a working musician.

One idea that stayed with me from our conversation is that creativity does not have to become productive, profitable, or professional to matter.

John Glennon with trumpet and Erica Mattison in Boston Public Library Main Branch CourtyardJohn Glennon on trumpet alongside keyboardist at Boston Public Library Main Branch Courtyard

We also talk about what happens when creativity is your work: the importance of preparation, relationships, visibility, persistence, and making room for rest.

You can listen to the full conversation here:

Listen to the podcast

I also wrote a companion article exploring some of the broader ideas from our conversation, including why play matters, why action can teach us what thinking cannot, and how to make more room for what matters.

Read the article 

People dancing to music by Los Manbiseros, John Glennon on trumpet

 

What is one creative activity you would like to make more room for?

Reply and let me know. I’d love to hear what came to mind for you.

Warmly,
Erica

Erica Mattison
Executive Coach | Career Strategist | Facilitator
ericamattison.com

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