About this episode
In this season finale, Stephen Roach closes out our exploration of creative flow with a rich conversation with several artists from the Makers & Mystics Patreon community. Joining the discussion are artist and educator Angela Houk , writer and branding expert Steve Brock , and poet and visual artist Corey Frey . Together, the crew explores the interplay between resistance and flow —how creative blocks, limitations, and even frustrations can actually become the conditions that allow new work to emerge and personal character to develop. As Wendell Berry reminds us, “the impeded stream is the one that sings.” This episode examines: Why resistance can be a gift in the creative process. How Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s theory of flow connects to happiness and fulfillment. The balance between focus and receptivity in both art and relationships. How preparation, practice, and openness set the stage for flow. The “radical middle” where challenge and skill converge Connecting the experience of flow to the Holy Spirit This is a thoughtful, inspiring conversation on navigating resistance, finding flow, and staying open to the creativity that emerges when we least expect it. Connect with the guests: Angela Houk Steve Brock Corey Frey ––– Support the Podcast If you’d like to go deeper in these conversations and be part of the Makers & Mystics creative collective, consider joining us on Patreon. You’ll gain access to monthly online gatherings, bonus content, creative prompts, and a vibrant community of artists pursuing faith and imagination together. 👉 Join the community on Patreon Send us a text Support the show Join the Makers and Mystics Creative Collective Get Tickets to The Breath and The Clay 2026 featuring Malcolm Guite, Jon Guerra, and Jonathan Pageau! March 20-22 in Winston Salem, NC.