Creative Struggles
This podcast dives into the unfiltered grind of chasing a dream in acting and the creative world. Instead of polished stories from those who’ve already ‘made it,’ you’ll hear the raw, funny, and heartfelt perspective of guests and myself still in the hustle — pushing, learning, and carving out a place in the film industry. It’s about navigating the struggle in real time. If you’re a creative chasing your dreams, this is your space to feel seen.
New Episodes drop bi-weekly on Wednesdays!
Episodes

Feb 25, 2026
Feb 25, 2026
16 min
Not all support is helpful - and sometimes the people closest to you hurt your creative journey without realizing it. In this episode, we talk about the backhanded encouragement, fear disguised as advice, and the kind of “support" that discourages more than it uplifts. If you've ever felt misunderstood, dismissed, or doubted while chasing your dreams, this episode will make you feel seen.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev
#CreativeStruggles #SupportVsFear #ChaseYourDreams #CreativeCommunity #StayPositive #Inspiration #actor #podcast

Feb 18, 2026
Feb 18, 2026
17 min
Creatives want to succeed - but many of us are secretly terrified of being seen trying. The awkward middle stage. The beginner era. The 'what if they judge me' phase. In this episode, we break down the fear of being witnessed in motion: why it happens, how it holds us back, and what it really means to show up before you feel ready. We talk self-doubt, perfectionism, comparison, and the pressure to look polished 24/7. And most importantly, we dig into how to reclaim your creative freedom by allowing yourself to be seen in the process - not just the outcome. If you've ever dimmed your talent to avoid criticism or waited until you were "perfect" to start, this episode is your permission to try loudly.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev
#CreativeStruggles #FearOfFailure #ChaseYourDreams #Creativity #Authenticity #Inspiration #Motivation #BeSeen #DreamBig #CreativeCommunity #SelfGrowth #actor #podcast

Feb 11, 2026
Feb 11, 2026
14 min
The Art Of Showing Up - is about the part of the creative journey no one glamorizes — consistency. Showing up when you’re tired. When you’re doubting yourself. When it feels like nothing is happening. In this episode, I talk about what “showing up” really looks like as an actor and creative, the pressure to always be productive, and how progress often happens quietly before it ever becomes visible. From small daily efforts to simply not quitting on yourself, this is a reminder that you don’t need to be perfect — you just need to be present. If you’ve been questioning your pace, your progress, or whether you’re doing enough, this episode is for you.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev
#CreativeStruggles #Momentum #Opportunities #KeepPushing #ShowUpForYourself #Inspiration #CreativeStruggles #PodcastLife #SuccessMindset #NeverGiveUp #actor #podcast

Feb 4, 2026
Feb 4, 2026
17 min
Even when you’re grinding, showing up, and juggling a million creative goals, there’s that quiet question that creeps in: Am I doing enough? In this episode of Creative Struggles, I talk about the pressure creatives feel to always be productive, the comparison trap fueled by social media, and the guilt that comes with rest. From feeling behind to questioning your progress, this is an honest conversation about self-doubt, burnout, and redefining what “enough” actually looks like in a creative career. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unseen, or like your effort isn’t paying off yet — this episode is for you.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev
#CreativeStruggles #MentalHealthMatters #ArtisticJourney #ComparisonTrap #StayAuthentic #podcast #actor

Jan 28, 2026
Jan 28, 2026
27 min
If you've ever felt guilty for being good at more than one thing, this one's for you. From hidden creative gifts to random life skills that keep you afloat, this episode breaks down why being multi-talented isn't a distraction, it's your advantage. This episode explores the skills creatives tend to overlook, the ones outside acting that are just as powerful.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev

Jan 21, 2026
Jan 21, 2026
13 min
Everyone says, “You’ve got a great voice, you should do voice-over.” What they don’t tell you is how much work, doubt, and self-discovery comes with stepping behind the mic. In this episode, I dive into my experience entering the world of voice-over acting, from learning the technical side, recording in less-than-ideal spaces, and auditioning into the void, to realizing that finding your voice isn’t just about sound it’s about confidence, identity, and ownership as a creative.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev

Jan 14, 2026
Jan 14, 2026
13 min
Embarrassment is part of the job, especially when you’re an actor still finding your footing on set. On this episode, I open up about those painfully awkward, humbling moments that happen in front of cast and crew, and what it really takes to keep showing up after them. Embarrassment can shake you and still shape you. Because growth doesn’t come from being perfect, it comes from showing up, even when it’s uncomfortable.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev

Jan 7, 2026
Jan 7, 2026
15 min
In the acting world looks aren’t always everything but your specific look can make or break you, especially when you hair and make up is out of wack. This episode dives into the issues that people with textured hair have while on set, make up not matching and how to deal with the uncomfortable moments by staying ahead of the game.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev

Dec 30, 2025
Dec 30, 2025
13 min
Ever felt your heart race as you step onto a stage or set, forgetting every line you've rehearsed? You’re not alone! In this episode, I will be diving into the struggle of stage fright and how it can hit just when you’re about to shine. Also getting into my own personal journey from a timid child to a confident adult (well sometimes). I will be giving valuable insights and strategies for overcoming the fear of performing in front of an audience.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev

Dec 23, 2025
Dec 23, 2025
17 min
Has someone ever told you about a job opportunity and you thought, This is perfect. Exactly what l need? Thats exactly how I felt when I was hired to do a job, until it was turned into a job that I did not sign up for. I even had to chase my check and got push back. As an actor, working side jobs to get by can be a breeze or a nightmare. Today we’re diving into jobs that seem like they would be good to do, but end up completely different; the chaos, the headaches, and the lessons you never see in the job description.
If you would like to share any stories, questions, topics, encouraging words, etc., send an email to cr8tivestruggles@outlook.com and I will share them on the next episode!
You can find the video version of this episode on Youtube at Creative Struggles
Please follow, like, subscribe, comment, leave review, share and send an email!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cr8tivestruggles/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581997290521
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Cr8tivestruggles
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nahjalae?_t=8ifoX1PN8P5&_r=1
I also have my own earring business, Nahjalae’s Polymer Earrings, that I handcraft! Check them out on my Etsy Shop!
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NahjalaePolyEarrings
Music: Mikhail Smusev






