You were not created to produce. You were created to exist—freely, thoroughly, and in the details of you.
In this rich and deeply personal episode, Dana Tenille Weekes invites us to pause the production line of life and answer a powerful call: the call to create. Not for performance, not for praise—but for freedom, for joy, and yourself.
Dana unpacks the difference between producing—something we do for others, often at our own expense—and creating, which centers and celebrates the very core of who we are. Through story, reflection, and challenge, she shifts the focus from output to self-liberation.
⏱ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to The Rest of Us Podcast
00:51 – Inspiration for This Episode
01:59 – Creating vs. Producing
02:49 – National Poetry Month and Creativity
04:02 – The Importance of Creating
05:26 – Defining Producing and Its Impact
07:18 – The Exhaustion of Producing
09:40 – The Concept of Consumption
11:24 – The Power of Creating
13:18 – Identity Outside of Producing
14:33 – Generational Freedom and Expression
17:14 – The Call to Create Journey
17:55 – Practical Tips for Creating
26:35 – Reflection and Commitment
Daily reflection prompts to go deeper:
- How do I feel after creating for 10 minutes?
- What is this unlocking within me?
- When can I create next?
30:20 – Conclusion and Community Engagement
Dana encourages you to join the community on Instagram, share your journey, and reclaim your creativity on your terms.
🎨 Join the 7-Day Call to Create Journey.
📱 Follow along on Instagram @therestofus.podcast and LinkedIn for prompts, check-ins, and community care.
You are not just here to produce. You are here to be. To create. To rest.
✨ Rate and review this podcast if it is a message or mirror for you. Also, share this podcast with people who want to think about rest differently.
Let's explore rest as self-liberation as a community!
Until next time, rest, my friends.
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