Former politician turned painter–author Leah Johnson breaks down how chasing external validation led to burnout—and how creativity, spiritual practice, and community helped her rebuild a life anchored in joy. We discuss addiction recovery, leaving a public identity, practical rituals (pen, paper, intention), motherhood, and why gratitude and daily micro-actions outperform grand gestures. If you’re navigating reinvention, this conversation offers a direct, grounded path to start today—no retreat required.
About the Guest:
Leah Johnson is a former political leader who left public life to become a painter, author, and spiritual guide. Through retreats and creative practice, she helps people transmute pain into purpose and reconnect with the divine through everyday art and community.
Key Takeaways :


Reinvention starts before action: notice the “small crack” of awareness and follow it.


External validation is a trap; worth is internal, not earned by titles or applause.


Leaving a stable identity can be frightening—courage grows by trusting the unfolding, one step at a time.


Creativity is for everyone: start with a pen and paper; doodles with intention turn emotion into form.


Create to create—drop perfectionism; intuition strengthens when outcomes aren’t the goal.


Expand “creative” beyond art: cooking, parenting, business-building, and how you spend time are creative acts.


Breakdowns can become breakthroughs when you choose a different pattern—especially for your kids and future self.


Community accelerates healing; seek circles that honor connection over “manufactured disconnection.”


Daily ritual beats one-time intensity: gratitude lists, color, micro-collage, simple prayers, and consistent practice.


Joy isn’t constant happiness; it’s “tragic optimism”—honoring all emotions while choosing meaning and momentum.


Practical joy: find it in small tasks, nature, eye contact with loved ones; let gratitude multiply what’s good.


Integration is the work after any retreat or insight—make it part of your routine.


 Here are reliable, widely used crisis lines by region:
United States  :


988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org (24/7). SAMHSA+1


Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741 (24/7). Crisis Text Line


LGBTQ+ (The Trevor Project, youth) — call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678 (24/7). The Trevor Project+1


Trans Lifeline — US (877) 565-8860 (hours vary; peer support). translifeline.org+1


Canada  :


9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline — call or text 9-8-8 (24/7). 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline+1


Crisis Text Line (via Kids Help Phone) — text 686868 (24/7). Crisis Text Line


Trans Lifeline — Canada (877) 330-6366 (hours vary). translifeline.org


United Kingdom & Ireland:  


Samaritans (UK & ROI) — call 116 123 (free, 24/7). Samaritans+1


Shout (UK) – Crisis Text Line affiliate — text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7). Shout 85258+1


50808 / “Text About It” (Ireland) — text HELLO/TALK to 50808 (24/7). Text About It+1


Australia  :


Lifeline — call 13 11 14 (24/7) or chat online. Lifeline


New Zealand  :


1737 “Need to talk?” — call or text 1737 (24/7).


Connect with the Guest:
Website: https://www.findingfantasticjoy.com/
Instagram/Facebook: @FindingFantasticJoy

Want to be a guest on Inner Peace, Better Health? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch


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Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer.

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