262: Big Toe Ego

262: Big Toe Ego

From Artists for Joy by Merideth Hite Estevez

March 13, 2026 · 18 min · Season 6

About this episode

The episode explores the challenges of the ego in the artistic process and introduces a new metaphor and spiritual practice for embracing self-acceptance.

We all grapple with that hyper-sensitive, judgmental part of ourselves, the ego, which is an integral—yet often painful—aspect of being an artist. This week on the podcast, I've found a new, surprisingly visceral metaphor and a spiritual practice that is helping me embrace less defensiveness and find a much deeper resonance. Links: Join us for "The Art of 'Yes And'" with Sara McMahon on Patreon Become a Joyster (Paid Supporter) on Patreon: Get access to hours of creative discovery and recovery content. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Tell me what you think of this episode via IG @artistsforjoy or via email hello@artistsforjoy.org Pre-order Art Is How God Loves Us and read the latest sample chapter on Substack now!

Topics covered

  • ego
  • self-acceptance
  • artistic expression
  • spiritual practice

Keywords

  • judgment
  • defensiveness
  • resonance

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Substack, Art Is How God Loves Us

Books & works: The Art of 'Yes And, Art Is How God Loves Us

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