Creative Minds and Mental Health: A Chat with Robert Bside Cardillo Jr.
Today, we’re diving into the heartfelt intersection of mental health and creativity with the incredibly inspiring Robert B-Cide Cardillo Jr. This episode is all about checking in on our mental well-being as creative souls, because let’s face it, we need it! Robert shares his raw and real journey navigating life with multiple sclerosis, turning struggle into art, and how music has been his therapy. We’re getting deep, but we’re also keeping it light, exploring the balance between dealing with our challenges and expressing ourselves through creativity. Join us as we unpack the importance of mental health in the artistic process and how we can support each other on this wild ride of life!
Guest Bio
Robert “B-Cide” Cardillo II is a rapper, producer, clothing designer, and author of Myelin My Shoes, a memoir about life, music, and resilience after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. With over two decades in the underground scene, he shares raw, real stories about perseverance, creativity, and pushing forward when life hits hard.
Guest Links
- https://www.myelinmyshoes.com/
- http://www.b-cide.com
- https://bcide.bandcamp.com
- Instagram: @bcide
- Facebook: facebook.com/bcide
- TikTok: @bcide
- YouTube: youtube.com/@btvstudio
In a heartfelt and illuminating conversation on our latest podcast episode, we sat down with artist and author Robert B-Cide Cardillo Jr. to discuss the intersection of mental health and creativity. This dialogue dives deep into how challenges, such as living with multiple sclerosis (MS), can shape one's creative journey and provide new perspectives.
A Shared Experience
Robert and Timothy began by finding common ground in their MS diagnoses. They shared personal stories of symptoms, diagnosis journeys, and the impact MS has had on their lives and creativity. The discussion highlighted the importance of listening to one's body and the need to stay positive despite the challenges that MS can present.
Creativity as Therapy
Throughout the conversation, Robert emphasized how creativity serves as a therapeutic outlet, providing solace and a sense of normalcy amid the daily struggles of living with MS. He spoke candidly about his use of music and writing to process and articulate his experiences, turning them into art that resonates with others going through similar journeys.
The Power of Storytelling
Robert recently published a book titled "Myelin My Shoes," a clever play on words reflecting the myelin sheath affected by MS. The book offers a deeply personal narrative that captures both his life before and after his MS diagnosis, underscoring the transformative power of storytelling. In conjunction with the book, Robert has released a complementary soundtrack, illustrating how his musical talents enhance the storytelling experience.
Navigating the Stigma
The conversation also touched on the societal perceptions of MS and other disabilities. Robert shared his experiences around the stigma he faces and how he uses his platform to challenge misconceptions. For him, creating music and writing isn't just about self-expression but also a way to educate and change narratives around living with disabilities.
Embracing Challenges and Moving Forward
Despite the obstacles he faces, Robert remains proactive in his creative endeavors. He keeps himself engaged and motivated by pursuing new projects, such as podcast appearances and continuing to write music. This resilience not only serves his mental well-being but also provides inspiration for those around him.
Conclusion
Robert B-Cide Cardillo Jr.'s journey showcases the enduring connection between mental health and creativity. His story is a testament to how arts can offer a means of coping and healing while also serving to connect and inspire others. By sharing his journey with honesty and passion, Robert reminds us all that while challenges might be inevitable, our responses to them define us.
Join us as we continue to explore the dynamic blend of mental health and creativity, bringing you stories and conversations that inspire and uplift. If you'd like to learn more about Robert's book "Myelin My Shoes" or listen to the soundtrack, check the links in our show notes.
Immediate Crisis Support (U.S.)
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial 988 or visit
• Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741
• Veterans Crisis Line – Dial 988, then press 1
Artist-Specific Mental Health Resources
• Artists’ Mental Health Alliance – A coalition offering
education, support, and mental health resources tailored for performing and
visual artists. (https://www.artistsmhalliance.com)
• The Actors Fund (Now: Entertainment Community Fund) –
Provides mental health counseling, workshops, and financial assistance to
artists in performing arts and entertainment.
(https://entertainmentcommunity.org/services/mental-health)
• MusiCares – A Grammy-affiliated nonprofit offering mental
health services, financial assistance, and addiction recovery for music
professionals. (https://www.musicares.org/)
• Creative Capital – Offers professional development and
mental health webinars for artists, especially those facing burnout and
creative fatigue. (https://creative-capital.org)
• Backline – Provides mental health and wellness resources
for musicians and their families. Offers free case management.
• NAMI - Arts Initiative – Connects artists and art
communities with mental health advocacy and support tools.
• Mindful Art Studio – Offers online art-based mental
wellness workshops and journaling classes designed by a licensed art therapist.
(https://mindfulartstudio.com)
Wellness Apps & Tools for Creatives
• Headspace or Calm – Meditation apps useful for managing
anxiety and creative blocks.
• Moodpath – Mental health journal and symptom tracker.
• Insight Timer – Free guided meditations for stress,
anxiety, sleep, and creativity.
Peer Support & Communities
• The Mighty - Creators with Mental Illness –
• Art & Healing Network – https://artheals.org
• Creative Mornings FieldTrips –
https://creativemornings.com/fieldtrips
Books on Mental Health & Creativity
• The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
• Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
• It’s OK That You’re Not OK by Megan Devine
• The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
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To reach out to me, email timothy@createartpodcast.com I would love to hear about your journey and what you are working on. If you would like to be on the show or have me discuss a topic that is giving you trouble write in and let's start that conversation.
- Email: timothy@createartpodcast.com
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Takeaways:
- Mental health is crucial for creatives; we need to check in with ourselves regularly, folks!
- Robert Bside Cardillo Jr. shares his inspiring journey with MS, blending art and resilience beautifully.
- Creativity can be a powerful tool for mental health; use it to express and process emotions.
- Don't shy away from sharing your struggles through art; it can resonate deeply with others.
