The Productive Oxymoron: How Contradiction Fuels Creativity
✨ What if creativity isn’t about thinking outside the box—but realizing there was never a box to begin with?
Join Dr. Michele Foss-Snowden, professor, communicator, and unapologetically nerdy pop culture fanatic, for an interactive exploration of the contradictions that spark creativity.
Many of us have convinced ourselves that creativity belongs to artists, musicians, writers, or innovators—that it's a talent we're either born with or without. But what if creativity emerges not from certainty, expertise, or inspiration, but from embracing seemingly opposing ideas at the same time?
Through stories, conversation, and hands-on activities, Michele will explore the power of the productive oxymoron: concepts like structured spontaneity, true fiction, and other creative contradictions that challenge how we think, learn, and solve problems. Along the way, she’ll make the case that creativity isn't a rare gift reserved for a select few—it's a deeply human capacity that can be nurtured, practiced, and expanded.
Dr. Michele Foss-Snowden is a professor of Rhetoric and Media in the Department of Communication Studies at Sacramento State, Executive Director of Presidential Communications, and creator of The TV Doctor podcast, where she "prescribes" television shows for life's cultural ailments. With more than 25 years in education and a career dedicated to making complex ideas accessible, she blends scholarship, humor, and pop culture to help audiences see familiar ideas in new ways. In 2025, she was recognized as one of Sacramento's 20 Black Change Makers for her contributions to education, leadership, and community impact. She has been recognized by Sacramento State for her excellence in teaching (2017), community service (2022), and her scholarly and creative activity (2025). She probably also deserves to be recognized for her excellence in corny jokes, recalling ‘80s music lyrics, and rooting for the Sacramento Kings (win or lose), but those awards are…still pending.
Expect thought-provoking ideas, unexpected insights, a healthy dose of pop culture, and a fresh perspective on what it means to be creative. 🧠✨
🕰 Event Details
What should I expect?
7:00-7:35 --> arrival & chats
7:35-8:20 --> lecture
8:20-9:00 --> q&a and more chatting
Who's invited?
Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people come solo to our events, so don't be afraid to do the same—you’ll meet some awesome people!
What about parking?
There's no designated on-site parking so we recommend street parking or using public transportation.
Do I have to be 21+?
Yes! This lecture is hosted at a bar that requires all occupants to be 21+.
Will this event be photographed or recorded?
Photos and short video clips may be taken for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed or recorded. We do not do full recordings of lectures at this time.
🧾 Policies
The lecture is sold out! Can I join a waitlist?
Unfortunately, Luma does NOT support waitlists for paid events yet. We recommend checking back on the event site the day before / the day of the event!
What about refunds?
You can refund your ticket up to 24 hours before the event starts. Since this is a limited-space event, we encourage you to update your RSVP if you can’t make it—this helps us keep spots open for others. NOTE - you do NOT need to email us for a refund, we will issue one within 48 hours upon changing your RSVP to "Not Going" :)
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Every ticket sold goes directly back into the business. However, we want to make our events accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, please reach out for financial assistance by emailing sac@bigbrainlectures.com.
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Big Brain events are designed to be welcoming, curious, and respectful spaces for learning and connection.
By attending, you agree to treat speakers, staff, venue employees, and fellow attendees with respect and to follow all venue rules and staff instructions.
Harassment, disruptive behavior, or excessive intoxication will not be tolerated. For the safety and comfort of everyone, Big Brain and the venue reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any attendee at any time, without refund, if behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, or disrespectful.
🍸 Alcohol & Safety
Depending on the venue, alcohol may be sold and served exclusively by the venue in accordance with California law. Big Brain is not responsible or liable for alcohol service, overconsumption, or any actions resulting from intoxication. By attending, you voluntarily assume all risks associated with a public indoor event and agree that you are solely responsible for your own conduct, safety, and transportation before, during, and after the event.
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*For any other questions or special accommodations, please email sac@bigbrainlectures.com.