The Creative Chronicles

Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on a season that’s tested my leadership, my health, and my patience. This episode is all about what happens when things don’t go as planned—when bringing on help creates more friction than relief, when old triggers resurface, and when slowing down feels impossible. I’ll be sharing the tools that are helping me navigate the mess, the clarity I’ve found in unexpec...

We’re slowing things down—in the best way possible. I’m joined by Michelle Simmons, founder of Slow North , a natural lifestyle brand born in Austin and built on intention, creativity, and calm. What started in her garage with a pot, hot plate, and a vision for clean-burning candles has grown into a thriving business rooted in sustainable practices, handcrafted products, and community connection. ...

What started as a side hustle turned into a viral mental health tool with simple, bite-sized coloring books for adults—designed to reduce stress, support neurodivergent users, and bring daily joy. This week, I sit down with A Brighter Year's Founder Shanti Grossman to talk creativity, calm, and building a business that matters. Shanti shares her journey from a musical upbringing and music indu...

In this episode, I’m opening up about something we all face but rarely talk about— rejection . I recently went through an experience that shook me, but instead of letting it define me, I chose to learn from it. I'm sharing how I shifted my mindset, found power in reflection, and discovered that a "no" can actually open doors to something even better. I’ll talk about the importance of...

Jessica Bubnich of Sunroom Ceramics is a ceramicist whose path from the corporate world to full-time artist is nothing short of inspiring. We talk about the struggles of calling yourself an artist, the thrill of problem-solving through clay, and the ever-present challenge of balancing creativity with business. Jessica also shares why ‘done is better than perfect’ might just be the best advice for...

Resolutions? Overrated. But a single word to guide your year? That’s where the magic happens. In this episode of I'm helping you brainstorm the perfect word to set the tone for 2025—whether you’re craving growth, creativity, or a fresh start. I'll share insights from my own journey as a small business owner, why intentional goal-setting actually works, and how choosing the right word can fuel your...

Want to boost your holiday market sales this season? Duh, who doesn’t! Join me as I dive into five essential sales strategies that small business artists can easily implement to turn curious shoppers into loyal customers. From simple actions like getting people to stand up, to sharing the unique process behind your art, and meeting customers where they are, these tips have a proven track record of...

I’ve been thinking a lot about my identity as an artist lately and where I want to go next in my life and career and how that has left me feeling restless. I shared briefly on Instagram stories how I was struggling and the 3 key things I did to reconnect and reset. So many of your resonated with that message and wanted to hear more so I recorded this quick episode expanding on what I learned and d...

Molly Sanyour is a ceramic artist and entrepreneur who turned her love for pottery and getting her hands dirty into a vibrant community studio which opening soon in Atlanta. She is so real and full of life. And In this episode, she shares the highs and lows of building her business, her excitement of teaching others, and the unexpected viral sensation of her famous 'butt mug,' yes you head...

Dive into the colorful world of Samantha Jezek, is a modern artist who explores figures, faces, and abstracts in bright, colorful hues. Samantha shares her artistic journey, from discovering her love for painting in college to creating the impactful 'Not Alone' series, which addresses themes of trials, addiction and recovery. Learn about her collaborations with companies to produce unique...

I am so pumped to bring you this conversation. I had the chance to chat with Steven Borzachillo of Brochet, the comedic yarn phenomenon that is taking over social media with his wooly weaponry duels. Combining his background in sketch comedy writing and his new passion for crochet, Steven is inspiring so many people to pick up some yarn and try their hand at fiber arts.  Steven discusses the posit...

Kitty Keller is a fine artist who began her career over 38 years ago with painted t-shirts and today, serves clients worldwide with exceptionally curated, hand-crafted glass, ceramic, and cloisonné ornaments.  Each ornament is meticulously hand painted and finished in 24 karat gold accents by skilled artisans. Making them true collectible pieces of art. She has designed works of art for the Nation...

We're diving into the artistic side of the food industry with a guest who has turned cookie decorating into a viral sensation. I mean who hasn't paused while scrolling on social media to watch an intricate cookie decorating video?  It's a true art form, and Hayley Evans of Hayley Cakes and Cookies has mastered it. Her childhood love for doodling and baking, inspired by her mom, led her...

You may know her best as the joyful and bubbly crochet artist online. Now Camryn Breneman, the owner of Cameron's Cute Creations, is expanding her business as an online educator for other crochet and art business owners. In this episode we discussed her journey as a crochet artist, the rise of the crochet trend plus she provides valuable tips for artists looking to participate in craft shows,...

Missy Luukkonen, owner of the Little Green Bean, shares her journey from starting a side hustle on Etsy to evolving her business and finding success. She discusses the popularity of her handmade gnomes and the importance of adapting to changing trends. Missy emphasizes the value of being authentic and relatable on social media, building trust with customers, and the power of showing up consistentl...

Salty Sea Dog Designs is a beautiful fusion of Blair's and Sarah’s ceramic talents resulting in distinctly adorable 3D animal mugs, vases and more.  Sarah throws all the forms on the pottery wheel, while Blair hand sculpts the intricate details. Together, they bring each piece to life. What's truly unique about Salty Sea Dog Designs is how they've built a devoted community around their...

In this bonus episode of The Creative Chronicles, I’m sharing my personal experience of how I overcame rejection and used a "NO" to fuel and motivate me. I learned so much from this humbling experience and it truly made me a better artist and small business maker in the process. I'm sharing all the feelings and the exact steps I took in my application process to finally achieve my dr...

Nicole Lewis, founder of Art to the Extreme, shares her journey of creating the original rainbow crayon. All which began in the classroom as an art teacher and her desire to find a solution to the broken crayon chaos. She quickly used her problem solving skills to create a unique one of a kind art product perfect for kids and adults alike. Nicole’s tenacity to be her own press agent and her abilit...

Summary In this episode, Dani shares her journey as an artist and creator, discussing her design process, overcoming challenges, and the launch of her Mountain Maker Kits. She emphasizes the importance of following curiosity, problem-solving, and being organized in her creative endeavors. Dani also talks about managing anxiety, embracing rest, and the significance of connecting with others in the...

Summary I am beyond excited for this two part chat with Dani VonShweetz, the visionary behind North Soul Studios in beautiful British Columbia. Dani's mastery lies in crafting breathtaking wooden mountain scape wall art that ignites the imagination. In this episode, Dani discusses the power of social media in connecting people and the importance of being authentic. We talk about the role of cr...

Summary Tirzah of Tirzah Lane Art shares her journey of finding her artistic niche in the Western art world. She emphasizes the importance of making art for the sake of creating art in the beginning for all artists and not getting caught up on putting labels to it. Tirzah also discusses the mindset shift and investments that have contributed to her recent growth. She talks about the process of exp...

Susan Brown, the artist behind For Pete's Sake Pottery, shares her journey and the importance of staying true to oneself. Susan is a ceramic artist with a style centered around southern charm and happiness which is evident from the moment you hear her voice. We talked about how she got her start and the muse behind her business aka her son Pete. How her tenacity and patience landed her one of...

Welcome to the debut episode of The Creative Chronicles podcast! I'm so excited to have you join me on this journey exploring the world of small business artists. As the title suggests, this podcast is all about sharing the stories of creative individuals and their unique paths to success. But before we dive into those fascinating conversations, I want to take a moment to share my own journey...