Glazed Over

We’re sitting down with the queens of large-scale events—Gail and Jackie Burrow from All Fired Up in Nevada. They share how to find the right contacts, run smooth and successful big events, and keep those valuable partnerships strong. Gail and Jackie have this down to a science, and this episode is just a peek at what they know. Catch them at CCSA’s Convention in Denton, Texas, where they'll b...

In this episode, we chat with Samantha Irwin—a former teacher and boutique hotel owner—about what she’s learned from leading teams and creating standout customer experiences. With years in the hospitality industry under her belt, Samantha shares practical advice on staff training, building a positive work culture, and making every customer feel seen and valued. Whether you're running a pottery...

Today on the podcast, we’re joined by Julie and Robin Cates from On the Pot in Salina, Kansas. With 23 years of experience under their belts, these two have figured out not just how to hire great team members—but how to keep them. They share what they look for in a new hire, how they run interviews, their training strategies, and why giving young people clear expectations and real responsibility c...

We’re back with Bill Shipley from Constant Contact, and this time we’re talking way more than just email. Bill gives us the scoop on all the new tools Constant Contact has rolled out—from SMS marketing to social media scheduling to seamless ad integrations. If you thought it was just an email platform, think again. These updates are designed to make your entire business run smoother (and smarter).

Today we’re joined by Anna Scott from Cutters For Clay and Debi DelaCruz of De La Designs for a conversation all about clay cutters. We cover how to store and clean them, tips for getting started, and best sellers. Whether you’re just beginning with clay cutters and stamps or looking to add to your setup, there’s something here for you. Check out their work at cuttersforclay.co.uk and deladesigngi...

In this episode, we are joined by Steve and Erin Racioppi to talk all about finding and designing the perfect studio space. We cover what to look for (and what to avoid) when touring potential locations, how to set up your space for the best creative flow, and what really matters. Plus, Steve drops a hot tip about one deal breaker of his when searching for new locations. Listen now—you don’t want...

Today we chat with Michaela "MJ" Jaskowiak of As You Wish Pottery about the importance of Influencer Marketing. MJ takes us through what it is, how to reach out to influencers, and why you should be prioritizing this marketing strategy in 2025. This is an episode you'll come back to again and again!  Bisque Imports has partnered with 4-H, America's largest youth organization! Lic...

Nobody wants a bad review, but it happens—even to the best studios. In this episode, we're joined by Maddie Riegel, owner of Glazed Expressions, who has mastered the art of responding to negative feedback with grace and professionalism. Maddie walks us through her approach to handling tough reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp—without losing your cool. From diffusing tension to turning critic...

We are so excited to have the King of Kilns himself, Jim Skutt, on the podcast this week! Jim talks to us about kilns types, best practices for loading, how easy repairs can be, and more. He even answers some very specific "hypotheticals" from Christine and Ammie. This will be an episode many of us come back to over and over again, we just know it! Learn more about Skutt Kilns at www.sku...

In this episode of Glazed Over, Ammie and Jessica are joined by Stacey and Caren to talk all things 4/20 events! We’re covering how to host your own, collaborate with dispensaries, price your pieces and events, and best glazing practices for ceramic bongs and pipes. We cover disclaimers and language for these events- especially if cannabis is not legal where you are. This episode is packed with ti...

Today we chat with display queens Nacy Tuel of Your Art's Desire and Wendy Pettys from The Pottery Patch. This episode is full of inspiration from starting with displays, tips on lighting, how to plan and schedule new displays, storing props, and more. You'll leave this episode excited and brimming with ideas for window displays, speedbumps, and shelf vignettes. 

We have Jaryn Conway back on the podcast this week to discuss Grants. She tells us about how to find grants, what the application process looks like, and what to expect. Jaryn also walks us through the THRIVE program from the Small Business Administration, a robust and exciting acceleration program for small businesses across the US. Learn more about the program here: https://sbathrive.com/

This week we chat with Aksh Gupta of Occasion about what's trending in technology. We discuss where AI is going, how omni channels are the future, and what PYOP can do to stay up to date with the changing tides. Aksh is a wealth of information and makes a potentially intimidating topic really accessible. He even offers a special discount for CCSA members, so don't skip this episode! Learn...

Ever thought about adding a coffee bar to your studio? Join us as we chat with Sherry and Scott George from Meg-Art Pottery Painting Studio & Espresso Bar. They’ll share their insights and experiences on blending art and coffee to create a unique studio experience!

We have PYOP legend Lori Neff of As You Wish Pottery on the podcast today to discuss how to trust your staff when you can't (or don't want to!) be in the studio. Spoiler alert: it takes an excellent training program and clear policies and systems. We know you'll be inspired to beef up your training program after hearing from Lori! 

Today we chat with Bill Shipley of Constant Contact about how to send better emails. He talks us through interesting subject lines, what open rates we should be looking for, how often we should be emailing our audience and more. CCSA members get a discount on a Constant Contact account with their active membership!

This week we're chatting with the incredible Ferne Benson about her recent breast cancer journey and how that impacted her studio, Mr. Toad's Pottery. Learn how putting systems in place can help you step away and trust your staff to take over in emergencies. Find the CCSA Business Continuity Guide in the resources on ccsaonline.com

Thinking about adding the wheel to your studio? Jaryn Conway from Just Claying Around walks us through the process including class structure, storage solutions, policies, and more! 

This week we welcome back resident bookworm, Julia McNair, to discuss Jon Acuff's book All It Takes Is A Goal. We get into the main takeaways from the book and how we can apply goal setting to our businesses. You don't need to have read the book before listening, but we bet after this episode you'll want to pick it up!

Looking to start an After School Program in your studio? We think you should! Listen to long time studio owner and authority on After School Programs, Tracy Shultz, talk through what it takes to start and maintain a thriving program. Find more resources for starting an After School Program in your membership resources on  ccsaonline.com ! 

On this week's episode, we chat with co-host Christine Steele of Steele's Brushes and Ceramics, about how she created Connections Club, a weekly meet up for adults of all abilities to craft and engage with others. She talks through project ideas and ways to get your community involved. You don't want to miss this one!

In today's episode, we speak with Dena Pearlman, the executive director of CCSA, about the most magical event of the year- our annual Convention. We discuss standout classes, what was new this year, what we're all excited about, and tease some ideas for next year in DENTON, TEXAS!

Join us for a chat with long time entrepreneur and life coach, Jenn Meyer, where we discuss the importance of taking care of our mental health as small business owners. Jenn discusses burnout, self care, and how crucial a positive mindset is when it comes to running a business. Jenn walks us through boundary setting and learning to communicate these boundaries to your team and support system. This...

Welcome to "Firing Line: Navigating Uncomfortable Exits," the podcast that tackles the tough topic of letting people go. We get into the nitty-gritty of firing employees, sharing real stories, practical tips, and expert advice. Whether you're a manager or in HR, we'll help you handle these difficult conversations with care and confidence. Tune in for straightforward advice on making the process as...

Join us as we explore the best strategies for creating unforgettable experiences, tackling unexpected challenges, and making your studio events the talk of the town. It's time to start brainstorming your fall and winter events! Tune in and get ready to elevate your event planning game at your art studio!